Rwanda earned around $161.5 million in revenue from travel services purchased by foreign visitors between November 2025 and January 2026, according to fresh numbers issued by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda.
According to the organization, overseas travelers spent RWF 236 billion, with tourists arriving by flight accounting for the majority of this revenue. Air arrivals alone contributed RWF 199 billion, or $136.7 million, demonstrating the ongoing importance of long-haul tourism to the East African nation’s economy.
Leisure travel remains a major income driver. According to the statistics office, visitors generated almost $65 million, with Rwanda’s well-known gorilla trekking experiences accounting for 71.4 percent of that amount. The country’s mountain gorillas have become one of Africa’s most exclusive wildlife attractions, attracting wealthy visitors from all over the world.
Visitors from North America spent the most during the three-month period, providing $40.8 million in tourism earnings. Travelers crossing Rwanda’s land borders spent $24.9 million, the majority of which went to friends and relatives, accounting for $11.3 million. Within the region, East African Community travelers spent the most, contributing $19.7 million.
While inbound tourism contributed a significant amount of foreign cash, Rwandan people continued to travel extensively. Rwandans spent $95.9 million on travel services abroad during the same time period, with air travel accounting for $64.4 million. Business trips accounted for the majority of these journeys, totaling $22.2 million.
Regional travel dominated outbound spending. Rwandan visitors to other East African Community countries spent $53.9 million, while land border transit cost $31.5 million, primarily for family visits.
Tourism has become an increasingly important part of Rwanda’s economy. According to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council, the sector earned $647 million in 2024, accounting for 9.8 percent of national GDP.
The most recent data show how Rwanda’s carefully regulated wildlife tourism and regional connectivity are bolstering its status as one of Africa’s fastest-growing vacation destinations.