Inyanja Resort: A Peaceful Sanctuary Nestled on the Gasabo Side of Lake Muhazi
My itinerary was flexible, leaving room for spontaneous detours and off-the-script stopovers. From the Gasabo side of Lake Muhazi, I rode along the gentle curves of the shoreline toward the Rwamagana side. Hugging the lake intimately, the scenic trail I followed offered a front-row seat to the shimmering water body, sandwiched between stunning green hills.
At some point during the exhilarating ride, I checked Google Maps and spotted a new resort called Inyanja, barely a kilometer away. I had already passed Kingfisher Resort and assumed the next stop along the trail would be Good Mood Resort. As usual, my nosy self decided to check out the hidden gem tucked away between the two establishments—and that’s how I found myself at the gates of Inyanja Resort.
And then came another stroke of luck: the investor behind Inyanja Resort happened to be around. No appointment, no problem. I sat down with him on the deck overlooking the lake. Our conversation gave me insight into the deeper vision behind this place. He spoke passionately about contributing to the transformation of the Muhazi Belt into a thriving tourism corridor.
As usual, my nosy self decided to check out the hidden gem tucked away between the two establishments—and that’s how I found myself at the gates of Inyanja Resort.
Although I wasn't scheduled to spend the night at Inyanja Resort, I had a quick tour of the facility before resuming my ride. Each room comes with a private jacuzzi and a balcony overlooking the lake—an ideal setting for slowing down and soaking in nature. Inside, you’ll find king-sized beds, stylish ensuite bathrooms, and interiors that strike a balance between modern comfort and nature-inspired elegance.
Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend getaway or simply a change of pace, Inyanja provides a setting where modern comfort and nature coexist. Here, luxurious amenities do not disrupt the gentle rhythm of the lakeside environment. Wide windows invite in the breeze and birdsong, while natural textures and earthy tones create a seamless flow between the indoors and the outdoors. It's a place where you can unwind in a hot tub, then step out onto a veranda that opens to rustling trees and tranquil waters.
But the magic doesn’t end with the rooms. Inyanja offers a wide range of activities. Guests can enjoy boating on Lake Muhazi, guided hikes through nearby trails, cycling expeditions, birdwatching, camping, or heritage tours that offer a window into the cultural richness of the area.
Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend getaway or simply a change of pace, Inyanja provides a setting where modern comfort and nature coexist.
Getting there is part of the adventure. From Kigali, the most direct route is through Ndera and Gikomero. This one-hour drive keeps you entirely within Gasabo District. Though unpaved, the road is currently being upgraded with a smoother murram surface. Alternatively, you can take the Kigali–Gatuna highway, veering off at Cyamutara village. From Cyamutara, drive to the resort's dock on the Rwesero side of the lake. Finally, a short but invigorating boat ride across the lake becomes your first taste of the tranquility that defines Inyanja.
When I left Inyanja, it struck me that this unplanned stop had turned into something unexpectedly meaningful. What began as a casual detour became a moment of reflection—a window into a vision for Muhazi that weaves together conservation, thoughtful intent, and a gentle kind of leisure.
In hindsight, this stopover provided an opportunity to pick the brain of a local investor who’s putting his money where his mouth is. Inyanja isn’t just a retreat—it’s a reflection of a vision that brings local stakeholders to the forefront of Rwanda’s evolving tourism landscape.
What began as a casual detour became a moment of reflection—a window into a vision for Muhazi that weaves together conservation, thoughtful intent, and a gentle kind of leisure.