The Capanne (Huts) Project, Sextantio Rwanda, Nkombo Island
Nkombo Island, Rwanda
Vibe
Traditional thatched huts sit along Lake Kivu, where guests arrive by wooden boat for secluded island living and lakeside drum performances.
“Thatched island outpost”
Handwoven bamboo domes and traditional thatched roofs combine historical craft techniques with subtle modern comforts.
Traditional domed huts modeled on royal dwellings, paired with Lake Kivu night fishing and island-grown feasts.
Exclusive island buyout for a single party, complete with private boat transfers and bespoke lakeside dining.
On Nkombo Island in Lake Kivu, reached by boat from the mainland with shoreside huts and gardens.
“Guests can live the rustic life (albeit with Wi-Fi and other modern amenities), eating Lake Kivu isambaza fish around an evening campfire…”
Rooms
Two domed bamboo huts combine traditional woven straw mats with discreet modern comforts, including en-suite hot-water showers and bidets.
Backstory
Daniele Kihlgren modeled the thatched domes on historical royal dwellings, creating a non-profit outpost that funds healthcare for the local island community.
Eat & drink
Meals of fresh Lake Kivu isambaza fish, sombe, and bugali are served at a communal pavilion or around the evening beach bonfire.
The neighborhood
Trails crisscross the car-free island past rural villages and schools, while local fishermen head out onto Lake Kivu each evening.
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.