The Pinnacle Kigali opens exclusive luxury retreat in Rwanda

At a Glance

• Pinnacle Kigali opens ultra-luxury hotel with nine bespoke rooms and curated Pan-African art. 
• Kevin Mbugua and Bernard Hartzenberg lead tailored experiences and diverse global dining concepts. 
• Guests enjoy rooftop views, spa, private cinema, and exclusive Rwanda cultural excursions.

The Pinnacle Kigali, Rwanda’s newest ultra-luxury hotel and private Members Club, officially opened in January 2026. Located on Rebero Hills near Kigali International Airport, the property offers a serene escape from the city, blending Kigali’s urban energy with the country’s natural beauty. 

The launch introduced two key figures: Kevin Githinji Mbugua as general manager and Bernard Garth Hartzenberg as executive culinary director. Both bring decades of international experience to the hotel, which aims to provide exceptional experiences for discerning global travelers.

Bespoke stays and personal service 

The Pinnacle Kigali has just nine uniquely designed rooms, ensuring privacy and personalized attention. Each space features bespoke furnishings and curated Pan-African art, combining comfort with world-class amenities. Its intimate scale allows guests to engage fully with Rwanda’s culture, cuisine, and artistry. 

Kevin Githinji Mbugua, with more than 15 years of leadership experience across East Africa and the Middle East, emphasizes tailored experiences for both local and international VIP visitors.

Bernard Hartzenberg, a chef with experience in Cape Town, the Maldives, Cambodia, Bhutan, and Tanzania, leads four distinctive dining concepts: Afro-Asian fusion, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, refined teppanyaki, and rooftop dining with panoramic views of Kigali.

Exploring Kigali from a luxury Base 

The hotel offers curated two-night stays that combine rest with exploration. Guests can visit cultural landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt House Museum, and Campaign Against Genocide Museum.

Art lovers can explore the Kigali Cultural Village or Niyo Arts Center, while shoppers can visit Kimironko Market or contemporary Rwandan design stores. For a more relaxed pace, guests can enjoy guided walks in Nyamirambo or sunrise and sunset excursions to Rebero and Mount Kigali viewpoints. 

World-Class amenities and exclusive services 

The Pinnacle Kigali features a saltwater infinity pool, rooftop bar, spa, fitness center, private 21-seat cinema, and four-lane bowling alley. A library and games lounge provide quieter spaces. 

Bespoke services include VIP airport meet-and-greet, private transfers, dedicated butlers, and a Departure Amenity package for travelers heading to Rwanda’s gorilla trekking sites. Each stay comes with personalized amenities worth up to $1,800, including laundry and post-trek shoe care. 

Redefining luxury in Kigali 

By combining intimate scale, high-end facilities, and deep engagement with local culture, The Pinnacle Kigali offers travelers more than a stay—it offers a meaningful experience of Rwanda’s capital. Under the leadership of Kevin Githinji Mbugua and Bernard Hartzenberg, the hotel is set to become a cornerstone of Kigali’s luxury hospitality scene.