One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Is A Five Star Hotel Situated Close To The Headquarters Of Volcanoes National Park
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a luxurious hotel-style lodge which offers sophisticated hospitality in a location which is very convenient for access to gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. The hotel would particularly suit those looking for more conventional luxury, in a resort-style setting, rather than anything especially intimate or authentic. The property is set over a reasonable area of woodland offering space and tranquillity. After a day’s trekking in the forest, you can return to this luxurious sanctuary and indulge in fine dining cuisine and exclusive spa treatments.
Rooms
Accommodation is in a selection of 21 ‘treehouses’ and suites surrounded by tall eucalyptus trees and views of the volcano. The Forest ‘Treehouse’ rooms have views of the rainforest and are beautifully furnished with king sized bed, floor to ceiling glass, spacious verandah and separate lounge area with its own fireplace. The en suites are equipped with outdoor shower and free standing bath with stunning views. There is also a two bedroom Susa Treehouse, which works perfectly for those looking for more space, friends travelling together or families looking for their own private unit. The three suites (Virunga, Ingagi and Silverback) very much offer the ‘wow’ factor with incredible volcano views and added luxury. They have plenty of space with living and dining areas for a completely private stay. The Silverback Suite offers the ultimate in luxury with a multi-tiered deck including a private pool.
Central Areas
The communal area ‘The Nest’ is designed with a very contemporary feel, with local Rwandan artwork taking centre stage. There is a very comfortable lounge area, stylish bar and cosy restaurant as well as an outdoor deck where breakfast is served. There is also a pool, fitness centre and spa area with lap pool – a great place to relax post gorilla tracking.
Facilities
Wi-Fi – Yes
Power for Charging – Yes
Swimming – Yes
Habitat & Wildlife
Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is one of the last remaining strongholds of the endangered Mountain Gorilla and is located in north-western Rwanda on the borders of the DRC and Uganda. It comprises of a group of five volcanoes, the Virungas, which rise to some 15,000 ft above sea level. The steep slopes and valleys provide a variety of rich montane ecosystems – from evergreen and bamboo forest, to mature canopy forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.
The Parc National Des Volcans is the original home of the ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ made famous by Dian Fossey. It is possible to trek to her grave at ‘Karisoke’, the location of her research centre. She named it such due to its location between Karisimbi (the highest of the range) and Bisoke volcanoes.
Aside from the gorillas, the park is also home to the rare Golden monkey, two habituated groups of which can also be visited (must be pre-booked like the gorilla permits). There are also a number of full day treks which can also be undertaken, including the ascent of the Bisoke (3,700m and known for its crater lake), Muhabura (4,107m) and Gahinga (3,400m) peaks. For an ascent of Karisimbi (4,705m), you’ll need to overnight on the mountain.
There are currently 12 habituated mountain gorilla families. Some groups are considered easier to locate (less walking), though tough walking up and down slopes through thick vegetation should still be expected, especially if the gorillas are mobile when you find them. A maximum of eight people is taken in each trekking group, and you are led by a local guide. Trekking for gorillas in Rwanda can be slightly easier than in Uganda. However, a good level of fitness is required as the terrain over which tracking takes place is extremely difficult (and remember, you’re already at altitude before you even start trekking). Treks can last anything from an hour (on well-worn tracks which present little difficulty) to well over five hours, traversing steep-sided mountains and ravines, often clambering over nothing but suspended vegetation.
Golden Monkeys occupy the bamboo forests so are much more accessible and treks are usually completed by mid-late morning.
Activities
In addition to the park activities mentioned above (primate viewing and hiking), a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is also very worthwhile (entrance fees payable locally). Guests can also visit the coffee plantation which is supported by the hotel.
Our experienced team will provide full details of what to expect for park activities in Volcanoes National Park, including clothing and gear required (most lodges will provide kit and walking sticks are available from the park headquarters), together with regulations for primate viewing and timings.
Seasons
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is open year round and trekking is available year round too. However, the best times are from December to March or from June to September.
The minimum age for children at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is 15 years. The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years but children would need to be comfortable with the very physical requirements of gorilla trekking to enjoy a family safari to this destination. Triples can only be accommodated in the two bedroom treehouse.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest employs and procures locally wherever possible. Regular visits and donations are made to local schools and guests are also able to purchase Imigongo art from local tradespeople.
In the hotel kitchens, any unused ingredients are returned to communities in the city of Musanze where they are used in fertilizer to grow produce which is then sold back to the One&Only Gorilla’s Nest culinary team.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest partners with female-led Twongere Kawa Coko Cooperative to source its coffee. Guests can visit the cooperative, tour the plantation and learn about production from crop to cup from local farmers. The resort also hires members to manage its coffee garden, sharing knowledge with guests.
The permit to view mountain gorillas not only allows the most respectful encounter, with limited numbers, controlled by experts but also contributes to both the local environment and national initiatives.
