The Capanne (Huts) Project, Sextantio Rwanda, Nkombo Island
Thatched island outpost
Thatched island outpost
Traditional thatched huts sit along Lake Kivu, where guests arrive by wooden boat for secluded island living and lakeside drum performances.
Where it shines
Remarkable
Handwoven bamboo domes and traditional thatched roofs combine historical craft techniques with subtle modern comforts.
Remarkable
Traditional domed huts modeled on royal dwellings, paired with Lake Kivu night fishing and island-grown feasts.
Notable
Exclusive island buyout for a single party, complete with private boat transfers and bespoke lakeside dining.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
Guests can live the rustic life (albeit with Wi-Fi and other modern amenities), eating Lake Kivu isambaza fish around an evening campfire…
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Trails crisscross the car-free island past rural villages and schools, while local fishermen head out onto Lake Kivu each evening.
The rooms
Two domed bamboo huts combine traditional woven straw mats with discreet modern comforts, including en-suite hot-water showers and bidets.
Dogs stay too.
Restaurant
Communal Dining Pavilion
Meals center around a long wooden table under exposed timber rafters, serving island dishes like Sombe and Bugali.
How it began
Daniele Kihlgren modeled the thatched domes on historical royal dwellings, creating a non-profit outpost that funds healthcare for the local island community.
Good to know
Stay here
The Capanne (Huts) Project, Sextantio Rwanda, Nkombo Island
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.