Pure Bliss: The Allure of UMVA Muhazi

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Muhazi, UMVA Muhazi is a hidden gem that blends serenity, adventure, and thoughtful design into an unforgettable lakeside experience. My tour of the facility began in the meeting room, a versatile space where guests can work, brainstorm, or simply enjoy the calm energy of the surroundings. It’s also set to host a Turning Pages book club session soon, adding a touch of literary magic to the lakeside retreat.

From the meeting room, I wandered to the swimming pool, perched on a wooden deck overlooking the whole property and the lake. Small, round, and bubbling like a jacuzzi, the pool offers a sense of intimacy while the panoramic views remind you that the beauty of Muhazi is never far from sight.

There are three categories of accommodation units. The birdhouses highlight tiny-home living, maximizing space and minimizing environmental impact. The pods frame the lake as a living backdrop through floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and showers with a view, blending modern comfort with natural serenity. And the bungalows, the most spacious units, feature a bedroom and living room that can host an extra king-size bed—ideal for families or friends traveling together. 

^{Small, round, and bubbling like a jacuzzi, the pool offers a sense of intimacy while the panoramic views remind you that the beauty of Muhazi is never far from sight.}

Dining at UMVA Muhazi is a celebration of flavor and community. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast of omelettes, home-baked pastries, and fresh fruits. Lunch features Rwandan-inspired dishes, while the lounge offers a well-curated selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

The Community Dinner features multiple courses from locally grown ingredients, some cultivated on-site in collaboration with Pride Farms. Meals here are more than sustenance—they’re opportunities to connect, share stories, and make lasting memories.

Adding a playful twist, the hotel’s honor-system bar lets guests pick their own drinks and record them on the beverage leaderboard, encouraging responsible enjoyment in a relaxed, trusting environment.

^{The birdhouse is designed to highlight tiny-home living, maximizing space and minimizing environmental impact.}

Exploring the hotel is an experience in itself. The walkways wind through lush vegetation, a haven for birding enthusiasts, while kayaks and paddleboards along the shore hint at the adventures that await on the lake. A wooden deck stretches over the water, equipped with chairs, tables, and lounge chairs—perfect for reflection, relaxation, and taking in the vistas. 

For those seeking more active pursuits, UMVA Muhazi offers tennis, mountain bike rides, and yoga sessions, allowing each guest to shape their stay according to their own rhythm—whether it’s adventure, relaxation, or both.

UMVA Muhazi is more than a lakeside retreat—it’s a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythm of life. Every moment, from the pool to the deck, the birdhouses to the bungalows, feels meticulously crafted to create memories that linger long after the visit ends.

^{UMVA Muhazi is more than a lakeside retreat—it’s a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythm of life.}

Located in Rwamagana District, approximately one and a half hours from Kigali, UMVA Muhazi is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet retreat without embarking on a long journey. In addition, the hotel's proximity to Akagera National Park makes it a convenient base for guests looking to combine relaxation at Lake Muhazi with a safari experience.