Serene Retreat at the Luxurious Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel
While traveling through Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, it really wasn’t hard to find luxury hotel options, such as the Kigali Serena Hotel, The Radisson Blue Hotel& Convention Center, and probably one of the most upscale Marriott properties that I’ve ever stayed, the Kigali Marriott Hotel. However, as we traveled around Rwanda, I was surprised to find luxe hotel brands deep in the jungle, near Nyungwe National Park, such as the One&Only Nyungwe House.
But one property that I recommend travelers consider staying at when visiting Rwanda is the Cleo Lake Kivu hotel, located in Bwishyura, Karongi District. If nothing else, stay for the truly picturesque views from your suite’s balcony while enjoying a glass of wine. It’s worth it!
Suite Rooms, Apartment Suites, and Villa
I was lucky enough to stay in a Suite Room, which had a balcony overlooking freshly manicured grounds below, a bar, a fitness center, and as far as the eye can see, panoramic views of Lake Kivu, available in all rooms. Walking into my sweet Suite Room (starting rate of $375 per night), was a small desk and a wardrobe with a doorway into the spacious bedroom and sitting area large enough for a few close friends. And large floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal the balcony and view of Lake Kivu.
Honestly, I love a huge bathroom and this suite had one: a large walk-in shower, two sink basins, and a tub for guests to soak in after a long hike while they gaze out the window at the lake. It’s breathtaking. I only spent one night here, but I would definitely extend my stay if I were on a return visit to the country.
Cleo Lake Kivu also has a 4-bedroom villa with a presidential suite and three other ensuite rooms, and it features a living area, kitchen, and dining area – all yours starting at $3,000 a night. Apartments suites are also available, starting at $750 per night.
Amenities and Activities
Open for business in March 2021, the 5-star boutique hotel features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, a bar, and two restaurants: the Lakeside Restaurant and the Cleo Restaurant. I was able to experience a decadent farm-to-table dining experience under the stars at the Cleo Restaurant and it was beyond delicious!
In addition to taking a dip in the onsite swimming pool, adventurous or active guests can have the hotel staff arrange excursions to explore the area. Go kayaking on Lake Kivu, biking along new trails, take a tour of tea and coffee plantations in the Nyamasheke district, and take a two-hour to full-day adventure by boat, including a night fishing (and singing) excursion with local fishermen. If a chill end to the day is more your speed, you may want to consider a sunset cruise aboard a luxurious boat!
The Nyungwe Forest, Kigali, and Volcanoes National Park (the only place for gorilla trekking in Rwanda) are within a three-hour drive away from the hotel, but after a long day, you’ll be happy to soak your bones in a bubble bath while looking out on Lake Kivu. Trust me!
Click here to book your stay at Cleo Lake Kivu and to get more information about the hotel.
Editor’s Note: In Rwanda, homosexuality and homosexual acts are not illegal; however, the subject is taboo and there is no legislative protection for LGBTQ+ citizens. Same-sex marriage is also not recognized. As with any travel planning, you should research any desired destination (LGBTQ+-friendly or not) before your visit – using your best judgment based on your comfort level and research is paramount.
