Bisate Lodge
Bisate Lodge, adjacent to Volcanoes National Park, is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone, in Rwanda. From this vantage point, guests have dramatic views of the peaks of the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes rearing up through Afro-alpine forests. Bisate is Rwanda’s first genuinely luxurious and eco-sensitive safari camp, centred on Africa’s most immersive wild primate experience. For those wishing to tick off one of the ultimate bucket list experiences i.e. tracking mountain gorillas in their habitat, this is an ideal place to stay. It is within easy driving distance of the Park Headquarters, from where gorilla treks depart daily.
Bisate is more than just a lodge. Its vision of reforestation and rehabilitation means that each guest contributes to both diversity conservation and local community engagement. Here sustainable ecotourism makes a dramatic, positive and far-reaching impact on the unique flora and fauna of a precious, increasingly rare habitat. Walks on Bisate’s property offer birding and participation in the reforestation programme.
The lodge consists of 6 opulent en-suite Forest Villas and accommodates 12 guests. Each 91 square metre villa consists of a generous yet intimate combination of bedroom, reception space and bathroom, all warmed by a central fireplace and with breath taking views out across your private deck towards Mount Bisoke.
Why we like it here
It is the most exclusive lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
In Bisate’s efforts to enrich the gorilla-viewing experience for its guests, they provide depth and knowledge through evening presentations and informal chats with an on-site gorilla expert, researcher or scientist who will share his or her knowledge with guests about the charismatic creatures.
They offer an Olympus Photo Hub experience, allowing guests to make use of professional photographic equipment when out on their trek.
After a long day’s trek, enjoy a massage with an in-villa massage treatment.
The lodge offers Rwanda coffee and tea cupping / tasting.
There are many hiking possibilities from Bisate, including one to Dian Fossey’s grave and the Karisoke Research Centre.
Rwanda is situated in the heart of the Albertine Rift, which is one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions for both mammal and bird diversity.
Things to be aware of
As the minimum age for gorilla tracking is 15 years, only children of 15 years and older are allowed at Bisate.
Wi-Fi is available at all the guest’s rooms, but the lodge does not provide any Wi-Fi in the main area.
The Wi-Fi reception is reasonable to good but affected by power cuts. The lodge has a generator, but the strength of the Wi-Fi can be negatively influenced in these instances.
There is a minimum of 2 nights’ stay.