Gorilla Trekking at Bisate Lodge, Rwanda Holiday Properties

Truly Unique

A masterpiece of design, the finest location from which to explore the rainforest and head out gorilla trekking, Bisate beats to a natural rhythm within its untouched surroundings.

The lowdown

Best For

An idyllic location close to the best gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Getting There

A short flight from Kigali followed by a drive through the verdant hills and rainforest clad volcanoes. Can easily be combined with safari in Akagera National Park.
Good to Know

Rainforests at altitude make for erratic weather patterns, four seasons in a day are quite common but it is best to avoid travelling in the wettest months around April.

Woven, thatched, domed rooms hug the rain-forested slopes of a dormant volcano, positioned to overlook its fellow volcanoes and the rainforests which stretch to the horizon. Home to an outstanding diversity of birds, monkeys and of course gorillas.

The six forest villas take their design inspiration from the thatched beehive shape of the King’s Palace, the local natural fibres, extraordinary craftsmanship and attention to design detail make this lodge not only impressively unique but also feel very much part of the natural landscape.

As part of the Wilderness Safaris portfolio, the immaculate service levels, luxurious rooms and excellent staff are a staple of the brand. In a region where mists can shroud the mountains and tree canopy, the nest-like rooms with open fires are the perfect cosy retreat after a day’s hiking. Then when the sun breaks through the clouds, the views from your private terrace are astoundingly beautiful.

Explore

"Gorilla trekking is the main draw for guests here but it is the sense of natural calm and untouched rainforest that imbue the lodge with a refreshing air of calmness"

The Gorilla trekking is more structured than in Uganda and it is possible to roughly select the length and difficulty of your gorilla trek – usually from around 45 minutes up to several hours to reach the furthest habituated family groups. Seeing these giants in their natural environment is a bucket-list event for many and the experience can be quite emotional!

To better understand the flora and fauna of the national park, specialist birding and botanical guides are available. For keen birders, there is the chance to tick off a huge number of endemic species. Close to the lodge, golden monkeys can be observed, delightfully small and playful, they are highly inquisitive and therefore ideal to photograph.

Other activities include a challenging hike to Dian Fossey’s grave as well as the ruins of her Karisoke Research Centre, set between Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes. Alternatively spend time within the local community and cooperative, most of which sell their produce to Bisate Lodge or learn about the reforestation program.

For those wishing to combine gorilla trekking with some time on safari, it is well worth a visit to Akagera National Park. Here the strong conservation ethos of Rwanda has been rekindled. This once prolific park fell victim to the country’s political turmoil in the 1990s and is now being restored to its former glory through massive conservation efforts. Animals have been relocated from other parts of Africa, the natural populations are being well protected and the whole National Park is quickly establishing itself as equal to others in East Africa for excellent safari.