"The staff made us feel like VIPs from the moment we arrived. The rooftop dining experience was unforgettable - grilled fish, fresh juice, and a view that looks like a postcard. Conveniently close to the border if you're exploring both countries."
"The staff made us feel like VIPs from the moment we arrived. The rooftop dining experience was unforgettable - grilled fish, fresh juice, and a view that looks like a postcard. Conveniently close to the border if you're exploring both countries."
"Safe Haven Apartments is a place that truly lives up to its name. It offers the perfect mix of comfort, privacy, and convenience. The location is excellent—quiet and secure, yet close enough to everything you need.
From the moment you walk in, you notice how spacious, clean, and thoughtfully arranged the apartments are. The design is modern yet cozy, making it easy to feel at home right away. Each detail, from the comfortable beds to the well-equipped spaces, shows real care for guests’...
"Safe Haven Apartments is a place that truly lives up to its name. It offers the perfect mix of comfort, privacy, and convenience. The location is excellent—quiet and secure, yet close enough to everything you need.
From the moment you walk in, you notice how spacious, clean, and thoughtfully arranged the apartments are. The design is modern yet cozy, making it easy to feel at home right away. Each detail, from the comfortable beds to the well-equipped spaces, shows real care for guests’...
"Due to the proximity of this hotel to the current Ebola outbreak we gave advance notice of our need to cancel. Many hotels on Expedia will give 100% of your reservation back for a cancelation. Some have a more restrictive 50% refund policy. This was the only hotel in our travels that had an unfair and unreasonable cancellation policy. We even reached out to the staff but unfortunately they were very unresponsive. I recommend looking for hotels that are customer focused. This hotel is not."
"Due to the proximity of this hotel to the current Ebola outbreak we gave advance notice of our need to cancel. Many hotels on Expedia will give 100% of your reservation back for a cancelation. Some have a more restrictive 50% refund policy. This was the only hotel in our travels that had an unfair and unreasonable cancellation policy. We even reached out to the staff but unfortunately they were very unresponsive. I recommend looking for hotels that are customer focused. This hotel is not."
"What a charming and relaxing stay I had at this lodge. I brought friends and we had a marvelous time!
The staff was excellent. Everything was clean. The food was very good. Great location. On a main road so easy to get to.
I would stay here again. "
"What a charming and relaxing stay I had at this lodge. I brought friends and we had a marvelous time!
The staff was excellent. Everything was clean. The food was very good. Great location. On a main road so easy to get to.
I would stay here again. "
"Total Disaster
When we arrived after a 4 hour drive, they pretended to to be aware of our booking.
There was a wedding going on and I believe that was the reason why they kicked out all "ordinary" bookings.
The staff was extremely unfriendly and rude. They said this is not their problem and kicked us out, not even thinking about apologizing or even offer to help us finding alternative accommodation....
Unfortunately, based on this experience, I can only advise everybody to avoid this...
"Total Disaster
When we arrived after a 4 hour drive, they pretended to to be aware of our booking.
There was a wedding going on and I believe that was the reason why they kicked out all "ordinary" bookings.
The staff was extremely unfriendly and rude. They said this is not their problem and kicked us out, not even thinking about apologizing or even offer to help us finding alternative accommodation....
Unfortunately, based on this experience, I can only advise everybody to avoid this...
"Dian Fossey Hotep is one of the more unique places I’ve stayed due to the artwork around the facility. Paintings and statues depicting Rwandan traditional culture and wildlife adorn the grounds and hotel. The staff are very kind and helpful."
"Dian Fossey Hotep is one of the more unique places I’ve stayed due to the artwork around the facility. Paintings and statues depicting Rwandan traditional culture and wildlife adorn the grounds and hotel. The staff are very kind and helpful."
"i was not given a room that rooms were fully booked and no contact from Exoedia or Hotel.com on my booking. i need my money refunded by Expedia and Wonder why Expedia should cause this i travelled for 5 hours to be denied accommodation which hotel said they don't have any agreement with Expedia to market their hotel Very Disappointing"
"i was not given a room that rooms were fully booked and no contact from Exoedia or Hotel.com on my booking. i need my money refunded by Expedia and Wonder why Expedia should cause this i travelled for 5 hours to be denied accommodation which hotel said they don't have any agreement with Expedia to market their hotel Very Disappointing"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Our stay at Sambora Kinigi was truly special and one we will remember for a long time. From the moment we arrived, we felt so welcomed, cared for, and at home. Decoration was beautiful.
Every single member of the team was incredibly kind and went above and beyond to make our stay special. Traveling with our baby daughter can sometimes require a little extra planning and flexibility, but the team accommodated all of our needs with so much warmth, patience, and genuine care. It made such a...
Our stay at Sambora Kinigi was truly special and one we will remember for a long time. From the moment we arrived, we felt so welcomed, cared for, and at home. Decoration was beautiful.
Every single member of the team was incredibly kind and went above and beyond to make our stay special. Traveling with our baby daughter can sometimes require a little extra planning and flexibility, but the team accommodated all of our needs with so much warmth, patience, and genuine care. It made such a...
Ernesto
Reviewed September 15, 2026Reviewed September 15, 2026
The property is well maintained and conveniently located just a short walk from the Musanze bus terminal. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful. The food prepared by the guest house cook was excellent! Our only concern was the lack of hot water in the shower, but that may have been due to the fact that we didn't know to plug in the water heater.
The property is well maintained and conveniently located just a short walk from the Musanze bus terminal. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful. The food prepared by the guest house cook was excellent! Our only concern was the lack of hot water in the shower, but that may have been due to the fact that we didn't know to plug in the water heater.
Jeffrey
Reviewed February 14, 2024Reviewed February 14, 2024
Absolutely loved this place. Will definitely be back. I look forward to seeing it again when the outdoor area is finished. Food amazing. Rooms peaceful. The only issue was heavy slamming doors.
Absolutely loved this place. Will definitely be back. I look forward to seeing it again when the outdoor area is finished. Food amazing. Rooms peaceful. The only issue was heavy slamming doors.
The property is lovely. Perched on the hillside, you feel like you’re on top of the world every day at breakfast with panoramic view of Lake Kivu. Our cabin was the closest to the lake which offered us unobstructed views from our patio which was the perfect spot to read or watch an incoming rain storm. It was a bit more of a hike uphill to breakfast and dinner but it was worth it. Plus we were also closer to the pool which was really one of the deciding factors why we picked Umutozo. You also...
The property is lovely. Perched on the hillside, you feel like you’re on top of the world every day at breakfast with panoramic view of Lake Kivu. Our cabin was the closest to the lake which offered us unobstructed views from our patio which was the perfect spot to read or watch an incoming rain storm. It was a bit more of a hike uphill to breakfast and dinner but it was worth it. Plus we were also closer to the pool which was really one of the deciding factors why we picked Umutozo. You also...
Nicole
Reviewed February 10, 2026Reviewed February 10, 2026
We had a wonderful stay at Volcanoes Over View Safaris and Camp. The staff were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and accommodating throughout our visit.
Although Google Maps initially led us to an impassable road, the local community was kind enough to guide us safely to the camp, which we truly appreciated. Once we arrived, everything exceeded our expectations. Our room was spacious, the showers were hot, and the staff made sure every request was met promptly.
We were visiting the area for...
We had a wonderful stay at Volcanoes Over View Safaris and Camp. The staff were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and accommodating throughout our visit.
Although Google Maps initially led us to an impassable road, the local community was kind enough to guide us safely to the camp, which we truly appreciated. Once we arrived, everything exceeded our expectations. Our room was spacious, the showers were hot, and the staff made sure every request was met promptly.
We were visiting the area for...
What a charming and relaxing stay I had at this lodge. I brought friends and we had a marvelous time!
The staff was excellent. Everything was clean. The food was very good. Great location. On a main road so easy to get to.
I would stay here again.
What a charming and relaxing stay I had at this lodge. I brought friends and we had a marvelous time!
The staff was excellent. Everything was clean. The food was very good. Great location. On a main road so easy to get to.
I would stay here again.
Jennifer
Reviewed February 24, 2025Reviewed February 24, 2025
This hotel is the best place to stay in Kinigi/to gorilla trek! It’s the closest lodge to the Dian Fossey campus and women’s village, and the staff is exceptional. They are very friendly and helpful and went above and beyond. We loved that we’d come back to the hotel and they’d clean our shoes and give us a foot massage. They’d also get a fire going in your room while you are having dinner. We’d come back to bed with a heated bed (thanks to a warm water bottle they place in there) and a fire...
This hotel is the best place to stay in Kinigi/to gorilla trek! It’s the closest lodge to the Dian Fossey campus and women’s village, and the staff is exceptional. They are very friendly and helpful and went above and beyond. We loved that we’d come back to the hotel and they’d clean our shoes and give us a foot massage. They’d also get a fire going in your room while you are having dinner. We’d come back to bed with a heated bed (thanks to a warm water bottle they place in there) and a fire...
Amazing service, charming rooms, fantastic food. I went there after a gorilla trek and before hiking up Bisoke and they were fantastic. They helped arrange transport as well. Will absolutely be staying here again if I'm back in Musanze.
Amazing service, charming rooms, fantastic food. I went there after a gorilla trek and before hiking up Bisoke and they were fantastic. They helped arrange transport as well. Will absolutely be staying here again if I'm back in Musanze.
Ian
Reviewed September 13, 2025Reviewed September 13, 2025
I loved this place so much. Staff especially is just so kind and amazing! Everyone who works there deserves a raise. Beautiful hotel, clean and massive rooms, and Pacific helped me arrange transportation which was super helpful. Definitely staying here again if I ever visit. Thank you!
I loved this place so much. Staff especially is just so kind and amazing! Everyone who works there deserves a raise. Beautiful hotel, clean and massive rooms, and Pacific helped me arrange transportation which was super helpful. Definitely staying here again if I ever visit. Thank you!
Gaurav
Reviewed September 6, 2025Reviewed September 6, 2025
Stunning Lake Kivu: Enjoy breathtaking views and various lakeside activities, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Outdoor Adventures: Experience thrilling hiking trails and trekking adventures that showcase the region's natural beauty.
Beautiful Beaches: Relax along the beachfront of the Rwandan Riviera, ideal for romantic getaways and leisure.
Natural Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing natural hot springs, offering a unique and rejuvenating experience.
Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through educational tours and vibrant community interactions.
Find great hotels in Rubavu
Discover the perfect retreat in Rubavu, Rwanda, where a variety of accommodation options await. From charming hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, you'll find lodging tailored for both relaxation and business travel. Enjoy beach access, rejuvenating spa experiences, and scenic views at popular spots like Kivu Nest Hotel. Whether you seek vacation rentals or hotel rooms, Rubavu offers a welcoming atmosphere for every traveler.
Lake Kivu Serena Hotel: This 4-star hotel offers a serene beachside retreat, ideal for families and beach lovers alike. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel provides direct access to the stunning shores of Lake Kivu, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing and water activities. The hotel is family-friendly, featuring amenities such as complimentary cribs, a first aid kit, and babysitting services available for a fee. Guests appreciate the combination of relaxation and family-oriented services, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.
Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel: A 3-star hotel designed for business travelers and beach enthusiasts, Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel provides a comfortable and convenient stay in Rubavu. This property also boasts direct access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy the picturesque views and leisure activities on the shoreline. The hotel is well-suited for those looking to balance work and relaxation, offering a peaceful atmosphere that enhances productivity while being close to nature's beauty.
Kivu Peace View Hotel: This 3-star accommodation offers a unique hot spring-themed experience, ideal for business travelers seeking tranquility. Located near natural hot springs, Kivu Peace View Hotel gives guests access to soothing thermal waters that promote relaxation and wellness. The hotel’s focus on providing a peaceful environment makes it an attractive option for those wanting to unwind after a busy day while still being able to conduct business efficiently.
Where to stay in Rubavu
Rubavu, nestled in Rwanda's Western Province, offers a breathtaking blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Enjoy the beautiful beachfront along the Rwandan Riviera, perfect for relaxation and romantic getaways. With easy beach access and a vibrant atmosphere, Rubavu is ideal for exploring nature, engaging in thrilling activities, and soaking up the rich culture of the region. This captivating destination promises an unforgettable vacation experience for every traveler.
Gisenyi: Nestled on the shores of Lake Kivu, Gisenyi is a vibrant city in Rubavu that offers stunning views and a plethora of outdoor activities. The area sees a consistent flow of tourists, with peak seasons in June to July and December. Visitors flock here for the breathtaking scenery and adventurous experiences, including hiking trails and kayaking on the lake. Local attractions include the nearby national state park and nature reserves, providing a perfect backdrop for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Nyayumba: Located just a short distance from Gisenyi, Nyayumba is another charming city that attracts travelers year-round, peaking during July to August and December. Known for its beautiful landscapes, Nyayumba is ideal for those seeking adventure and outdoor experiences. Hiking trails wind through lush forests and national parks, offering an immersive experience in Rwanda's natural beauty. The area is perfect for eco-tourists and anyone looking to escape into nature while enjoying the vibrant local culture.
Nyundo: Nyundo, yet another gem in the Rubavu area, provides a delightful mix of adventure and scenic beauty. Like its neighboring cities, it experiences peak tourist traffic in July to August and December. Visitors are drawn to Nyundo for its outdoor adventures, such as exploring the nearby national parks and forests. The serene environment and picturesque landscapes make it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration, ensuring a memorable trip for all who venture here.
Things to do in Rubavu
Shopping
In Rubavu, visit the Rubavu Market for local crafts, traditional art, and handmade souvenirs. For a more modern shopping experience, check out the nearby Gisenyi Shopping Mall, where various shops offer clothing, accessories, and local products. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and unique finds during your visit.
Recreation
In Rubavu, the serene Lake Kivu provides a tranquil backdrop for wellness retreats, where you can enjoy yoga sessions and spa treatments. Engage in leisurely boat rides or unwind on the lakeshore, breathing in the fresh mountain air while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Adventure
Lake Kivu offers thrilling water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, with stunning views of the surrounding hills. Explore the local culture in Rubavu town, where vibrant markets and traditional crafts await. For hiking enthusiasts, the nearby Nyungwe National Park presents lush trails and unique wildlife encounters.
Nightlife
In Rubavu, the vibrant nightlife features venues like the Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel, known for its stunning views and lively atmosphere. The Rubavu Beach offers a relaxed vibe with beachside bars, while local clubs provide energetic music and dance experiences to enjoy the night.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rubavu
To save money on your trip to Rubavu, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March, May, and August, as accommodation prices are lower then. Aim to book your stay on a Monday for the best rates, avoiding Saturdays when prices peak. Use Expedia's search tool to filter hotels by budget and preferences, including eco-friendly options. Additionally, save further by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia package deals, which often come with exclusive discounts and great rates.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Rubavu are March, May and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rubavu is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Rubavu is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display hotels from the lowest to the highest price, allowing you to view the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels ready for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Rubavu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Rubavu
Rubavu, located in Rwanda's Western Province, is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches along Lake Kivu, relax in natural hot springs, and immerse themselves in local culture. Popular attractions include various lakeside activities and educational experiences that showcase the region's rich heritage. Whether you're looking for outdoor fun or serene scenery, Rubavu offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler.
Rwanda Tourism University College: Immerse yourself in the educational culture of Rwanda at this college, situated in Rubavu. The institution emphasizes tourism and hospitality, providing insights into local customs and practices that shape Rwandan tourism.
Gisenyi Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Gisenyi Beach, a scenic spot along Lake Kivu. Enjoy the vibrant beach vibes, where you can sunbathe, swim, or partake in various water sports that the area has to offer.
Nyamyumba Hot Springs: Experience wellness and relaxation at Nyamyumba Hot Springs, known for its natural thermal waters. This outdoor retreat provides a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding in the soothing warmth of the springs while surrounded by lush greenery.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Rubavu
Traveling to Rubavu, Rwanda, is easy via Kigali International Airport (KGL), located 95km away. This airport serves major airlines, including Emirates. For a comfortable stay, consider the Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali Marriott Hotel, or the Grand Legacy Hotel, all offering 5-star accommodations and located within 2 to 8km of the airport. Each hotel provides various transportation services, including scheduled airport shuttles and free transportation options. These hotels are ideal for ensuring a smooth transition from your flight to your destination in Rubavu, making your vacation both enjoyable and convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do hotels in Rubavu cost?
Prices for Rubavu hotels differ depending on the season and other factors, like school holidays and Christmas. You can find cheap options from AED 81 in a few different ways. Enter your destination and trip dates and then set your budget using the "Price per night" filter. You can then fine-tune your search by choosing your preferred amenities and more.
When is the best time to go to Rubavu?
The answer depends on what you want from your Rubavu escape. If you choose to visit in summer, which is between December and February, expect average temperatures of between 15ºC and 23ºC. Rubavu has an oceanic climate, so keep that in mind when you pack.
How can I find cheap hotels in Rubavu?
Rubavu cheap hotels start at AED 81 per night. To discover these types of inexpensive options, make use of our "Price per night" filter. Want some other tips? Consider being flexible with your getaway dates and book in advance. Take a look at our cheap hotels in Rubavu page for bargains that are hard to resist.
What are the best hotels in Rubavu for families?
Pack your bags (and the kids!) and get set for a fun-packed getaway at one of our popular family-friendly hotels in Rubavu. Located in Nyayumba, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is an excellent pick. Laundry facilities and a 24-hour front desk are a couple of the amenities here. Or spend time with the fam at Discover Rwanda Gisenyi Beach. You can also find your perfect getaway by clicking on the "Family friendly" box in the "Traveler experience" section of our filter tool.
Why should I book my Rubavu hotel with Expedia?
The best prices on Rubavu hotels are just the start of the reasons to book with Expedia. Become an Expedia Rewards member for free today and earn points with every booking, along with exciting membership perks. We're talking instant savings of 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide! Plus, most of our hotels offer free cancellation, so you can lock in the getaway of your dreams without worrying about your plans changing.