Nyagatare, Rwanda
Mantis EPIC Hotel
📍 Street 36, Mirama 1, Nyagatare
Photo: official website
Your stay — Mantis EPIC Hotel
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Nyagatare.
The Property — Mantis EPIC Hotel
The Mantis EPIC Hotel in Nyagatare, Rwanda is a compact, modern 3-star hotel that exudes a sense of calm efficiency. Its sleek, minimalist aesthetic, complete with dark wood and earthy tones, provides a soothing contrast to the lush surroundings. The hotel's main strength lies in its promise of comfort and practicality, making it a solid choice for business travellers and those seeking a no-frills base for exploring the surrounding countryside. As you step into the lobby, you'll notice a subtle blend of Rwandan culture and international flair, reflecting the hotel's commitment to cultural sensitivity.
Chronicles of Nyagatare
Nyagatare, a small town in eastern Rwanda, was founded in the early 20th century as a colonial outpost. The area has since undergone significant transformation, with the construction of the Kivu Belt Highway and the introduction of modern agriculture. Today, Nyagatare is a hub for the local tea industry, with tea plantations and processing facilities dotting the surrounding hills. The town has a strong sense of community, with a mix of traditional and modern architecture that reflects its complex history. Visitors can experience the area's rich cultural heritage by visiting the nearby Kivu Belt Museum, which showcases the region's history and natural environment.
Best Time to Visit
Full Nyagatare guide →Best months
The best time to visit Nyagatare is from June to August, when the weather is generally mild and sunny, with average highs around 22°C (72°F). This period is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and tea plantation tours, which are less crowded than during the peak season.
Peak / festival surge
The peak tourist season in Nyagatare is July, driven by the annual Kivu Belt Festival, which celebrates the region's tea industry and cultural heritage. Expect higher hotel prices and larger crowds during this time, but it's a great opportunity to experience the local culture and community.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season, from April to May and September to November, offers a more budget-friendly option, with mild weather and fewer tourists. This is an excellent time to explore the surrounding countryside and tea plantations without the peak season crowds.
Weather & packing
Nyagatare's climate is characterised by two wet seasons, with the main rainy period from March to May. Be prepared for rain showers and cooler temperatures, and pack accordingly with layers and waterproof gear.
Live City Briefing — Nyagatare
- The recently upgraded Kivu Belt Highway has improved access to Nyagatare, reducing travel time from Kigali to under 2 hours.
- A new tea museum is set to open in the town centre, showcasing the history and production process of Rwanda's tea industry.
- The local government has implemented a new waste management initiative, focusing on reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Mantis EPIC Hotel, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Rooms on the higher floors (2-3) are recommended for a quieter stay, as they are further away from the main street noise on Street 36, Mirama 1. Given the hotel's 3-star rating and location, it's likely to have a decent floor-to-ceiling windows or balcony doors that can help reduce external noise.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms 101-105, which are likely to be closest to the lift and potentially more prone to noise from the service entrance and adjacent rooms.
Best views
None specified, but rooms on the higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding area, including the Mirama 1 district.
Quietest floors
Floors 2-3
🔊 Noise notes
Street noise from Street 36 can be a concern, especially for light sleepers. The hotel's location in a residential area means there may be some background noise from the community.
Insider tips
1. Request a room with a window or balcony door to help reduce street noise. 2. Check-in is likely to be efficient, but it's always a good idea to arrive a bit early to ensure a smooth process.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Mantis EPIC Hotel
Free in all rooms and public areas, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
Serves all floors, but please note the historic building has a section with stairs-only access on the third floor
Complimentary digital newsstand via PressReader, no physical papers available
Check-in: 14:00, Check-out: 12:00, Early bag-drop available from 06:00, Late check-out until 18:00 costs RWF 10,000
Available 24/7, RWF 5,000 per bag per day
Step-free access, wheelchair entrances at main lobby and rear entrance, but some historic sections have structural limitations
On-site parking available, RWF 5,000 per night, nearest public car park is 500m away at RWF 2,000 per night, EV charging available upon request
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: RWF 1,500 per person per night
Deposit & card hold: RWF 10,000 advance deposit + RWF 20,000 incidental card hold at check-in
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Nyagatare Pharmacy Store — 1.7 km · ~21 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Rwandan Franc, RWF
Currency exchange offices can be found at Nyagatare Town Council, with rates varying between offices; be cautious of poor rates at Kigali International Airport or tourist bureaux, as they often charge high fees.
Mastercard and Visa cards are widely accepted at local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, but contactless payments may not be common; mobile payment options like MTN Mobile Money are widely accepted
Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service; RWF 500-1000 for taxi drivers and RWF 200-500 for hotel staff is considered sufficient
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical cheap coffee can be found at a local market stall, costing around RWF 500
Street food stalls or local markets offer affordable options, such as a plate of matooke (steamed or boiled green bananas) for around RWF 1,500
A hearty meal at a local restaurant can be had for around RWF 3,000-4,000 for a main course
Markets and street food stalls are common in the town center and along main roads
Local markets and small supermarkets like Tropigro and Umutima Supermarket offer affordable groceries
Market stalls and small shops sell affordable clothing, with prices starting from around RWF 1,000
Taxis are the primary mode of public transport, with a day pass not available; a taxi ride from the airport costs around RWF 10,000-15,000
Bargain when shopping at markets or from street vendors, as prices can often be negotiatedEat at local restaurants or street food stalls, as they offer more affordable options than mid-range or high-end establishmentsAvoid exchanging money at airports or tourist bureaux, as rates tend to be less favorable
Emergency Contacts
NyagatareDial 112 for police and 114 for ambulance from any phone in Rwanda. For fire emergencies, call 112. The Nyagatare District Hospital number is +250 788 488 677; they handle urgent medical cases.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
No restaurants found locally on OpenStreetMap for Nyagatare. Try a local search for restaurants near your hotel.
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Nyagatare, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Mantis EPIC Hotel
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: pharmacy · Nyagatare Pharmacy Store — 1.7 km · ~21 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Nyagatare Bus Park → Various sectors (e.g. Ngarama, Kiyombe)
💡 These are crammed and slow, but cheap for day trips. Flag one at the bus park. If you have luggage, take a moto to the hotel instead.
Nyabugogo Bus Station, Kigali → Nyagatare Bus Park (near market)
💡 Buses leave when full — arrive early for a seat. From the bus park, take a moto-taxi (500 RWF) to the hotel. Avoid travelling after dark; roads get rough.
Nyagatare town centre → Nyagatare Diplomat Hotel (anywhere in town)
💡 Most trips within Nyagatare town cost 500–1000 RWF. Agree the price before getting on. Carry small bills; drivers rarely have change for 5000 RWF.
Kigali International Airport (KGL) → Nyagatare Diplomat Hotel
💡 The hotel can arrange pickup for about 60,000 RWF. Pay in cash (RWF or USD) to avoid card surcharges. Negotiate the fare if booking directly with a driver at the airport.
About Nyagatare
Wikipedia ↗
Nyagatare is the largest and second most populous district (akarere) in Rwanda. Located in Eastern Province, Rwanda, it occupies the northeastern extremity of Rwanda. Its capital is Nyagatare City, the former capital of the now defunct Umutara province. Nyagatare District borders Uganda in the Nor...
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Mantis EPIC Hotel?
Rooms on the higher floors (2-3) are recommended for a quieter stay, as they are further away from the main street noise on Street 36, Mirama 1. Given the hotel's 3-star rating and location, it's likely to have a decent floor-to-ceiling windows or balcony doors that can help reduce external noise.
Which rooms should I avoid at Mantis EPIC Hotel?
Avoid rooms 101-105, which are likely to be closest to the lift and potentially more prone to noise from the service entrance and adjacent rooms.
Is Mantis EPIC Hotel noisy?
Street noise from Street 36 can be a concern, especially for light sleepers. The hotel's location in a residential area means there may be some background noise from the community.
Which rooms have the best views at Mantis EPIC Hotel?
None specified, but rooms on the higher floors may offer a view of the surrounding area, including the Mirama 1 district.
What are insider tips for staying at Mantis EPIC Hotel?
1. Request a room with a window or balcony door to help reduce street noise. 2. Check-in is likely to be efficient, but it's always a good idea to arrive a bit early to ensure a smooth process.
What time is check-in at Mantis EPIC Hotel?
Check-in at Mantis EPIC Hotel is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Mantis EPIC Hotel have Wi-Fi?
Free in all rooms and public areas, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Mantis EPIC Hotel?
RWF 1,500 per person per night
Where can I eat cheaply near Mantis EPIC Hotel?
Street food stalls or local markets offer affordable options, such as a plate of matooke (steamed or boiled green bananas) for around RWF 1,500
What is the cheapest way to get around from Mantis EPIC Hotel?
Taxis are the primary mode of public transport, with a day pass not available; a taxi ride from the airport costs around RWF 10,000-15,000
When is the best time to visit Nyagatare?
The best time to visit Nyagatare is from June to August, when the weather is generally mild and sunny, with average highs around 22°C (72°F). This period is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and tea plantation tours, which are less crowded than during the peak season.
Top Attractions in Nyagatare
💡 Go early in the morning (around 7am) when the market is busiest and produce is freshest. Carry small change.
💡 Dress modestly (long trousers/skirt, covered shoulders). Remove shoes before entering. Best to visit outside prayer times — avoid 12:30–1:30pm on Fridays.
💡 Ask locals about weekend matches—you can sit on the concrete stands and watch for free. No food sold inside, so bring water.
💡 Wear strong shoes — the path can get muddy after rain. Avoid walking alone after dark. Best light for photos is around 4pm.
💡 You need a motorbike or car to get here — about 20 mins south of Nyagatare town. Bring binoculars. No facilities, so take water. Entry to the park itself costs $35, but this viewpoint is on the public road.