Backpacking through Rwanda? Whether you’re chasing volcano views, planning a gorilla trek, or just looking to unwind by Lake Kivu, this beautiful East African country offers plenty of affordable and backpacker-friendly places to stay.
Below is a curated list of budget hotels in Rwanda and hostels that combine comfort, value, and great locations, ideal for solo travelers, digital nomads, and adventurous backpackers.
Top 7 Budget Hotels in Rwanda
1. Discover Rwanda Youth Hostel – Kigali
💰 From $15/night | 🍃 Eco-Friendly | Great for Solo Travelers
📍 Kacyiru, Kigali (central location)
- 🛏️ Dorm beds and private rooms
- 🌱 Community-run with sustainable values
- 🍳 Free breakfast and reliable Wi-Fi
- 🌿 Lush garden and social vibe
If you’re looking to connect with other travelers and enjoy a true backpacker atmosphere, this is your spot.
🔗 Check Prices on Booking.com →
2. Gloria Hotel – Kigali
From $35/night | Rooftop Views | Best Value Downtown
📍 City center, Kigali
- 🛌 Clean, modern private rooms with en-suite bathrooms
- 🌆 Rooftop café with sweeping views of Kigali
- ☕ Steps away from cafés, markets, and transport
- 🌐 Free Wi-Fi and quiet rooms — great for remote workers
A surprisingly quiet stay right in the heart of the city.
🔗 See Availability on Booking.com →
3. INZU Lodge – Gisenyi (Lake Kivu)
From $25/night | Lakeside Eco-Lodge | Nature-Lover’s Retreat
📍 Gisenyi, Lake Kivu
- 🛖 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
A hidden paradise for nature lovers and slow travelers.
4. La Locanda – Musanze (Volcanoes Region)
From $20/night | Great for Gorilla Trekkers | Cozy & Local
📍 Musanze, near 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
One of the best low-cost bases for exploring Rwanda’s mountains.
5. The Nest Kimi – Kigali
From $30/night | Boutique Hostel | Calm & Minimalist
📍 Kimihurura, 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
Quiet, modern, and more polished than your average hostel.
6. Home Free Hotel – Kigali
From $28/night | Peaceful Location | Warm Hospitality
📍 Nyarutarama, Kigali
- 🛌 Comfortable rooms in a leafy neighborhood
- 🍽️ Restaurant and garden terrace
- 🧳 Close to Kigali Heights & shopping
- 🙋 Friendly staff and relaxed vibe
Feels like a home away from home — ideal for longer stays.
7. Ubumwe Guesthouse – Huye (Butare)
From $18/night | Southern Rwanda Stay | Simple & Safe
📍 Huye (Butare), near National Museum
- 🛏️ Basic but clean rooms
- 📍 Central location in Huye town
- 🍳 Breakfast included
- 🚌 Near bus terminal and attractions
Great for backpackers heading to the south or visiting the university town.
🔗 Find Availability on Booking.com →
💡 Tips for Backpacking Rwanda on a Budget
- 🚌 Use public buses or moto-taxis — they’re affordable, safe, and efficient
- 🍛 Eat at local spots — meals under $3 are common in local restaurants
- 🎟️ Book permits early if planning to trek gorillas or visit parks
- 🧺 Laundry services are cheap and easy to find in most towns
- 💵 Carry some cash — especially outside Kigali, many places don’t take cards
Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Spend Less
Backpacking 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, whether you’re passing through Kigali, trekking the Volcanoes, or chilling by the lake.
🗓️ Book in advance, especially during peak travel months, popular budget spots go fast.
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting this blog and helping me keep creating helpful travel content for fellow backpackers.
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Safe travels — and enjoy your backpacking adventure across Rwanda!