Lodges in Rwanda offer excellent choices for travelers wondering where to stay during their safari. With options ranging from luxury to budget accommodations, they provide comfort and easy access to Rwanda’s top attractions.
Rwanda is renowned for gorilla safaris in Rwanda, particularly in Volcanoes National Park, where visitors can enjoy unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Other highlights include chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest and relaxing at Lake Kivu’s beaches.
Exploring Kigali city, cultural encounters, and Big Five game viewing in Akagera National Park add to Rwanda’s appeal. With diverse lodges, every traveller can find a perfect place to stay.
Please note that the accommodations below are not ranked in a specific quality order.
1. The Retreat
The Retreat is one of the most exceptional lodges in Rwanda and a top recommendation for tourists wondering where to stay in Rwanda. This 5-star boutique hotel, a collaboration between Rwandan craftsmen and Italian architects, offers a tranquil haven in Kigali’s bustling heart.
Powered by solar energy, The Retreat combines sustainability with luxury. It features a saltwater pool, yoga and meditation classes, and a spa with world-class therapies to rejuvenate guests after thrilling gorilla safaris in Rwanda.
Dining at the Heaven Restaurant, located within the hotel, is a culinary highlight. The restaurant serves fresh local produce transformed into remarkable international dishes. For a blend of comfort, eco-conscious living, and proximity to Kigali’s attractions, The Retreat is an unparalleled choice.
2. Heaven Boutique Hotel
Heaven Boutique Hotel certainly lives up to its name, offering a delightful stay on your way to or from Rwanda national parks.
This Hotel is among the finest lodges in Rwanda, providing exceptional options for those wondering where to stay in Rwanda. Situated on KN 29 Street, it boasts 22 guest rooms spread across three unique properties: the main hotel building, The Garden Chalet, and The Villa, catering to different preferences.
Guests can relax and unwind in the solar-heated saltwater pool or enjoy activities such as yoga, tennis, and gym workouts. For added comfort, indulge in soothing massages or explore Kigali on a bike ride. Perfect for visitors embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda, Heaven Boutique Hotel combines luxury, variety, and relaxation.
Without a doubt, Kigali Serena Hotel is among the finest lodges in Rwanda, offering luxury and comfort for those wondering where to stay in Rwanda. With 148 rooms categorized as standard, standard disabled, deluxe, superior, and prime, as well as three suite types studio, executive, and presidential it provides diverse accommodation options for every traveller.
The hotel emphasises relaxation and wellness, creating a serene retreat after long-haul flights or exhilarating gorilla safaris in Rwanda. Maisha Spa offers a range of treatments and massages, while a swim in the pool or a gourmet meal at one of the two onsite restaurants ensures an exceptional experience.
For those eager to explore, Kigali Serena Hotel is an excellent base to uncover Kigali’s cultural sites and vibrant attractions, enriching your Rwandan journey.
4. Hôtel des Mille Collines
Hôtel des Mille Collines is one of the most iconic lodges in Rwanda, attracting visitors wondering where to stay in Rwanda due to its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Built in 1973, the hotel gained global recognition for its role as a refuge for over 1,000 people during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, a story depicted in the film Hotel Rwanda.
Today, the hotel continues to welcome guests with warm hospitality and lively energy, particularly around its popular pool bar in the evenings. Accommodation is offered on a bed-and-breakfast basis, making it an excellent choice for those exploring Kigali or embarking on memorable gorilla safaris in Rwanda.
5. Wilderness Magashi Camp
Wilderness Magashi Camp is one of the most luxurious lodges in Rwanda, ideal for those wondering where to stay in Rwanda. With only six stylish tented rooms, each offering private balconies overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga, it provides an exclusive and serene retreat.
Guests enjoy access to a 60-square-kilometer private concession, renowned for its exceptional wildlife. Guided drives reveal lions, elephants, and black rhinos, while boat cruises on the lake can lead to sightings of leopards with a unique fishing behaviour.
For travelers embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda or other adventures, Wilderness Magashi Camp combines exclusivity, luxury, and unforgettable wildlife experiences, making it a top recommendation.
6. Karenge Bush Camp
Karenge Bush Camp is one of the most authentic lodges in Rwanda, perfect for safari enthusiasts seeking privacy and solitude. Located in the remote northern region of Akagera National Park, this unfenced camp offers a truly immersive experience with breathtaking views of the wildlife-rich Kilala Plains.
Reflecting its name, which means “small footprint” in Kinyarwanda, Karenge combines rustic charm with an eco-friendly approach. Guests can unwind in the canvas central area that includes a lounge, dining space, outdoor fire pit, and a wooden deck overlooking the bushveld below.
With just five tented chalets perched on raised wooden platforms, each featuring private yet separate outdoor bathrooms, Karenge Bush Camp delivers a unique and serene safari experience. Wondering where to stay in Rwanda? Karenge provides unmatched intimacy and proximity to Akagera’s productive game-viewing areas.
7. Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Ruzizi Tented Lodge is one of the most remarkable lodges in Rwanda, perfectly suited for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda for an immersive safari experience. Nestled in a dense patch of lakeside woodland by Lake Ihema in southern Akagera National Park, this lodge offers tranquillity and a true connection to nature.
Guests can enjoy the delightful sound of hippos grunting at night and take advantage of the lodge’s proximity to activities such as safari boat cruises and Big Five game drives. The standing tents are well-appointed and widely spaced along the lakeshore, ensuring privacy and comfort.
Ruzizi Tented Lodge is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with its breakfast terrace offering breathtaking sunrise views over the lake. Whether for relaxation or adventure, this lodge promises an unforgettable stay amidst Rwanda’s natural beauty.
8. Mantis Akagera Game Lodge
Mantis Akagera Game Lodge is one of the most exceptional lodges in Rwanda, offering non-tented accommodations in the heart of Akagera National Park. Situated on a hilltop, it provides breathtaking views of Lake Ihema, making it an attractive choice for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda while enjoying Big Five safaris.
Established in the 1970s, this lodge blends vintage charm with a contemporary African-inspired style after its renovation by the Mantis Collection in 2017. Guests can enjoy various amenities, including tennis courts, spacious grounds alive with birdlife, a refreshing swimming pool, and a range of guided safari activities.
For first-time safari-goers seeking comfort or those exploring gorilla safaris in Rwanda, Mantis Akagera Game Lodge offers an unmatched combination of adventure, relaxation, and modern convenience
9. Wilderness Bisate Lodge
Wilderness Bisate stands out as one of the most exceptional lodges in Rwanda, particularly for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda near Volcanoes National Park. This luxurious lodge features six twin-domed villas, beautifully spaced across a 43-hectare hill just 400m from the park’s border, offering an intimate and exclusive safari experience.
The villa designs take inspiration from traditional Rwandan architecture, using local materials such as lava stone, wood, and thatch. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Mount Bisoke and explore a nature trail around an eroded crater rim, which is perfect for bird-watching.
As part of its re-wilding initiative, Wilderness Bisate has planted over 60,000 indigenous trees, fostering the return of wildlife such as buffalo, elephants, golden monkeys, and even mountain gorillas. This lodge blends luxury, ecological sustainability, and proximity to iconic attractions, making it ideal for visitors enjoying gorilla safaris in Rwanda.
10. Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge
Wilderness Sabyinyo is among the finest lodges in Rwanda, ideal for those wondering where to stay in Rwanda near Volcanoes National Park. Located at an altitude of 2,500m, it sits below the majestic Mount Sabyinyo, where Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo converge.
The lodge features stone cottages with traditional Rwandan decor and cozy log fires to keep guests warm during chilly nights. Its collaboration with a local community association ensures that part of your stay directly benefits the surrounding community, making it a socially impactful choice.
For travelers embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda, Wilderness Sabyinyo combines luxury, cultural significance, and close proximity to one of Africa’s most iconic destinations. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and purpose.
11. Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Musanze
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is one of the top-rated lodges in Rwanda, ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable base for gorilla trekking tours. Named after the five volcanic Virunga peaks, it enjoys a convenient location on the northern outskirts of Musanze Town, close to Volcanoes National Park.
The lodge features 10 spacious rooms and suites, crafted from locally sourced lava stone. Each room includes walk-in mosquito nets and private verandas, ensuring both comfort and privacy.
Guests can relax in the lush gardens, centered around a large free-form swimming pool. The terrace restaurant serves exceptional Indian-inspired dishes, offering a delightful dining experience.
For those embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda, this boutique hotel provides a blend of luxury, convenience, and welcoming ambiance, making it an excellent choice.
12. Virunga Lodge
Virunga Lodge is one of the most iconic lodges in Rwanda, ideal for travelers seeking unmatched luxury and breathtaking views near Volcanoes National Park. Known for its panoramic vistas, the lodge overlooks four Virunga Volcanoes as well as the stunning Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
Guests are accommodated in elegant stone-and-wood chalets, each featuring private verandas that enhance the serene experience. While the lodge is farther from the gorilla trekking meeting point than other accommodations, the attentive staff ensure early wake-up calls and breakfast for a seamless experience.
For those wondering where to stay in Rwanda, Virunga Lodge blends natural beauty, comfort, and excellent service, making it a top choice for travelers embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda.
13. Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is one of the most practical lodges in Rwanda, offering simple yet comfortable accommodation for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda. Located on the slopes of Volcanoes National Park, it is only a short drive from the entrance gate, making it ideal for gorilla trekking adventures.
The lodge features 30 well-spaced cottages thoughtfully constructed using sustainable local materials. Each cottage is equipped with en-suite bathrooms and cozy fireplaces, ensuring warmth and privacy in a serene setting.
Perfect for those embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge combines convenience, comfort, and a prime location to enhance your safari experience.
14. Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Kwitonda Lodge is one of the most elegant lodges in Rwanda, designed to reflect the breath-taking beauty of its natural surroundings. Situated on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, it provides unparalleled access to the incredible experience of meeting Rwanda’s iconic mountain gorillas while ensuring complete comfort and sophistication.
When not exploring the rainforest or hiking volcanic slopes, guests can relax in style with the luxurious amenities Kwitonda Lodge offers. Thoughtfully crafted to blend with its surroundings, it is the perfect retreat for unwinding after a day of adventure.
For travelers embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda, Kwitonda Lodge promises a harmonious balance of nature, adventure, and upscale living, making it an exceptional choice for a memorable stay.
15. Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge
Tiloreza Boutique Lodge is one of the most charming lodges in Rwanda, offering personalized touches that make every stay exceptional. Located near Volcanoes National Park, it’s an excellent choice for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda for a memorable gorilla trekking experience.
Before embarking on your trek, the lodge provides gaiters to keep you comfortable in the rainforest. Upon your return, the staff ensures that your muddy boots are cleaned, while you’re greeted with refreshing drinks, warm towels, and soft slippers for complete relaxation.
Guests can enjoy added luxuries, such as a heated swimming pool, sauna, and massage services. At night, a hot-water bottle warms your bed for extra coziness, making Tiloreza the perfect retreat for unwinding after exhilarating gorilla safaris in Rwanda.
16. One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
Gorilla’s Nest Lodge is among the most luxurious lodges in Rwanda, perfectly located in the foothills of Volcanoes National Park. As part of the renowned One & Only portfolio, it promises an extravagant and world-class experience for travelers seeking both adventure and indulgence.
The lodge’s contemporary elegance and luxurious amenities create an unparalleled retreat. While the endangered mountain gorillas may be the highlight of your visit, the lavish lifestyle at Gorilla’s Nest ensures you’ll already be dreaming of your next stay.
For travelers embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda, Gorilla’s Nest Lodge blends opulence, comfort, and proximity to one of the world’s most iconic wildlife experiences, making it an exceptional choice for a memorable getaway.
17. Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Nyungwe Hilltop View Lodge is among the most charming lodges in Rwanda, perfect for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda for an authentic, budget-friendly experience. Situated on a picturesque hilltop, the lodge offers breathtaking views of the rainforest to the east and Lake Kivu to the west.
Accommodation consists of spacious stone chalets, each featuring a cozy sitting room, a fireplace, and a private balcony, ensuring comfort and tranquility. Guests dine in a unique circular two-story building with a tall thatched roof, enhancing the lodge’s traditional ambiance.
For those seeking affordability while exploring Nyungwe’s wildlife-rich rainforest, Nyungwe Hilltop View Lodge is an excellent choice, blending stunning scenery, relaxed comfort, and accessibility. Perfect for visitors exploring Rwanda’s attractions or embarking on gorilla safaris in Rwanda.
18. One & Only Nyungwe House
One & Only Nyungwe House is the most prestigious of all lodges in Rwanda, offering unparalleled luxury for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda while exploring Nyungwe National Park. Nestled within a picturesque tea estate dotted with relict forest patches, the lodge provides a serene environment rich with monkeys and birdlife.
The spacious chalets elegantly combine an organic wooden design with modern comforts, such as air-conditioning, televisions, hot tubs, and private balconies. Guests can enjoy world-class amenities, including a heated infinity pool, a rejuvenating spa, and opportunities for mountain biking.
For travelers seeking exclusive accommodations and an unforgettable experience in Rwanda’s lush landscapes, One & Only Nyungwe House delivers unmatched luxury and natural beauty. Perfect for extending adventures beyond gorilla safaris in Rwanda, it promises relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
If you are looking for a super-luxurious base for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda and other activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park, this is the obvious choice.
19. Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
A key ingredient to every successful safari holiday is some time spent on a pristine beach.
Rwanda might not have Zanzibar or Kenya’s Coast, but that does not mean you can’t get your dose of fun under the sun. Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is located on a private beach on the banks of beautiful Lake Kivu, one of the series of Great Lakes on the Great Rift Valley floor.
Here, you will be able to tan, swim, and build sandcastles to your heart’s content.
Lake Kivu’s tranquil waters aren’t the hotel’s only drawcard; there are a host of other activities such as boat cruises, kayaking, fishing, and more.
20. Forest of Hope Guesthouse
Gishwati Lodge is one of the most exclusive lodges in Rwanda, providing the only accommodation option for visitors to Gishwati-Mukura National Park Rwanda’s newest national park. The Gishwati sector operates as a private concession, reserved exclusively for overnight guests, making it a truly unique destination for travelers wondering where to stay in Rwanda.
Situated on a picturesque grassy hilltop, the lodge offers stunning views of the lush Gishwati Forest and the distant peaks of the Virunga Volcanoes. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks with opportunities to see chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and an array of vibrant forest birds.
For visitors seeking exclusivity and a close connection to nature, Gishwati Lodge delivers a serene retreat amidst Rwanda’s incredible landscapes and wildlife. Perfect for extending exploration beyond gorilla safaris in Rwanda, it offers unmatched intimacy and natural beauty.
