One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Rwanda: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week

Location: Nyonirima, Kinigi, Ruhengeri, Rwanda

Gorillas of Volcanoes National Park photo by Mahorogeoffrey, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Tucked away in the misty foothills of Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest offers a rare blend of ultra-luxury and raw nature. Just minutes from the entrance of Volcanoes National Park—the legendary gateway to mountain gorilla trekking—this exclusive resort immerses guests in one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems. Framed by fragrant eucalyptus forests and towering volcanoes, the property provides unmatched access to Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife encounter: coming face to face with the endangered mountain gorilla.

More than just a base for adventure, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a sanctuary of design, serenity, and soul. Elevated on stilts among the trees, its refined lodges and suites offer panoramic jungle views, private decks, and open-air fireplaces—merging barefoot luxury with untamed beauty. Every aspect of the resort is carefully curated to honor the surrounding landscape and local culture, from its plant-rich cuisine to its healing spa rituals inspired by Rwandan traditions.

Whether tracking gorillas at sunrise or enjoying a quiet tea ceremony at dusk, a stay here is more than a getaway—it’s a journey of reconnection: to nature, to culture, and to self.

Table of Contents One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Rwanda

1. Legacy and Vision

2. Architect and Designer

3. Accommodations and Amenities

4. Signature Experiences

5. Spa and Wellness

6. Culinary Highlights

7. Awards & Sustainability Commitment

8. Best Time to Visit

9. How to Get There

10. FAQ Section

11. Takeaway

Legacy and Vision (Owners)

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is part of the prestigious portfolio of Kerzner International Holdings, the global hospitality group behind the One&Only Resorts brand. Known for redefining ultra-luxury through iconic properties set in breathtaking locations, Kerzner curates immersive experiences that celebrate the soul of each destination. Their resorts are more than retreats—they are gateways to culture, nature, and transformative travel.

In Rwanda, this vision takes on deeper meaning. One&Only Gorilla’s Nest plays a key role in the country’s rising profile as a luxury ecotourism hub. With a focus on sustainability and cultural authenticity, the resort aligns with Rwanda’s conservation efforts and commitment to responsible travel. By offering intimate access to the endangered mountain gorillas and supporting local communities, Kerzner not only delivers exceptional hospitality but also contributes to the protection and promotion of Rwanda’s natural and cultural heritage.

Architect and Designer

The architectural brilliance of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is the work of the late Sead Golos, a pioneer in modern prefab design, brought to life in collaboration with interior designer Hubertus Feit. Golos reimagined the concept of elevated living by crafting freestanding lodges—each installed on a robust metal framework and clad in larch wood façades. These treehouse-style suites seem to float above the forest floor, harmonizing with the surrounding volcanic terrain and reducing environmental disruption 

Inside, Feit’s interiors draw inspiration from the region’s volcanic geology and lush canopy. Expansive glass walls frame jungle panoramas, while materials like local wood, volcanic stone, and bespoke furnishings create a warm yet refined atmosphere. Outdoor decks, open-air fireplaces, and luxurious fixtures further blur the line between indoor comfort and outdoor adventure.

This union of Gołos’s lightweight structural genius and Feit’s nature-infused interiors results in a resort that not only preserves the forest’s integrity but celebrates it—offering guests an immersive, elevated sanctuary in the heart of Rwanda’s wilderness.

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda photo by Nina R Ninara31/flickr

Accommodations and Amenities

At One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, luxury meets wilderness through a carefully curated collection of private accommodations and elevated amenities, designed to immerse guests in the natural splendor of Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains.

Freestanding Forest Lodges

• Each suite and villa are built on stilts and positioned for privacy, offering uninterrupted views of the jungle through floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Outdoor soaking tubs and private decks make for serene moments of reflection, surrounded by nature’s soundtrack.

  
  

The Average cost of a suite starts at USD $7,900. per night

Signature Infinity Pool

• Tucked into a grove of eucalyptus trees, the resort’s heated infinity pool provides a tranquil escape with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape—perfect after a morning of gorilla trekking or forest hikes.

  
  

The Spa at Gorilla’s Nest

• Rooted in African wellness traditions, the spa features treatments that harness indigenous botanicals like Rwandan coffee, volcanic clay, and eucalyptus. Therapies are personalized and take place in open-air treatment rooms overlooking the forest canopy.

  
  

Curated Experiences & Services

• Guests can enjoy access to a fitness pavilion with guided yoga and personal training sessions, a curated boutique featuring Rwandan art and textiles, and 24-hour butler service that ensures every detail is tailored to their needs.

Whether soaking in the tub with mountain mist on the breeze or enjoying a massage after an exhilarating trek, every element of Gorilla’s Nest is designed to blend luxury with Rwanda’s untamed beauty.

Signature Experiences

Gorilla’s Nest offers transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences rooted in Rwanda’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. With its privileged location at the edge of Volcanoes National Park, the resort provides unrivaled access to some of Africa’s most extraordinary encounters.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking

• The resort’s signature experience is a guided trek through the misty slopes of the Virunga Mountains to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Led by expert rangers and trackers, this intimate wildlife encounter is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

Golden Monkey Tracking & Nature Walks

• Guests can also track the rare and playful golden monkeys or explore lush trails that pass-through bamboo forests and volcanic terrain, with guides sharing insights into the region’s flora, fauna, and geology.

Cultural Immersion

• Back at the resort, guests can engage in hands-on activities like farm-to-table cooking classes using local produce, Rwandan tea tastings, or basket-weaving workshops with local artisans—each one a window into Rwanda’s resilient and vibrant culture.

Helicopter Adventures

• For a bird’s-eye perspective of the dramatic landscape, scenic helicopter tours soar over crater lakes, lava flows, and the Virunga peaks, offering unforgettable views and a sense of the region’s scale and majesty.

From profound wildlife encounters to meaningful cultural exchanges, every experience at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is thoughtfully curated to deepen the connection between guests and the land they’ve come to explore.

Spa and Wellness

At Gorilla’s Nest, wellness is more than a service—it’s an experience rooted in Rwanda’s healing traditions and the natural serenity of the Virunga foothills. The resort’s spa is nestled among eucalyptus trees, offering a peaceful sanctuary where guests can unwind after a day of trekking or exploration.

Treatments are inspired by African botanicals and ancestral rituals, using indigenous ingredients such as Rwandan coffee, volcanic clay, and local herbs. Signature therapies include deep tissue massages to relieve trekking fatigue, restorative facials, and aromatherapy sessions that draw on the forest’s calming scents.

• Guests can also participate in holistic wellness programs that include:

• Forest yoga and meditation surrounded by birdsong and mountain air

• Wellness consultations and personalized fitness sessions

• Outdoor soaking tubs with panoramic views for mindful relaxation

This nature-immersed spa experience not only rejuvenates the body but also nurtures the mind and spirit—making One&Only Gorilla’s Nest one of the most tranquil and restorative retreats in Africa.

Mount Bisoke photo by Nickolayvladim, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Culinary Highlights

At Gorilla’s Nest, dining is a journey into Rwanda’s rich flavors, elevated with international finesse and set against the breathtaking Virunga backdrop.

• Nest Restaurant – The resort’s signature all-day dining venue offers gourmet meals crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes highlight Rwandan staples like cassava, tilapia, and plantains, reimagined with modern techniques and global influences.

  
  

• Forest-to-Table Philosophy – The culinary team embraces sustainability and local sourcing. Many ingredients are grown in the nutrient-rich volcanic soil nearby, delivering unmatched freshness and flavor.

  
  

• Private Dining Experiences – Guests can enjoy bespoke meals in secluded forest clearings, under the stars by a campfire, or on their lodge terrace. Personalized tasting menus add a luxurious, intimate touch.

  
  

• Rwandan Culinary Traditions – Expect cultural immersion through food, from traditional broths and barbecue to locally inspired teas and freshly brewed Rwandan coffee.

  
  

• Wine & Spirits Pairings – Nest also features a curated wine list and handcrafted cocktails infused with regional botanicals.

Whether you’re savoring breakfast with misty jungle views or indulging in a candlelit dinner surrounded by nature, the culinary experience at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is soulful, sensory, and unforgettable.

Awards and Sustainability Commitment

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is more than a world-class retreat—it stands as a beacon of eco-luxury and conservation in Rwanda’s Virunga foothills. Celebrated for its visionary design and deep-rooted environmental ethos, the resort has earned accolades from global sustainability platforms and luxury travel critics alike.

• Eco-Sensitive Construction: Built using prefabricated, modular techniques, the resort minimizes its environmental footprint while maximizing harmony with the jungle.

  
  

• Conservation Partnerships: One&Only actively supports gorilla conservation through collaborations with Volcanoes National Park and local initiatives that fund habitat protection.

  
  

• Community Empowerment: The resort prioritizes local employment, partners with Rwandan artisans, and hosts cultural exchange programs that benefit surrounding villages.

  
  

• Reforestation & Biodiversity: Ongoing rewilding efforts include planting native flora and creating wildlife corridors around the property.

With design recognitions and a growing list of environmental milestones, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest proves that luxury can coexist with purpose—leaving both guests and the land better for the experience.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the right time to visit One&Only Gorilla’s Nest can enhance your experience in Rwanda’s enchanting wilderness. Each season offers something unique:

• June to September – Dry Season & Peak Trekking: This is the best time for mountain gorilla trekking. Trails are dry, skies are clear, and sightings are frequent. Ideal for photography and outdoor excursions.

  
  

• December to February – Lush Views & Fewer Crowds: Short dry spells and vibrant greenery make this a quieter yet rewarding time to explore. Trekking remains excellent with moderate weather.

  
  

• March to May / October to November – Rainy Seasons: These months bring heavier rainfall, making trails muddier but the forests richer and more atmospheric. Lodging is more affordable, and tourist traffic is minimal—perfect for a serene, reflective retreat.

Regardless of the season, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest ensures unforgettable encounters with nature, comfort, and conservation.

Golden Monkey photo by David Bygott/ Flickr

How to Get There

Getting to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is seamless, scenic, and part of the overall experience:

• Fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL): The main international gateway to Rwanda, with regular flights from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

  
  

• Scenic Drive (2.5 hours): Enjoy a comfortable, resort-arranged transfer from Kigali through the emerald hills and villages of northern Rwanda. Stops at cultural landmarks or local markets can be arranged on request.

  
  

• Private Helicopter Transfers: For a quicker and more exclusive option, guests can charter a helicopter directly to the resort, soaring over the lush landscape and the Virunga range.

  
  

• Guided En Route Experiences: The resort offers curated transfers with optional cultural stops to enrich your journey—turning travel time into a meaningful immersion.

Whether by land or air, your journey to Gorilla’s Nest is the perfect prelude to the luxury and nature that await.

Top Attractions Nearby

Positioned just a few minutes from Volcanoes National Park’s headquarters, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is the perfect base for exploring Rwanda’s natural and cultural wonders:

Volcanoes National Park (5-minute drive)

• The main attraction is gorilla trekking—groups can spend an hour with habituated mountain gorillas. Other wildlife, including buffalo, forest elephants, and hyenas, roam the region.

Golden Monkey Trekking & Nature Walks (inside the park)

• These guided excursions lead through bamboo forests to spot vibrant golden monkeys and other primates. Afternoon hikes take adventurers to Musanze Caves and explore the lush volcanic terrain.

Dian Fossey’s Grave & Karisoke Research Center (accessible via hiking trails)

• Walk in the footsteps of famed primatologist Dian Fossey, visiting her grave and former research camp—vital sites in gorilla conservation history.

Mount Bisoke & Karisimbi Volcanoes

• Adventurous guests can hike to crater lakes atop these majestic volcanoes, offering stunning panoramic views over the Virunga range.

  
  

Cultural Village Experiences

• Visit nearby Kinigi villages and Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about local traditions, engage with artisans, and support community-based tourism.

These diverse attractions—combining wildlife, wilderness, and culture—make One&Only Gorilla’s Nest an extraordinary gateway to the wonders of northern Rwanda.

Mountain gorilla from Susa Group in Karisimbi thicket of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda photo by Emmanuelkwizera, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Section)

Q: Can I see gorillas from the resort?

A: No, gorillas do not roam through the resort itself. However, the resort is located just minutes from Volcanoes National Park—the gateway for guided treks to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Q: Is the gorilla trek physically demanding?

A: Yes, gorilla trekking requires moderate to high physical effort. Treks can range from 1 to 6 hours through dense rainforest and uneven terrain. Guests should be reasonably fit and prepared with appropriate hiking gear.

Q: What’s included in the stay?

A: Rates typically include luxury accommodation, full-board dining, non-alcoholic beverages, daily experiences such as nature walks or cultural immersion, and personalized butler service. Gorilla trekking permits and private transfers are available at an additional cost.

Q: Are children allowed?

A: Children are welcome at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest; however, guests must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla trekking, as required by park regulations.

Q: Is the resort eco-certified?

A: While not officially certified by third-party eco-labels, the resort operates under One&Only’s strong sustainability ethos—employing low-impact construction, sourcing local ingredients, and supporting reforestation and community-based tourism initiatives.

Takeaway

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest stands as one of Africa’s most exclusive and soulful retreats—a sanctuary where luxury meets purpose in the heart of Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains. With its striking design, immersive natural surroundings, and transformative experiences like gorilla trekking and wellness rituals, the resort appeals to discerning travelers seeking meaningful adventure and deep reconnection with nature.

From the refined lodges nestled in eucalyptus groves to the curated cultural encounters and conservation-driven ethos, every element is crafted to inspire awe and reflection. Whether you come for the wildlife, the serenity, or the soul-stirring beauty of the jungle, Gorilla’s Nest offers a rare blend of elegance and authenticity.

With limited lodges and high seasonal demand, early booking is highly recommended for those wishing to secure this once-in-a-lifetime journey into the wild heart of Rwanda.

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