Lake View Guesthouse - Gishwati Forest Reserve

Lake View Guesthouse is a guesthouse near Gishwati Forest Reserve.

Location
Gishwati Forest Reserve, Western Rwanda Albertine Rift Forests, Rwanda, East Africa
Coordinates
-1.696610, 29.256750
Activities
guesthouse

PlnrScore: 20/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

183 species observed within 20 km, 9 mammals, 73 birds.

  • Straw-coloured Fruit Bat (Mammalia, 30 observations)
  • Black Kite (Aves, 12 observations)
  • Gray Crowned-Crane (Aves, 11 observations)
  • African Pied Wagtail (Aves, 9 observations)
  • Red-chested Sunbird (Aves, 9 observations)
  • Pied Kingfisher (Aves, 8 observations)
  • Great Cormorant (Aves, 8 observations)
  • White-browed Robin-Chat (Aves, 8 observations)
  • Speckle-lipped Mabuya (Reptilia, 7 observations)
  • Hadada Ibis (Aves, 6 observations)

Best Time to Visit Lake View Guesthouse

The best months to visit Lake View Guesthouse are May, June, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 14.02°C, rainfall 157.9mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 79.4%
  • February: Poor, temperature 14.36°C, rainfall 151.7mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 79.2%
  • March: Poor, temperature 14.45°C, rainfall 193.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 80.8%
  • April: Poor, temperature 14.27°C, rainfall 174.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 85.1%
  • May: Good, temperature 14.35°C, rainfall 105.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 81.9%
  • June: Good, temperature 13.77°C, rainfall 35mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 73.2%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.74°C, rainfall 28.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 67.9%
  • August: Good, temperature 14.45°C, rainfall 51.4mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 67.8%
  • September: Good, temperature 14.31°C, rainfall 143.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 75.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 14.5°C, rainfall 133.1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 76.5%
  • November: Poor, temperature 13.95°C, rainfall 188.1mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 82%
  • December: Poor, temperature 13.93°C, rainfall 168.5mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 81.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get to Lake View Guesthouse from Kigali, and what should we expect on the journey?

We recommend hiring a private driver for the scenic drive from Kigali to Lake View Guesthouse. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, winding through rolling hills and past local villages. Expect the roads to be paved for most of the way, but the final approach to the guesthouse might be a bit rougher, adding to the sense of adventure.

Beyond Gishwati Forest, what other activities can we enjoy from Lake View Guesthouse?

While Gishwati Forest is the star attraction, we love that Lake View Guesthouse offers more. You can arrange visits to nearby tea plantations for a fascinating look at local agriculture, or simply relax by the lake and soak in the tranquility. We also found the local community interactions to be incredibly rewarding.

What kind of wildlife can we realistically hope to see in Gishwati Forest Reserve when staying at Lake View Guesthouse?

We've seen golden monkeys and various primate species on our visits to Gishwati, and the birdlife is exceptional. While larger mammals are rare, the focus here is on the unique primate populations and the lush, regenerating forest ecosystem. It's a truly special place for nature lovers seeking a more intimate wildlife experience.

Considering Lake View Guesthouse's location, what are the best times of year for a visit, and what should we pack?

We find the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Gishwati. Pack layers as the forest can be cool and damp, waterproof gear just in case, and sturdy walking shoes. Don't forget insect repellent and sunscreen; the equatorial sun is strong.

What is the general atmosphere and accommodation style like at Lake View Guesthouse, and what is the approximate cost per night?

The guesthouse feels wonderfully serene and unpretentious, offering comfortable rooms with stunning lake views. It's not a five-star luxury resort, but the warmth of the hospitality and the connection to nature are unparalleled. Expect costs to be in the mid-range for Rwanda, around $150-200 per night, which we feel is excellent value for the experience.

Other Safari Lodges in Gishwati Forest Reserve

Parks in Western Rwanda Albertine Rift Forests

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Rwanda

Travel advisory for Rwanda