Record-Breaking Year for Rwanda Tourism
Rwanda’s Travel and tourism sector broke all records in 2024, with its contribution to the economy, employment, and domestic and international visitor spending all reaching record levels. In 2024, Rwanda’s Travel and tourism sector contributed a record-breaking Fr1.9TN to the economy, representing 9.8% of the total economy and 17.7% above the previous peak in 2019. Despite lagging in 2023, job numbers and international visitor spending reached record levels last year.
According to research from the global tourism body, travel and tourism supported nearly 386,000 jobs last year. International visitors spent a record Fr1TN, which is an increase of Fr169BN compared to 2019. Additionally, domestic spending exceeded pre-pandemic levels by approximately one-third (32.2%), reaching over Fr773BN.
This growth showcases the Rwandan government’s strategic investment in tourism as a key aspect of economic diversification. Infrastructure projects, such as the new Bugesera International Airport, which is expected to handle 14 million passengers annually upon completion, will further enhance long-term connectivity and increase the number of international visitors and their spending.
A look at 2025
In 2025, Travel and tourism in Rwanda are poised for another year of robust growth, with WTTC forecasting a 13% year-on-year increase in economic contribution to reach Fr2.1TN, 10.3% of national GDP. The sector is set to support more than 402,000 jobs, accounting for over 8% of total employment. Growth is expected to be driven by both international and domestic spending worth Fr1.2TN and Fr822BN, respectively.
Rwanda is leading a high-value, low-volume tourism model that prioritizes sustainability, conservation, and community benefits, especially through key experiences such as gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and the expansion of eco-tourism in Akagera and Nyungwe.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “Rwanda is a standout example of how tourism, when supported by clear vision and partnership, can deliver real economic impact and long-term opportunity.
“The President’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and diversification is setting a benchmark not only for Africa, but globally. From gorilla trekking to high-level business events and major sporting competitions, Rwanda is showing what’s possible when a country invests in its tourism future.”
Looking to 2035
WTTC forecasts that by 2035, the sector will contribute Fr3.1TN to the economy, a 10% share of GDP, and support more than 545,000 jobs across the country. Over 140,000 new jobs are expected to be created in the next decade.
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