The Best Places to Stay on a Rwanda Safari

Rwanda is renowned for its extraordinary gorilla trekking adventures, offering intimate encounters with endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and other fascinating primates. However, a safari in Rwanda offers far more than these remarkable experiences. Trekking through lush rainforests to find gorillas is merely the beginning of the countless unforgettable moments awaiting you. A journey to the Land of a Thousand Hills also includes opportunities to spot the Big Five, hike ancient dormant volcanoes, and unwind at picturesque “beaches.” To help you kickstart your African adventure, we’ve curated a list of our favorite accommodations for each stage of your journey through this jewel in Africa’s safari crown:

Traditional Safari Experiences

Magashi Camp

Nestled within the only exclusive-use area of the renowned Akagera National Park, Magashi Camp delivers a quintessential safari experience in one of the world’s premier gorilla trekking destinations. This upscale luxury tented camp offers every conceivable comfort, ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. After marveling at the planet’s largest living primates, head to Akagera to witness the Big Five roaming the unspoiled plains. Your Rwandan safari promises not only close encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife but also a chance to experience the wilderness in unparalleled luxury. Highlights:

• Luxurious tented safari camp in Akagera National Park’s exclusive-use area
• Stunning, uninterrupted views of Lake Rwanyakazinga
• Exceptional Big Five sightings
• Day and night game drives, guided bush walks, and boating excursions
• Akagera is a world-class destination for birding enthusiasts

Best for: Safari enthusiasts and small groups.

Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Similar to Magashi, Ruzizi Tented Lodge provides a quintessential safari experience in Akagera National Park. Every aspect of your stay at Ruzizi immerses you in the beauty of your surroundings. Guests can enjoy an authentic safari adventure, embracing the untamed Rwandan wilderness while staying in charming canvas tents. Activities include thrilling Big Five game drives, tranquil boating excursions on Lake Ihema, and unique experiences like night drives and water-based safaris. Whether it’s the excitement of exploring or the serenity of relaxing in a hammock on a lakeside deck, Ruzizi ensures memories that will last a lifetime. Highlights:

• Luxurious tented eco-lodge in Akagera National Park
• Stunning views of Lake Ihema
• Day and night game drives, guided bush walks, and boating excursions
• Outstanding birdwatching opportunities

Best for: Family retreats, nature enthusiasts, and safari lovers.

Classic Holiday Fun

One & Only Nyungwe House

Situated on a working tea plantation in Africa’s largest mountain, Nyungwe House boasts one of most enviable locations in all Rwanda. This 5 resort, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Nyungwe Forest, features a stylish, modern and décor. The numerous activities available – including walking with chimps – make Nyungwe a paradise for those seeking to create unforgettable memories on their Rwandan safari. Highlights:

• Uber-luxury 5-star lodge in Nyungwe National Park
• Nyungwe Forest is home to a large population of chimpanzees & endangered monkeys
• 4 hiking trails through the forest to suit every fitness level
• Experience a Canopy Walk via the treetop walkway
• Chimpanzee & monkey trekking
• Tour the beautiful, working tea plantation
• Mountain biking, scenic helicopter flights & kayaking
• Nocturnal spotlighting & stargazing experience

Best for… Families, romantic getaways & honeymoons.

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

No holiday is complete without some time spent on a pristine beach, and while Rwanda may be landlocked, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel ensures you can still soak up the sun in style. Situated on a private beach along the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, this luxurious retreat offers endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, or building sandcastles, Lake Kivu’s serene ambiance is sure to rejuvenate you. Beyond the tranquil waters, a variety of activities await, catering to every type of traveler. Highlights:

• Elegant hotel overlooking one of Africa’s Great Lakes
• Exclusive private beach on Lake Kivu
• Just 45 minutes from Volcanoes National Park, a gateway to gorilla trekking
• Hike the active Nyiragongo Volcano
• Boat excursions to Lake Kivu’s islands and coffee farms
• Paradise Islands Cruise and speedboat rides to Kibuye
• Biking tours of Gisenyi City and other guided explorations

Best for: Families and couples.

Stopovers Before the Main Event

Kigali Serena Hotel

Set in the heart of Rwanda’s vibrant capital, Kigali Serena Hotel is the ideal place to begin or conclude your gorilla trekking adventure. This luxurious hotel emphasizes relaxation and wellness, offering guests a serene retreat after a long-haul flight or an exhilarating trek through the rainforest. The Maisha Spa provides an array of rejuvenating treatments and massages to ease your tension, while a refreshing dip in the pool or a gourmet meal at one of the two onsite restaurants ensures pure indulgence. For those eager to explore, Kigali is brimming with cultural and historical attractions that promise to captivate the curious mind. Highlights:

• Family-friendly luxury hotel in Kigali
• Children’s menu available
• Explore the Natural History Museum, Nyamirambo Women’s Center, and Kigali Genocide Memorial
• Exceptional fine dining and world-class spa treatments

Best for: Families and history enthusiasts.

Heaven Boutique Hotel

True to its name, Heaven Boutique Hotel offers a serene and rejuvenating haven for travelers en route to or from Rwanda’s national parks. Ideal for a stopover after a long flight or an adventurous safari, this charming retreat allows guests to recharge with a variety of wellness-focused activities. From energizing workouts in the gym and invigorating games of tennis to soaking in the solar-heated saltwater pool or enjoying a soothing massage, Heaven ensures ultimate relaxation. Guests can also stretch out with yoga or explore the vibrant surroundings on a bike ride. No matter your preference for unwinding, Heaven delivers an experience tailored to your needs. Highlights:

• Centrally located modern 4-star hotel in Kigali
• Stunning views of lush tropical gardens
• Gym, solar-heated saltwater pool, spa treatments, and yoga sessions
• Delectable gourmet dining at the famed Heaven Restaurant
• Explore Kigali’s top attractions and landmarks
• Learn traditional Intore dance
• Biking and tennis for active relaxation

Best for: Families, couples, and small groups.

The Retreat

The Retreat an unparalleled 5-star experience in Rwanda’s capital. Everything at The Retreat is exclusive and luxurious, from private fitness in the state-of-the-art gym to farm-to-table gourmet at Fusion Restaurant the personal butler who attends to your every throughout stay. However, luxury is not only offering at The. Guests immerse themselves in Ran culture activities as peace baskets with local women and participating in farming activities. Highlights:

• Premier 5-star boutique hotel in Kigali
• Personal butler service
• Saltwater swimming pool, spa, yoga, tennis & gym
• Farm-to-table meals at Fusion Restaurant
• Horse riding on Mount Kigali
• Bike ride with a professional Rwandan biker
• Weave peace baskets with the local women
• Farm activities, like learning to hoe & harvest
• Wide variety of cultural experiences & tours

Best for… Families with older kids, couples & small groups.

Gorilla Trekking

Volcanoes Virunga Lodge

Who would have thought that gorilla trekking could be a glamorous adventure? Virunga Lodge transforms this thrilling experience into a luxurious escape. From this elegantly designed retreat, nestled within the stunning Volcanoes National Park, you’ll explore ancient Rwandan rainforests and come face-to-face with majestic gorillas. The lodge provides a perfect blend of adventure and comfort, offering golden monkey tracking, volcano hikes, and more—all while ensuring you’re surrounded by modern indulgences. Highlights:

• Stylish and luxurious lodge near the iconic Volcanoes National Park
• Gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking adventures
• Exclusive personal butler service
• Breathtaking panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains
• World-class spa treatments at Ikirunga Spa
• Hike to Dian Fossey’s grave
• Visit scenic Lake Kivu and Gisenyi town
• Scale the Karisimbi and Visoke volcanoes

Best for: Travelers seeking an upscale, adventure-filled experience.

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

As Rwanda’s first community-owned lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback exudes authenticity, warmth, and unpretentious hospitality from the moment you arrive. This idyllic retreat strikes a perfect balance between cozy comfort and understated luxury, creating the ideal setting for unwinding after a day of exhilarating gorilla trekking. Highlights:

• Enchanting luxury lodge adjacent to Volcanoes National Park
• Prime location for gorilla and golden monkey trekking
• Spectacular views of the rainforest and Virunga Mountains
• Exceptional spa treatments for ultimate relaxation
• Hike Mount Bisoke, M’Gahinga, and Muhabura
• Mountain biking and birdwatching adventures
• Discover the mystical Buhanga Sacred Forest

Best for: Families and couples seeking a tranquil and immersive experience.

Singita Kataza House

Singita Kataza House an exclusive-use private villa ideal travelers who value privacy or large families requiring space., elegant, and impeccably designed, the house epitizes luxury and offers numerous private-use facilities and amenities within its walls, making it to a small resort., Singita Kataza comes with dedicated staff will fulfill every wish. Highlights:

• Exclusive-use villa on the edge of Volcanoes National Park
• Uninterrupted views of volcano & forest landscape
• Access to all Kwitonda Lodge’s facilities & amenities
• Private house manager, chef, guide & safari vehicle
• Farm-to-table fine dining
• Children’s activities
• Private wine cellar, interactive kitchen & bar
• Heated swimming pool, gym, spa room & cinema room
• Gorilla & golden monkey trekking
• Mount Bisoke Crater Lake hike & Musanze Caves visit

Best for… Multi-generational families.

 One & Only Gorilla’s Nest

Nestled the foothills of the iconic Volcanoes National Park is idyllic Gorilla’s Nest. As part of the One Only portfolio, one would expect nothing less than an über-lavish, world-class stay. Gorilla’s Nest, with its elegant contemporary style and indulgent luxury offerings, fits the bill perfectly. While the endangered mountain gor may be the primary reason for visiting Rwanda, the lifestyle Gorilla’s Nest will undoubtedly inspire plans for a return trip as soon one departs Highlights:

• Über-luxury 5-star haven in the foothills of Volcanoes National Park
• Spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes & forestland
• Scenic helicopter flight on arrival (optional)
• Gorilla & golden monkey trekking
• Climb the surrounding volcanoes
• Farm-to-table meals at The Nest restaurant
• World-class treatments at the One & Only Spa

Best for… Honeymoons & romantic getaways.

Bisate Lodge

Bisate Lodge offers a distinctive and luxurious experience, with six opulent villas that mimic traditional Rwandan huts. Set in an eroded volcanic cone on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, Bisate seamlessly combines world-class luxury with sustainable, responsible eco-tourism. The lodge provides an extraordinary retreat in a breathtaking location, with easy access to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The unforgettable experiences at Bisate promise to leave you with lasting memories. Highlights:

• Unique eco-luxury lodge bordering Volcanoes National Park
• Spectacular views of volcanoes and surrounding mountains
• Opportunities to see endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys
• Explore the volcanic twin lakes, Musanze Caves, and local villages
• Enjoy guided walks, hikes, and rejuvenating spa treatments

Best for: Couples and those seeking a romantic getaway.