Rwanda is famous for its mountain gorillas, but the country offers much more than that. From savannah wildlife to lush forests and beautiful lakes, there are numerous incredible locations to explore. Here are the top 15 camps and lodges to consider when visiting Rwanda:
Bisate Lodge
Bisate Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge located in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. It’s known for its distinctive architectural design, which is inspired by the traditional royal palace of the Rwandan monarchy. The lodge is set within a natural amphitheater of an eroded volcanic cone, with magnificent views of the volcanoes Bisoke, Karisimbi, and Mikeno.
Bisate Lodge is situated in the natural amphitheater of an eroded volcanic cone near Volcanoes National Park. The lodge offers a stunning view of the volcano peaks Bisoke, Karisimbi, and Mikeno. The proximity to the park makes it an ideal base for gorilla trekking.
The lodge features six forest villas, each accommodating two people. The villas’ design is inspired by the traditional thatched structures of Rwanda and offer luxury in this wilderness setting. Each villa consists of a bedroom, reception area, and a bathroom with a central fireplace.
The main lodge incorporates a lounge, dining area, and bar. It also offers a wine cellar and viewing deck. Other amenities include in-room massages and laundry service. Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge building.
Bisate Lodge’s proximity to Volcanoes National Park allows for various activities including gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and hiking excursions to Dian Fossey’s grave or the top of Bisoke volcano. Bird watching and participation in local community experiences are also available.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is a premier lodging option situated near the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, a locale famous for its mountain gorilla population. The lodge is operated by Governor’s Camp, a company known for its high-quality accommodations in East Africa.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is nestled at the foothill of the Virunga range, providing breathtaking views of the Rwandan mountains. The lodge’s location is convenient, only a few minutes’ drive from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, the main starting point for gorilla treks.
The lodge offers luxurious cottages and suites, all boasting spacious bedrooms, private verandas, and large bathrooms with a bathtub and shower. Designed to reflect traditional Rwandan culture, the stone buildings feature terracotta tile roofs and stylish interiors.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge’s main building houses the reception, dining room, library, games room, and a community awareness center. Guests can also unwind at the bar or enjoy views from various outdoor decks. The lodge offers internet access, and massage services are available upon request.
The main attraction is the opportunity to track mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park, an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Other activities include golden monkey tracking, bird watching, and cultural experiences such as visits to the Iby’ Iwacu cultural village or the ex-poachers’ village.
Virunga Lodge
Virunga Lodge is an award-winning luxury lodge located in Rwanda with an exceptional location atop a ridge with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the twin lakes Bulera and Ruhonda. The lodge is renowned for its warm hospitality, delicious food, and comfortable accommodation.
The lodge sits on a ridge with breathtaking panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the twin lakes, providing one of the most awe-inspiring views in Africa. The location offers easy access to Volcanoes National Park, a popular destination for gorilla trekking.
Virunga Lodge offers ten stone guest bandas (cottages) with tile roofs. Each banda is named after regional African lakes, and they provide a private terrace from where guests can enjoy the spectacular views. The interiors are locally inspired and comfortably decorated, featuring en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilets and showers.
The main lodge consists of a lounge, dining area, and a community craft shop, all decorated with traditional African artworks. The lodge offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi and charging stations. There’s also a ‘Dian Fossey Map Room’ dedicated to the work of Dian Fossey in protecting the mountain gorillas.
The primary activity is gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Other activities include climbing the Visoke or Karisimbi volcanoes, hiking to Dian Fossey’s grave, or simply exploring local villages, schools, and markets.
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a luxury resort located in the foothills of the Virunga volcano range in Rwanda. Its prime location, just a short distance from the Volcanoes National Park, offers guests a unique opportunity for unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences.
The resort is nestled amongst a forest of eucalyptus trees, with the stunning backdrop of the Virunga volcanoes. The location provides easy access to Volcanoes National Park, making it a convenient base for those wanting to trek to see the mountain gorillas or golden monkeys.
The resort offers spacious rooms, suites, and lodges, each with a modern design infused with traditional Rwandan influences. All accommodations feature private decks and fireplaces, and some include private plunge pools.
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest boasts a variety of amenities, including a restaurant serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, a relaxing spa, a fitness center, and a pool. The resort also provides personal butler service and guided tours around the resort’s tea and coffee plantations.
Besides gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, guests can also enjoy a variety of activities on site, including nature walks, birdwatching, mountain biking, and traditional Rwandan ceremonies.
Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Singita Kwitonda Lodge is a luxury accommodation situated on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Named after a legendary silverback gorilla known for his gentleness, the lodge is an ideal base for gorilla trekking.
The lodge is located less than ten minutes from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, where gorilla treks commence. The lodge sits on 178 acres of land, offering stunning views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura volcanoes
Singita Kwitonda Lodge has eight luxurious suites and a private four-bedroom villa called Kataza House. Each suite is decorated with locally made furniture and features indoor and outdoor fireplaces, heated plunge pools, and massage areas. Kataza House provides a chef, a host team, and a private vehicle for excursions.
The lodge offers dining and lounge areas, a bar, wine cellar, and conservation room. There’s also an on-site garden providing fresh produce for meals. A fitness center, massage treatment rooms, and a gear room for trekking equipment are also available.
The primary activity at Singita Kwitonda Lodge is gorilla trekking. Other activities include golden monkey and bird watching, hiking, and community visits, which offer a chance to explore local culture and traditions.
Nyungwe House
One&Only Nyungwe House is a luxurious resort located on the edge of the Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda. This natural haven of biodiversity provides guests with an extraordinary close encounter with Rwanda’s wildlife and nature.
The lodge is nestled within a working tea plantation, offering a panoramic view of the adjacent lush rainforest. It provides easy access to the Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to numerous species of primates and birds, making it a dream for nature lovers.
The resort features 22 luxury rooms and suites, all boasting modern African décor, fireplaces, private decks, and en-suite bathrooms. The rooms and suites are designed to fit harmoniously within the natural surroundings, offering stunning views of the forest.
The main building of the lodge houses a restaurant that serves locally inspired dishes, a bar, a fitness center, and a relaxing spa offering a variety of treatments. There’s also an infinity pool overlooking the vast forest.
The prime activity here is chimpanzee tracking, but the national park is also home to other primates like colobus monkeys. Additional activities include canopy walks, bird watching, nature walks, and tea plantation tours. Guests can also participate in traditional Rwandan ceremonies.
Cormoran Lodge
Cormoran Lodge is a charming lodge situated in the beautiful town of Kibuye on the eastern shore of Lake Kivu, one of the Great Lakes in Africa. With its natural setting, the lodge offers stunning views of the lake and its many islands.
The lodge is positioned on a steep hillside and is surrounded by lush greenery. It offers panoramic views of Lake Kivu and the numerous small islands scattered across it. Kibuye town is a three-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital.
Cormoran Lodge offers seven wooden chalets, each uniquely designed and featuring large windows and private balconies overlooking Lake Kivu. The rooms are well-equipped with comfortable beds, a sitting area, and modern bathrooms. The VIP cabin offers an extra degree of luxury with a larger living area and a Jacuzzi.
The main building houses a restaurant that serves a fusion of local and international cuisine, and a well-stocked bar. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas. The lodge also offers a variety of services, including laundry and a 24-hour front desk.
The lodge provides a wide range of activities such as boat trips on Lake Kivu, visits to nearby islands, water sports, and beach relaxation. Guests can also explore the local town of Kibuye, visit the genocide memorial sites, or hike in the surrounding hills.
Akagera Game Lodge
Akagera Game Lodge is located in Akagera National Park, eastern Rwanda, an area known for its rich biodiversity and variety of wildlife. This makes the lodge an ideal location for those seeking a safari experience in Rwanda.
The lodge is situated within Akagera National Park, which is home to one of the most scenic savannahs in East Africa. It’s on a ridge overlooking Lake Ihema, offering beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding areas.
The lodge provides a variety of rooms and suites to cater to different guest needs. The rooms are well-appointed with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and private patios or balconies offering sweeping views of the park and Lake Ihema. The lodge can accommodate families, groups, and individuals.
Akagera Game Lodge features a restaurant that serves a variety of cuisines, a bar, and an outdoor swimming pool. The lodge also provides a variety of services, including laundry and room service. There is Wi-Fi available in the main building.
As the lodge is located in a national park, game drives are a primary activity, offering sightings of a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and a plethora of bird species. Boat trips on Lake Ihema provide opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous water birds.
Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Ruzizi Tented Lodge is a boutique eco-lodge located within Akagera National Park in Rwanda. With its serene, natural setting and commitment to sustainability, Ruzizi offers a truly immersive and intimate safari experience.
Nestled in a tract of mature woodland, the lodge overlooks Lake Ihema and offers guests a peaceful retreat within the park. It’s within easy access to prime game viewing areas of the park.
Ruzizi Tented Lodge has just nine tents, accommodating a maximum of 20 guests at a time. Each tent is mounted on a wooden deck and features en-suite bathrooms, hot and cold running water, and a private patio for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding views. A family tent and a tree-top tent are also available.
The main lodge area is under a thatched structure and includes a lounge area, dining area, bar, and a large deck that extends over the lake. The lodge operates on solar power and strives to maintain a low impact on the environment.
The primary activities at Ruzizi are game drives and boat safaris. Night game drives and guided walking safaris are also available.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is a luxurious retreat located in Musanze (also known as Ruhengeri), in the northern province of Rwanda. It’s a prime location for those wishing to visit Volcanoes National Park, known for mountain gorilla trekking.
The hotel is conveniently located on the road leading to the entrance of the Volcanoes National Park, making it a perfect base for gorilla trekking expeditions. It offers views of the five volcanoes that give the hotel its name.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offers 13 spacious bedrooms including a VIP cottage. The rooms are tastefully furnished with en-suite facilities, comfortable beds, and a private terrace. The VIP cottage adds an extra layer of privacy and luxury, with a living room area and private garden.
The hotel boasts a restaurant serving international and local cuisine, a bar, a pool, and a beautiful garden. Other services include free Wi-Fi, laundry service, and 24-hour front desk assistance. They also offer a shuttle service for their guests.
While gorilla trekking in the nearby Volcanoes National Park is the primary activity for guests, other attractions include golden monkey tracking, visiting the twin lakes (Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo), or exploring local communities and cultural experiences.
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is a mid-range lodge located in Kinigi in northern Rwanda. Due to its proximity to the Volcanoes National Park, it is an ideal base for those wishing to go on mountain gorilla treks.
The lodge is strategically situated on the foothills of the Mount Karisimbi, one of the volcanic mountains that make up the Virunga Massif. It’s approximately a 15-minute drive from the main entrance to the Volcanoes National Park, which is the departure point for gorilla trekking expeditions.
The lodge features 30 spacious cottages made of stone and thatch, providing a rustic and cozy atmosphere. Each cottage is self-contained with basic amenities and a private veranda offering views of the surrounding mountains.
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge offers a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine, prepared with fresh produce from its own farm. There’s a bar and communal areas where guests can relax and socialize. Fireplaces are lit in the evening, creating a warm and comfortable environment. The lodge also offers services like laundry and room service.
The primary activity is gorilla trekking in the nearby Volcanoes National Park. Other activities include golden monkey trekking, visiting the Musanze Caves, the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, and the Iby’Iwacu cultural village.
Hotel des Mille Collines
Hotel des Mille Collines, located in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is a historic hotel known worldwide from the film “Hotel Rwanda,” which depicted the hotel’s role as a sanctuary during the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. Today, it remains a symbol of resilience and a beacon of hospitality.
The hotel is situated in central Kigali, offering easy access to various business and leisure hubs in the city. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Kigali International Airport. The hotel provides a stunning view of the city and the surrounding hills, giving Rwanda its nickname, “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Hotel des Mille Collines offers 112 rooms and suites, each boasting a modern African décor and a balcony overlooking the beautiful city. The rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, air conditioning, satellite TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The hotel features a restaurant that serves a blend of Rwandan and international cuisine, a café, a poolside bar, and a lounge. Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and meeting rooms for business travelers. The hotel also offers services like airport shuttles, car rental, laundry, and room service.
Guests can enjoy various city attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and Kandt House Museum. Guided city tours can be arranged upon request.
Kigali Serena Hotel
Kigali Serena Hotel is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. A member of the Serena Hotels group, it is known for its elegant design, top-tier service, and convenient location.
The hotel is centrally located in Kigali, making it a convenient base for business and leisure travelers alike. It’s close to the city’s business district and various attractions, and approximately 20 minutes from Kigali International Airport.
Kigali Serena Hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, all designed with a blend of contemporary comfort and pan-African style. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. The suites offer additional amenities and space, including separate living areas and premium bathroom fixtures.
The hotel boasts several dining options including a restaurant offering a fusion of continental and Rwandan cuisine, a coffee shop, and a lounge bar. There’s also a fitness center, a swimming pool, a spa offering a range of treatments, and extensive conference and event facilities for business travelers. Additional services include airport shuttles, laundry, and room service.
Guests can explore various city attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Inema Arts Center, local markets, and more. The hotel can assist in arranging city tours and other activities.
Heaven Retreat Rwanda
Heaven Retreat Rwanda is a tranquil and luxury boutique resort located in Kigali, Rwanda. Established by the same team behind Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel, the Retreat is recognized for its unique fusion of Rwandan culture, modern design, and international-standard service.
The Retreat is located in Kigali’s peaceful Kiyovu neighborhood, approximately 20 minutes from Kigali International Airport and just minutes from the city center.
The Retreat offers 20 luxurious solar-powered rooms, including four suites. Each room is custom-crafted with locally-sourced furnishings and boasts a private patio, air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with international channels, and rainfall showers.
Heaven Retreat features the renowned Fusion Restaurant & Bar, which serves up gourmet global fusion cuisine and a wide selection of beverages. The property also boasts a saltwater swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center, a sauna, a spa offering organic treatments, a gift shop, and a small movie theater. Guests can also enjoy unique experiences such as yoga and cooking classes. The property is pet-friendly and offers services like airport transfers, laundry, and room service.
The Retreat’s location provides easy access to Kigali’s main attractions, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, craft markets, and the Inema and Ivuka art centers. The hotel can arrange a variety of excursions, including city tours, gorilla trekking, safari trips, and visits to coffee and tea plantations.
Amakoro Songa Kinigi Lodge
Amakoro Songa Kinigi Lodge is a luxury lodge located in the northern region of Rwanda, ideal for those visiting the nearby Volcanoes National Park and interested in gorilla trekking.
The lodge is situated on the foothills of the stunning Virunga Volcano range, offering panoramic views. It’s a short drive to the Volcanoes National Park, which is the starting point for gorilla trekking expeditions.
Amakoro Songa Kinigi Lodge offers 12 spacious, luxurious suites designed with traditional Rwandan materials, featuring en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and a private veranda with stunning views. Each suite provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, helping guests feel at home in the wilderness.
The lodge features a cozy central area that includes a lounge, dining area, and a bar. A large outdoor fireplace provides the perfect spot for evening gatherings. The service at the lodge is exceptional, with staff attending to guests’ needs round the clock.
The primary activity at Amakoro Songa Kinigi Lodge is gorilla trekking in the nearby Volcanoes National Park. The lodge also arranges golden monkey tracking, bird watching, and visits to local communities for a cultural experience. Nature walks around the lodge are a relaxing option, providing guests the opportunity to soak in the beautiful scenery.
Guests often praise the lodge for its exceptional service, comfortable accommodation, and prime location for gorilla trekking. The immersive nature experience, coupled with luxurious amenities and warm hospitality, contribute to a memorable stay.