- Type: Luxury Hotel
- Summary: A luxurious hideaway that embraces the beauty of Rwanda
- Feature: Activities include trekking in search of endangered mountain
- Rooms: 14 lodges and 7 suites
- Nearest airport: Kigali International Airport
Amenities
Location and transfer
The route from Kigali International Airport takes only 2.5-hours by luxury SUV or 25 minutes by helicopter. It's also a 45-minute helicopter flight away from One&Only Nyungwe House, to complete your luxury tailor-made tour of Rwanda.
Lodge rooms and suites have each been designed to embrace their surroundings, with floor-to-ceiling glass and alfresco decking boasting views over the Pyrethrum farmland, lush shambas and eucalyptus forest. Natural materials, neutral colour palates, local furnishings and Rwandan artwork combine with the ultimate in modern comforts – including mini bars, flat-screen televisions, Wi-Fi and impressive bathrooms with oversized showers.
Forest Lodge King:
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- Size: 77m²
- Room View: Forest
- Facilities: Complete with a crackling fire, king-size bedroom, spacious bathroom and open-air viewing deck, this luxurious lodge flaunts views over the forest from its floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
Two-Bedroom Forest Lodge:
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- Size: 84m²
- Room View: Forest
- Facilities: Perfect for families or small groups, this spacious lodge flaunts two bedrooms, a central, bathroom and additional powder room, as well as a comfortable shared living space, cosy fireplace and furnished private viewing deck.
Virunga Suite:
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- Size: 147m²
- Room View: Forest
- Facilities: Filled with light through floor-to-ceiling windows, this impressive suite features a spacious king bedroom, walk-in wardrobe, striking master bathroom, separate living and dining areas, and a cosy fireplace. Outside, make the most of your surroundings from your totally private open-air bathtub and outdoor shower, while there is also furniture for dining alfresco.
Ingagi Suite:
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- Size: 251m²
- Room View: Forest
- Facilities: Spacious and spectacular, this breathtaking suite flaunts an en suite master bedroom, expansive living and dining space, and an outdoor deck complete with an alfresco bathtub and furniture for lounging or dining. The suite also features a private catering kitchen, with a resident chef and butler always on call, as well as a self-contained unit that offers living and dining space for any personal staff members.
Silverback Suite:
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- Size: 402m²
- Room View: Forest
- Facilities: The largest suite at the property, the aptly name Silverback Suite boasts a richly adorned master bedroom, private bathoom, large living and dining room and multi-level terrace, complete with an open-air lounge, barbecue area and cosy firepit. The suite also flaunts a private swimming pool with spectacular views over the surrounding greenery. A self-contained unit offers lodgings for any personal staff members, while a private catering kitchen can be used by the resident chef and butler - who are always on call for whenever you may need them.
Dining at One&Only Gorilla's Nest embraces the natural bounty and exciting flavours of Rwanda, combined with a distinct contemporary flair. Seasonal and organic produce is largely sourced from the onsite herb and vegetable garden, as well as trusted local suppliers.
Nest Restaurant:expand_more
- Cuisine: Fresh, seasonal Rwandan cuisine made with ingredients from the chef's garden and exceptional local providers and producers.
- Setting: The warm, spacious eatery is complete with authentic Rwandan-style furnishings and décor, while pop-up restaurants also often appear in the resort grounds.
- Dress Code: Casual
- Children's Menu: No
- Vegetarian Option: Yes
- Reservation Required: No
Wildlife Encounters
The densely forested Volcanoes National Park is home to around 300 majestic mountain gorillas, an elusive and endangered species with which humans share around 98% of their DNA! Head out with an expert local tracker in search of a family of these incredible animals. Depending on the location of the gorillas, hikes can last anywhere between 30 minutes and 4 hours, offering a truly unforgettable, bucket-list-ticking wildlife encounter. Please note that gorilla-viewing permits cost from $1,500 (US) per person and are in high demand. We recommend booking well in advance. You can also head out in search of charming golden monkeys as they play high in the canopy, as well as a range of exotic birds.
Hotel Experiences
As well as searching the forest for primates and birds, a range of other activities can be enjoyed from One&Only Gorilla’s Nest. These include trekking to the tomb of American activist Dian Fossey, ascending Mount Bisoke to reach the spectacular crater lake, or visiting Buhanga Ecopark. The latter holds both biological and cultural significance, set upon an ancient sacred site that was used for the coronation of Rwanda’s kings. There is also the option to visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a ‘living museum’ that invites you to experience the traditions of Rwanda alongside friendly locals. Some of the presenters and performers are in fact former poachers who have been rehabilitated by the opportunity to work in the village.
Spa Breaks
After encountering primates amid the bamboo jungle or hiking up dormant volcanoes, where better to unwind than the One&Only Spa? This serene retreat offers a range of massages, facials and rituals in partnership with Terres D'Afrique, creating a rich wellness experience that celebrates the heritage and traditions of Africa, as well as embracing local ingredients – including rose, coffee and eucalyptus. There is also an outdoor pool with forest views, a steam room, sauna and state-of-the-art fitness centre with Technogym equipment.
In Addition
An unforgettable stay here includes breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, as well as selected beverages with meals. You can also choose from two on-site activities per person, per day (subject to change without notice).