Kosupa Travel

The Hôtel des Milles Collines, which gained worldwide fame through the film “Hotel Rwanda,” is a historic site where protagonist Paul Rusesabagina sheltered numerous Tutsi people during the Rwandan genocide. This hotel is an essential landmark for understanding Rwanda’s history.

During my visit to Rwanda, I had the opportunity to stay at the Hôtel des Milles Collines. I’d like to share my experience of this historic place, including its atmosphere and facilities.

What is Hôtel des Milles Collines?

Hôtel des Milles Collines (meaning “Hotel of a Thousand Hills” in French) is a luxury hotel situated in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city known for its thousand hills. Opening in 1973 as Rwanda’s premier four-star hotel, it was equipped with modern facilities that were exceptional for its time and has hosted many prominent figures in Rwanda’s political and economic sphere.

During the historic Rwandan genocide in 1994, many people sought refuge at the Hôtel des Milles Collines to escape the militia’s killings. Paul Rusesabagina, the hotel manager at the time, risked his life to protect approximately 1,200 refugees. His courageous actions were later portrayed in the film “Hotel Rwanda,” bringing this story to global attention.

Note: Hotel des Milles Collines was not the actual filming location

The movie “Hotel Rwanda” was not filmed at the actual Hôtel des Milles Collines in Rwanda, but rather in Johannesburg, South Africa. This was due to two factors: the unstable post-conflict situation in Rwanda in 2004 when the film was being made, and the Rwandan government’s decision not to permit filming at the hotel. While the hotel temporarily ceased operations after the conflict, it has since reopened and continues to operate as Rwanda underwent its remarkable recovery and development, often referred to as the “African Miracle.”

What is the Hotel Like Today?

The Hôtel des Milles Collines continues to operate as a luxury hotel after extensive post-genocide renovations. The beautifully renovated hotel, along with the city of Kigali itself, has undergone remarkable development, bearing no resemblance to the devastated scenes depicted in the film.

The hotel offers various room types, from standard rooms to suites, all spacious and featuring a serene atmosphere. The facilities include restaurants, bars, a swimming pool, spa, and gym. The hotel also houses exhibition spaces featuring contemporary art and documentation related to the genocide.

While Rwanda is known for its relatively good hygiene standards and safety compared to neighboring countries, choosing accommodation in an unfamiliar place can still be concerning. In this regard, the Hôtel des Milles Collines, which has maintained its position as one of Rwanda’s leading four-star hotels for many years, promises a truly relaxing and quality stay at surprisingly reasonable rates.

Restaurant Open to Non-Hotel Guests

The hotel’s restaurant, which serves international cuisine, is open to visitors who are not staying at the hotel. The lunch buffet offers particularly good value, allowing anyone to experience the Hotel Rwanda atmosphere even if they’re not able to stay overnight.

Enjoying refined cuisine while overlooking the pool provides such an exceptional experience that you might momentarily forget you’re in the heart of Africa.

Don’t Miss the Kigali Genocide Memorial During Your Stay

When visiting Kigali, make sure to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center in addition to the Hôtel des Milles Collines. This facility includes a museum where you can learn in depth about the circumstances and devastation of the genocide, and also serves as a mass grave site where you can pay respects to those who lost their lives in the conflict.

The memorial is about a 10-minute taxi ride from the hotel. While Rwanda has made a remarkable recovery, it’s important to acknowledge its past tragedies. Including both the vibrant atmosphere of the Hôtel des Milles Collines and this sobering historical site in your visit will provide a more comprehensive understanding of Rwanda.

Conclusion

The Hôtel des Milles Collines is not only the setting of the film “Hotel Rwanda” but also a crucial site in Rwanda’s history. By staying at the hotel and visiting the Genocide Memorial, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the genocide tragedy while witnessing Rwanda’s remarkable recovery.

If you’re planning a visit to Rwanda, consider staying at the Hôtel des Milles Collines for a meaningful and comfortable experience.