Rwanda Kigali Umobano Hotel

I stayed at the Umubano Hotel in Kigali for four nights in May 2012, and had a very pleasant stay overall.

The hotel is perfectly situated, surrounded by the lush greenery and beautiful flowers that make Rwanda so special.

The large garden at the rear, overlooked by a patio connected to the restaurant, is the main attraction.

It is a beautiful, tranquil space - I loved my encounter with a pair of stately crowned cranes who came by and looked me over as I sipped my first cup of the excellent Rwandan coffee on the patio. 

The rooms at the Umubano were a pleasant surprise - large and well-lit (mine overlooked the pool and garden) the bathrooms are spacious, the staff are helpful and invariably friendly.

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The food is good and there are a sufficient number of choices for vegetarians.

There is a very nice bakery, and the croissants are excellent. There was an electric kettle and tea/coffee making necessities - a really nice touch, much appreciated.

The rooms did not have air conditioning, but did have a fan, and mosquito screens over part of the balcony windows.

I found the room a reasonably pleasant temperature during the night, and didn't miss the aircon, but other people might find it a little stuffy.

The night time temperature in Kigali drops to around 20 degrees, and is not as hot as during the day. Mosquite nets are also provided over the beds.

I would suggest if you have a choice book a room with a pool view, as this will also give a view out over the valley (and less chance of disturbance from any noise on the main road).

The pool was a good size, and looked very clean. As the hotel does cater to tourists, expect children at the poolside (swimming lessons were being given on the Saturday morning).

There is a good sized gym, which is busy after work, and single sex steam room and saunas. There are also a couple of tennis courts.