3 Best VPNs for Rwanda in 2024
Self-censorship is widespread across Rwanda due to the fear of harassment by government authorities. The government has also used commercial surveillance tools after the 1994 crimes committed by the ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF). That said, only the best VPN for Rwanda can help protect you online while also bringing some handy extra benefits.
More recently, the “Protection of Personal Data and Privacy” law was passed in October 2021, enforcing data collection and processing. That means your data is unsafe and exposed on the Web, as well as available to third parties.
However, you can use a VPN in Rwanda to protect yourself from online threats and secure your data from leaks. Moreover, VPNs can get you unrestricted access to blocked websites. So, you get security and content unblocking in a single package.
This article offers you a collection of the 3 best Rwanda VPNs, all tested by our team. So, let’s help you find the best VPN for all your needs.
How to Use a VPN in Rwanda
Using the best VPN for Rwanda isn’t challenging if you follow our guide. Connecting to an encrypted server requires you to follow a few steps, as explained below.
- Sign up for a VPN in Rwanda (we recommend ExpressVPN).
- Download and install the VPN on your device.
- Launch the VPN and log in using your credentials.
- Connect to a server to protect yourself online.
- You can now access the Internet safely. That’s it!
Best Rwanda VPN
To safely access the Internet, you need a VPN with secure AES 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy (an audited one, preferably), and comprehensive data leak protection (including IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection). The best VPN for Rwanda must also offer a global network of servers to access blocked services. Plus, your chosen VPN should be fast for an interruption-free streaming and browsing experience.
Following the criteria listed above, these are the 3 best Rwanda VPN services:
- ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated Rwanda VPN
- NordVPN - Best Option for Improved Security in Rwanda
- CyberGhost VPN - Best Option for Streaming and Entertainment
1. ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated Rwanda VPN
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Rwanda as it offers military-grade AES 256-bit encryption and multiple security protocols to secure your online activity. You can use the OpenVPN protocol for added protection or Lightway for fast speeds without compromising on security.
You get a “Network Lock” kill switch that cuts off your connection to the Internet if your VPN tunnel drops. This adds an extra layer of security, preventing any accidental data leaks. The RAM-based servers, a no-logs policy, and IP/DNS leak protection mean your private information isn’t shared with third parties or the government.
Super-fast speeds and a global server network let you stream content in 4K buffer-free. For example, ExpressVPN helped us watch The Dropout on Hulu by connecting to a US server. We got terrific speeds on most server locations (only a 25 Mbps connection is needed to stream in UHD). So, streaming, gaming, and downloading files are seamless with this Rwanda VPN.
Contacting support is accessible using the 24/7 live chat feature available on the VPN’s website. You even get a 30-day money-back policy, so you can claim a full refund if you change your mind after subscribing.
PROS
- Military-grade encryption.
- Servers in 90+ countries.
- Excellent speeds for browsing.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
- 24/7 live chat support.
CONS
- 5 simultaneous connections.
2. NordVPN - Best Option for Improved Security in Rwanda
NordVPN protects your from Rwandan government surveillance and third-party data-logging platforms. You can use this VPN’s “Threat Manager” feature to block trackers and scan local files for malware. Plus, multiple security protocols (NordLynx and OpenVPN) offer added security and help you stay safe online.
An audited no-logs policy and data leak protection safeguard your data from accidental exposure online. The strong encryption also enables you to browse the Internet using your Wi-Fi connection more safely in Rwanda.
Like the best VPN for Rwanda - ExpressVPN, NordVPN also offers fast speeds that let us stream content in 4K. Some remote, faraway locations did make our connection slower. However, it’s not an issue if you have a base network with average speeds of 50+ Mbps.
This VPN offers a vast network of 5,000+ servers spread across 59 countries. Some of those are optimized for unblocking streaming platforms, as well as torrenting. Plus, the encrypted server connection will help you access restricted content easily.
NordVPN’s apps are beginner-friendly and come with a simple UI. You can use the VPN simultaneously on 6 devices, and the service has 24/7 customer support with a live chat option.
PROS
- Secure protocols and encryption.
- Built-in Threat Manager.
- 5,000+ servers across 59 countries.
- Beginner-friendly interface.
- 24/7 live chat customer support.
CONS
- Slow remote server locations.
3. CyberGhost VPN - Best Option for Streaming and Entertainment
CyberGhost offers streaming-optimized servers for unblocking specific platforms. You also get access to 9,000+ servers across 91 countries, making it easy to access any restricted content from abroad.
Browsing, gaming, and streaming are smooth with this VPN. However, it’s not as fast as our previous recommendations. That said, you won’t face any major slowdowns if you have a base connection with average speeds of 50+ Mbps.
Features like AES 256-bit encryption, a dedicated ad-blocker, and data leak protection secure your connection. For added security, an automatic kill switch keeps your sensitive information safe from accidental exposure.
You can configure the VPN to launch automatically when you connect to a Wi-Fi network. The VPN service follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning your data is never stored or shared with third parties.
The CyberGhost VPN service offers apps that are easy to install on all major operating systems. Plus, 24/7 live chat customer support is there in case of any issues. There’s also an extended 45-day money-back guarantee if you subscribe to a long-term plan.
PROS
- AES 256-bit encryption.
- Great for unblocking websites.
- Optimized server network.
- 24/7 live chat support tool.
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Slower than the competition.
Why Do I Need a VPN for Rwanda?
You need a Rwanda VPN to protect your data from hackers, government, and commercial surveillance tools. The following benefits make getting a VPN more worthwhile:
- Secure Your Sensitive Data - Any capable VPN in Rwanda should offer great protection against online snooping tools. Many VPNs have AES 256-bit encryption and follow a no-logs policy, helping you keep your sensitive information safe from accidental leaks or cyber threats.
- Unblock Your Favorite Services - The Rwandan government regulates social media and other types of websites. So, the best VPN for Rwanda lets you unblock and access your favorite platforms by using a server location where the services work.
- Block Surveillance Tools and Spyware - Ads, trackers, and malware are prevalent through the Internet and can infect your device to track you. That said, VPNs help you know if a site is malicious and unsafe to access.
- Safe Torrenting - Downloading torrent files is risky and can leave you vulnerable to cyber threats and data leaks. The best VPN for Rwanda helps you safeguard your network using secure P2P servers that let you download without exposing your data to third parties.
Can I Use a Free VPN for Rwanda?
Yes, you can use a free VPN for Rwanda. However, we don’t recommend getting one. Free VPNs often only offer limited server locations and don’t have servers in Rwanda.
Moreover, a free VPN won’t keep you safe as you cannot access robust security or privacy features. Free services also sell your information to make a profit.
They also limit you with a data cap that resets monthly, making free VPNs only suited for light Web browsing activity.
However, if you really do need a free VPN for Rwanda, we recommend reading our free VPN guide and find the best choice as per your requirements.
Final Thoughts
This guide ensures you get access to the best VPN for Rwanda based on our dedicated testing. That’s because keeping your private information secure on the Internet is of the utmost importance. The recommended VPNs help improve your online privacy and security in Rwanda and unblock geo-blocked platforms.
That said, our top recommendation is ExpressVPN. This VPN offers military-grade encryption and robust privacy features. You get access to a global server network, allowing you to unblock the content you want. Best of all, ExpressVPN’s tried-and-tested 30-day money-back guarantee backs your purchase by offering you a risk-free experience.
That’s all for our take on the best VPN for Rwanda. If you have any questions, drop a comment below. Thank you for reading!