Rwanda generated about $161.5 million in tourism revenue from foreign visitors between November 2025 and January 2026, new data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda shows.
The figures highlight the country’s rising profile as one of Africa’s fastest-growing travel destinations. International visitors spent approximately RWF 236 billion on travel services during the three-month period.
Air travellers drove most of that spending. Visitors arriving by air contributed RWF 199 billion, equivalent to $136.7 million, reinforcing the importance of long-haul tourism to the East African country.
Luxury leisure travel also played a major role in the surge in revenue. Holidaymakers generated roughly $65 million, and premium wildlife experiences dominated that spending.
Rwanda’s globally renowned gorilla trekking adventures accounted for 71.4 percent of leisure tourism earnings. These exclusive wildlife encounters in the country’s volcanic mountain forests continue to attract high-spending international travellers seeking rare safari experiences.
Visitors from North America emerged as the biggest spenders during the period. They contributed $40.8 million in tourism revenue, demonstrating strong demand from long-haul markets.
Meanwhile, travellers entering Rwanda through land borders spent $24.9 million. Many of those trips focused on visiting friends and relatives, which generated about $11.3 million in spending.
Regional tourism also remained significant. Visitors from countries within the East African Community contributed $19.7 million, reflecting strong cross-border travel within East Africa.
Although inbound tourism produced significant foreign exchange earnings, outbound travel by Rwandan residents also remained notable. Citizens spent around $95.9 million abroad on travel services during the same period.
Air travel accounted for the largest share of outbound spending at $64.4 million. Business travel dominated these journeys, generating $22.2 million in expenses.
Regional trips accounted for much of that outbound activity. Rwandans visiting other East African Community member states spent $53.9 million. In addition, travel across land borders reached $31.5 million, largely for family visits.
Tourism continues to strengthen its role in the national economy. Data from the World Travel & Tourism Council shows the sector generated $647 million in 2024, contributing 9.8 percent of Rwanda’s GDP.
The latest tourism figures show how Rwanda’s carefully managed wildlife conservation strategy and improved regional connectivity are fueling industry growth. As luxury nature experiences gain global attention, the country is steadily positioning itself as a premium travel destination in Africa.
