The Hôtel des Mille Collines is the best-known hotel in Rwanda, a long-established address in central Kigali whose name means Hotel of a Thousand Hills. It stands in large gardens on a ridge overlooking the city and has around 110 rooms, each with a private bathroom, satellite television and an in-room safe. The grounds are the main attraction: a large outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers, shaded terraces and lawns that give a calm, resort-like feel in the middle of the capital. La Terrasse serves buffet and a la carte meals indoors and outdoors, Le Panorama is the gourmet restaurant with views over the city in the evening, the Legacy Lounge is the cocktail bar, with live music on some evenings, and a poolside bar serves snacks and drinks by the water. There is also a small spa offering massages, a small gym, a curio shop, conference rooms for up to eighty people, laundry service and round-the-clock room service. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and the airport is only a short drive away.
History
The hotel is famous because of its role in 1994, when it sheltered more than a thousand people during the genocide against the Tutsi, an episode told in the film Hotel Rwanda. Staying here is not a requirement for anyone who wants to understand that history, but many guests like to know the story, and the staff are used to questions. It is worth combining a stay with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial for fuller context, and treating the hotel's past with the same respect you would give any place of remembrance.
Location and getting around
The hotel is in the city centre and about six kilometres from Kigali International Airport, so arrivals and departures are quick. Taxis and ride-hailing cars are easy to find, the main sights and restaurants are a short ride away, and tour operators collect guests from the lobby for city tours and for early departures to the parks.
Rooms and who it suits
The rooms are comfortable and traditional rather than ultra-modern, and the hotel's appeal lies in its gardens, its pool and its history. It suits couples and travellers who value character over polish, families who want a large pool and space to wander, and groups who want to meet in the hotel's conference rooms. Parents should note that the pool is large and open, so children need close supervision.
Good to know
The Legacy Lounge is a pleasant place for an evening drink, and the poolside bar is a good spot after a day of touring. Ask about breakfast when you book, since it depends on the rate. If you prefer a newer, more contemporary hotel, look at the Four Points by Sheraton or the Marriott. If you want a smaller boutique stay, choose Heaven, and if you want the cheapest sensible option with a pool, choose the Park Inn.
Why stay here
- ✓Large outdoor pool
- ✓La Terrasse restaurant
- ✓Le Panorama gourmet restaurant
- ✓Legacy Lounge and poolside bar
- ✓Small spa and gym
- ✓24-hour room service
- ✓Garden setting with city views
- ✓Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
Good questions
Why is the Hôtel des Mille Collines famous?+
It sheltered more than a thousand people during the 1994 genocide, a story told in the film Hotel Rwanda. It remains one of Kigali's best-known hotels.
Does it have a pool?+
Yes. A large outdoor pool sits in the gardens, with sun loungers and a poolside bar. The pool is open, so children need close supervision.
How far is it from the airport?+
It is in central Kigali, about six kilometres from Kigali International Airport, so transfers are short.
