Rwanda
Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park
Venture into a true African wilderness when you stay at Bisate Lodge, which is located in a natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone close to the Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. With surrounding, dramatic views of the peaks of the volcanoes and African Rainforests that are home to families of mountain gorillas, you’ll hole up in one of the six sumptuous en-suite rooms that reflect the environmental principles and culture of rural Rwanda.
Location
Located in northern Rwanda, adjacent to the Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge is located near the towns of Ruhengeri and Kinigi, where the gorilla tracking park headquarters are based. To reach the lodge from Kigali, you’ll take a scenic drive of around two hours, and before no time you’ll be in the midst of the Central African wilderness. Bisate is within easy driving distance of Park Headquarters, from where you’ll embark on daily gorilla treks and nature walks. The Lodge’s keen enthusiasm for conversation means that you’ll be invited to participate in biodiversity conservation efforts of the Lodge, as well as engage and meet the local community – in addition to learning about the iconic Critically Endangered species: the mountain gorilla.
Your room
With six beautiful rooms, including one family suite, all enjoying unrivalled views of the Virunga volcanoes, a few nights at Bisate Lodge and you’ll feel at one with nature. Located in the natural amphitheatre of an extinct volcanic cone, this is an entirely unique prospect for the region and will offer an amazing base for your gorilla tracking adventures. Designed with a typical Rwandan style in mind, the buildings are domed with a beautiful draping thatch. Although typically Rwandan, using natural materials such as wood and volcanic stone, the interiors are contemporary and decorated in warm greys with pops of vibrant green.
Why we like it
Sustainability and conservation are the core values at Bisate Lodge. This unique property aims to work closely with the local community and has forged a partnership with the Tuzamurana Cooperative to work on community projects to ensure they benefit from the profits of the Lodge. The Lodge also plans to work on indigenous reforestation of a 26-hectare plot of farmland to encourage the reintroduction of flora and fauna whose habitats have shrunk in previous years. Now that’s a hotel with a heart.