Nestled on the edge of Rwanda’s ancient Nyungwe Forest National Park, One&Only Nyungwe House is an extraordinary sanctuary where luxury, nature, and culture unite in perfect harmony. Set within a working Gisakura tea plantation that borders one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, this world-renowned eco-lodge redefines the concept of sustainable luxury offering guests an immersive experience that celebrates Rwanda’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and warm hospitality.
Every corner of One&Only Nyungwe House exudes tranquility and exclusivity. As mist rises over the lush tea fields at dawn, guests awaken to a symphony of tropical birds and the distant calls of chimpanzees echoing through the forest canopy. The air is crisp, fragrant with the scent of rain and fresh leaves, while the surrounding landscape a vibrant mosaic of rolling hills and deep emerald valleys tells the timeless story of Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
More than just a place to stay, One&Only Nyungwe House is an experience a journey into the heart of one of the world’s most biologically diverse ecosystems. The property perfectly blends modern elegance with African authenticity, featuring architectural design inspired by nature and built with locally sourced materials such as volcanic stone, wood, and woven textiles. Each of its luxurious rooms and suites overlooks either the verdant tea plantation or the dense tropical forest, creating an intimate connection with the environment.
This unique lodge offers a rare opportunity to experience adventure and serenity side by side. By day, guests trek through the forest in search of chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, cross suspended bridges high above the trees on the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, or follow scenic trails to hidden waterfalls deep within the rainforest. By night, they return to a haven of refined comfort a place where warm Rwandan smiles, fine dining, and peaceful seclusion await.
The lodge’s wellness philosophy is deeply rooted in its surroundings. Guests can enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments infused with local botanicals, yoga sessions overlooking the forest, and guided nature meditations designed to reconnect body and mind. Meanwhile, the culinary experience celebrates the richness of Rwandan produce, offering gourmet dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients paired with the finest international wines.
As one of Rwanda’s most exclusive lodges, One&Only Nyungwe House stands as a model of conservation and community engagement. It supports local farmers, artisans, and conservation projects that protect Nyungwe’s wildlife and sustain the livelihoods of nearby communities.
For travelers seeking an authentic yet indulgent encounter with Rwanda’s rainforest, One&Only Nyungwe House is unmatched. It is not just the best accommodation in Nyungwe Forest National Park it is a destination in itself, where every sunrise, every breeze, and every encounter tells a story of harmony between people, nature, and timeless luxury.
Location – At the Edge of an Ancient Rainforest
One&Only Nyungwe House is situated in Rwanda’s southwestern highlands, perched on the edge of Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most biologically rich rainforests. The lodge sits within the Gisakura tea estate, surrounded by verdant plantations that fade into the dense forest canopy a stunning blend of cultivated beauty and untouched wilderness.
This strategic location allows guests direct access to the park’s network of walking trails, wildlife experiences, and cultural encounters. From the lodge, travelers can easily explore chimpanzee habitats, embark on guided forest hikes, or simply relax and watch mist drift over the treetops while sipping freshly brewed Rwandan tea.
Accommodation – A Sanctuary of Style and Serenity
Every suite at One&Only Nyungwe House has been thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in the magic of the forest while offering the comfort of contemporary luxury. The lodge features 22 luxury rooms and suites, each housed in elegant wooden villas that blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings.
Room Highlights
- Private terrace or veranda overlooking the forest canopy or tea plantation
- King-size beds with fine linens and handcrafted decor inspired by Rwanda’s culture
- En-suite bathrooms with soaking tubs, rain showers, and luxury amenities
- Cozy fireplaces for cool mountain evenings
- In-room refreshment center, tea and coffee service, and Wi-Fi access
Every detail from the use of local materials to the subtle earth tones reflects the spirit of Rwanda, creating a soothing connection between guests and the environment.
Facilities – Indulgence in the Wild
At One&Only Nyungwe House, luxury extends far beyond the rooms. The lodge is designed to provide comfort, relaxation, and wellness amid the forest’s tranquility.
- Infinity Pool: A heated rim-flow pool overlooking the rainforest perfect for unwinding after a day of trekking.
- Nyungwe Spa: Offering treatments inspired by Rwandan traditions, using natural ingredients sourced from the forest and tea estate.
- Signature Dining: A gourmet restaurant serving organic and locally sourced cuisine, paired with fine wines and personalized service.
- Tea Lounge & Bar: Guests can sample freshly picked Gisakura tea or enjoy cocktails as the sun sets over the forest.
- Wellness Pavilion: Includes a fitness studio, yoga deck, and guided meditation sessions with panoramic views.
Each facility reflects the One&Only philosophy of ultra-luxury blended with authenticity, ensuring that every guest feels both pampered and connected to nature.
Experiences – Discover the Wonders of Nyungwe Forest
Staying at One&Only Nyungwe House offers unparalleled access to some of Africa’s most exceptional rainforest experiences. Guided by expert naturalists and park rangers, guests can explore Nyungwe’s spectacular wildlife and breathtaking landscapes through a range of immersive activities.
- Chimpanzee Trekking
Nyungwe National Park is home to several habituated chimpanzee communities. Guests set off at dawn on a guided trek through the forest, following calls and footprints until they come face-to-face with these remarkable primates in their natural habitat. It’s an intimate, emotional experience that reveals the deep kinship between humans and our closest relatives.
- Canopy Walkway
Experience the forest from above on Africa’s only rainforest canopy walkway, suspended 60 meters above the ground. The walkway stretches for 160 meters, offering breathtaking views of the treetops, birds, and distant mountains. It’s a thrilling combination of adventure and serenity.
- Colobus Monkey Tracking
Nyungwe is home to one of the largest troops of black-and-white colobus monkeys in Africa. Join experienced guides to observe these agile primates as they leap gracefully through the forest canopy.
- Waterfall and Nature Trails
The park’s network of hiking trails reveals a mosaic of landscapes — from lush fern-covered ravines to dramatic waterfalls. The Isumo Waterfall Trail, one of the most popular, leads through tropical forest to a spectacular 17-meter cascade. Other trails offer chances to spot orchids, butterflies, and endemic birds.
- Bird Watching
With more than 300 species of birds, including 27 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe is a birder’s paradise. Guests can spot rare species such as the RwenzoriTuraco, Regal Sunbird, and Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, guided by local birding experts.
- Tea Plantation Experience
Since the lodge sits on the Gisakura Tea Estate, guests can explore the fields, learn about the tea-making process, and sample Rwanda’s finest blends. This experience offers cultural insight and a deeper appreciation for the land surrounding the lodge.
Sustainability and Conservation – A Commitment to Nature
One&Only Nyungwe House is deeply committed to sustainability and conservation. The lodge was built using eco-friendly materials, employs local staff, and sources most ingredients from nearby farms and producers.
Its operations support the protection of Nyungwe National Park, while community programs empower residents through education, tourism employment, and cultural exchange. Staying here directly contributes to wildlife conservation and community development in Rwanda’s southwestern region.
Getting There
The lodge is located about 5–6 hours’ drive from Kigali, offering one of the most scenic road journeys in Rwanda. Alternatively, travelers can fly to Kamembe Airport (Cyangugu), just an hour’s drive from the property.
Transfers can be arranged directly through the lodge or tour operators, and many visitors choose to combine a stay here with visits to Volcanoes National Park or Lake Kivu, creating the perfect Rwanda safari circuit.
Why One&Only Nyungwe House Is the Most Unique Accommodation in Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Exclusive Location: The only ultra-luxury lodge set within the tea plantations bordering the park.
- Unmatched Comfort: World-class hospitality and modern amenities in a remote rainforest setting.
- Immersive Experiences: Direct access to chimp trekking, canopy walks, and guided nature trails.
- Architectural Harmony: Eco-conscious design that complements the surrounding environment.
- Conservation Focus: Active role in protecting the park and supporting local communities.
- Personalized Service: Every guest receives tailored experiences from dining to daily excursions.
For those seeking the finest accommodation in Rwanda’s natural heartland, One&Only Nyungwe House offers a level of sophistication and authenticity unmatched anywhere else in the region.
One&Only Nyungwe House redefines luxury in the wild. It is more than a lodge it’s a gateway to one of Africa’s most beautiful ecosystems, a retreat for the soul, and a celebration of Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable, high-end tourism.
From misty morning treks with chimpanzees to candlelit dinners under a star-filled sky, every experience at Nyungwe House feels deeply personal and profoundly inspiring. It stands as a shining example of how luxury and conservation can coexist, offering guests the rare privilege of living in harmony with nature without sacrificing comfort or elegance.