Kigali

The Retreat

Overview

Soak up the warmth of Rwanda's people

Set on a quiet, tree-lined street in Kiyovu, this eco-friendly boutique hotel is the creation of Italian architects and local craftsmanship.

Choose between 12 spacious rooms and suites, or eight luxury pool villas complete with private saltwater, heated plunge pools. The rooms feature locally-made sustainable teak furniture. Your private butler will be on hand to ensure you have everything you need, and your tours will be customised to fit your individual interests.

Discover culinary traditions from around the world at the fine dining restaurant Fusion, where Rwandan ingredients are used to create global flavours.

Facts

At a glance

  • 20 villas and rooms with plunge pools

  • Swimming pool

  • Restaurant

  • Spa and gym

The Retreat Salt Water pool hot tub and diving rocks

Experiences

  • The Retreat by Heaven 5

    Art and culture tour

    Art has played an important role in Rwanda’s history and remains an integral part of modern life. Your Art and Culture tour will be customised to suit your interests and you’ll have the opportunity to meet contemporary artists in Kigali as well as attend a crafting workshop, view public art and enjoy traditional performances.

  • The Retreat By Heaven Kigali Rwanda 6

    Nature in Kigali

    Head out into nature and enjoy the tropical birdlife and plants. An easy hike up one of the Thousand Hills will take you through lush forests and reward you with stunning views and a picnic lunch once you reach the top.

  • The Retreat by Heaven 3

    Culinary tour

    On this culinary adventure you’ll get to taste local fruits at a farmers’ market and pick ingredients to create contemporary African dishes. You’ll have the chance to make Rwandan banana beer (urwagwa), and enjoy a private cooking class with a chef. You may even convince the bartenders to teach you how to create a cocktail or two.

Community & Culture

Heaven Restaurant is a hospitality training facility that the owners, Josh and Alissa Ruxin, opened to offer vocational training and employment to locals. Over 1,000 hospitality staff have been trained in culinary and customer service skills. The restaurant hosts various cultural events, including art exhibitions and dance performances. The Retreat also stocks local products in its retail space.

Footprint

Known as Kigali’s first eco-friendly resort, The Retreat uses solar electricity, organic toiletries and boasts locally crafted future made using sustainably sourced teak.

What makes us different

Why Niarra

Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.

In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.

Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.

  • Unforgettable experiences

    Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.

  • Positive impact

    Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.

  • Fairness and transparency

    An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.

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