Forest of Hope Guest House & Camp Site, Rwanda

Forest of Hope Guest House and Camp Site is the only accommodation facility in Gishwati-Mukura National Park. It is situated at the Gishwati Research Station just outside the Gishwati forest boundary and the park’s main gate in Rubavu District. Its proximity to the park (less than 2 kilometers) ensures quick access to the trailheads, making it an ideal base for all your primate treks.

Because Forest of Hope Guest House and Camp Site is the primary facility within the park, it isn’t possible to pay for park fees separately from accommodation. Both are usually combined into a single rate including three meals per day, selected soft drinks, and all guided activities and community visits.

The proceeds of every visit contribute to the reforestation, protection and conservation (anti-poaching programs) of both the park’s diverse flora and fauna as well as the upliftment of its surrounding communities.

The property is operated and run by the Forest of Hope Association, a local Non-Governmental Organization focused on forest conservation and community development.

Guest Rooms

The guest house offers modest yet well-functioning lodging. It consists of just two recently renovated en-suite rooms featuring two twin beds and mosquito nets along with a table and a chair and a private deck that offers breathtaking views of the forest. No triple rooms are available.

Camp Site

Budget-conscious guests can choose to stay at the guest house’s attached campsite which accommodates up to 8 campers. It is a roofed platform with toilet and shower facilities, a small fire pit, and a barbecue stand. Water is provided for cooking and cleaning but it is un-serviced and only suitable for self-catering guests, so campers must bring all their own supplies with them. Advance booking is mandatory for both the guesthouse and the campsite.

Dining

Meals are exceedingly mouthwatering with 3 wholesome meals served a day (set menu) prepared by the on-site chef using ingredients sourced from nearby farms for that authentic farm-to-table experience.

For breakfast, Rwanda’s famous tea or coffee is served complemented with bread, eggs and fruits. Lunch and dinner feature simple Rwandan dishes such as beans, plantains, and vegetable stews, with occasional chicken or fish options on a good day. Special dietary requests can be accommodated with earlier notice.

General facilities

Forest of Hope Guest House features a communal lounge with wooden benches, and a standard library of conservation books—the perfect spot to relax after a long day of trekking or hiking. Fresh bedding and towels are provided along with diligent daily room cleaning. Since Gishwati Mukura focuses on conservation, the facility relies entirely on solar power.

Amenities

Private bathrooms with hot and cold showers included
electricity
Wi-Fi
A patio overlooking the forest

Check-in and Check-out Times:

Check-in time is from 14:00 pm
Check out time is before 10:00 am

Activities & Experience

Chimpanzee and golden monkey trekking with opportunities to spot them right from your veranda is breathtaking.
Guided walks and hikes led by local conservation staff
Scenic views: Enjoy sweeping, peaceful views of rolling hills and dense forest from your private patio area.

Price

USD 50 per night per person for both bed and breakfast. Price includes the park entry coordination, but excludes the park fee which costs USD 40 for foreign adults. Other hotels that are in proximity are the Nearby Gisenyi, which is just 15 kilometers away. Guests can access hotels like Lake Kivu Serena and just other few.