Hotel des Mille Collines
A historic Kigali landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a poignant connection to Rwanda's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music and events
Hotel des Mille Collines
Best Time
Live music and events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Kigali landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a poignant connection to Rwanda's past.
"A landmark in Kigali, Hotel des Mille Collines offers a mix of history and luxury."
🎯 Embrace the History
Learn about its role in the genocide; it's a profound part of the experience.
🎶 Check for Events
Be aware of pool parties; they can be loud but also fun!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Significance
Throughout the hotel
Experience a place that served as a sanctuary during the genocide, a symbol of hope and resilience.
+4Panoramic Kigali Views
Terrace and upper floors
Enjoy breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Kigali's rolling hills, especially stunning at sunset.
Poolside Ambiance & Brunch
Outdoor pool area
Relax by the large pool, enjoy a delicious Sunday brunch, and soak in the pleasant atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Symbol of Resilience
+4Vibrant Atmosphere & Potential Noise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the History
Learn about its role in the genocide; it's a profound part of the experience.
🎶 Check for Events
Be aware of pool parties; they can be loud but also fun! +1
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views are perfect for sunset photos.
🏊♀️ Pool Day Pass
Enjoy the pool and brunch even if not staying; check day pass prices.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the History
Learn about its role in the genocide; it's a profound part of the experience.
🎶 Check for Events
Be aware of pool parties; they can be loud but also fun! +1
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views are perfect for sunset photos.
🏊♀️ Pool Day Pass
Enjoy the pool and brunch even if not staying; check day pass prices.
🚗 Central Location
Conveniently located for exploring Kigali on foot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hotel des Mille Collines is a landmark in Kigali, praised for its blend of historical significance and modern amenities, including a pool and fine dining. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, central location, and breathtaking panoramic views. However, some visitors have noted that the hotel's lively events, particularly poolside parties, can lead to significant noise disruption in rooms, detracting from its historical ambiance.
"A landmark in Kigali, Hotel des Mille Collines offers a mix of history and luxury. it’s a modern hotel with excellent amenities, including a pool and fine dining. The ambiance blends historical significance with comfort, making it a memorable stay for both tourists and locals. The staff is friendly, and the location is central, providing easy access to Kigali’s main attractions."
MUHOZA Rene
"I visited the restaurant next to the pool. I was well taken care of. My drink was good and the atmosphere was very pleasant. Secure parking for my motorcycle. Very welcoming security staff at the gate and hotel lobby. I wish I had stayed here."
Suresh Naidu
"I regret staying here.
I am staying here for tonight. But there is some sort of a DJ party going on by the pool with volume so high that I cannot talk with someone in the same hotel room. There was only one coffee cup, one bathrobe, and one set of slippers in the room. I don't know if they want to save money like this but I just know I am never coming back and will not recommend this hotel to the people I know. I am very disappointed because I heard this was a classy, historical hotel. Now it feels like a budget hotel thar is half a disco/night club. Not so much class left. Very sad."
Daniel N.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taxis are readily available at Kigali International Airport (KGL) and are the most convenient way to reach Hotel des Mille Collines. The journey typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. You can also arrange for airport transfer through the hotel in advance.
Yes, Hotel des Mille Collines is considered centrally located in Kigali, making it easy to access many attractions and explore the city on foot.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are common in Kigali. For shorter distances, you can also find moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis). The hotel's central location makes walking to nearby areas feasible.
Yes, secure parking is available for guests, including for motorcycles.
The hotel is in a good neighborhood for walking, offering a central base to explore local sights and amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For overnight stays, booking your room in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. If you plan to use the pool or attend events like Sunday brunch, it's also wise to check if reservations are needed.
While specific hours can vary, the pool is generally accessible during daylight hours. Sunday brunch is a popular event, often running from late morning into the afternoon.
There is no entrance fee to visit the hotel's public areas, such as the lobby or terrace for a drink. However, there are charges for using the pool if you are not a guest, and for specific events like Sunday brunch.
Yes, you can visit the hotel to experience its ambiance, enjoy a drink at the bar, or dine at one of its restaurants. The terrace offers great views for photography.
The hotel frequently hosts events, including live music on Thursdays and Saturdays, and a popular Sunday brunch. They also cater to meetings and events. +1
🎫 🏨 Onsite Experience
The hotel offers high-end rooms and suites, blending modern amenities with a historical setting. Some rooms provide elegant comfort and sweeping views of Kigali.
Yes, Hotel des Mille Collines features an outdoor swimming pool, which is a popular spot for relaxation and events.
The hotel has two restaurants and two bars, offering various culinary experiences. The poolside restaurant is particularly noted for its pleasant atmosphere and good food.
Yes, the hotel is equipped to host meetings and events, with facilities and services to cater to such occasions.
The atmosphere is a blend of historical significance and modern comfort. It can be a peaceful place for reflection or lively during events. +2
📸 📸 Photography
The terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kigali, especially stunning during sunset. The poolside area and the hotel's historic architecture also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Guests are generally welcome to take photos in their rooms. For public areas, it's always polite to be mindful of other guests' privacy.
While not explicitly stated, it's good practice to be discreet when photographing staff or other guests without their permission. The hotel itself is a historical landmark, and capturing its essence is encouraged.
The natural light during the day is excellent for capturing the views. Golden hour, just before sunset, provides warm, beautiful light for landscape and architectural shots.
The hotel's design, a blend of colonial and modern influences, offers interesting angles and textures for photography. Its historical significance also adds a layer of depth to any image.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there isn't a dedicated kiddie pool or hot tub, the main pool offers plenty of space for swimming and fun. The Sunday brunch is also a family-friendly affair, often featuring live music that adds to the enjoyable atmosphere. Consider booking a room that offers a bit more space if traveling with children.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Sightseers
For a more immersive experience, consider purchasing a day pass to use the swimming pool and enjoy the poolside ambiance. The Sunday brunch is a particularly popular option for day visitors looking for a relaxed and scenic outing.
🏛️ History Buffs
+4Understanding its role as a sanctuary during the genocide will add significant depth to your visit. The hotel's story is a crucial part of understanding modern Rwanda's journey towards peace and reconciliation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Heart of Kigali
+4Today, the hotel stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and remembrance. While it has been modernized and operates as a luxury hotel, its historical significance is palpable. Visitors often feel a profound connection to the past as they walk its halls, a testament to the enduring spirit of Rwanda.
+1Reunions between survivors and the peacekeepers who rescued them have even taken place at the hotel, underscoring its continued importance in the nation's narrative of healing and progress.
Experiencing the Hotel Today
The outdoor swimming pool is a central feature, offering a refreshing escape with stunning views of Kigali's undulating landscape. It's a popular spot for both guests and day visitors, especially for the well-regarded Sunday brunch, which often includes live music.
For those looking to socialize or enjoy the Kigali nightlife, the hotel hosts events, including live music on Thursdays and Saturdays. However, it's worth noting that these events, particularly poolside parties, can generate significant noise that may be audible in guest rooms.
Views and Photography Opportunities
These stunning vistas make the hotel an ideal location for photography enthusiasts. Whether you're capturing the expansive cityscape, the vibrant pool area, or the hotel's architecture, there are ample opportunities for memorable shots. The natural light throughout the day is excellent, but the golden hour before sunset is particularly recommended for its dramatic effect.
Beyond the views, the hotel's blend of historical significance and modern design offers a unique aesthetic for photos. The architecture itself tells a story, providing a rich visual narrative for any visitor looking to document their experience in Kigali.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit