One&Only Gorilla's Nest

Offering an exclusive front-row seat to observe endangered mountain gorillas in the wild, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is cushioned in the foothills of the breathtaking Virunga volcano range. Guests can explore where few have been before in one of the world’s most exceptional natural locations. One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is the ultimate ultra-luxury resort in Kinigi, northwest of Rwanda and just five minutes from Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to the highest number of mountain gorillas, five dormant volcanoes and is categorised as a rainforest because its montane ecosystem.

Guests of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest receive a traditional Rwandan welcome upon arrival, as vibrant drummers can be heard as guests drive through the large wooden gates along the local volcanic stone pathway, revealing the dramatic Eucalyptus forest ahead. A signature rose welcome drink from the resort’s rose garden, or locally produced coffee is served from the Main Lodge where fireplaces burn and local African artwork can be discovered and is the place where everyone gathers after a long day of trekking.

Beautifully designed private sanctuaries seamlessly blend with the location and offer an intimate collection of 21 jungle-chic havens. Featuring 10 Forest King Lodges, four Two-Bedroom Forest Lodges, five Virunga Suites, an Ingagi and a Silverback Suite, each space is designed to frame nature, and is surrounded by Eucalyptus trees and strategically positioned on stilts. Private decks and in-room fireplaces provide guests the opportunity to live amongst the endless landscape, inviting the outside in, and allowing for a truly unforgettable African experience. Suites offer spacious living and dining areas, as well as a true natural experience with outdoor bathtubs high amongst the trees, offering ultimate privacy. The design is modern with an African contemporary feel, showcasing the hues of the surrounding vistas, and colours of the earth and natural, local volcanic rock, with touches of black and white Rwandan Imigongo patterns. 

Guests enjoy meals in the main restaurant, Nest, offering dining both indoor and out, as well as a private dining area for up to 22 guests. Executive Chef Brandon Souris and his team focus on local and organic ingredients, making use of the abundant produce from local farmers as well as his own Chef’s Garden. Similar to One&Only Nyungwe House, the culinary team work on a new menu daily with a focus on Rwandan and African influences, based on guests’ preferences and dietary needs. Private outdoor dining experiences, barbeques and picnics are also an option for guests, alternatively lighter meals are available at the Pool Bar throughout the day. Nest Bar serves classic cocktails with a modern twist incorporating rose water and Eucalyptus from the surrounding forest.

One&Only Spa in partnership with South African brand, Terres d’Afrique, offers guests holistic treatments using plant-based African ingredients and provides two treatment suites in a private building immersed in nature. Guests can select treatments tailored to a specific area of the body and three signature treatments, only found at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, pay homage to the location, taking inspiration from the local community and surroundings, including the Forest Coffee and Coconut Treatment, The Gorilla’s Nest Essence of Rose, and Post Trek & Travel. Guests also have access to Club One facilities offering a relaxation room, an open-air heated pool and plunge pool, as well as the Fitness Centre with steam room and sauna, and the Pool Bar offering healthy options with fruit juices evolving into evening cocktails.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is home to Jack Hanna’s Cottage, once owned by the renowned conservationist, the space has been restored to continue the heritage of Jack’s work in Rwanda, preserving the original wood flooring, pieces of signature antique furniture and mementos from Jack’s time in Rwanda. Guests of the resort can browse the library to learn more about the gorillas and the conservation work to protect them, spend a relaxing evening in the games room complete with snooker table and board games, or retire to the snug to watch films. The cottage hosts regular events from insightful talks from local conservation experts, to cooking classes and private cigar and whisky experiences.

To discover the destination, guests are on the doorstep of the Volcanoes National Park, and in addition to the world-famous gorilla trekking, they can explore hikes, volcanoes, bird life, ancient caves and track golden monkeys. A diverse range of experiences led by the Experience Team at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest authentically immerse guests in the culture and traditions of Rwanda, guest have the opportunity to take part in a guided tasting of a variety of locally grown coffee beans sourced from al female-run cooperative coffee farm, enjoy yoga on one of the outdoor decks, learn photography, or cycle to a nearby community where they can learn about Rwandan culture and history, the art of basket weaving and enjoy the traditional dance and music performances to name a few.

Located just two and a half hours from Kigali International Airport, guests can appreciate the scenic drive through the rolling hills of the countryside and fascinating towns, or take a breathtaking 25 minute flight in a helicopter departing from the airport and landing at the resort’s private helipad.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is the second One&Only in Rwanda, joining One&Only Nyungwe House which opened in October 2018, offering guests the ultimate ultra-luxury twin-centre experience to discover this fascinating country. One&Only Nyungwe House and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest are part of One&Only’s evolved portfolio, including resorts in exceptional locations of authentic and wild nature. For more information or reservations, please visit: oneandonlygorillasnest.com