Gorilla's Nest: Our full report
North of Kinigi, Gorilla's Nest is just a short drive from the headquarters of Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park.
Gorilla's Nest has been taken over by One&Only, and has undergone significant refurbishments, and what a transformation it is. It reopened under its new ownership in 2019 as an extremely luxurious lodge. We are in the process of updating this webpage but please call us to find out the latest information.
Gorilla's Nest is a little north of Kinigi, and very close to the main headquarters of Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park – from where all the hikes to see the gorillas depart in the morning. Previously a larger and good quality hotel, it was taken over by Dubai World in 2008, and was undergoing lengthy and considerable refurbishments. The ownership changed hands over the years, and we had no word on when the lodge would be re-opening.
One&Only took over Gorilla's Nest, and the adjacent Jack Hanna's House in early 2017, and they now have a beautiful lodge in keeping with their other properties, including Nyungwe House, just outside Nyungwe Forest National Park. We have high expectations for this extremely smart, high-end lodge.
Our view
Gorilla's Nest is a well-appointed, highly luxurious accommodation option, with very friendly and professional staff. The size and layout of the property gives it a resort feel, and because of this it does perhaps lose the personalised touch that some of the smaller options in this area can offer. However, the location is outstanding, both as a base for trekking to the gorillas, and to enjoy the scenery and many other activities on offer. Overall this is a very good inclusion to a high-end Rwandan safari.
Rwanda expert
Geographics
- Location
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
- Ideal length of stay
- We would recommend a stay of three or four nights at Gorilla's Nest - though this will be dependent upon how many times you trek to see the gorillas, and if you wish to partake in any other activities.
- Directions
- Gorilla's Nest is a drive of approximately 2½–3 hours from Rwanda's capital, Kigali.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- We did not get the opportunity to eat at Gorillas Nest when we visited. However, we expect that the quality and variety of food would be comparable to that at sister lodge Nyungwe House. The food there was exceptionally good, and easily matches that of any top restaurant anywhere in the world. With advance notice, special diets and requests can be catered or
- Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is possible.
- Drinks included
- Soft drinks and water are included. Alcoholic drinks are extra.
Special interests
- Luxury
- With luxurious private free standing villas, heated infinity pool, spa and fine dining, Gorillas Nest is an exclusive base to trek the mountain gorillas. You’ll experience top level service throughout.
- See ideas for Luxury in Rwanda
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children aged 12 years and above are welcome.
- Generally recommended for children
- Young children are not hugely encouraged, though they will be made to feel welcome. Gorilla's Nest has an adult atmosphere and so is more suited to older or well-behaved and mature children. Note that the minimum age for trekking gorillas is 15 years old.
- Notes
- The pool is unfenced, so younger children should be supervised in this area.
Communications
- Communications
- Cellphone and WiFi connection throughout.
- TV & radio
- There is satellite TV in every villa.
- Water supply
- Borehole
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- We understand there are first aid kits on site, and some staff members are first aid trained. The closest hospital is in Kirambo, a 35-minute drive from Nyungwe House.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- Gated and fenced with security personnel on the property.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are located in each room and in the main area. Staff trained in their use.
Activities
Birdwatching
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Helicopter
Primate trekking
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- Included. 24 hour service.
- Money
- There is an electronic safe in each room. It is possible to exchange small amounts of USD.
- Accepted payment on location
- isa and Mastercard are excepted.
Other lodges in Volcanoes National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Mountain Gorilla View
With superb views of the volcanoes, the relaxed Mountain Gorilla View Lodge on the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo is well-placed for gorilla trekking.
Sabyinyo Silverback
In a fine location close to Volcanoes National Park, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is a very comfortable lodge with wonderful views.
Virunga Lodge
Virunga Lodge is a consciously environmental lodge in a stunning location, about an hour's drive from Volcanoes National Park headquarters.
Bisate Lodge
The exclusive and luxurious Bisate Lodge, close to Volcanoes National Park, is one of the best places to stay in the area.
Bishops House
In the town of Musanze, a half-hour drive from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, Bishop's House is well placed for gorilla trekking.
Kwitonda Lodge
Close to the edge of Volcanoes National Park, the luxurious Kwitonda Lodge opened in 2019. Ask your Expert Africa specialist for the latest news.
Tiloreza Eco Lodge
Five Volcanoes offers mid-range hotel accommodation around 15 minutes' drive from Volcanoes National Park headquarters.
