What kind of traveller would this property suit?

This property will appeal to travellers passionate about conservation, looking for a tranquil and exclusive experience. Best suited to couples, as the lodge is made up of only four suites and is very peaceful and intimate. 

What in your opinion are some of the most standout/impressive features about the property? 

Magnificently designed to tell the story of mountain gorilla conservation in Rwanda, no detail has been left out at this beautiful lodge. Social spaces are welcoming, with beautiful books and art to look at. The suites are very spacious, and supremely well equipped, with fires lit every day and thoughtful in-room details at turn down. Every suite has a wood-fired hot tubs on the deck. Guests can plant trees to contribute to reforestation.  

What is the service at the property like?

With a generous staff to guest ratio (at capacity the lodge only accommodates eight guests), the service is superb – hands on and polished 

Tell us about the food (if applicable)…

Delicious, finessed and varied menu with easy dining as well as sophisticated options, all magnificently presented. Many dishes also use ingredients grown in the harden, so everything is fresh. Caters amazingly well to any dietaries – the chef offers delicious options regardless of restrictions. 

How would you describe this property in a few sentences to someone wanting to book it?

A special property which is hard to find fault with, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is truly memorable – not only for the gorilla trekking activity, but for the superb standards of design, cuisine and service of the lodge itself. 

What activities are available to do there?

On site, guests can enjoy wellness treatments, do nature walks and tree planting and visit the boutique at neighbouring Bisate Lodge. Aside from gorilla trekking and other primate safaris, there is plenty to do in the vicinity of Volcanoes National Park. Among them, you can visit the Ellen Degeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, do mountain hikes, and visit the nearby lakes Ruhondo and Burera for boat cruises and birding. 

Tell us about the journey to get to the destination – what are the logistics like in terms of travel time, transport etc?

Flights land in Kigali (under four hours from Johannesburg when flying direct). There are a number of airlines to choose from that fly to Kigali but most entail a layover. From Kigali, the drive to the lodge is approximately three hours, depending on traffic. 

What do you recommend to a guest in terms of a minimum length of stay for this property?

In order to enjoy a gorilla trek as well as the many other activities in the area, and have time to relax in the lodge – which you’ll want to do – allow for four nights. 

What time of year would this property be at optimal enjoyment?

While there’s no bad time to go, the dry seasons in Rwanda – June to September and December to February – are considered optimal as far as trekking conditions are concerned.

What is unique about this property? 

With only four suites, it’s about as exclusive and private as you get. The location is spectacular – overlooking volcanoes – the service is personal and polished, food is excellent and suites are so impressive you’ll be tempted to just spend time in your room. 

Reviewer: Julia Freemantle, Communications & Content