Place: Wilderness Bisate lies in the natural amphitheatre of an extinct volcanic crater – the word bisate means ‘pieces’ in Kinyarwanda, describing how the cone has been worn away by natural erosion. Perched dramatically on the edge of Volcanoes National Park (VNP), in north-west Rwanda, with spectacular misty views of the brooding Bisoke and Karisimbi volcano peaks rising through the Afro-alpine forests – Rwanda is one of the most thrilling safari destinations in Africa. The lodge is within easy driving distance of Park Headquarters, from where once-in-a-lifetime gorilla treks depart daily. While gorilla trekking is the star attraction, nearby Volcanoes National Park offers other adventures: climbing Mount Bisoke, visit to the Gorilla Guardian Village, golden monkey trekking, or a visit to Dian Fossey’s burial site. On lodge property, explore nature trails where birds proliferate, and a camera trap having recorded a first: a silverback gorilla lumbering along a path. Plant a tree towards Bisate’s reforestation project, helping to lure wildlife back to the area. Or meet members of the surrounding community whose lives are so integral to the lodge.
Wildlife: Aside from the area’s iconic mountain gorillas, other mammals that call Volcanoes National Park home include the golden monkey, side-striped jackal, serval, black-fronted duiker, buffalo, elephant, tree hyrax, bushbuck and Egyptian mongoose. In addition, a variety of squirrel and genet species are to be found here. Of the 178 bird species in the area, at least 13 are endemic to the Virunga area such as Archer’s robin chat, mountain black boubou, strange weaver, Rwenzori batis, mountain masked apalis and Rwenzori (collared) apalis.
Accommodation: Since opening in 2017, Wilderness Bisate has been awarded numerous accolades for tis visionary sustainability impact, and continues to inspire superlatives. Both the architecture of the lodge, and the interiors of the six opulent en-suite Forest Villas beautifully embody the traditions of Rwandan royalty. Edifying cultural interactions, sophisticated, health-conscious dining, and exuberant hospitality – all make your stay superior.
Purpose: The vision of Wilderness Bisate is to be a model of conservation tourism in Rwanda. Its pioneering reforestation and rehabilitation projects has each guest partnering with us in contributing to biodiversity conservation and local community upliftment, making a far-reaching positive impact on an iconic endangered species: the mountain gorilla.
Unique Selling Points
- Best place for a meaningful and informed gorilla experience
- The most innovative, responsible, visionary and luxurious lodge adjacent to Volcanoes National Park
- Reforestation, community engagement and interactions all create an enriched experience
- Bisate Kwanda Day Lounge – The first of its kind in Rwanda, enhancing our guest experience and comfort by accommodating earlier arrivals and later departures