5 Swiss Hotel

I found this place through social media, and it deserves more attention. It’s budget friendly and has a lovely restaurant and garden, with prices that were very reasonable as of December 25. The rooms could use some modernizing, but I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet, familiar-feeling spot near downtown. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of a chaotic city center, just a few minutes’ walk from downtown.

The location is right in the center, and Kigali felt very safe to walk around, even alone as a woman, by day or night. At the % Swiss Hotel, the rooms were extremely clean, the staff were fantastic and accommodating, and the restaurant food and breakfast were very good. The food comes directly from the farm. We had a great stay and will certainly consider the 5 Swiss Hotel again.

I didn’t stay at the hotel, just came for dinner. The Filet Mignon was the menu highlight, a pleasant surprise. The meat quality was comparable to what I’m used to in the US, though it was prepared differently, a good Rwandan version, I figured. Well done, and the service was super nice.

My husband and I first visited Rwanda in February 2023, and 5 Swiss Hotel was our second accommodation in Kigali. I’d happily choose it again on a future visit. The room was immaculate, and the downstairs bar and breakfast space had a lovely look. The outdoor area had a nice earthy feel, and we enjoyed the included breakfast. Staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, making sure we had what we needed.