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Where to Stay in Rwanda's Musanze Region

Explore the natural beauty of Musanze from the comfort of these hotels
Explore the natural beauty of Musanze from the comfort of these hotels | © Hemis / Alamy Stock Photo

Rwanda’s Musanze Region is one of East Africa’s finest. Boasting crystal lakes, volcanic views, and plenty of gorilla trekking opportunities, there’s something for everyone here. Read on to check out some of the best places to stay in Musanze for every budget – now bookable on Culture Trip.

Bisate Lodge

Boutique Hotel, Eco Hotel, Lodge

The modernised African buildings on the hill in Bisate Lodge at dusk
Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris
Bisate Lodge, the newest addition to Rwanda’s luxury tourism scene, is located just several kilometres from the Volcanoes National Park gates. It sits in the foothills of Bisoke Volcano, overlooking some of Rwanda’s stupendous rural landscape. Offering excellent food and unparalleled service, this is really one of the country’s most impressive accommodations. There are six rooms on the property, which only adds to the intimate and romantic setting. The beautifully designed rooms are reminiscent of bird nests and come equipped with a luxury bathroom and the country’s comfiest bed. Though visitors stay here for gorilla tracking, the lodge also offers many tours around the local area, massages, and more.

Virunga Lodge

Lodge, Villa

A person reads a book while taking in the sweeping views from Virunga Lodge
© Leah Feiger
Virunga Lodge is a Volcanoes Safari-run property in Musanze, located just an hour away from gorilla trekking activities. Rooms and common areas overlook the stunning twin lakes and volcanoes, as thatched-roof buildings, heavy stone paths and roaring fireplaces add a lovely Rwandan ambience. In addition to gorilla tracking, nature walks, boat tours, massages, and more are offered by the hotel. Settle next to the fireplace or on the scenic porch with a good book and a glass of wine.

Sabinyo Silverback Lodge

Resort, Lodge

guest house in five star luxury Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge with Mount Sabyinyo behind, Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda
© Juergen Ritterbach / Alamy Stock Photo

Operated by Governors Camp, the Sabinyo Silverback Lodge is a luxury hotel situated right next to Volcanoes National Park. It is the perfect place to stay while gorilla tracking and the lodge’s beautiful mountainside location is romantic, quiet, and peaceful. The secluded rooms offer modern amenities, and the service goes above and beyond with coffee and tea room service in the morning, an all-inclusive meal plan, and truly individualized attention.

La Locanda

Bed and Breakfast, Guesthouse

The exterior of La Locanda, a boutique hotel in Rwanda, has pot plants, a porch and light furniture
Courtesy of La Locanda / Booking.com

La Locanda, a well-located and quiet hideaway, is situated just outside of the centre of Ruhengeri, Musanze’s capital city. The Italian owner is as kind as can be, and very willing to help guests plan volcano hikes, gorilla visits, canoe trips, and general activities. The guesthouse’s restaurant serves Musanze’s best pizza, and their included breakfast is filling and colourful — think eggs made to order and fresh fruit. With comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, and a cute garden, this guesthouse is the perfect budget boutique stay in Musanze.

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Boutique Hotel

Outdoor swimming pool at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel has built-in chairs and palm trees
Courtesy of Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Expedia

Conveniently located just minutes away from the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters in Kinigi, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is the perfect place to stay after a long and rewarding day of mountain gorilla tracking. The hotel is very comfortable and offers hot showers, included meals, and even hiking boot-washing services (those hikes get muddy!). All of these add to the lodge’s cosy ambience. After gorilla tracking, take a dip in their sparkling pool or relax with a massage before hanging out by the communal fireplace in the evening.

Red Rocks Rwanda

Budget Hotel, Camping

An open tent at Red Rocks Rwanda with two wooden chairs on deck surrounded by trees
Courtesy of Red Rocks Rwanda / Expedia

Located just outside of Ruhengeri, Red Rocks Rwanda provides accommodation, food, and an assortment of activities in an artistic and campfire-filled setting. Twin lake visits, volcanic hikes, gorilla and golden monkey treks, and more are on offer at this vibrant property. Travellers come for a night and end up staying for a week, enjoying the tranquil setting, easy rhythm, and affordable accommodation.

About the author

Though Leah is originally from Chicago, she grew up abroad in Hong Kong and London and has had the travel bug ever since. Perpetually on the road or planning imminent travels, she loves short layovers, mangoes, mountains, and lakeside naps. BA at Dartmouth College and MA at the University of Cape Town.

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