Accommodation in and Around Nyungwe National Park

Tucked away in the highlands of southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a realm of mist-shrouded rainforest, ancient trees, and incredible biodiversity. As one of Africa’s oldest montane forests, Nyungwe offers travelers a rare glimpse into nature’s timeless beauty — from chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks to hiking, birdwatching, and tea plantation tours. To make the most of this magical destination, choosing the right accommodation is key. Fortunately, the lodges and hotels around Nyungwe beautifully complement the park’s tranquil atmosphere, ranging from luxury rainforest retreats to cozy budget guesthouses.

Here’s a complete guide to the best accommodation in and around Nyungwe National Park, catering to every type of traveler.

One&Only Nyungwe House – The Epitome of Luxury

Nestled on the edge of the Gisakura Tea Estate, One&Only Nyungwe House stands as the most luxurious accommodation near the park. Blending five-star elegance with natural serenity, this world-class lodge redefines rainforest luxury.

The property’s design harmonizes with its surroundings — timber, stone, and earthy tones create an atmosphere of understated sophistication. Each suite features panoramic forest views, private decks, and fireplaces for chilly evenings. Guests can unwind at the infinity pool overlooking the tea fields or enjoy guided walks, wellness treatments, and gourmet dining inspired by local flavors.

Evenings at One&Only are magical — the scent of tea leaves mingles with the rainforest mist as you watch the sun dip below the horizon. This is more than accommodation; it’s an experience that immerses you in the beauty and rhythm of Nyungwe itself.

Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel – Panoramic Serenity

Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of Nyungwe’s green expanse and the surrounding valleys, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel lives up to its name. The hotel’s round stone cottages, each with private verandas, offer stunning 360-degree vistas — perfect for sunrise and sunset gazing.

This midrange lodge combines comfort with a sense of place. The restaurant serves delicious Rwandan and international dishes, and the staff are renowned for their warm hospitality. The location, near the park’s western entrance, makes it ideal for visitors heading to the Gisakura sector for chimpanzee trekking or the Canopy Walkway.

Evenings at Nyungwe Top View are peaceful — the air is cool, the skies are starlit, and the sound of the forest hums in the distance.

Gisakura Guesthouse – Budget-Friendly and Welcoming

For budget-conscious travelers, Gisakura Guesthouse offers an excellent balance of affordability, comfort, and convenience. Located near the Gisakura Tea Plantation and just minutes from the park’s entrance, it provides easy access to all major activities, including chimp tracking and the canopy walk.

Rooms are simple yet clean, with private bathrooms and mosquito nets. Meals are home-cooked and hearty, often featuring local produce. The friendly staff help guests arrange park activities and transport, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay.

Gisakura Guesthouse is especially popular with backpackers, small groups, and travelers seeking authentic Rwandan hospitality without compromising on proximity to the park.

Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge – Nature Meets Sustainability

Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush tea fields, Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge offers a unique eco-friendly stay for travelers seeking both comfort and sustainability. The lodge’s wooden chalets are built with local materials and blend seamlessly with the environment.

Each room features a balcony overlooking the forest, and guests can enjoy locally sourced meals prepared with a farm-to-table philosophy. The lodge emphasizes community engagement and conservation, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious travelers.

Emeraude Kivu Resort – Lakeside Comfort Near Cyangugu

For those who prefer to stay near Lake Kivu while visiting Nyungwe, Emeraude Kivu Resort in Cyangugu (Rusizi) provides a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Located about an hour from the park’s western gate, this lakeside resort offers modern rooms, fine dining, and scenic views of the calm waters of Lake Kivu.

It’s an ideal option for travelers combining a rainforest trek with some downtime by the lake. The resort organizes boat trips, birdwatching excursions, and cultural visits, giving guests a chance to explore more of Rwanda’s western beauty.

Nyungwe Eco-Center Lodge – Immersive Forest Stay

Another wonderful eco-lodge near the park is Nyungwe Eco-Center Lodge, known for its serene setting and immersive natural experience. Built to minimize environmental impact, the lodge offers comfortable rooms with solar power and rainwater systems.

Guests can enjoy nature walks, tea plantation tours, and community visits organized by the lodge. Evenings are spent around the fireplace, sharing stories with fellow travelers as the forest whispers in the background.

Golden Monkey Hotel – Convenient Stopover in Nyamasheke

Located in Nyamasheke District, about an hour from Nyungwe, Golden Monkey Hotel offers a convenient stopover for travelers en route from Kigali or Gisenyi. The hotel provides well-furnished rooms, a restaurant, and friendly service.

While not directly inside the park, its location makes it a practical choice for those seeking a comfortable base before or after exploring Nyungwe’s forest trails.

Combining Comfort with Conservation

What makes accommodation in and around Nyungwe National Park truly special is how seamlessly it integrates with conservation and community initiatives. Many lodges support reforestation programs, employ local guides, and partner with neighboring tea estates and villages. Staying here means contributing directly to Rwanda’s eco-tourism model — one that benefits both people and nature.

Whether you’re soaking in luxury at One&Only Nyungwe House or sipping tea at a cozy guesthouse near Gisakura, every moment feels deeply connected to the land and its stories. The mist, the calls of primates, and the rhythm of rural Rwanda surround you in ways few places on Earth can match.

Choosing the Right Stay

• For luxury travelers: One&Only Nyungwe House

• For midrange comfort and views: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

• For budget travelers: Gisakura Guesthouse

• For eco-conscious explorers: Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge or Nyungwe Eco-Center Lodge

• For lakeside relaxation: Emeraude Kivu Resort

Each offers a different perspective of Nyungwe — from opulent comfort to intimate simplicity — but all share one common trait: an unwavering dedication to showcasing the natural and cultural beauty of Rwanda’s highlands.