Reviews of Kigali Serena Hotel

"Fine hotel to stay in for a flight stop over, however when we arrived a large group from US Aid had refused to check out and at 5pm they were still waiting for the delegates to return. Given that we had been up since 4am, trekked for 5 hours and then driven 3 hours to get to Kigali we were not impressed.

The hotel did not seem to know how to handle the large delegation nor how to communicate with us as to what the actual problem was. We finally got to our room about 2 hours after we arrived, which was well past their advertised check in time." See all these reviews: 7n in Tanzania; 6n in Zambia; 5n in Botswana; 3n in Rwanda; 1n in South Africa

"This is a modern large hotel in Kigali - in fact it was the first major international hotel there.

It is well equipped has a large attractive looking swimming pool, although we did not get to try it.

We only used it for an overnight stay.

Expert Africa organised a private guide and 4WD for these travellers in Rwanda. They commented:

Patrick was an excellent guide and driver. We were in Rwanda for ten days and he took charge from our arrival in Kigali from the airport until he delivered us back to the airport for our departure.

He speaks excellent English and is very knowledgeable about Rwanda and about the places we visited. His driving of the 4x4 Toyota was skilled and competent so we always felt comfortable being driven by him. Our trip went absolutely to plan and to schedule thanks to his reliable and capable management - he delivered us for various trekking activities (chimpanzees, mountain gorillas and golden monkeys) and was waiting for us on our return.

He delivered everything that could be expected and is a very pleasant and interesting man as well." See all these reviews: 19n in Namibia; 10n in Rwanda; 1n in Kenya; 1n in South Africa

"A very good quality hotel. We only stayed overnight but the staff were all very friendly and helpful.

The room was very comfortable and well equipped. The food at breakfast was of a high standard.

Our only concern was that they were unable to convert 20 dollar bills into low value ones suitable for tipping." See all these reviews: 5n in Rwanda

"Already cover in a previous feedback session. [Ed: see below]" See all these reviews: 5n in Tanzania; 4n in Rwanda

"A well run hotel that lives up to it's 4 stars rating. Hotel staffs are nice and friendly.

They did the extra for us with warm coffee and packed breadfast ready to go when we need to leave at 5am in the morning for a flight." See all these reviews: 5n in Tanzania; 4n in Rwanda

"The Kigali Serena is a "western" style hotel with all the trappings of a high-end, quality hotel. If what you are looking for is an overt sense of safety, convenience and secession from the surrounding hustle and bustle of Kigali, the Serena is a good choice. Don't expect to get a feel for Kigali, the people of Rwanda or the local culture staying at this hotel. It could be anywhere.

The service was good, but for a hotel of this style and price, it was not great. Food was varied and delicious.

Our visit to the Genocide Memorial in Kigali was riveting as it was tragic. A must see for anyone interested in learning about this horrific chapter in the country's history and how it has managed to chart a path of healing and forgiveness.

Expert Africa arranged a guide in Rwanda for these travellers; they commented:

Ismail was an amazing person. Fantastic!

We do not have enough positive, amazing things to say about Ismail, our guide. Given his relatively young age, we were a bit concerned whether he would have the depth of experience and knowledge we were hoping for. Those were stupid concerns on our end. Ismail is a remarkable man with great knowledge and understanding of the checkered history, culture, economic situation, politics and geography of Rwanda. He is incredibly service oriented without being obsequious. His English is impeccable.

After a few days he also began to share some of his own personal experiences during the genocide and beyond. He never imposed his vies or stories on us, only responded to our questions and genuine interest.

We could not imagine a better guide on a trip to Rwanda. Our experience was amplified manyfold by his service." See all these reviews: 5n in Rwanda; 4n in Kenya

"Room booked for three but no additional bed, which we didn't need after a late arrival.

Room service incredibly slow - lack of menus etc.." See all these reviews: 6n in Tanzania; 3n in Rwanda; 1n in Kenya

"Our first room had a sporadically malfunctioning air conditioner. the service engineer came promptly within 10 minutes. Comparing it to the quiet units in Serena Kivu we thought it was still very noisy.

They moved us to another room without fuss. this made us late for dinner so we were the only diners whilst they were laying tables for breakfast. In the morning a toothpick on the floor of the bedroom (not ours) went into my toe. Only due to the risk of Aids I reported this and the hotel staff (especially Dinah) were very attentive. They could not be faulted in their prompt attention and support. We were very impressed." See all these reviews: 8n in Rwanda

"An acceptable if impersonal 5 star hotel for an overnight stop in the city." See all these reviews: 1n in Rwanda

"No comment made." See all these reviews: 5n in Tanzania; 4n in Rwanda; 4n in Zanzibar