Review: Hotel Nediva Bukavu, Democratic Republic of The Congo
Intro
During my 3 days in the Democratic Republic of The Congo, I had the opportunity to stay at one of the most beautiful hotels I have ever stayed at in my life. Having stayed at the likes of the Four Seasons and Amans around the world, it is strange to think that a hotel in the DRC could rival those, but it does.
Hotel Nediva is simply unbelievable. The part that stood out to me was the views the hotel offers. Lake Como? No. Watching the sunset overlooking Lake Kivu was one of the greatest moments of my life. The food is great, the service is great, and the trampoline is a joy.
Price+Location+Safety
Crossing the Ruzizi border from Rwanda to the DRC, it was approximately a 5-minute drive before we arrived at Hotel Nediva. The 140$ per night hotel is located right along the waterline of Lake Kivu, while additionally being to the East of the main downtown area of Bukavu.
The nightly rates can be paid with Visa, Mastercard, or cash. USD is widely accepted in the DRC, but Euros and Francs work as well.
Now, the biggest question I get asked when it comes to staying at a hotel in the DRC is: how safe is it? Hotel Nediva offers a secure door to the entrance of the property, as well as a barbed wire fence surrounding the other wall. Security patrols the area inside and out during the day and night, allowing guests to make sure they feel safe during their stay.
Rooms
Originally, when I was checking in, I was informed that all of the rooms overlooking the lake had been sold out and I wouldn't have a view. After a little bit of back and forth and some negotiation, a room somehow opened up for me on the top floor overlooking the beautiful Lake Kivu.
Just be aware that some rooms have lake views, and others don't. Make sure to get a lake view when booking.
The rooms are basic, but then again, it is a border town in the DRC. However, considering the basicness, I felt that the rooms were well appointed, with a great color scheme for bedding, a TV that featured Netflix (I watched home alone one evening, ha), and a desk to do some work.
However, the most important part when it comes to visiting less-modernized countries is that you have hot water. While small, the bathroom featured countless amenities, from a shaving kit, toothbrush, hair comb, shampoo/conditioner, and a lovely shower.
But the best part is the view from the balcony. All rooms that have lake views feature a lovely balcony overlooking the lake and the sunset (yes, the sunset sets in this direction).
And then, for the sunset, it was simply one of the most incredible moments of my life. I compare this view to something along the lines of Lake Como. Don't get me wrong, Lake Como is extremely beautiful, but I could barely see another soul in sight here (also price).
Food
My gosh, Hotel Nediva in Bukavu offers one of the most beautifully decorated restaurants I have been to in the African continent. Honestly. you might think that this was in London or something.
I digress; the food offerings are extensive, and you are open to ordering off of a menu featuring a variety of Western options and a few local options (steak is 10$). Additionally, breakfast is included in the hotel cost.
Due to my nut allergy at the time and not having Epipens, I decided to stick with steak for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It was also extremely delicious, so that might be another reason 😂.
If you happen to be a small-time degenerate like myself who enjoys one too many beers occasionally, the hotel sells the local beer, Primus, for 3$ a large bottle. Imported alcohol is available at a much higher price.
Amenities
When looking at luxury hotels in most places, we tend to lean towards the likes of pools, gyms, and saunas when it comes to amenities. While this bed and breakfast offers none of that, they do offer an amazing trampoline overlooking the ocean.
Humbled from the past two weeks traveling Africa, I didn't need any spas or saunas; jumping around on a trampoline was all the joy I needed.
Staying connected is vitally important wherever you are. Even if Verizon does offer a travel pass to the DRC, the hotel offers fast wifi (which is rare) free of charge to customers.
I also believe that they can arrange activities at the front desk if needed.
Final Thoughts
Looking to plan a trip to see the gorillas and don't want to book through me? Staying at Hotel Nediva will be just the relaxation you need before and after trekking the gorillas. The views are something that pictures cannot begin to describe. The food is exceptional, and the staff is willing to accommodate the best they can in any way possible. I'm in no way sponsored by anyone, but I would highly recommend staying at this hotel.
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