Rwanda is a popular safari destination because of its gorilla trekking excursions, which not only provide tourists the chance to see critically endangered mountain gorillas up close, but also golden monkeys and other primates. But a safari in Rwanda is more than that. Going in search of gorillas through the rainforest is just the beginning of the incredible adventures that can be had. Sightings of the Big 5 in Akagera National Park, climbing extinct volcanoes, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, and lounging on the “beach” at Lake Kivu are just a few of the other highlights of a safari to the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
As a result of its expanding mountain gorilla population, characteristic savanna animal encounters, and quickly modernizing capital city of Kigali, Rwanda has become a popular safari destination for tourists from all over the world.
However, it has also developed into a refuge for top-notch lodging, and the country’s lodging alternatives have improved over the years. There are a number of lodges, hotels, and camps in Rwanda where you can be certain of a nice stay whether you are visiting for business, pleasure, or a safari. From the most opulent to the most affordable, Rwanda safari lodges offer the perfect environment for tourists to go about their everyday safaris. Safari destinations in the nation include Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park, Gisenyi, and Kibuye, all of which have a variety of accommodation alternatives.
Therefore, choose the best safari lodges in Rwanda will increase the comfort and success of your Rwanda safari. Furthermore, if you know your spending limit and preferences, it won’t be difficult to find a beautiful hotel or lodge in any of the aforementioned Rwandan safari sites. In Rwanda, a decent hotel room would run you between $ IOO and $200, and a luxury hotel or lodge may cost you between $350 and S1500 per night, depending on where you are. The following is a list of our top selections for Rwanda’s safari lodges;
Safari Lodges in Rwanda.
Singita Kwitonda Lodge in Rwanda.
One of the best safari lodges in Rwanda is Singita Kwitonda Lodge. The extraordinary Singita Kwitonda Lodge, which shares a 1.2-kilometer boundary with the Volcanoes National Park and is named for a legendary silverback gorilla, is the only lodge in such close proximity to the park. It is situated on 178 acres. More than a third of the world’s surviving mountain gorillas may easily access life-changing gorilla trekking experiences thanks to the lodge’s unrivalled position. Each of the hotel’s eight opulent rooms includes a private heated plunge pool, spa centre, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and big timber-framed windows that open to let in the breathtaking countryside and volcano views.
The lodge’s interiors have exquisite views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura volcanoes as well as local design and handcrafted accents that embellish the thoughtfully organized spaces. The lodge has locally made hand-fired terracotta brickwork, a Conservation Room, a nursery, and a vegetable garden that supply fresh products for Kwitonda’s farm-to-table culinary experience. In order to help guests process their experiences with the amazing “gentle apes of the forest,” Singita Kwitonda offers a loving environment.
Free parking, laundry services, an outdoor pool, a shared TV area, a gift shop, airport transportation, Wi-Fi, a business centre, free breakfast, a bar, and a restaurant serving delectable regional and international cuisine are also provided at the lodge. Singita Kwitonda Lodge offers a variety of safari activities, such as visits to the Akarabo nursery bed, a farm-to-table garden, a conservation room, gorilla and golden monkey treks, birdwatching, hiking and nature walks, village excursions, and city tours of Kigali.
Bisate Lodge in Rwanda.
Bisate Lodge, is another greatest safari lodges in Rwanda operated by wilderness safaris, is located in the amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone. The name of the lodge, “bisate,” which describes how the once-complete cone was eroded away by natural erosion, comes from a Kinyarwanda word that meaning “pieces” and is located on the outskirts of the Volcanoes National Park. The lodge has six opulent suites with warmth, comfort, and panoramic views are available at the lodge, which also upholds Rwandan environmental values and cultural traditions.
The roughly 100 square foot homes were created by local Rwandan craftspeople. The villas provide hot and warm water inside showers, a dressing room, luggage storage, a sitting space, a library, a minibar, a fireplace, and an own butler. The lodge has got the large individual balconies with views of the park and the Virunga Mountains are another features that the lodge has. Free parking, free breakfast, laundry service, airport transfers, Wi-Fi, a bar, and a restaurant are all provided by Bisate Lodge.
At addition, Bisate Lodge provides its visitors with a variety of safari activities, such as gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park, bird viewing, and nature walks, trekking with golden monkeys, village visits, and exploring Musanze caves. It’s among the first lodge in Rwanda that provides travelers both world-class luxury and once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experiences. Over 2000 trees have been planted since the lodge’s founding thanks to partnerships with the local community to reforest two indigenous tree nurseries and a famous site abutting the Volcanoes National Park. The architecture of the lodge is a reflection of rural Rwandan culture, and the setting provides breathtaking views of the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes rising above the Afro-alpine forests of the park. The great natural heritage of Rwanda and responsible ecotourism are both priorities for Bisate Lodge.
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Safari Lodges.
While on your gorilla trekking safari in the Volcanoes National Park, stay at the luxurious One & Only Gorilla’s Nest lodge in Rwanda for outstanding service with attention to detail. The Lodge is well positioned at the base of five volcanoes, in the spectacular African tropical rainforest. Six kilometers separate One & Only Gorilla’s Nest from the main Kinigi Park building.
There are 21 guest suites total at One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, including seven one-bedroom suites and fourteen luxury rooms. With ensuite bathrooms, showers, and toilets, the rooms are incredibly roomy. The lodge also has well-trained staff and a restaurant that prepares a range of dishes in accordance with the demands and orders of the waiters and waitresses. There are services at Gorillas Nest includes free Wi-Fi, airport shuttles, free parking, and a
Spa, a pool, a health facility, a bar with a comprehensive selection of drinks, and a restaurant with talented chefs serving delectable regional and international cuisine. Gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking and nature walks, birdwatching, the Dian Fossey hike, cultural visits, twin lake tours, kayaking and trips to the Musanze caverns are only some of the activities available at One & Only Gorilla’s Nest.
One & Only Nyungwe House.
One & only Nyungwe House, which offers a portfolio of exceptional properties in some of the most exotic places on earth, counts Nyungwe House as a partner hotel. Within a tea plantation, the property is situated west of Nyungwe Forest National Park. The six wooden villas that make up Nyungwe House’s 22 rooms and suites are all nicely adorned with old-world Rwandan artwork. The lodge’s suites, on the other hand, provide more roomy lodgings. A king-size or twin-size bed, bedside tables, lights, a separate living room, a warm fireplace, and storage space are included in each suite. A huge bathtub, twin washbasins, a shower area and a separate flush toilet are all features of the en-suite bathroom. Additionally, every lodging room at the resort has a private veranda from which guests may take in breathtaking views of Nyungwe Forest and keep an eye out for animals like primates and birds. The suites also include with Wi-Fi connectivity, a telephone, satellite television, and multi-pin plug sockets.
In addition, wooden walks connect the lodge’s six villas to its communal structures. The structures are made of terracotta tiles, dark slate, and wood, which mix in beautifully with the surroundings. A chic reception area leads to a tranquil living area with comfortable seating gathered around coffee tables, a charming fireplace, and a selection of books and games. Additionally, there is a superb dining area with double doors out onto a dining terrace. In both locations, guests may savour wonderful buffet breakfasts, brunches, and lavish evening meals. In Nyungwe Forest, picnics at Nyungwe House are normally offered with lunch, and private meals are available upon request. The lodge also has a gift shop, a heated infinity pool, a fitness centre, a spa with two treatment rooms, and a fire pit for socializing with other visitors.
Magashi Camp in Rwanda.
Magashi Camp is positioned in the serene sanctuary of Akagera National Park and is situated in its concession area with breathtaking views of Lake Rwanyakazinga. It is the only camp in this vast area of stunning scenery that is home to numerous animals, including hippo, a variety of birds, and extremely rare species like the Sitatunga antelope and the Black Rhino. Six tented rooms at Migashi Camp are available for lodging, and they are reached from the main areas through a wooden path. The rooms seem spacious and open-sided, with unobstructed lake views. Each room has a king-size bed that can be split into two twin beds, bedside tables and lamps, furniture for storage, and a relaxing living space. Furthermore, each en-suite bathroom contains a flush toilet, a single basin and a shower.
The communal spaces at Magashi are also airy and open with breathtaking lake views. In addition to a lavish lounge, dinning, pool, and a sizable viewing terrace with a convivial fire pit, Magashi also has a spa. The lounge features comfortable seating arranged around coffee tables, beautiful lighting, ceiling fans, and bookcases holding interesting objects. The bar is in the middle of the building and features traditional Rwandan elements, while the eating area includes exquisite tables and chairs, fans and sophisticated chandelier-style lights. The entire room opens up onto the sizable viewing terrace, which has a fire pit surrounded by a semi-circle of chairs. Safari activities available to guests at Magashi Camp include boat excursions, birding, sport fishing, guided nature walks, and game drives.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
The first community-owned lodge in the nation is Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. Although Governors’ Camp Collection manages the lodge, SACOLA (sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association) Community Trust owns the property. In order to support socioeconomic and conservation programmes in the villages close to Volcanoes National Park, the lodge uses lodge rentals and community fees. Clients can walk from Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge to the main office of Volcanoes National Park to watch the gorillas. The lodge, which is located in the foothills of the massive Virunga Mountains, provides breathtaking views of the volcanoes and the nearby farms.
Six cottages, two suites, and one family cottage make up the Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. The main lodge building and guest cottages are superbly constructed and offer the perfect vantage point from which to explore this distinct and fascinating part of Africa. Every cottage is made of stone, has a protected private veranda, a large living space, a fireplace, modern en-suite bathrooms, and a roof covered in Rwandese terracotta tiles. The lodge also offers two patio areas with breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the surroundings, as well as three large fires that provide warmth. With a sitting room, dining room, library and gift store, the main lodge building is roomy and welcoming.
Kigali Serena Hotel.
This exquisite 5-star hotel is located in the centre of Kigali, the bustling capital. This charming hotel combines stunning amenities with locally inspired flair and excellent cuisine to make guests feel at home and well-cared-for while they are there. Serena Hotels, which also has a broad network of properties across Africa and beyond, owns and runs the hotel. For travelers travelling to or from the Volcanoes National Park or any other safari location in the nation, Kigali Serena offers a wonderfully relaxing stopover.
There are 148 rooms and suites at Kigali Serena. There are five different categories of hotel rooms: standard, standard disabled, deluxe, superior, and premium. The suites, on the other hand, are divided into studio, executive, and presidential categories. Premier rooms offer the most gorgeous accommodations, with furniture types varying between classifications. A king-size bed or twin beds, as well as en-suite bathroom amenities with a bathtub and shower, are included in each standard room, which is at least 25 square meters in size. Additionally, Kigali Serena has one accommodation that is handicapped accessible. Other room features include a mini-bar, a safe, a hairdryer, direct dial phone, WiFi, satellite television, and air conditioning. These features are all accessible in the deluxe, superior, and prime rooms as well.
The suites offer all the amenities found in the rooms in addition to an executive workstation with a separate sitting area, a private porch, a galley kitchen, a dining room, a sitting area, a conference room, two guest rooms with en suite bathrooms, and a Jacuzzi (for the presidential suite). The studio suites are 40 square meters, the executive suites are 70 square meters, and the presidential suite is a massive 300 square meters. Every unit has a terrace outdoors, which is great for kids’ activities. Families can also get interconnecting rooms, and the majority of lodgings allow for extra beds and/or costs.
Ruzizi Tented Camp.
Another modest luxury tented camp is Ruzizi Tented Camp, which has 7 en suite tents scattered throughout the Lake Ihema woodland coastlines and well-protected by enormous palms and trees. Ruzizi Tented Camp, run by African Parks, is a charitable environmental organization that debuted in 2012. There are 9 guest tents on the property, and they are situated on either side of the communal lodge along the lakefront. Each tent stands on a sturdy stone foundation and is shaded by lovely palm and fig trees. This indicates that it is double-layered, with the canvas used for the outside layer stretching over the inner layer to create a veranda that is shaded. Campaign chairs, a tree stump table, and a tranquil hammock complete the ambiance. The tents are comfortable, equipped with twin or queen-size mattresses, bedside tables and lamps, a sitting area, and soft carpets. Camp beds can also be provided for children up to the age of 15. At the back of the tent are the en-suite facilities, which comprise a flush toilet, twin washbasins, and a bathtub or outdoor shower. There is also a lot of storage in each lavatory.
The reception room of the lodge is connected to a warm bar with stunning lake views. There is also a lounge and a dining area where mouthwatering breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are served every day. Additionally, guests can enjoy delicious dinners on Ruzizi’s sizable veranda while taking in the stunning views of Lake Ihema and its native birds, hippopotamuses, and crocodiles. The deck’s fire pit makes it the perfect place for mingling with other guests before supper.
Hotel des Mille Collines.
A landmark, the four-star Hotel des Mille Collines is only 20 minutes from the airport. The hotel, which served as the basis for the movie Hotel Rwanda, has recovered from its terrible past to rank among Kigali’s most illustrious lodges. The hilltop location of Hotel des Mille Collines provides a tranquil, green haven away from the bustle of the city centre. The accommodations are first-rate, and the views are breathtaking. The hotel is without a doubt the most well-known in Rwanda, despite not being the most opulent in the entire world. Being in such a historic setting is both moving and motivating.
There are 112 rooms and suites at Hotel des Mille Collines, separated into five categories. The entry level offers the Classic Room. A flat screen television, a long wooden unit with desk space, a queen-size or twin bed, bedside cabinets and lamps, and a separate lounge area are all included in each room. There is a flush toilet, a wash basin, and a bathtub in each of the en suite bathrooms. Wi-Fi, a safe, and air conditioning are additional features. Stunning views of Kigali may be seen from the own balcony in the classic rooms as well. As the next step up, the Junior Suite has a lounge, coffee station, mini-bar, and private balcony.
The Superior Suite, which features a separate dining area, is the final category. The alternatives are all spotless, amazing, and have contemporary furnishings made of lovely wood.
The hotel’s Legacy Lounge, an exquisite environment where a range of drinks, including cocktails, are available to guests, is a great place to unwind. There are two dining establishments on the site as well. La Terrasse offers all-day dining in a serene setting among the grounds with Sunday brunch. Additionally, the fourth-floor restaurant Le Panorama is a great choice for a special dinner with amazing views. Additionally, there is the Pool Bar, which offers a selection of appetizers and beverages. The hotel’s massage pavilion and pool are great places to experience. With six meeting and banquet rooms, the hotel also provides an elegant venue for conventions and other meetings.
Mantis Akagera Game Lodge.
The Big Five, and other wildlife, and several bird species can all be found in Akagera National Park, which is home to Mantis Akagera Game Lodge. The Lodge is positioned on a hill near the park’s southern boundary, elevated above the savannah and offering breathtaking views of Lake Ihema. The 60-room Akagera Game Lodge is the excellent starting point for exploring conservation treasures or just relaxing. Executive suites and interior studios are available in the lodge, and each offers breathtaking views of Lake Ihemba.
Housekeeping services are provided to make your stay at Akagera Game Lodge as comfortable as possible. Visitors are well-cared for. The staff is pleasant and friendly. The lodge also features cottages, which are excellent for families and parties looking for high-quality accommodations. After a long day, guests can relax in the lodge’s swimming pool, which also has a restaurant and a bar. The restaurant has got a talented chef who creates delicious meals utilizing both regional and imported ingredients; those who want a certain dish can have it produced upon request. There are plenty of drinks at the bar, and you can choose to sit at the bar and enjoy your preferred reception beverage
Lake Kivu Serena Hotel.
The Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is undoubtedly the best place to stay in the region of Lake Kivu. Like its sister Serena hotels, the hotel has a fantastic location, comfortable lodgings, and a variety of activities, so you can stay here whether you want to just relax or remain busy. On the northern shores of Lake Kivu, close to the small town of Gisenyi, is where you’ll find the Lake Kivu Serena hotel. It is perfect for a combined Rwanda safari because it is only a few hours’ drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, and the renowned Volcanoes National Park.
The hotel is situated on a pristine beach and is a convenient starting point for a beach vacation in Rwanda.
This Serena hotel is similarly sizable to the others in the chain; it has 60 guest rooms and 6 suites. The accommodations have simple décor and a number of comforts for a very enjoyable stay, such as 24-hour room service, a personal safe, hair dryers, Wi-Fi, and telephones. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, both indoor and outdoor seating, a gym and a swimming pool, fishing, swimming, boat trips, and jet skiing are all available to guests of the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel on the lake. In addition to relaxing on the hotel grounds, other activities include cycling, nature hikes, and excursions along the beaches that the guests do enjoy in.
Amakoro Songa Lodge.
A true fusion of tourism and conservation can be found at the Armakoro Songa Lodge, which is situated outside of Kinigi in a small settlement. Every guest has the chance to get away from daily life and enjoy a sense of tranquilly 8 lovely cottages that were built and intended to take advantage of the peaceful surroundings. The black volcanic rocks that characterize this mountainous region of Rwanda, which is home to Mountain Gorillas, are the source of the name Amakoro Songa Lodge. The Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo volcanoes surround the lodge, which is set on a seven-acre plot with well-kept gardens.
The cottages at the resort are all intentionally furnished with a rustic elegance that combines native and contemporary pieces to provide warmth and comfort to its visitors. Amakoro offers a variety of amenities, including huge massage rooms with fireplaces where guests may relax after a day of hiking. A must-see is the fireplace, which enables visitors to enjoy an evening beverage while watching the customary ‘’Intore Dance Troupe’’. When it comes to food, Amakoro Songa Lodge firmly advocates “trying local.” The lodge’s chefs cultivate their spices and organic vegetables in the lodge’s grounds, enabling them to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Members of the neighborhood who will provide you true local hospitality and local expertise make up this carefully chosen team.
Visitors can also go to the lodges nearby communities and take part in customary pursuits like planting trees, doing community cleanups, and attending customary performances. Amakoro Lodge arranges neighborhood strolls that include home visits and a storytelling session with the senior citizen who talks about pre- and post-colonial memories. After the group hikes, there is always a lunch break and some quiet time for visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
Mountain Gorilla View resort is a stunning resort on the slopes ideal for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, situated on the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo. This is a great starting point for exploring the area and planning trips to see the mountain gorillas and, of course, the golden monkeys. The lodge is located not far from the Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda’s administrative centre. An amazing location, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge offers breathtaking views of the mountains.
The resort’s 30 cottages are charming stone and thatch homes with individual verandas, fireplace-equipped parlours, and en-suite bathrooms. Home-cooked meals are served in the lodge’s restaurant and bar. However, a separate restaurant and bar section is where meals are served to visitors. Along with stunning views and easy access to the Parc National des Volcans, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is a great deal.
Cormoran Lodge.
In addition to providing stunning Lake Kivu views, Cormoran Lodge also provides a more private and intimate setting on the lake’s shore. On the eastern shore of Lake Kivu, in the small village of Kibuye, is where you’ll find the lodge. Its location makes it the perfect rest break between Nyungwe Forest National Park and Rwanda’s stunning Volcanoes National Park. Cormoran Lodge, which is entirely composed of wood, has open and roomy verandas as well as simply furnished rooms that give off a genuine, natural feeling.
The lodge has 5 accommodations, including a VIP cabin, 3 single-story cabins, and a family home with a second floor. For those who love the outdoors, the en-suite rooms’ all-wood construction and rustic style are ideal. More specifically, the lodge provides activities like boating, jet skiing, and kayaking, as well as a private man-made beach next to the lake where visitors can swim. They also offer double and twin rooms, all of which have luxurious comforts and breathtaking views of Lake Kivu.
Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel.
The Nyungwe Forest, the largest single forest block in East Africa and Rwanda’s greatest water reservoir, is home to the hotel, which is situated on a small plateau with some of the most breathtaking views in the region. From Kigali’s main road, a steep but relatively brief dirt road leads to the hotel. There are six double or twin cottages at the Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel. Tiled floors, a cosy living area, netted beds, a fireplace for chilly nights and an en-suite bathroom with a washbasin, toilet, shower and bathtubs (for some cottages) are all features of each home. The rooms are comfortable and well-kept. However, the staff will place hot water bottles in your bed at night even though there is no air conditioning.
The ground floor greeting area, which is decorated with somewhat hypnotic traditional murals, and the mezzanine, which houses the bar, dining area and balcony, are among the amenities provided by Nyungwe Top View. The meals are creative and original, and the bar is decorated with bottle tops, a common African pattern. On a clear day, Lake Kivu may be seen across the forests from the veranda.