Escaping to Umuko Lodge
From Kigali, I spun my wheels to Nyagasambu with the excitement of a kid on the last day of school. Then I veered off the highway and twisted the throttle toward Umuko Lodge, a lakeside retreat so serene, even the breeze seems to tiptoe. Most folks drive to this hidden gem through Kabuga ka Musha, but I took a different route. This deliberate detour was plotted days in advance, fueled by a mix of curiosity and a firm belief that Google Maps and I are in a committed, though sometimes toxic, relationship.
As I meandered through the open plains of Fumbwe, the landscape began to unleash its magical charm, preparing me for a weekend in paradise. At some point, the road narrowed, cows stared at me like I was an alien from another planet, and somewhere between dodging a rogue chicken and waving at a group of giggling kids, I felt the countryside bliss.
My bond with Lake Muhazi is tight. No wonder the uniquely shaped water body peeked out through the trees, shimmering like a giant puddle of calm, when the sound of my engine caused a commotion in the neighboring village. Similarly, every time I catch my first glimpse of that lake, something inside me clicks — the holiday mood gets activated instantly.
Every time I catch a glimpse of Lake Muhazi, something inside me clicks, and the holiday mood gets activated instantly.
Upon arrival, I took off my biker's boots and slipped my feet into a pair of flip-flops. Then I strolled on the lush, manicured garden that unfurled like a green carpet rolled out in my honor. Birds chirped approvingly, and even the grass seemed to say, “You are Warmly Welcome.”
Amok Lodge's cozy cottages are sanctuaries that dispense peace of mind even to the most troubled souls. Picture rustic charm married to understated luxury, with a soft-spoken elegance that says, “Yes, I am a perfect blend of luxury and simplicity.” I flung open the window and stood still, listening to the breeze whistle secrets through the trees. If trees could gossip, these would whisper tales of quiet romances, lazy naps, and endless cups of tea sipped on balconies just like mine.
A warm shower washed away the off-road mud and reawakened my limbs. Then I settled on the balcony with the poise of someone who had just discovered the true meaning of life. The lake below gleamed like a silver mirror, framed by hills so soft they looked like they were knitted by nature’s grandma. Between my cottage and the shoreline lay a pristine stretch of trees, standing guard like nature’s own bouncers — only instead of velvet ropes, they use leaves.
Umuko Lodge's cozy cottages are sanctuaries that dispense peace of mind even to the most troubled souls.
Dinner was delicious, and sleep was rejuvenating. I went to bed early and slept like a baby. A couple of hours ago, I woke up to birds in full chorus and gleams of sunlight. When I opened the curtains and peeped outside, the lake winked, reminding me to indulge in my favorite water sporting activities before departure.
A strong cup of coffee helped realign my chakras before diving into the pool for an invigorating morning swim. Now, here I am — freshly chlorinated, sun-kissed, and writing this by the poolside like a travel poet who’s made peace with their tan lines.
It’s a beautiful, sunny day. The air is ripe with possibility, and my bike is itching for another adventure. Stay tuned.
Although I would love to put my electronic devices away and immerse in total relaxation, I have to pay my bills.