Hidden deep in the mist-covered mountains of southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest Lodge today known as One&Only Nyungwe House stands as one of Africa’s most remarkable rainforest retreats. Blending refined elegance with the untamed spirit of nature, this extraordinary lodge invites guests to experience the enchanting wilderness of Nyungwe National Park in absolute comfort and style.
Perched on a ridge at the edge of the Gisakura tea plantation, the lodge gazes out across a vast sea of emerald forest one of the last remaining montane rainforests in Africa. Here, the air is cool and pure, the mornings filled with birdsong and the distant echoes of chimpanzees calling from the canopy. As mist drifts over the treetops, the landscape feels almost otherworldly a sanctuary untouched by time.
Nyungwe Forest is a biodiversity hotspot of global importance, harboring 13 species of primates, more than 300 species of birds, and over 1,000 unique plant species. For nature lovers, it offers an unrivaled opportunity to explore one of the continent’s richest ecosystems home to chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and countless other forest dwellers. For luxury travelers, it provides something even rarer: the chance to experience wild Africa in privacy, comfort, and sophistication.
From its eco-conscious architecture to its award-winning hospitality, Nyungwe Forest Lodge embodies the perfect balance between sustainability and indulgence. Each of its spacious villas and suites is designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding tea fields and forest edgecrafted from natural stone, rich timber, and glass that invites the outside in.
Guests awaken to breathtaking views, sip fresh Rwandan tea grown on the estate, and embark on guided adventures deep into the rainforesttracking chimpanzees at dawn, walking among the treetops on Africa’s only canopy walkway, or hiking to hidden waterfalls that tumble through lush valleys.
When the day’s explorations are done, the lodge offers the soothing luxury of a heated infinity pool overlooking the forest, a world-class spa using local botanicals, and exquisite dining that celebrates Rwanda’s flavors with a modern twist.
Whether you are seeking adventure, romance, or renewal, Nyungwe Forest Lodge offers an experience like no other a place where the rhythms of the rainforest meet the serenity of refined living. It is here, at the meeting point of luxury and wilderness, that travelers truly discover the soul of Rwanda.
Location and Setting – A Jewel in Rwanda’s Green Heart
Nestled in Rwanda’s southwestern highlands, Nyungwe Forest Lodge lies approximately 230 kilometers from Kigali, within the Gisakura Tea Estatea lush, undulating sea of green leaves that borders Nyungwe National Park.
The location offers one of the most scenic landscapes in Africa, where cultivated tea fields meet untamed rainforest. On clear days, the lodge’s elevated setting allows guests to gaze across the forest canopy, sometimes even glimpsing Lake Kivu shimmering in the distance.
Nyungwe National Park itself covers over 1,000 square kilometers and is one of the largest montane rainforests in East Africa. It is home to 13 primate species, more than 300 bird species, and over 1,000 plant speciesa living museum of biodiversity and evolution.
Accommodation – Elegant Luxury in the Wild
Nyungwe Forest Lodge features 22 beautifully appointed guest rooms and two presidential suites, all designed to blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings. Built with local wood, stone, and glass, the rooms reflect a modern African aesthetic while maintaining a close connection to the forest.
Room Features
- Private decks offering panoramic views of the forest or tea plantation
- En-suite bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and rain showers
- Cozy fireplaces for cool highland evenings
- Air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and mini bar
- Plush bedding and fine furnishings
The Presidential Suites are the epitome of privacy and luxury, each with a spacious lounge area, dining space, and private Jacuzziperfect for honeymooners or discerning travelers seeking the ultimate forest escape.
Facilities and Amenities – Designed for Relaxation and Wellness
Despite its remote location, Nyungwe Forest Lodge offers all the amenities of a world-class resort.
- Infinity Pool: A heated pool that overlooks the forest canopy, perfect for a refreshing swim surrounded by natural beauty.
- Luxury Spa: The lodge’s tranquil spa offers a range of treatments using organic products and locally inspired therapies.
- Fitness Center & Yoga Deck: Guests can maintain their wellness routine while listening to the soothing sounds of the rainforest.
- Fine Dining Restaurant: Serves exquisite Rwandan and international dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients.
- Tea Lounge & Bar: Enjoy freshly brewed Rwandan tea or sunset cocktails overlooking the forest.
- Boutique Gift Shop: Featuring local handicrafts, tea, and souvenirs.
Every element of the lodge from its architecture to its service is designed to create harmony between luxury living and nature conservation.
Activities – Explore the Magic of Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe Forest Lodge is the ideal base for exploring Nyungwe National Park, a region famed for its rich biodiversity, ancient trees, and unique primate encounters. Guests can choose from a variety of guided activities led by expert park rangers and naturalists.
- Chimpanzee Trekking – Meet Rwanda’s Closest Relatives
One of Nyungwe’s greatest attractions is its chimpanzee tracking experience. The park is home to two habituated chimp groupsone in Cyamudongo Forest and another in the main Nyungwe Forestand tracking them is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The trek usually begins early in the morning, as guides lead you through mist-shrouded forest trails, listening for distant calls and rustling branches. Once located, visitors spend an unforgettable hour observing the chimps as they feed, play, and communicatea vivid reminder of our shared ancestry.
Tips:
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and carry rain gear.
- Bring a good camera with zoom lens.
- Minimum age: 15 years.
- Colobus Monkey and Other Primate Tracking
Beyond chimpanzees, Nyungwe is renowned for its black-and-white colobus monkeys, often seen in large troops leaping between treetops. The park also shelters other fascinating species like the L’Hoest’s monkey, Owl-faced monkey, and Grey-cheeked mangabey.
Guided primate walks offer a chance to witness these agile creatures up close and learn about their behavior, diet, and social structure from knowledgeable guides.
- Canopy Walkway – A Bird’s-Eye View of the Rainforest
For an unmatched perspective, the Nyungwe Canopy Walk is a must-do activity. Suspended 60 meters above the forest floor and extending for 160 meters, it is the only canopy walkway in East Africa.
Walking along the metal suspension bridge, you’ll experience the forest from a unique angle surrounded by butterflies, birds, and sunlight filtering through the treetops. It’s a thrilling and photogenic experience that’s both adventurous and serene.
- Bird Watching – A Paradise for Birders
Nyungwe is one of Africa’s top birding destinations, home to over 300 recorded species, including 27 Albertine Rift endemics found nowhere else on Earth.
Highlights include:
- RwenzoriTuraco – a colorful endemic species with crimson wings
- Grauer’s Broadbill – one of the rarest birds in Africa
- Blue-headed Sunbird, Stripe-breasted Tit, and Dusky Crimsonwing
Bird walks can be arranged directly from the lodge, often lasting between 2 and 5 hours depending on your interest and fitness level.
- Waterfall and Forest Walks
For those who love hiking, Nyungwe offers an extensive network of well-maintained forest trails. One of the most popular is the Isumo Waterfall Trail, a 2- to 3-hour walk through lush vegetation to a stunning 17-meter waterfall cascading through the forest.
Other scenic trails include:
- Igishigishigi Trail – perfect for canopy walk extensions
- Kamiranzovu Swamp Trail – ideal for spotting rare orchids and primates
- Umugote and Imbaraga Trails – longer hikes offering panoramic views
Each trail reveals a different facet of Nyungwe’s beauty from mossy ravines to orchid-lined clearings.
- Tea Plantation Experience
Since the lodge sits within the Gisakura Tea Estate, guests can enjoy guided tours of the plantation to see how tea is grown, harvested, and processed. The walk ends with a tea-tasting session where you can sample Rwanda’s finest blends while learning about the country’s tea heritage.
Sustainability and Conservation
Nyungwe Forest Lodge was built with a strong commitment to eco-friendly design and sustainable tourism. The architecture blends local materials with modern design principles, and operations prioritize minimal environmental impact.
By staying at the lodge, guests contribute directly to Nyungwe National Park’s conservation programs, community development, and local employment. Many staff members are recruited from surrounding communities and trained in hospitality and guiding.
Getting There
Nyungwe Forest Lodge is approximately 5–6 hours by road from Kigali, along a scenic route that passes through rolling hills, villages, and tea plantations. Alternatively, you can fly from Kigali to Kamembe Airport (Cyangugu), followed by a one-hour drive to the lodge.
Private transfers can be arranged, and many guests choose to include Nyungwe as part of a Southern Rwanda circuit that also includes Lake Kivu and Volcanoes National Park.
Why Choose Nyungwe Forest Lodge
- Perfect base for exploring Nyungwe National Park
- Luxurious accommodation surrounded by pristine rainforest
- Exceptional service and gourmet dining
- Wide range of nature-based activities
- Commitment to conservation and sustainability
- Ideal for honeymooners, photographers, and adventure travelers
Nyungwe Forest Lodge (One&Only Nyungwe House) is not just one of the best lodges in Rwandait’s one of the most unique eco-luxury experiences in Africa. It invites you to reconnect with nature in a place where the air is pure, the forest alive with sound, and every sunrise brings new discoveries.
Whether you come for chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, or simply to relax in a tranquil environment, this lodge delivers an unforgettable journey into Rwanda’s wild and beautiful heart.