Rwanda
From Kigali to the wild
Touchdown in Kigali! After checking into Amata n’Ubuki Boutique Hotel and a poolside breakfast, we started the day with a heavy but essential visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial—a powerful look at Rwanda’s past. A coffee stop at Kivu Noire gave us time to reflect before hitting the road for a scenic three-hour drive to Akagera National Park. At Mantis Akagera Game Lodge, we were welcomed with breathtaking views over Lake Ihema. As the sun set, the sounds of the wild took over—our adventure had officially begun.
Amata n'Ubuki Boutique hotel in the heart of Kigali
Amata n'Ubuki Boutique Hotel is a stylish and comfortable hotel in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda. Its name, meaning "milk and honey" in Kinyarwanda, stands for the warm hospitality and refined experience you’ll have as a guest. You can get a room or suite, each equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a TV. The staff is very friendly, and breakfast is just great. Guests can choose from a diverse menu, blending African, French, and Indian cuisines, with vegetarian and vegan options as well. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a meeting room, a lovely garden and a bar. Located just 4 km from the airport, it’s an ideal choice for travelers. And apparently, Amata n'Ubuki has been nominated multiple times as Rwanda’s Leading Boutique Hotel. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing stay in Kigali :)
Kigali Genocide Memorial and Museum
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a memorial site in Kigali, Rwanda, dedicated to the victims of the 1994 genocide, in which an estimated 800,000 people—mainly Tutsis—were murdered by extremist Hutu militias. The museum serves both as a place of remembrance and an educational center. More than 250,000 victims are buried there, and the exhibits highlight the events leading up to the genocide, the atrocities themselves, and the aftermath. There are also sections dedicated to other genocides around the world. The memorial plays a crucial role in Rwanda’s process of healing and reconciliation. The exhibition is a very hard watch. The photos you get to see inside, the voices you get to hear telling their stories, and the way they recount their experiences—it’s heavy, to say the least.
Coffee and brunch at Kivu Noire
To process everything we had just seen, we stopped for coffee at Kivu Noire Coffee Bar in Kimihurura, one of Kigali’s most vibrant neighborhoods. This spot serves what is often described as some of the world’s finest coffee, and after just one sip, we understood why. A much-needed moment to recharge before heading into the wild.
Game lodge in Akagera National Park
“A warm welcome to Mantis Akagera Game Lodge.” Greeted by the friendliest staff, we immediately felt at home. Combining luxury with eco-conscious hospitality, this lodge provides the perfect base for travelers looking to explore one of Africa’s most stunning and diverse national parks. The lodge itself is located on a hill, so you get the best views over Lake Ihema and the surrounding landscapes. The setting is both serene and wild, with lots of green, a swimming pool, and a bar—whatever you prefer. 😉 Beyond the beautiful rooms, the staff goes also above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and guided nature walks tailored to your preferences. You’ll be surrounded by the Big Five! Sip a sundowner on the terrace and end the day with a drink around the fire pit. For a more intimate experience, a boat safari on Lake Ihema offers the chance to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a vibrant array of bird species. Highly recommended! - We made this trip in collaboration with Brussels Airlines, which offers direct flights from Brussels to Kigali, Rwanda.
