Visiting The One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Resort: An Unforgettable Luxury Experience
Seeing wild gorillas in their natural habitat is a dream come true for many nature enthusiasts. A trip to the One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Resort takes this extraordinary experience to the next level, with its breath-taking location setting the scene for unbelievable encounters.
From the moment you set foot in the resort, the pristine beauty of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda envelops you. Welcomed by a traditional performance troupe, you become part of an enchanting experience. The blend of African decor – characterized by wooden fixtures and local Imigongo artworks – harmonize with the surrounding landscape, giving you a sense of being one with nature.
The tranquility you’ll find here is impossible to replicate, and memories of the scenery and distinct scents of local fauna and flora, nightly lit bonfires, and eucalyptus and roses lining the walkways are forever etched in one’s mind. The resort is indeed a true haven, its charm only second to the exhilaration of seeing gorillas in their natural environment.
The One&Only brand has built an enviable reputation with its nature retreats. Showcasing Rwanda’s stunning landscape, Gorilla’s Nest joins its sister property Nyungwe House, opened in 2019. These two destinations offer different experiences – Nyungwe House gives you a view into tea agriculture and invites you for hiking, bird spotting, and chimpanzee treks, while Gorilla’s Nest is all about the largest apes. You’ll notice traces of this theme across the property and in the guests, adding to the restless anticipation of meeting gorillas face-to-face.
Gorilla’s Nest boasts 14 rooms and seven suites, designed to give guests expansive views and a treehouse-like feel. Privacy is a key element – the wooden terraces serve as personal viewing platforms and are opaque from the outside in. Room interiors are decked out in organic elements with a touch of traditional Rwandan Imigongo prints. The immersive experience doesn’t stop there – they light real fires to warm your bedroom in the evening and leave thoughtful, handmade gifts, making your stay all the more memorable.
Providing a contemporary take on Rwandan cuisine, the Nest, the property’s main restaurant, uses fruits, herbs, and vegetables grown in the resort’s organic garden. Guests can experience traditional Rwandan dishes while engaging with a lively local dance troupe around a fire pit. One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is not just about the accommodation and activities – seems they’ve put a great deal of emphasis on the dining experience, too.
Nestled in Rwanda’s Volcanic Range, the resort’s remote location does not mean shortage of exploration activities. You can visit the nearby Ellen Degeneres campus, a hub for gorilla conservation and scientific research, or engage in the ‘Honouring Dian Fossey Hike’ to learn about the world-renowned conservationist.
Then, there’s the resort’s spa. After a day’s trekking, you can unwind with a 75-minute treatment using local products, such as homegrown roses and coffee, combined with products from the Terres d’Afrique brand. For the wellness devotees, they offer programs encompassing scrubs and relaxing massages. They even have a private outdoor gym where guests can join yoga and meditation classes, and an outdoor pool to soak in during sunrise or sunset.
Both passionate about the local culture and knowledgeable of the area, the staff members – most of whom are locals – go the extra mile to provide attentive services, from post-trek foot care to remember-your-order kind of personal touch.
In addressing sustainability, Gorilla’s Nest is dedicated to protecting its environment. From on-site farming supplies to hiring local staff, they integrate sustainability into every aspect of their operations. They also partner with an organization supporting vulnerable female survivors of the 1994 Genocide and those living with HIV/AIDS, providing handmade gifts that guests can purchase.
As for accessibility and family accommodation, the resort features an accessible suite complete with dining options, designated parking spaces, and mobility assistance upon request. The property invites children 10 and above to enjoy activities like painting, archery, and cooking classes, among other age-appropriate activities.
Do take note that a trekking permit is required for the gorilla interaction experience and this may only be secured through an official tour operator. As for arrival, direct flights from London to Kigali are now available daily through Rwanda’s national flag carrier, Rwandair. Make sure also to prepare thoroughly for the trek, research, and arm yourself with the essentials, like a sturdy pair of gardening gloves, to avoid scratches.
Overall, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a must-visit, offering a blend of luxury and natural beauty. Combine these with exceptional customer service, and you have a unique, unforgettable travel experience.
