Pocket-friendly places to enjoy the festive season away from the city
Sunday, December 25, 2022
Some ladies pose for a group photo at Muhazi Flowers Beach & Resorts. Courtesy

Are you planning to make this Christmas season extraordinary, but this time around with more fun, and tranquility, miles away from the city without breaking the bank?, worry no more, we have listed some places that you could find fascinating.

Bugesera Lake Hotel

If you have never been to the east of Rwanda, it’s time to give it a shot as it’s where the beautiful hotel is located on the shores of Gashora Lake. To capture the fun memeories with family, the ambiance of nature is just magical. You don’t actually need to hire a photographer because the phone camera can bring out the whole detailed enchantment in the background.

The children, are also catered for, as the hotel has a playground and games for them.

When it comes to accommodation, a luxurious room of two people goes for Rwf 60,000 per night, and for a family room, ranging from Rwf 70,000 and above per night. You can enjoy the view of the lake, cool breeze, while feasting on fish and chips, and other local or international delicacies.

My Hill Eco Lodge

The lodge is on the lake shores of Lake Ruhondo and what makes it special, is the atmosphere. It has great views of nearby islands and far away volcanoes, especially around sunset when the rays reflect on the lake water. For couples, it’s the best place to rekindle your love.

The food is delicious yet cheap. The lodge has a garden, terrace, a restaurant and is located in Ruhengeri. It is just a stone throw away from Île Icyabarihira, 3.3 km from Ryandinzi and 7.7 km from Gashaki. The activities you can enjoy are hiking, swimming, boat riding, volcano hiking, monkey and gorilla trekking, and others.

The meals go for $30 which is about Rwf32, 000 for a three course meal and $20, equivalent to Rwf21, 340 for only the main course.

Inzu Lodge

For a romantic scenery in Gisenyi, this is the go to place. The lodge is at the hill, allowing you to view the splendid Lake Kivu. In case you don’t want to leave your pets at home, the premises offer permission to carry them. You can participate in activities like cycling, boating, local walking tour, and others.

The lodge serves meals for both vegetarian and non-vegetarians, and the menu has quite a variety of dishes, giving one many options to choose from. For people who want to kick the year’s tiredness aside and relax in tents and wake up to the lake view with the sound of insects, and birds, the lodge is favorable and even more amusing while in a group.

Eastern Country Hotel

It is a simple but nice hotel in Kayonza, with comfortable beds and well organised rooms. For people who enjoy looking at green nature, neatly kept gardens can immediately capture their attention.

The hotel has a great view of Kayonza town and the green hills. It gives the ‘away from home’ vibes. If silence is all you need with your family, of just as a couple to meditate upon the year that is ending and planning the one that is ahead, this can be your place.

Muhazi Beach Hotel

For a family picnic, it is an amazing place. It is located on the shores of Lake Muhazi in Rwamagana District, Muhazi sector, about four kms drive from the Rwamagana - Kayonza highway.

It comprises of a reception, business centre, gift shop, gym, a saloon, restaurant, main bar, beach bar and two conference facilities.

Breakfast is free, hot baths are expected, it has a huge space for children to play and run around, and pets are allowed, not to forget, the high speed internet.

Vintage Cottage

What captivates someone first, is the great view and a soothing atmosphere located at the shore of Lake Muhazi,at Gati in Rwamagana District. The residence has a private sandy beach for swimming.

On chilly evenings, sitting next to the fire place and just listen to the sound of the frogs, and insects can add mood to the whole experience. While staying there, it’s easy visiting Akagera National Park.

There is a variety of areas to chill, from the outdoor furniture, balcony, to terrace, and gardens. For people who enjoy reading books, especially after having a mouthwatering lunch or breakfast, the place favors you.