The Lux Collective enters Rwanda with a groundbreaking ultra-luxury tourism circuit partnership | News
Global hospitality group The Lux Collective has marked its first entry into Rwanda through a historic strategic partnership with Cleo Capital Group Ltd, one of Rwanda’s visionary hospitality and investment groups, to launch and manage an ultra-luxury tourism circuit across the country’s most iconic destinations. The partnership, formalized at the Africa CEO Forum 2026 in Kigali, represents a significant milestone in the evolution of luxury hospitality in Rwanda, introducing internationally acclaimed brands LUX* and SALT to the country through a transformative multi-property project spanning five resorts.
During the signing ceremony, the Akagera Game Lodge acquisition agreement was concluded between Louise Kanyonga, Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) and Cleo Capital Group Ltd, in addition to the hotel management agreements for SALT of Akagera and LUX* resorts on the Rwanda Tourism Circuit between Arnaud Lagesse, Chairman and CEO of the IBL Group, Akagera Game Lodge Chairman Emmanuel Rugambwa and Cleo Capital Group Ltd Founder and CEO Eugene Nyagahene.
Guided by strong ESG principles, the Rwanda Tourism Circuit integrates regenerative development, sustainable construction, renewable energy, water conservation, biodiversity protection and community empowerment. Together with local sourcing, women entrepreneurship programs, skills development and conservation partnerships, the project aims to generate long-term economic and social impact while positioning Rwanda as a leading sustainable, ultra-luxury tourism destination in Africa.
The tourism circuit, managed by The Lux Collective under the award-winning brands LUX* and SALT, will include four of Rwanda’s most celebrated destinations: Lake Kivu, Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park. Phase 1, launching in mid-2026, will include the rebranding of Cleo Lake Kivu to LUX* Lake Kivu and Akagera Game Lodge to SALT of Akagera, followed by Phase 2 with three new greenfield developments expected to open in 2028: LUX* Volcanoes, LUX* Nyungwe and LUX* Akagera.
As the flagship of The Lux Collective, LUX* is recognized worldwide for its contemporary approach to luxury hospitality, combining exceptional design, wellbeing and sustainability. Inspired by the elements of water, fire, air and earth, each property in Rwanda will offer distinctive, destination-focused experiences rooted in the country’s landscapes and biodiversity. LUX* Lake Kivu in Karongi will feature a 14-key intimate luxury lakeside retreat with wellness, culinary and outdoor experiences. LUX* Volcanoes introduces a spectacular eco-luxury retreat with 26 lodges overlooking the volcanic Virunga Mountains with curated mountain gorilla tours, featuring rainforest trekking and unique up-close encounters with habituated gorilla families. LUX* Nyungwe will showcase 26 elevated treehouse-style suites immersed in one of the world’s oldest rainforests, while LUX* Akagera will offer an ultra-luxury 26-key safari retreat that combines Big Five experiences, wellness and elegant luxury in tents overlooking Akagera’s savannah landscapes.
SALT, The Lux Collective’s purpose-driven boutique hotel brand, is rooted in meaningful travel, sustainability and authentic local connection. Located within the Akagera National Park, SALT of Akagera will transform the existing Akagera Game Lodge into a luxury five-star eco-safari retreat overlooking Lake Ihema. The 60-key lodge offers immersive nature experiences, wellness programs, locally inspired dining and conservation-oriented activities in the savannah environment.
“This partnership marks an important milestone for the future of tourism in Rwanda. Together with The Lux Collective, we are creating a world-class tourism circuit that celebrates Rwanda’s natural beauty, biodiversity and culture while driving sustainable economic growth and international recognition for the destination,” said Eugene Nyagahene, Founder and CEO of Cleo Capital Group Ltd.
CEO of Lux Collective, Olivier Chavy, added: “In line with our Group’s global expansion, this strategic partnership represents a defining moment for The Lux Collective. Rwanda is one of Africa’s most inspiring destinations, with a strong vision for sustainable tourism. As a leader in sustainable hospitality, we are truly honored to make our debut in Rwanda through the transformative tourism circuit designed to deliver exceptional luxury experiences, while preserving Rwanda’s impressive landscapes, communities and biodiversity.”
Through this groundbreaking partnership with Cleo Capital Group Ltd and RSSB, The Lux Collective will redefine Rwanda’s luxury hospitality landscape through regenerative, sustainability-based tourism experiences that elevate the country’s extraordinary natural and cultural heritage to the global stage.
