Reviews of Bisate Lodge

"Bisate Lodge is built on a re-forested hillside, with views of two volcanoes, on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in the northwest of Rwanda. Volcanic stone stairways lead to the spacious central lodge that includes the dining area with a fireplace, bar, and seating areas around a second fireplace. Beyond the lodge are six spacious villas all connected by similar volcanic stone stairways. The villas are luxurious and comfortable with a king size bed, seating areas and coffee station. A fireplace opens to the bedroom and bathroom suite, which includes a large soaking tub in addition to a stone shower, double vanity and flush toilet. A long balcony provides sweeping views of the nearby volcanoes and villages. The fireplaces were most welcome on chilly mornings and evenings.

The meals were outstanding. Lunch and dinner in particular featured local dishes…the local potatoes and beans were especially delicious and the chef shared his recipes with us. Individual tables were set for each group of guests. The bar offers a number of unique cocktails. And, when we left, the friendly Bisate staff sent us on our way with packed lunches.

But the most surprising part about Bisate is that it is located above nearby villages. The Lodge fits in very well and feels very remote in its forested location. Bisate has a plant nursery that is growing native plants and trees that are being used in the reforestation project around the lodge. Local villagers are employed in the nursery and in the reforestation effort, which can be seen from the hiking trails around the lodge. We took advantage of the opportunity to learn about this effort from Jimmy, Bisate’s agronomist and resident of a nearby village, during several short hikes. We each planted a tree to contribute to the reforestation effort. P.S. Jimmy is also a chameleon whisperer; he spotted no less than four of the tiny creatures during our hikes! Jimmy also keeps Bisate’s extensive vegetable garden, which yields the most delicious lettuces among many other things.

We took two additional hikes while at Bisate. The golden monkey trek took us through fields of flowers and between potato fields. We had the opportunity to see how farming is done there and found a family of mischievous golden monkeys at the edge of a potato field near a bamboo forest. The hike was very easy.

Of course, the highlight of our visit was the very emotional hour we spent with a mountain gorilla family. We were accompanied by a ranger, gorilla trackers and a porter we hired to carry our camera backpack. She also helped us across wet, slippery portions of the trail, which was even more important to us than carrying the backpack. Do hire a porter. We were able to choose the degree of difficulty (relatively easy) of our trek to the mountain gorilla family and were paired with two other trekkers who had chosen a similar level of difficulty.

Gaiters are advisable for the treks due to the muddy conditions, but no need to pack them - Bisate provides them for your use. And, your muddy hiking shoes will be returned to you cleaner than before your trek. During our visit in early February we had a combination of rain and sunshine, but the rain didn’t prohibit our outdoor activities. Because of the elevation temperatures at night were quite chilly.

We arrived at Bisate Lodge with our driver/guide from Kigali, an interesting four-hour drive. Bisate does not have its own guides, so instead utilizes guests’ private driver/guides to transport them to Volcanoes National Park headquarters, to the beginning of any trek you choose and then back to Bisate Lodge.

Don’t miss Bisate Lodge when visiting Rwanda and Volcanoes National Park." See all these reviews: 12n in Tanzania; 10n in Rwanda; 8n in Kenya

"Bisate was an absolute gem of a lodge!

Upon arrival, we were first in awe of the beautiful design. Built into the side of a mountain, the lodge is incredibly unique and stunningly designed; we loved that the villas and common areas capitalized on the local aesthetic.

Our hosts, Jomi and Hadley, and the staff were incredibly accommodating and personable; we truly felt as though we were staying at our home away from home. And we must tip our hat to the chef who crafted delicious fare meal after meal and was kind enough to share recipes for some of our favorite dishes.

Simply stated, we would return to this lodge in a heartbeat and highly recommend it to others. You will not be disappointed!" See all these reviews: 4n in Rwanda; 1n in Kenya

"Beautifully designed lodge, individual villas are stylish, big and with great views. Located rather close to the headquarter of the park, which is a bonus. Top service, very detail oriented and always with a smile. Restaurant with great and healthy food, we loved the evening with Rwandan food.

The focus on community and conservation project is admirable, one should definitely take the community walk to the nearby village with Aline, a highlight of our trip!" See all these reviews: 7n in Rwanda; 4n in Tanzania

"villa 6 is at the very top and is pretty exhausting to reach but it is worth it" See all these reviews: 7n in Rwanda

"Fabulous lodge, with stunning views and exceptionally welcoming staff team.
Beatiful room & bathroom.
Excellent choice of food which was all fresh and tasty.

Interesting to learn about the conservation and local community work with the village.

Only issue would be the need to go to the Park Headquarters to then come back towards the lodge to start the treking, however understand that is out of the lodge management hands." See all these reviews: 6n in Rwanda