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Imuhira Camps, Rooms and Responsible Tourism

Discover your best ecotourism experience in Rwanda, the Country of a Thousand Hills, with quality rooms, cozy cottages, and authentic nature-based stays.

★★★★★

What a wonderful part of heaven. I will come back!

Aime Foster, Canada

★★★★★

The staff is very nice and helps with everything!

Eva Victoire Kaikarola, Australia

★★★★★

De l'avis de tous les trois, c'est notre coup de coeur du voyage! Vous nous avez réservé la meilleure hospitalité et le cadre est magnifique! Le cottage est vraiment bien personnalisé, entre simplicité et raffinement à la fois! C'est cela le vrai luxe! S'il y a bien un lieu qui mérite de séjourner au minimum 2 nuits, c'est bien le vôtre!

Famille Jeff/France_Toulouse

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Call us

(+25) 0789320826 or (+25)0784 598 950

About us

IKAZE – WELCOME! IMUHIRA means “at home” in Kinyarwanda, and that is exactly the feeling we want every guest to experience. Since 2018, IMUHIRA has been welcoming travelers to a peaceful natural setting on the shores of Lake Kivu. We are not a luxury resort. We are a simple eco-lodge focused on nature, comfort, and responsible travel. Our goal is to offer an authentic stay that respects the environment and supports the local community. We offer private rooms, cozy cottages, and camping spaces, giving travelers flexible and comfortable options depending on their style of travel. Guests often appreciate the calm atmosphere, natural surroundings, and warm local hospitality. Our operation is strongly connected to environmental preservation, with around 70 percent of our energy coming from solar power, helping us reduce our environmental impact and promote sustainable tourism. IMUHIRA is also a people-based operation, built around real human connection and support. We guide and advise our guests before, during, and after their visit, helping with travel planning, activities, local experiences, and follow-up support even after they leave. We are located in Nyamasheke, along the Karongi–Rusizi road, making us easily accessible from Karongi, Kigali, and Nyungwe National Park. This makes IMUHIRA a convenient base for exploring western Rwanda. Many visitors come for hiking, birdwatching, cycling the Congo Nile Trail, visiting Nyungwe Forest, or simply relaxing by Lake Kivu. Others come to experience local culture and community life in a meaningful way. We also offer community-based tourism activities such as cultural experiences, farming activities, crafts, and conservation initiatives. These experiences help visitors connect with the local way of life while directly supporting the surrounding community. Tourism at IMUHIRA is designed to create real impact. Every stay contributes to local livelihoods, community projects, and environmental conservation. Whether you choose a room, a cottage, or a tent, you are always welcome here. We may not offer luxury, but we offer something more meaningful: a stay that is simple, real, and connected to nature, people, and community.

a group of tourists enjoying an outdoor
              meal in the rwandan countryside

Food, Beverage, and catering

The traditionally decorated lounge serves as both a bar and restaurant. We offer three meals a day for pre-booked guests, as well as for visitors and groups on retreats or picnics. Walk-in guests are also welcome to order their preferred meals and drinks, with a reasonable preparation time depending on the order.


              Rwandan Women dancing outside wearing traditional clothing

Cultural immersion

Our guests are warmly welcomed and entertained by the RWEMYE traditional dance troupe, who bring Rwandan culture to life through music, dance, and storytelling. The troupe members also share inspiring stories about historical acts of heroism, local innovations within the Rwandan community, and their personal experiences in conservation efforts. These stories offer guests a deeper understanding of the strength, resilience, and spirit of the local people. For guests who would like a more interactive experience, dance lessons can be arranged upon request. Rehearsals take place twice a week at the campsite, giving visitors a unique opportunity to learn, participate, and engage with the culture firsthand. This experience offers a meaningful connection with the community and a beautiful way to celebrate Rwanda’s rich traditions.

A rwandan man selling traditional 
              vases and decorations outside

Arts, crafts, and gift shop

The Imuhira Gift Shop provides a space for local artists to showcase their creative talents in painting, sculpture, and weaving. It also features locally produced fabrics from the surrounding community, which guests are welcome to purchase. All crafts are directly supplied by community members, ensuring that local artisans benefit directly from their work and skills. For guests who are interested in a deeper cultural experience, it is also possible to attend live weaving sessions in the community workshops and observe the craftsmanship behind these handmade products.

the top of a mountain
              there is grass. You can see another mountain and a lake

Village and Nature walks

Solo travelers and groups can enjoy a Village Nature Walk in the surrounding community near the campsite, or explore the opposite side of Lake Kivu in Nyabitekeri and Shangi. These guided walks offer a closer look at local life, nature, and the landscape. Local guides accompany guests and help identify native plants, birds, and other elements of the natural environment along the way, making the experience both educational and immersive. Pre-booking or pre-ordering is recommended to ensure guide availability and the best experience. We also offer comfortable private rooms and cozy cottages, in addition to camping options, so guests can choose the accommodation style that best suits their stay.

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Coffee washing experience

In partnership with a local coffee cooperative, we offer a 45-minute guided tour of the coffee washing station. This experience takes you through the full seasonal coffee journey, from planting and harvesting to processing and washing. Guests gain insight into each stage of production and learn how coffee is prepared by local farmers using both traditional and modern methods. It is an educational and authentic experience that highlights the importance of coffee in the local community and economy. Please note that this is a seasonal activity and must be pre-booked in advance to ensure availability.

Tourists going up a mountain. It's sunny and there are clear skyes

Hiking & Birdwatching

Birdwatchers can enjoy guided birding experiences with our local and trained guides, many of whom have completed technical college training in guiding and tourism. They lead guests along Lake Kivu’s well-designed endemic birding trails, offering expert support in identifying a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Hiking in the area is also a great way to explore the diverse landscape, including banana plantations, rolling hills, rivers, and the scenic shores of Lake Kivu.

A kayak in the river in rwanda

Kayaks and boat tours

The campsite is located close to an inter-district port, making it a convenient stopover for kayakers, Congo Nile Trail travelers, and those exploring the Kivu Belt. We are easily accessible both by the main road and by water from Karongi and Kamembe. From our location, guests can also reach Nyungwe National Park using different means of transport, including boda-boda or motorbike, for various tourism activities inside the park. In addition to camping, we also offer comfortable private rooms and cozy cottages, providing guests with more comfort options while still enjoying the same strategic and natural location.

A group of rwandan picking tea leafs

Congo Nile Trail Guiding

The campsite is located close to an inter-district port, making it a convenient stopover for kayakers, Congo Nile Trail travelers, and visitors exploring the Kivu Belt. We are easily accessible by both the main road and by water transport from Karongi and Kamembe. From our location, guests can also reach Nyungwe National Park using different transport options, including boda-boda or motorbike, for a variety of tourism activities inside the park. In addition to camping, we also offer comfortable private rooms and cozy cottages, giving guests more comfort and privacy while still enjoying the same strategic location and close connection to nature.

A rwandan men serving food to rwandan children outdoors

Volunteering

At IMUHIRA, our work is built around three key ecotourism pillars that bring together nature conservation, cultural heritage, and community development. We are committed to protecting and restoring the natural environment, including local flora and fauna. Our activities include tree planting, proper waste management, and permaculture practices that promote a healthy and sustainable ecosystem. Through K50 Inspilab, we also organize yearly workshops for children and young conservationists in July and November. These programs are designed to raise awareness, build practical skills, and inspire young people to become future guardians of the environment. We work closely with the RWEMYE Cultural Dance Troupe, made up of members from our local community. This group helps preserve and share Rwandan cultural traditions through dance, music, and storytelling. We also encourage creativity and cultural diversity by participating in events such as the Umuganura Festival in August. In addition, we support and train young people to develop skills and careers in cultural heritage and creative industries. We focus on empowering local community members to develop their own solutions to everyday challenges. Our approach promotes participation, skills development, and self-reliance through practical, community-driven initiatives. Together, these pillars reflect our commitment to tourism that respects nature, preserves culture, and creates positive impact for the local community

a deep cave with an individual going inside

Conservation research facilitation

Our team is qualified and dedicated to supporting scientific and academic research in tourism, conservation, and community empowerment, with a specific focus on our local community and surrounding area.

Accommodation

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Wifi

No extra cost

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Solar

Charge your devices

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Swimming

Facilities & lifejackets

Our rooms, cottages and dormitories are built with local materials and offer views of the surrounding hills, countryside, and the beautiful Lake Kivu. Showers provide cold water by default, but hot water can be brought to you in a bucket upon request. You may swim in the lake, but please note that it is at your own risk. All beds are equipped with mosquito nets for your comfort. Every room includes standard electricity outlets for charging your devices, and approximately 60 percent of our lighting is powered by solar energy as part of our sustainability efforts. Important note: During the rainy season (October to April), guests are required to check in before 6:00 PM to ensure a safe and smooth arrival. If you need a live location to help you find us easily, or if you require any other travel assistance, please contact our reservations team. We are always happy to help.

a cottage in the rwandan countryside at dusk

Our spacious and scenic campground offers a peaceful escape into nature and is ideal for backpackers, overlanders, and adventurers. With plenty of space for tents and camping vehicles, along with essential facilities and designated fire pits, it is a wonderful place to relax under the stars. Tents can be provided upon request. What makes IMUHIRA truly special is its natural environment. Situated beside a fallow buffer zone, the campsite is surrounded by restored landscapes and a rich variety of riverain plants and wildlife. Here, you can wake up to birdsong, fall asleep to the gentle sound of the lake, and enjoy the calming energy of the outdoors, all while supporting sustainable, community-based tourism.

a tent in the rwandan countryside

Local families warmly welcome guests into their homes, providing a rare opportunity to experience everyday Rwandan life firsthand. You will share meals, laughter, and stories, gaining a genuine sense of what life is like in this part of the country. Whether you choose a homestay, cottage, dormitory, or tent, everything we offer is grounded in authenticity, simple, heartfelt, and real. It is not just about where you sleep, but about how you connect with the people and the place. We believe that this kind of shared experience is what makes travel truly meaningful.

inside of a rwandan home with sofa and traditional decorations

Price

The price list is indicated in USD. However, payments are accepted in Rwandan Francs (RWF), US Dollars (USD), or Euros (EUR).

We accept multiple payment methods, including cash, Mobile Money, bank transfer, and POS card payments.

“TBD” (To Be Decided) means that the price and booking arrangements are determined on a case-by-case basis in direct consultation with us.

For a personalized price list or tailored arrangements, please contact us by email at imuhiragroup@gmail.com.

Accommodation and meals

Activities

Facilitation

Children in Conservation

In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation

Contact Us

Whether you want to partner, volunteer, book a holiday or have questions for us, please get in touch!

group of rwandan guides doing cultural immersion

Reviews

So great, Thanks, was amazing and the dinner was good!

Solam Demetra, Switzerland

It has been a great stay. Thank you very much!

Sternel Leon, German

Thank you for your social impact!

Bucyibarua Bonaventure, Ruhango District

Very happy about the venture!

Nahayo Theogene, Nyamasheke District

The beauty is natural and incomparable!

Nkundimana David, Nyamasheke District

A very good business that is protecting the environment.

Iragena Philbert, Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) /Kigali

Great landscape and great staff!

Alexander Riethter, Germany

Good scenery and good service!

Charles B., Kigali City

The area is very cool and enjoyable!

Raymond Mwumvaneza, Kigali City

I appreciate the good service rendered, I encourage more advertisements!

Fred Mubangizi, Kagano Sectors

Good level of professionalism. Keep up the progress!

Twahira Clavel

Thank you for the service!

Alphonse Nshimiyimana, Huye District

Wonderful place, good climate good hospitality!

Ernestine Mukangenzi, Kigali/grow movement

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