No more COVID-19 testing for tourists in Rwanda; According to RDB offical twitter handle,
“RDB would like to inform the public that all tourists, including children over 5 years, where applicable, visiting the country’s national parks are no longer required to present a negative COVID-19 test. A face mask will remain mandatory for those visiting primates.”
Welcome to AG Safaris: Your Gateway to Adventure in Rwanda!
We are thrilled to share some exciting news that will enhance your experience with us. AG Safaris is delighted to inform you that as of May 23, 2023, the mandatory covid-19 testing guidelines have been lifted by the Rwandan government under RDB (Rwanda Development Board). This is a game-changer for all our valued travelers.
Previously, visitors were required to undergo a covid test and present a negative result before engaging in gorilla trekking or visiting any of the parks in Rwanda. Whether you were embarking on the unforgettable gorilla trek or exploring other primate activities like chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, or monkey tracking in Nyungwe Forest, a mandatory PCR test was compulsory. However, if you were not participating in primate activities, a rapid test would suffice before embarking on a tour to any of the three parks—Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe National Park, and Akagera National Park.
The removal of this testing requirement brings immense relief for several reasons. First and foremost, it eliminates the additional cost burden on travelers. Previously, the PCR test cost $50, while the rapid test cost $10. Moreover, the tests had to be conducted within 72 hours prior to the activity, which meant that if you were visiting multiple parks and engaging in different activities over several days, multiple tests were necessary. Most importantly, the prospect of paying for the gorilla tour and traveling all the way to Rwanda, only for the test to turn out positive, was a significant concern and risk for many travelers. Consequently, numerous visitors who had initially planned for gorilla trekking in Rwanda opted for the same experience in Uganda, which did not impose such guidelines.
The government’s decision to lift the mandatory covid-19 testing guideline is a timely and answered prayer for many tour operators. As the tourism peak season approaches, starting in June, this announcement couldn’t have come at a better time. It saves our tour operators from the arduous task of communicating the testing requirements to already booked clients.
Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared an end to the global health emergency posed by covid-19. Additionally, Rwanda has reported virtually no new infections. With these factors in mind, the government has made the right decision at the right time.
Before you embark on your journey to Rwanda, there are a few additional points to note. Fully vaccinated individuals who have received at least two shots are exempt from covid testing when traveling to and from Rwanda. Instead, they must present proof of vaccination, such as a vaccination certificate. For those departing Rwanda, testing is not required unless their destination specifically mandates it.
We also want to highlight Rwanda’s open-door policy, which allows all travelers to obtain a visa on arrival. This convenient process ensures that even last-minute trips to Rwanda are easily accessible and hassle-free.
At AG Safaris, we are excited to offer you unforgettable adventures and incredible wildlife encounters without the burden of mandatory covid-19 testing. With these restrictions lifted and the beauty of Rwanda waiting to be explored, we invite you to embark on a journey of a lifetime. Choose AG Safaris for an experience that will exceed your wildest expectations.
