Our Story
The story of Footprints @ Kinigi Lodge is defined by a single, purposeful intention: to plant
a firm foot in the volcanic soil of Musanze and create a lasting connection between the
traveler, the land, and its people.
Located in the heart of Kinigi, the lodge was designed as a sanctuary that honors its surroundings. To “set a foot” here means respecting the stillness of the mountains while fostering a vibrant, active relationship with the environment. At Footprints, every stay is an intentional step toward:
● Environmental Stewardship: Ensuring that our presence protects the rugged
beauty of the Virunga chain.
● Cultural Reciprocity: Creating a space where guests don’t just observe Rwandan
life but become part of its story through shared experiences like traditional weaving
and community-sourced dining.
● Sustainable Growth: Using tourism as a vehicle to support local farmers and
artisans, ensuring that the footprint we leave behind is one of prosperity.
Deep Roots: The Pioneer Primary School Initiative
We believe that the most significant mark one can leave on a community is an investment in
its children. This belief sits at the heart of our CSR program. We are proud to have founded
and built the Children’s Library at Pioneer Primary School, a nearby institution where we
work to foster a lifelong love for learning.
Beyond providing a dedicated space for books and discovery, Footprints @ Kinigi actively
funds and sources external support for school fees. This initiative ensures that the children
of our local community have the resources they need to thrive, turning every guest’s visit into
a contribution toward a brighter future for the youth of Musanze.
A Message from the Visionaries
The dream of Footprints @ Kinigi was brought to life by Francis and Tessy Karimba, who
envisioned a lodge that acts as a living link between the world and the local community.
“When we chose the name ‘Footprints,’ we were thinking about what it means to
truly arrive in a place. To us, setting a foot in Kinigi meant rooting ourselves in
the community and ensuring that our presence here benefits the environment
and the people who have protected it for generations. We wanted to create a
path where tourism and conservation walk hand-in-hand, leaving a mark that is not just seen, but felt in the lives of our neighbors and the spirit of our guests.”
— Francis & Tessy Karimba
When you walk through our doors, you aren’t just a guest of a lodge, you are a guest of family committed to the land and its people.
We've crafted our amenities to ensure your event is seamless from start to finish.
Office Supplies
In-room Printing
Shipping Services
Catering Available
Tea Breaks
Meeting Registration
An Idyllic Location for the Perfect Wedding
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Just For Two
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A Shared Ceremony
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Vow Renewal
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