Best Budget Hotels & Hostels in Rwanda (2025 Guide)

Backpacking across Rwanda? Whether you’re here to trek with mountain gorillas, relax on the shores of Lake Kivu, or explore Kigali’s vibrant culture, this country offers plenty of budget-friendly places to stay, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

This guide highlights 7 of the best affordable hotels and hostels in Rwanda, ideal for backpackers, solo travelers, digital nomads, and anyone seeking a great stay for less.

Our Top Picks: Budget Hotels in Rwanda (Map)

To help you plan your trip at a glance, here’s an interactive map showing the locations of all 7 hotels featured in this guide.

Why Choose Budget Stays in Rwanda?

• Clean, comfortable rooms
• Great locations close to attractions and transport
• Free Wi-Fi and breakfast in many places
• Welcoming, social atmosphere

Top 7 Budget Hotels in Rwanda

1. Backpackers Lodge – Kigali

From $10/night | Eco-Friendly | Great for Solo Travelers

A top pick among backpackers, this community-run lodge has both dorm beds and private rooms. You’ll love the lush garden, free breakfast, and social vibe, perfect for meeting new people after a day of exploring Kigali.

• Private rooms
• Sustainable, community-focused stay
• Free Wi-Fi and breakfast

⭐ 8.0 Good
Check Prices on Booking.com →

2. Airport Style Inn Apartment – Kigali

From $10/night | Near the Airport

Clean, modern guesthouse with quiet rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and easy access to cafés and transport — ideal for solo travelers or digital nomads.

• Private en-suite rooms
• Near airport & transport
• Free Wi-Fi

⭐ 9.0 Superb
See Availability →

3. INZU Lodge – Gisenyi (Lake Kivu)

From $25/night | Lakeside Eco-Lodge | Nature-Lover’s Retreat

If you dream of waking up to lake views, INZU Lodge is your place. Set right on the water’s edge, it offers bamboo huts and glamping tents, homemade meals, and activities like kayaking, yoga, and bonfires under the stars.

• Bamboo huts and glamping tents with epic views
• Peaceful setting on Lake Kivu’s edge
• Tasty homemade meals and bonfire nights
• Yoga classes, kayaking, and hammocks

⭐ 8.7 Fabulous
Check for Availability →

4. La Locanda – Musanze (Volcanoes Region)

From $20/night | Great for Gorilla Trekkers | Cozy & Local

This charming guesthouse is a great base for mountain adventures. Rooms are simple but comfortable, meals are freshly prepared, and the location is ideal for gorilla trekking and exploring Volcanoes National Park.

• Clean and simple rooms with garden views
• Affordable, fresh home-cooked meals
• Ideal for volcano treks and nature excursions
• Walkable to town and bus stops

⭐ 8.7 Fabulous
Check for Availability →

5. KIGALI FANTASTIC APARTMENT Airport Road

From $15/night | Calm & Minimalist

A little more polished than a typical hostel, this budget stay offers stylish rooms, a café, a coworking lounge, and airport transfers. It’s a solid choice if you’re working while you travel or on a stopover in Kigali.

• Stylish, minimalist rooms and shared spaces
• Café, coworking lounge, and small library
• Airport transfers available
• Ideal for digital nomads or couples on a budget

⭐ 8.6 Fabulous
Check for Availability →

6. HomeSweetHome – Kigali

From $20/night | Peaceful Location | Warm Hospitality

If you’re staying in Kigali for more than a few days, this cozy guesthouse is a great choice. The relaxed vibe, leafy garden terrace, and friendly staff make it feel just like home.

• Comfortable rooms in a leafy neighborhood
• Restaurant and garden terrace
• Close to Kigali Heights & shopping
• Friendly staff and relaxed vibe

⭐ 9.7 Exceptional
Check for Availability →

7. Light House Hotel– Huye (Butare)

Light House Hotel– Huye (Butare)

A simple and safe option for those exploring southern Rwanda or visiting Huye’s university. Rooms are basic but clean, breakfast is included, and you’re close to local transport and attractions.

• Basic but clean rooms
• Central location in Huye town
• Breakfast included
• Near bus terminal and attractions

⭐ 7.1 Good
Check for Availability →

Tips for Backpacking Rwanda on a Budget

• Use public buses or moto-taxis — affordable, safe, and efficient
• Eat at local spots — meals under $3 are common
• Book permits early for gorilla treks
• Laundry is cheap and easy to find
• Carry some cash — cards aren’t accepted everywhere

Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Spend Less

Backpacking in Rwanda is one of Africa’s most rewarding experiences, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. These handpicked hotels offer the perfect balance of comfort, value, and location.

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