Things to do
As you might imagine, life at Wilderness Bisate Reserve is quintessential jungle living, with a heavy splash of conservation mixed with gentle touches of luxury and home comforts. It’s Rwanda’s newest and most exclusive lodge, the sister property to the highly acclaimed Wilderness Bisate Lodge. No trip is complete without embarking on a gorilla trek to see one of 12 habituated groups, following a guide through a naturally dense national park, where every cracking twig and piercing howl brings the possibility of coming tantalisingly close to nature’s toughest creatures. If this isn’t thrilling enough, guided trails through lush bamboo forests offer a game of I Spy, with your targets being Golden monkeys. For those with a deep respect for Rwanda’s wildlife, a visit to Dian Fossey’s grave is a must. Dian Fossey, an activist who dedicated her life to the country’s gorillas, is a notable figure. Alternatively, the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is also worth exploring. Hiking up misty Mount Bisoke brings crater-lake vistas, while birdwatching promises a dance of colour and movement for gentler creatures. Since conservation is a key focus here, learn about the camp’s ethos by visiting the nursery to discover indigenous tree planting, exploring the organic kitchen garden with on-site chefs, or meeting the farmers who supply the lodge with fresh produce. Later this year, the lodge is introducing a new era of wellness with The Sanctuary, a spa with a heated salt-water pool, contrast therapy, meditation pods and steam room.
Sleeping
There are four 212-square-metre Forest Villas surrounded by natural foliage and each boasts a private deck with seating, ideal for basking in breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Each villa has en-suite facilities designed to honour Rwanda’s cultural heritage, and they champion indoor-outdoor living, offering an indoor shower and bathroom as well as an outdoor bath heated by a wood-burning stove. A central fireplace provides a comforting spot to rest after a long day of activities. In-room yoga mats and exercise equipment can help ease aching muscles, while traditional amenities like tea and coffee making facilities are there for your comfort.
Food & Drink
The restaurant’s warm tones and floor-to-ceiling windows create a cosy environment for enjoying a drink with loved ones before sitting down to a meal that stretches long into the night, accompanied by lingering conversations. The menu features cuisine crafted from Bisate’s vegetable garden, with each ingredient fresh and seasonal.
What We Think
Wilderness Bisate Reserve offers a truly transformative experience where luxury meets purpose and rare encounters with mountain gorillas, which leaves a lasting impact on all who visit. Let us design a seamless itinerary that connects the lush rainforests of Rwanda with the sweeping savannas of Botswana or the remote deserts of Namibia.
Best For
Nestled across the rolling landscape, the Forest Villas offer exceptional privacy – perfect for couples or honeymooners seeking seclusion. Two villas are thoughtfully connected by an interlinking passageway, making them ideal for families or groups.
