Tugende — Restaurant in Kimihurura

Pros: Very nice team Filtered water at disposal for everyone (great for sustainability) Very good and tasty breakfast (you choose a hot drink and a breakfast item from their café menu) Good and safe location

Cons: Pricey (the most expensive bed I’ve paid for in East Africa - I still don’t think the price is justified) Dirty bathroom and clogged shower (During the three days I stayed, I don’t believe the bathroom was ever cleaned, even though the bins were emptied. When I first mentioned it to the reception, nothing was done about the shower/bathtub. It took a second complaint for them to call a technician to look into it.) Dirty duvets (They don’t use duvet covers or a sheet underneath, so the duvets aren’t washed between guests. After my second night, I realized my duvet had blood stains from a previous guest. When I returned to collect my things in the afternoon, the bed had supposedly been made for a new guest, but the same stains were still there - meaning it would be at least the third person using that duvet without it being cleaned or covered. For the price we pay, I find this completely unacceptable.) On my last night, we were woken up at 5:45 AM (!!!) by an unbearable noise from a septic tank truck that was emptying the tank - and this went on for at least two hours. When I asked three different team members why guests hadn’t been warned and why they had chosen to do this so early, especially knowing it would prevent anyone from sleeping past that time, no one had an answer for me

Overall, I think the hostel still has a great vibe and the potential to connect with interesting people is definitely there. The team is pleasant allowing nice interactions and there’s harmony in the place. However, given the price charged, there are several issues the management seriously needs to address. I feel I didn’t get “what I paid for”, but would come back if some of these issues are...

I spent the better part of 3 weeks in Kigali, based out of Tugende. The options below don’t begin to get at the experience I had as a result of the community Tugende is building through bringing people together around food and bikes. I was in Rwanda for a combination of vacation and work with the nonprofit She Can Tri. Tugende hosted our team of 5 Kenyan and 3 American athletes. It was the perfect place to base our training and preparation for the Ironman 70.3 as we had accomodation, massage, food, and mechanics right on site. The staff went out of their way to support the team including cycling with us and switching up their food offerings so that the team was able to eat what they are used to at home. Tugende also supported us in arranging transport, no small feat for 9 people and 8 bikes and luggage. I am extremely grateful for what Tugende provided our athletes and continues to build for the next generation of cyclists and triathletes in Rwanda and East Africa. It’s an all in 1 stop for cycling/triathlon.

As a tourist, I also experienced great service and kindness when I asked for anything across the hotel, resturant, and mechanics staff. It was a great place to enjoy good food and drinks, connect with old and new friends, get quality bike service and affordable massage, watch the Olympics 😄, and get a good nights rest. As the team continues to build on the hotel accommodations including updates I have no doubt it will be a major go to in Kigali for accomodation in addition to food, bikes, and people. They definitely get my recommendation for a long or...

Tugende Café is an absolute gem in Kigali, and I can't recommend it highly enough! They offer a fantastic selection of healthy breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches, all made with fresh ingredients. Their chef’s salad and flatbreads are my personal favorites—delicious and filling!

The café's ambience is perfect for those looking for a quiet space to work or relax. Their reliable WIFI never fails, which is such a plus when working remotely. The atmosphere is calm and comfortable, ideal for a productive day or a leisurely meal.

What truly sets Tugende Café apart is the exceptional service. The staff is always friendly, welcoming, and attentive. Kevin, in particular, always remembers my name and order, making each visit feel personal. He has an incredible sense of when to check in and when to give space so we can focus on work.

One of the standout features of Tugende Café, which I’ve never experienced anywhere else in Rwanda, is the free drinking water they provide. Such a thoughtful and rare touch that enhances the experience!

If you're looking for a place in Kigali with great coffee, delicious food, and a wonderful working environment,...