House of Waine | Nairobi
HOUSE of WAINE has 11 bedrooms and a 2-bedroom cottage set on 2.5 acres that blends the elegance of gracious living with The Spirit of Modern Africa in an exclusive and serene setting. Our aim is to provide our guests with an experience that exceeds all their expectations of city hotels and is punctuated by personalized, friendly and excellent service and cuisine in beautiful surroundings.
Located in the peace and quiet of Karen, House of Waine still retains much of the charm of a family home. Guests are assured of a relaxed and informal atmosphere where they can be free to do as much or as little as they like. Upon entering the gates one is transported to another place, one with a gentler, quieter pace, a private retreat where the only noise one will usually hear will the be the sound of the local birdlife.
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Our 10 Standard rooms are all individually styled and then named to reflect their different themes ensuring that no two are exactly alike.
•4 of our bedrooms can be single, double or twin rooms with 6 of which can be triples as well.
•Each bedroom features a large marble bathroom with plenty of natural light through the large windows.
•Most bathrooms have a separate shower and bath (with the exception of 1 which feature only a shower) and all have a complete range of toiletries, hairdryers and bathroom telephone.
Our guests can be assured that they will enjoy the same standard of facilities in their room as they would in a larger city hotel. These include:
•Free Wi-Fi
•Televisions in each room with local and satellite channels
•Direct dial telephones
•Complimentary non-alcoholic mini bar
•Mini safe
•Tea and coffee making facilities with fresh milk and freshly ground coffee delivered daily
•Complimentary pastries daily
•Air conditioning in all rooms
•Hair dryer
“Malaika” is a Swahili word for an angel which explains why this suite is associated with perfection. This suite is also known as the Superior suite, with the fact that it is extremely spacious, with two lounge areas, a separate dressing room, an overly spacious bathroom ensuite with a unique spherical shaped bath tub and balcony with a view of the swimming pool and the utterly landscaped beautiful gardens.
The cosy Cottage sleeps 3, a double in the master room complete with a fireplace and a single. The Cottage has an open plan lounge (with a fireplace), Dining room, Kitchen and private garden.
Property Facilities
Bar, Conference Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Clothes Press, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Fridge, Internet Access (Complimentary), Iron / Ironing Board, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Wheelchair Friendly
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Disability, Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Walks (Self Guided)
Activities Nearby
Art Galleries, Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Golf, Health and Fitness Centre, Helicopter Rides, Hiking, Museums, Safaris, Squash Court, Tennis Court, Wildlife Tours
It is located at Langata, approximately 3 kilometers from House of Waine. It is the creation of a Kenyan
conservation organization, the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW). It was established in order to protect the endangered Rothschild giraffe, Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi, that is found only in the grasslands of East Africa.
The main attraction for visitors is feeding giraffes from a raised observation platform. The centre is also
home to several warthogs which freely roam the area along with the giraffes.
They have three types of Giraffes: Reticulated Giraffe, Masai Giraffe and the Rothschild Giraffe.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm 7 days a week.
Sheldrick is a Kenyan wildlife conservation charity founded in 1977 in memory of David Sheldrick by his widow Daphne Sheldrick. It assists and advises the Kenya Wildlife Service and manages an orphanage for elephants and rhinos.
One can also adopt an Elephant at a cost of USD 50 per year upon prior booking.
It is located approximately 20 minutes from House of Waine and is open daily from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. At this time you watch them being fed with the normal human children formulae milk.
Charges are Kshs. 500 per person both local and international.
Kazuri Bead Factory is situated 1 km and is approximately a 15 minutes walk from House of Waine – “a stones-throw away” from Karen Blixen Museum.
Originally founded by the late Lady Susan Wood in 1975, she created employment for struggling single mothers in the community. Kazuri is still located in its’ original setting in Karen, so far the workshop has now employed over 300 local women. Kazuri Beads specialize on Hand Made Ceramic Beads, Pottery and Genuine Leather Bags.
Kazuri Beads Shop opening hours are as follows: Sundays 9:00am to 4:00pm, Mondays to Saturdays from 8:30am am to 6:00pm. Karen Workshop closes Mon to Sat at 6.00pm and Sundays at 5.00pm.
Utamaduni Crafts Centre is located on Bogani East Road between Ostrich Park and Giraffe Centre in Langata open from 10am to 6pm daily. Utamaduni Crafts Centre is situated 5 Minutes from House of Waine. There are about eighteen individual Craft Shops in one large house offering a wealth of Kenyan Culture.
The centre offers antiques, wood carvings, bronze items, and jewellery of the highest quality. Utamaduni means “cultural heritage” and is a converted house containing (about 18) arts and crafts shops including:
cKisii Soapstone
- African Fabrics
- Men's Boutique
- Beaded Glassware
- An African coffee table book shop
- Antique African silver & gold jewelry
- Crafts made by ex-Nairobi street children
- A variety of beautiful Kenyan Kiondos (Baskets)
Utamaduni Craft Centre in Nairobi is the best place to buy souvenirs.
The museum is situated in the upscale Nairobi suburb of "Karen," a town that was created by the parceling out of the coffee farm's land after Blixen's return to Denmark. Itis also the former African home of Danish author Karen Blixen, famous for her book Out of Africa which chronicles life at the estate.
The Karen Blixen Museum is located 1km from House of Waine and is open every day between 9:30am and 6:00pm, including on weekends and public holidays.
Visitors have the opportunity to take part in continuously offered guided tours of the house, which features rooms designed in both the original decor and with props from the 1985 film. The grounds, which feature original equipment from the coffee farm, are also available for touring. There is also a gift shop. The grounds of the museum are available to rent for weddings, corporate functions, and other events.
Charges :100 Kshs per person-Residents & USD 10 Per Person Non-Residents.
The Museum is open from 9:30am to 6:00pm
With a beautiful view of our heated swimming pool, it is ideal for lunches and cocktail parties.
The Dining room offers a varied menu that reflects the diversity to be found in Nairobi today ensuring that guests find something they enjoy from the various options.
With beautiful view of the garden, the terrace offers an opportunity to view the bird life as they enjoy their breakfast as well.
Right by the fire place
Right in the middle of our beautifully landscaped gardens
The Main Bar
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Guest House
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Big 5, Flora, Golf, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Wildlife
Elewana Collection Lewa Safari Camp | Lewa Conservancy
Elewana Lewa Safari Camp has a stunning location within Lewa Wildlife Conservancy - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - with outstanding game viewing and views of Mt. Kenya to the south and the arid lowlands to the north. Each tent has a thatched roof, verandah and full ensuite bathroom, very much in the ‘Lewa’ style. The central areas have cool gardens with a sunny verandah and swimming pool to enjoy during the day, and cosy log fires in the lounge and dining room during the chilly evenings.
The camp is based within the private 62,000 acre wildlife conservancy. The conservancy is home to about 10% of Kenya's black rhino population, and the single largest population of Grevy's zebra in the world. Lewa reinvests all the profits generated from tourism into its core programs. When you visit Elewana Lewa Safari Camp, you contribute to helping thousands of people from different backgrounds and cultures to improve their lives, and give their children a future, at the same time as ensuring Africa's wildlife has a stable home.
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Safari Tents
11 ensuite safari tents, all of which can be laid out as doubles or twins. Three of the tents can accommodate triples for children under 16 only.
Each thatch-covered tent consists of a main bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a spacious verandah.
Family Tent
Each family tent consists of of two en-suite safari tents with a shared verandah, each with one double and one twin.
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Massages, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Big 5, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Horse Riding
Scheduled and shared game drives, twice daily.
Game package - included
Full board - extra
With the whole of the eastern half of the Conservancy to itself, and with strict limits on tourism numbers with the Conservancy, guests can enjoy an almost private game viewing experience. Although a vast area, the Conservancy is fenced, (fencing of wildlife areas is very unusual in Kenya), specifically to protect the rhino. The game driving is outstanding with plentiful rhino, elephant, buffalo, the rare Grevy's zebra and resident predators, to a backdrop of beautiful views of snow-capped Mt. Kenya.
2 or 4 hour guided walking safari with professional guide.
2 hours: game package - included | full board - extra
4 hours: game package & full board - extra
Elewana Lewa Safari Camp’s walking guides are trained wildlife rangers from the Conservancy. Apart from their knowledge on rhino conservation, they are also knowledgeable about the tracks and botany. Most walks leave from camp.
Take the time to leave the car behind and enjoy the small things – tracks, dung beetles, micro-ecosystems.
2 hour guided horse or camel back safari | Min-2 guests
Elewana Lewa Safari Camp offers horse rides – you can get very close to plains game as they see you as one of their own! Horse riding is for experienced riders only, as although it is a gentle walk on very well behaved horses, you are in the wild, and need to be able to bring a situation under control when horses are spooked. Horse riding is subject to availability and there is an additional charge. Riders will be requested to fill out a questionnaire to ascertain their competency.
Elewana Lewa Safari Camp also offers camel rides – less elegant than horseriding, but suitable for those without riding skills, the camels are led by Samburu handlers and it is picturesque experience. Camel riding is subject to availability and there is an additional charge. There are only three riding camels available.
Bush breakfast or lunch.
Game package - included
Full Board - extra
Adult & Child rates are different
Take a moment to sit back, enjoy the spectacular views, the smells, the colours, and the gentle breeze.
Bush breakfasts are a chance to enjoy a full breakfast, al fresco, in the middle of the plains, surrounded by wildlife.
Game package - included
Full board - extra
Adult & Child rates are different.
“Sundowners” are a safari tradition after a day of safari: stop and watch the spectacular sunset with, traditionally, a gin and tonic in hand!
Behind the scenes tour of Lewa conservancy HQ tour.
Cultural Boma Visit - Ngwesi | Min-2 guests - extra cost
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy borders the Samburu community conservancies of Tassia and Ngwesi in the arid lowlands of the north, and many of the staff at Elewana Lewa Safari Camp come from this area. Elewana Lewa Safari Camp offers visits to neighbouring local Samburu homesteads. The Samburu live in semi-permanent huts known as Manyattas and it is the role of the wife to construct the hut from cattle dung and grass. The families will show you round their home for a fee (payable separately, ask reception for details), and will want to take the opportunity to sell their traditional handicrafts.
A visit to the local school is also possible and you may choose to help support it by buying books or other needed items.
Min-4 guests
The lush Ngare Ndare forest borders the Lewa Consevancy, and is wonderful for a day trip of exploring. Swim in crystal clear mountain springs, walk along a canopy bridge above high above the forest floor, and enjoying a gourmet picnic lunch in the shade of a dense and beautiful forest.
Picnic Lunch Box
Enjoy the cool waters in the heat of the day!
Within the lush green gardens, the giraffe design pool has bar service and board games as well as table tennis.
There are sunbeds and a shaded lounge area, perfect for reading and relaxing during the day.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 13
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp | Mara North Conservancy
Located in the Mara North Conservancy, the heart of the Masai Mara ecosystem, Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp is the perfect base from which to explore the wonders of the Mara.
The vast, fertile plains of the Maasai Mara boasts a plethora of wildlife; with over 450 bird species and both resident and transient populations of lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, giraffe, to name a few, the plains are dense with game. Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp is perfect for those wanting to observe the spectacle of the migration, classified among the “Seven Wonders of the World”, when, from July to November, over 1.3 million wildebeest and zebra cross from the Serengeti in search of greener pastures.
The camp’s remote location allows the stars to shine bright at night, undimmed by harsh lighting; guests enjoy the unique experience of listening to the sounds of lion, leopard and hyena foraging and hunting, whilst being cosseted with traditional and modern comforts such as a campfire and cosy duvets.
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Family / Honeymoon Suite
Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp’s two Honeymoon / Family Tents are the ideal accommodation for couples that want extra space and privacy.
The spacious suites each comprise of an ensuite master bedroom and a sitting room, which can be converted into a second bedroom for children under the age of 16 years. The lush bathrooms have double wash basins, flush toilets and hot water showers.
Located at either end of the camp, the Honeymoon / Family Suites offer spectacular views over the savannah plains from your private veranda.
Safari Tent
The eight luxury safari tents offer either twin or double beds, each with spacious ensuite bathroom areas. The tents have a very classy and elegant feel, combining Indian Raj Campaign furniture, dark wood with intricate brass fittings,
The tents are set underneath a grove of fig and Elephant Pepper Trees and are spaced out to ensure privacy. From your personal verandah or hammock you can watch wildlife roam on the savannah plains…
Property Facilities
Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Internet Access (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary)
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Scheduled and shared game drives, twice daily.
Elephant Pepper Camp has open game drive vehicles. The current fleet are new, specially fitted, 4×4 Toyota Landcruisers. The vehicles are unrivaled with feature enhancements specifically designed for comfort and photography – open sided with 3 rows of seats, photographic equipment stands, and charging sockets. Guests will share game drives unless “exclusive use of vehicle” has been prebooked at an extra charge.
This is the best part of the Masai Mara – a year round game viewing experience like no other!
We are often asked why the game viewing in Mara North Conservancy is better than in the Mara Reserve. The explanation is because cattle are not allowed into the Reserve, therefore from the months of November through to June, the grass is high within the Reserve, and the plains game, followed by their predators tend to avoid the Reserve, and stick to the Conservancy which has balanced grazing, and lush short green grass. During the months of July to October, when the zebra and wildebeest migration flood into the whole Mara eco-system, the grass in the Reserve is trampled and eaten, and game viewing is similar within the Reserve and within the Conservancy.
2 or 4 hour guided walking safari with professional guide.
2 hours - included
4 hours - extra
Take the time to leave the car behind and enjoy the small things – animal tracks, flowers and micro-ecosystems. All the guides are Bronze or Silver level Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association certified, and some of our guides have guided in this area for 20 years and enjoy sharing their knowledge and can take you on a delightful ramble from camp – a whole new perspective of the eco-system around you.
Elephant Pepper Camp is also perfect for young explorers! Our Guides love organizing fun walks for kids within the camp. Little ones will learn how to make a fire, throw a rungu, fire a bow and arrow and track wildlife. As a memento of their adventure, children can take home their very own cast from the tracks they discovered!
Take a moment to sit back, enjoy the spectacular views, the smells, the colours, and the gentle breeze.
Bush breakfasts are a chance to enjoy a full breakfast, al fresco, in the middle of the plains, surrounded by wildlife.
“Sundowners” are a safari tradition – after a day of safari; stop, watch the spectacular sunset; traditionally with a gin and tonic in hand!
Bush breakfast or lunch.
Min-2 guests.
Balloon safari on request at extra cost.
Picnic Lunch Box.
Lunch
Lunch at property - extra cost.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 10
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Kigali Serena Hotel | Kigali
Ideally located on one of Kigali's most charming boulevards, the five-star Kigali Serena Hotel is built around a polished granite atrium, which showcases the very best of Rwandese cultural art. Relaxed yet elegant, the hotel centres on the Executive Lounge and Bar, which opens onto a wide sundeck overlooking the newly refurbished swimming pool. Also overlooking the pool, the popular Milima Restaurant offers a wide range of all-day buffet choices, while the relaxed Sokoni Café offers inside and outside poolside seating. The capital's natural business hub, the hotel also boasts its own extensive conference centre, 500-seater auditorium and lavish ballroom.
The hotel features 148 rooms. Guests can choose from a selection of 60 Standard Rooms, 37 Superior Rooms, 19 Deluxe Rooms, 18 Junior Suites, 7 Prime Rooms, 6 Executive Suites and a luxury Presidential Suite. In-room facilities include 24 hour room service, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities, mini fridge, hair dryer, private safe and a flat screen satellite TV.
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Varying slightly in size between 25 and 30 sq metres, these rooms offer either twin or king-sized beds and a luxury bathroom with both tub and shower.
Facilities include :
- 24-hour room service
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up
- Direct-dial phone
- Voice-mail
- In-room flat-screen satellite TV
- Mini-bar
- Private safe
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hair dryer
- Porter/concierge
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Walk in shower and bathtub
- Working desk
Varying slightly in size between 25 and 30 sq metres, these rooms offer either twin or king-sized beds and a luxury bathroom with both tub and shower.
Facilities include :
- 24-hour room service
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up
- Direct-dial phone
- Voice-mail
- In-room flat-screen satellite TV
- Mini-bar
- Private safe
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hair dryer
- Porter/concierge
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Walk in shower and bathtub
- Working desk
Varying slightly in size between 25 and 30 sq metres, these rooms offer either twin or king-sized beds and a luxury bathroom with both tub and shower.
Facilities include :
- 24-hour room service
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up
- Direct-dial phone
- Voice-mail
- In-room flat-screen satellite TV
- Mini-bar
- Private safe
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hair dryer
- Porter/concierge
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Walk in shower and bathtub
- Working desk
Varying slightly in size between 25 and 30 sq metres, these rooms offer either twin or king-sized beds and a luxury bathroom with both tub and shower.
Facilities include :
- 24-hour room service
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up
- Direct-dial phone
- Voice-mail
- In-room flat-screen satellite TV
- Mini-bar
- Private safe
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hair dryer
- Porter/concierge
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Walk in shower and bathtub
- Working desk
Studio Suites (40 sq m) offer king-sized beds, luxury bathroom with both tub and shower, and an integrated work space.
Facilities include :
- 24-hour room service
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up
- Direct-dial phone
- Voice-mail
- In-room flat-screen satellite TV
- Mini-bar
- Private safe
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hair dryer
- Porter/concierge
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Walk in shower and bathtub
- Working desk
Executive Suites (70 sq m) offer king-sized beds, a luxury bathroom with both tub and shower, an integrated work space and a separate sitting room.
Facilities include :
- 24-hour room service
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up
- Direct-dial phone
- Voice-mail
- In-room flat-screen satellite TV
- Mini-bar
- Private safe
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hair dryer
- Porter/concierge
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Walk in shower and bathtub
- Working desk
The resplendent Presidential Suite (300 sq m) offers a king-sized bed, luxury en suite bathroom (with Jacuzzi, tub and shower), two en suite guest rooms, private office, private conference room, private dining room (and galley kitchen), elegant sitting room, reception area and private vestibule entrance.The suite is one of the finest examples of luxury accommodation in Kigali and throughout Rwanda.
Facilities include :
- 24-hour room service
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up
- Direct-dial phone
- Voice-mail
- In-room flat-screen satellite TV
- Mini-bar
- Private safe
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hair dryer
- Porter/concierge
- 24-hour on-call doctor
- Walk in shower and bathtub
- Working desk
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Television
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), Meal on Request
Activities on Site
Fine Dining, Massages, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Game Drives, Gorilla Tracking, Historical Tours, Safaris
Known locally as “Kandt House,” this museum celebrates the work of Dr. Richard Kandt, a German physician and explorer who embarked on an exploration of Rwanda in 1897, searching for the source of the Nile River. A rich showcase of Rwanda’s natural treasures, the museum includes artifacts from Dr. Kandt’s expedition and also a ship that was sunk off the shores of Lake Kivu during the German troops’ surrender to the Belgian Army in World War I.
This museum is open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. On Umuganda [community work] Day, which is the last Saturday of every month, the museum opens at 12:00 a.m. On 7th April, all museums are closed.
Established in 2007 by 18 women living in Nyamirambo, Kigali, the NWC examines Rwanda’s unfortunate history of violence, inequality and discrimination towards women. Today, the Center’s mission is to provide education and vocational training to disadvantaged women so that they can gain better opportunities for employment.
Located ten minutes from the city centre, the Kigali Genocide Memorial offers guided tours of the exhibits and gardens commemorating the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Visitors can choose to be guided by one of the staff, many of whom are survivors of the genocide, or purchase the KGM digital guide, which provides an audiovisual tour.
This collective of Rwandan creative artists showcases local works in contemporary African arts, crafts, music and dance. In addition to exhibiting paintings, sculptures and mixed media expressions, the center conducts programs, projects and initiatives designed to expand the creative arts in Rwanda.
Relaxed and stylish, the colourful Sokoni stands central to the extensive tropical gardens and overlooks the pool. A popular meeting place for guests and locals alike, it is renowned for its colourful cocktails, globe-trotting cuisine and vibrant live music. Sokoni offers all-day café-styled service to suit all tastes. It also features a choice of weekly specials that hit the high spots of the local social scene.
Friday… the African way
Every Friday, wind down from the week at Sokoni. Happy Hour drinks are half price between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and the sumptuous African Buffet runs from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. A showcase of local, regional and international cuisine, the unrivalled variety and style of the buffet is complemented by the quality of the resident band, who take the stage at 7:00 p.m.
Sokoni Saturday
Please join us on Saturdays at Sokoni for our Family BBQ Lunch.
Child-Friendly Food
Sokoni is exceptionally child-friendly, especially on weekends, and it’s one of the city’s favourite family venues. The children’s menu is guaranteed to appeal to youngsters of all ages and is on offer all day, every day. What’s more, children under 12-years eat at half price.
One of Kigali’s most popular dining venues, the Milima Restaurant overlooks the pool and has been styled to offer a classically elegant interior with a light-filled atrium overlooking the verdant tropical gardens. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at Milima, each with its own subtly different ambience, and each as suited to a business briefing as to a more relaxed social or family event.
Breakfast
Anglo-American or continental breakfasts feature an extensive buffet selection of homemade pastries and breads, fresh juices and fruits and a tempting array of continental delicacies.
Lunch
Lunch at the Milima features an extensive buffet selection, which varies daily.
Dinner
The Milima Restaurant is open for dinner daily and offers both a table d’hôte menu and a wide range of à la carte options.
Wednesdays & Saturdays… in Mongolia
On Wednesday and Saturday evenings starting at 6:30 p.m., enjoy the renowned Mongolian Menu, a spicy fusion of the very best of Asian cuisine served under the stars.
Milima Sunday
Please join us Sundays at Milima for our Sunday Brunch.
The beautifully decorated Executive Lounge and Bar with its opulent Bedouin-style tented terrace are reserved for exclusive use by hotel guests. With a selection of newspapers and periodicals, it also offers café service and Wi-Fi throughout the day. and access to the extensive business center
Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 148
Special Interests: History & Culture, Leisure, Nature
Virunga Lodge | Twin Lakes Burera & Ruhondo
The Original Gorilla Lodge in Rwanda
The magnificent Virunga Lodge in Rwanda is one of Africa’s most loved lodges. Perched high on a ridge with dramatic views overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes, Musanze valley, Lake Bulera and Lake Ruhondo.
The iconic property has defined Rwandese Afro-chic since the lodge was built by Praveen Moman in 2004. The timeless, hand-made style makes it the first accommodation choice for tracking the endangered mountain gorilla.
Exceptional hospitality, locally-inspired food and a private butler are hallmarks of the guest experience.
Each of the ten elegant bandas has a private terrace overlooking the dramatic landscape. The three deluxe bandas offer a private suite.
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•10 luxury bandas. 6 doubles, 2 twins, 3 deluxe, all with a fireplace in the room and a terrace overlooking the volcanoes or the twin lakes. 1 guide/tour room available at the lodge.
•3 larger deluxe bandas perfect for honeymoon couples or families.
•All rooms are complete with en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilet, double vanity
•and shower with hot & cold running water.
•Sun terrace overlooking the Virunga
•Volcanoes with scenic panoramic views.
•Personal butler service for all guests.
•The Ikirunga Spa is available to every guest.
•One 50-minute complimentary massage per guest per stay. Extra massages are available at
•$50 per 50-minute massage.
•Full board accommodation including all soft drinks and regular and premium alcoholic
•beverages including cocktails, cellar collection wines and single malt whiskies. Guests pay for
•French champagne only.
•Complimentary laundry service.
•Power sockets/charging facilities and hair dryers available in the rooms. No air
•conditioners.
•Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge and all guest bandas.
•3 deluxe, all with a fireplace in the room and a terrace overlooking the volcanoes or the twin lakes.
•Perfect for honeymooners or a family
•10 luxurious bandas (6 Doubles, 2 Twins, 2 Deluxe). Each banda has a private terrace from which our guests can watch the sunrise over the dramatic landscape of mountains and lakes. Luxuriously appointed, with the accent on vibrant Rwandese fabrics and stylish locally inspired furniture
•All rooms are complete with a fireplace, en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilet, double vanity and shower with hot & cold running water.
•Wifi access in the main lodge building and Dian Fossey Map Room.
•Ikirunga – Spa & Sauna
• Community projects
• Dian Fossey Map Room available for private events and conservation lectures
•Full board accommodation including all soft drinks and house alcoholic beverages. Premium beverages paid at consumption.
•Complimentary laundry and boot cleaning service.
•Personal butler service for all guests.
•Guide cottage available.
•Bandas are individually named after lakes in the area.
•Power sockets/charging facilities and hair dryer in the rooms. No air conditioners.
•The two deluxe bandas, Ibirunga and Ibiyaga, were added in 2014 and have their own private separate sitting room and more refined interiors
•Perfect for honeymooners or a family
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony , Dressing Gowns, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Gorilla Tracking, Massages, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Bird Watching, Gorilla Tracking, Helicopter Rides, Hiking, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
Tracking mountain gorillas through the dense African forests is a magical experience. Only eight visitors are allowed per gorilla group each day, and to minimize possible transmission of human diseases, visitors are asked to maintain a distance of 7m (about 22 feet) from the gorillas. Typically, tracking can take from 3 to 8 hours and requires some agility and fitness; however, all fitness levels can be accommodated and no one should feel deterred from missing this once in a lifetime experience.
This exclusive experience allows a total group of 8 guests to track a gorilla group in the forest on their own. This enables guests to have a deeper connection with these fascinating animals, accompanied by their own guide who can give them personal briefing. The cost is 15,000 USD per trek per day, for a maximum of 8 guests.
With only a small number remaining in the world, the Golden Monkey can be found in the foothills of the volcanic mountains of Mgahinga National Park in Uganda and in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Characterized by its bright golden body, cheeks and tail, with contrasting black limbs, crown and tail end, these playful primates are a pleasure to watch. Whether you choose to do this on the Rwandan or Ugandan side, the walk will take you from the bamboo stands and forested gorge on the lower levels of the volcanoes, to the elevated heath and moorland higher up.
The group of Intore Dancers is made up of 24 dancers and two dance trainers.
The troupe perform the traditional Rwandan ballet called The Intore, also known as “The Heroes” for Volcanoes Safaris guests, which is based on the courtly victory dance of the Rwandan Mwami (kings). Being selected as an Intore in times of old was a great honour – they would receive a privileged education, intensive combat training and they held a high status within the court. Today, the dancers use traditional weapons such as spears and bows and wear brightly coloured clothes and long flowing white hairpieces.
Located in a beautiful meadow nestled between the Karisimbi and Visoke volcanoes are the graves of Dian Fossey and some of her beloved research gorillas. For anyone interested in gorilla conservation in Rwanda, or interested in Fossey’s personal story, the trek to her grave is highly recommended. This trek starts early in the morning, can take 6-8 hours and is operated by the National Park.
Rwanda offers some of the world’s best bird watching, with a vast diversity of bird species. Rwanda has over 700 bird species and is home to the second highest number of Albertine endemics in the Albertine region. Each of our lodges offers the chance to see a number of different birds, with the vast majority endemic to the Region.
Guests of Virunga lodge have easy access to the Virunga chain of volcanoes, which offer challenging hikes and stunning panoramas. The three most popular volcanoes to climb are Mt. Gahinga, Mt. Sabyinyo, and Mt. Muhavura. These hikes are of varying difficulty and typically take a full day. The treks starts at 7:00am from the park headquarters, from where visitors will have to drive / be driven to the base of the volcano.
On a free afternoon at Virunga Lodge we recommend taking advantage of the lodge’s unique position by meandering down the mountain slope, through local villages, and to Lake Bulera, which sits at its foot. Passing through the local communities offers a colorful peek into village life and opportunities to visit local schools and community centers.
Although it rains heavily around Virunga Lodge, there are very few facilities for water catchment and storage and in the dry season there is an acute shortage of water. The villagers in Sunzu village around the lodge, where 138 families live, do not have enough clean water for drinking or for growing crops.
Starting in 2016, Virunga Lodge has been providing plastic water tanks to the local community and with the support of our guests,
In June 2014 Virunga Lodge launched the “One Sheep per Family” project, to provide one sheep to each of the 140 families in the Sunzu community. The sheep manure provides natural and effective fertiliser for growing crops. As well as providing manure, selling lambs provide income for the family.
For the project to work effectively, the community is divided up into 14 groups and each group is given nine females and one male. After all females produce an offspring, the breeding males are rotated to a different group for genetic diversity. A new family takes over caring for the male and donates one female offspring back to the previous ram caretaker.
The Dian Fossey Map Room at Virunga Lodge has been built in honor of Dr. Dian Fossey, the pioneer primatologist who set up the Karisoke Center high in the Virunga volcanoes in 1967. The exploration and conservation of the Virunga volcanoes is a very interesting and unique story and has been brought together for the first time in the amazing exhibition at the Dian Fossey Map Room at Virunga Lodge.
The Dian Fossey Map Room was opened on 2 March 2017. A permanent exhibition has been set up in the Map Room charting the ‘Conservationists and Explorers of the Virunga Volcanoes’ from 1850 to 1985 when Fossey died.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
7 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, French
No. Rooms: 10
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Hiking, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
