Rise of Eco‑Tourism and Sustainable Lodges in Musanze

MUSANZE, Rwanda — Nestled at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park, the district of Musanze is experiencing a notable shift towards sustainable tourism. Several eco-friendly lodges are embracing environmentally responsible practices, attracting travelers seeking luxury that aligns with conservation efforts.

Key stakeholders, including lodge owners and officials from the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) tourism unit, shared insights on how Musanze is emerging as a hub for green hospitality.

At Volcano View Lodge, Claire Ntigurirwa outlined her conversion of an old guesthouse into an eco-conscious retreat. “We reduced our reliance on grid electricity by installing solar panels, built cottages with local timber and stone, and planted 2,000 indigenous trees last year,” she explained. “Guests actively participate in tree-planting activities, and 10% of our profits support local education initiatives.” She emphasized that this community-centered model ensures tangible benefits for residents through eco-tourism.

Virunga Harmony Lodge

Meanwhile, at Virunga Harmony Lodge, Manager Etienne Kayitare described their sustainability initiatives. “We source 80% of our food from local farms, treat wastewater on-site, ban single-use plastics, and limit guest numbers to minimize environmental impact,” he said. “Our focus is providing authentic luxury with strong environmental integrity.” Kayitare believes that blending comfort with sustainability sets Rwanda apart as a responsible travel destination.

These efforts align with national policy. The Rwanda Development Board’s strategy emphasizes high-value, low-volume tourism, with eco-lodges playing a pivotal role in aiming for over US$1 billion in revenue annually by 2029. REMA also underscores the importance of environmental standards for tourism development in fragile ecosystems like Musanze. “Our goal is to conserve biodiversity while supporting local communities,” said REMA program officer Jean de la Croix Nyandwi. “The eco-lodges here serve as exemplary models for sustainable development.”

Inside volcano view lodge

Lodge owners highlighted the growing importance of eco-certification. “Green certification is now essential,” said Ntigurirwa. “Travelers research sustainability, are willing to pay more, stay longer, and promote eco-friendly experiences.” Kayitare added, “When guests see that their stay supports tree-planting, women’s cooperatives, and wildlife conservation, they become advocates for our cause.”

Despite these positive developments, challenges remain. Both managers pointed to rising costs associated with green infrastructure and the ongoing need for staff training in eco-practices. Additionally, infrastructure improvements, such as better roads, WiFi, and regional flights, are necessary for Musanze to fully realize its eco-tourism potential.

Inside volcano view lodge

Nevertheless, the region’s natural beauty, thoughtfully designed eco-lodges, and robust regulatory framework are positioning Musanze as a destination for environmentally conscious travelers. RDB notes that “nature-based tourism offers significant opportunities for job creation and biodiversity conservation.”

For visitors, staying at establishments like Volcano View or Virunga Harmony is more than a leisure activity—it’s a deliberate choice to make a positive environmental impact. “Guests leave feeling refreshed and proud to have contributed to forest protection,” Kayitare concluded. In the heart of Rwanda’s volcanic landscape, eco-tourism is no longer a niche market but a driving force for sustainable development.

By Libos Ndayishimiye