Rwanda Updates COVID-19 Entry Protocols

Image: Chimpanzees play in the treetops in Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda. (photo via Visit Rwanda) ((photo via Visit Rwanda))
Image: Chimpanzees play in the treetops in Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda. (photo via Visit Rwanda) ((photo via Visit Rwanda))
Lacey Pfalz
by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 2:22 PM ET, Tue November 30, 2021

The Republic of Rwanda updated its COVID-19 entry protocols following the news and spread of the Omicron variant, effective immediately.

All international travelers, vaccinated and unvaccinated, traveling to Rwanda must quarantine at a designated hotel after testing upon arrival. All travel between Rwanda and countries in southern Africa, including Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

All travelers must also have received a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result that was performed within 72 hours prior to departure. Rapid tests are not accepted.

The country also began implementing booster shots for at-risk populations, including citizens over the age of 50.

Rwanda had recently reopened to international travel on November 5, 2021. Prior to the new entry rules, all travelers had to take a pre- and post-arrival COVID-19 test; fully vaccinated travelers were encouraged to self-isolate at their chosen accommodation until they received their results.

For the latest insight on travel around the world, check out this interactive guide:

For the latest travel news, updates, and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Related Videos

Lacey Pfalz

Lacey Pfalz

Senior Editor, News & Features

Lacey Pfalz is Associate Editor at TravelPulse. She's a passionate advocate of responsible travel and believes the best travel experiences happen outside of a planned itinerary. Lacey currently lives in rural Wisconsin. She can be reached at [email protected].

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Upcoming Webinar
California LuxuryTuesday, November 17, 2026, 2:00pm EasternJoin Travel Weekly, TravelAge West, and TravelPulse as we explore the elevated side of California,...
Upcoming Webinar
November Hankyu Travel WebinarTuesday, November 17, 2026, 4:00pm EasternSave your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
Rivers Entwined: A New Era of European River Cruising with Century Cruises Rivers Entwined: A New Era of European River Cruising with Century CruisesWednesday, November 18, 2026, 2:00pm EasternEurope's legendary rivers are welcoming a fresh perspective on luxury cruising! Join Century Cruises...
Upcoming Webinar
California LuxuryTuesday, November 17, 2026, 2:00pm EasternJoin Travel Weekly, TravelAge West, and TravelPulse as we explore the elevated side of California,...
Upcoming Webinar
November Hankyu Travel WebinarTuesday, November 17, 2026, 4:00pm EasternSave your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
Rivers Entwined: A New Era of European River Cruising with Century Cruises Rivers Entwined: A New Era of European River Cruising with Century CruisesWednesday, November 18, 2026, 2:00pm EasternEurope's legendary rivers are welcoming a fresh perspective on luxury cruising! Join Century Cruises...