At a Glance
- Trek endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s pristine Volcanoes National Park with expert guides.
- Experience ultra-luxury lodges, spa rituals, and curated wellness after forest adventures.
- Enjoy private dining, cultural immersion, and conservation-driven hospitality at Gorilla’s Nest.
From Dubai’s golden shores to the Maldives’ tranquil islands, One&Only Resorts is known for crafting extraordinary experiences in some of the world’s most exceptional settings.
In Africa, the brand embraces conservation and culture with two standout retreats: One&Only Nyungwe House, located among tea plantations, and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, on the edge of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
At Gorilla’s Nest, luxury meets purpose. Set against the mist-shrouded slopes of the Virunga Mountains, this intimate sanctuary offers front-row access to one of the rarest wildlife experiences on Earth: tracking endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
A jungle sanctuary at volcanoes national park
Located in Kinigi, near Musanze, Gorilla’s Nest lies just minutes from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters — the launch point for daily treks.
The park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to more than a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, as well as golden monkeys, forest elephants, and dozens of bird species endemic to the Albertine Rift.
Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and volcanic rock, the lodge rises on stilts, creating the illusion of floating within the forest canopy. Architecture and design draw deeply from Rwandan tradition, incorporating locally sourced materials, banana-leaf textiles, and bold Imigongo artwork.
Ultra-luxury, naturally
With just 21 freestanding lodges and suites, Gorilla’s Nest offers privacy and exclusivity. Each features floor-to-ceiling windows, open-air showers, soaking tubs, fireplaces, and expansive decks overlooking the highland forest.
The Ingagi Suite — the largest accommodation — offers an expansive layout ideal for families or ultra-high-net-worth guests. A dedicated butler, in-room dining, and bespoke wellness amenities ensure a seamless stay.
Gorilla trekking: The heart of the experience
The highlight for most guests is gorilla trekking — a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of the world’s most endangered primates.
Fewer than 1,100 remain in the wild. With permits arranged by the resort, guests embark on daily treks led by expert guides and armed park rangers. Hikes can last from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. Once located, visitors are allowed a quiet, unforgettable hour with the group.
Beyond gorillas: Nature and culture
While gorilla trekking is the crown jewel, the experience extends further. Guests can hike to see golden monkeys, explore bamboo forests, or summit Mount Bisoke to reach a volcanic crater lake.
Cultural immersion is also central. Visitors can engage with local communities at Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, learn traditional cooking methods, or meet artisans who preserve Rwanda’s heritage through craft.
Elevated dining in the canopy
Dining at Gorilla’s Nest highlights the richness of Rwandan produce and African flavors. Ingredients are sourced from the resort’s organic garden and local farms. At The Nest, chefs craft seasonal tasting menus featuring grilled meats, stews, and plant-based dishes, paired with Rwandan and South African wines.
Guests can also opt for private dining — from terrace breakfasts to starlit dinners by the bonfire.
Spa and wellness in the wild
After a trek, guests can unwind at the spa, where treatments use African botanicals and healing traditions. Signature therapies include the “Jungle Journey” wrap and “Rwandan Coffee Scrub.” Facilities include a heated outdoor pool, yoga pavilions, meditation decks, and a state-of-the-art gym.
Wellness programs are personalized to support recovery and reconnect guests with nature.
Sustainability at its core
Gorilla’s Nest is committed to environmental stewardship and community upliftment. The resort hires locally, supports nearby schools, and contributes to conservation initiatives in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board. Its low-impact design and operational ethos ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
The billionaire magnet
With its unmatched privacy and transformative experiences, Gorilla’s Nest draws royalty, celebrities, and global elites. Discreet service, top-tier security, and world-class hospitality make it one of Africa’s most exclusive escapes. It is part of the One&Only portfolio operated by Kerzner International — the same group behind iconic properties in the Maldives and Cape Town.
Getting there
Most guests arrive via Kigali International Airport, a two-hour scenic drive from the lodge. The resort offers private transfers, while helicopter charters are available for faster travel. The concierge handles all logistics — from gorilla permits to visa assistance.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is more than a luxury lodge — it’s a gateway to a deeper connection with nature, culture, and conservation. For discerning travelers seeking authenticity without compromise, it offers an unforgettable African journey in one of the last sanctuaries of the wild.
