wilderness safaris bisate lodge rwanda

Wilderness Bisate

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• Excellent 95
• Very Good 7
• All languages ( 103 )
• English ( 93 )
• French ( 6 )
• German ( 4 )

" Odds are you are here to do gorilla trekking. Do consider going twice as one trek may yield a more limited exposure. "

" Make your travel arrangements with the availability of the brilliant separate day lodge in mind. "

" If you have any mobility issues then stay in lodge one or two. "

" The day lodge can be used for your last day - allowing you to spend a few more hours there after you have checked out. "

" Loved the hot water bottle in your bed and the tea/coffee as a wake-up "

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WILDERNESS BISATE - Lodge Reviews (Ruhengeri, Rwanda) - Tripadvisor

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS:

• This Wilderness Safaris lodge is Rwanda’s most beautifully designed, luxury retreat, set in 42 hectares of land with stunning views of Mount Bisoke.
• Bisate Lodge enjoys a truly dramatic natural setting at the heart of an amphitheatre formed by eroded volcano cones. Six conically shaped thatched forest villas are tucked into the lush forest setting, spacious verandas opening out onto magnificent views of the surrounding peaks.
• The traditional shapes of the suites are a nod to Rwandan culture, while the sumptuous interiors maximise comfort and warmth while making the most of the scenic views.
• Blending the traditional with the modern, the exquisite guest areas features floor to ceiling windows through which guests can marvel at the world outside while enjoying a refreshing drink at the elegant bar or the contemporary wine cellar.
• Activities in the area include gorilla tracking, cultural village visits, sightings of the golden monkey, birding and tours to places of interest such as Lakes Ruhondo and Burera, the Musanze Caves and the grave of Dian Fossey.

EXCLUSIVE LUXE VOYAGER VIP BENEFITS & BEST PRICE

We negotiate rates & benefits for our clients directly with the hotels’ senior management. Our rates match or in many cases are lower than the best online rate for the property. Our clients also enjoy a suite of extra VIP privileges and recognition while staying at a partner hotel.

• Complimentary room upgrade on arrival.
• Daily complimentary buffet breakfast for two.
• Up to $100 dining or spa credit per stay, and or in-house dining / spa discounts.
• Welcome amenities (wine/chocolates/fruit) and card from the GM.
• Complimentary private airport transfers.
• Complimentary roll-away bed if required.
• Early check-in and late check-out.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi.
• Enhanced recognition through VIP status at all touch points in the guest experience.

A complete or partial suite of VIP benefits will be offered, subject to the property T&C, including availability, category of room & length of stay.

ACTIVITIES:

Chat with one of our expert travel designers today to begin planning your perfect vacation

Call: +852 9465 4577

Email: [email protected].

Bisate Lodge, adjacent to Volcanoes National Park, combines the bucket-list gorilla trek with a pioneering vision of reforestation and community partnership. Bisate is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone, with dramatic views of the peaks of the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes rearing up through Afro-alpine forests. Encountering one of the gorilla groups in the nearby Volcanoes National Park is a unique experience. Six opulent en-suite forest villas maximise comfort and striking views of ancient volcanoes while adhering to environmentally responsible principles and reflecting the rich culture of rural Rwanda. Beautiful, domed bedrooms come alive with richly decorated interiors while the reception space is aglow with warmth from a central fireplace.

Bisate is within easy driving distance of the Park Headquarters, from where gorilla treks depart daily. Walks on Bisate’s property offer birding and participation in the reforestation programme. Bisate is Rwanda’s first genuinely luxurious and eco-sensitive safari lodge, centred on Africa’s most immersive wild primate experience. Natural history tours should also be on the list of things to do involving a visit to Dian Fossey’s grave and research centre as well as local museum. Rwanda is also renowned for its coffee beans – be sure to embark on a delectable coffee tastings or explore the culture and community on a guided walk.

Six opulent en-suite forest villas are warmed by a central fireplace and have breathtaking views from the deck. Both the architecture and interiors are rooted in Rwandan cultural traditions.

Twin/Double Rooms

Bisate’s sophisticated architectural and interior design is rooted in Rwandan building tradition as exemplified in the design of the Royal Palace of the traditional monarch. This spherical, synthetic thatched structure echoes the thousands of hills that dot the Rwandan landscape, while the richly detailed interior exhibits surfaces and screens made from a variety of woven materials with strong resonance in Rwandan culture. Each 91 square metre Forest 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. With only six villas, the real generosity in the Rwandan context is the amount of private and exclusive space that surrounds Bisate, cosseting it in a rare natural landscape brimming with Albertine Rift biodiversity and beauty.

The main area comprises a lounge, dining and bar area, wine cellar and viewing deck. Both the architecture and interiors are rooted in Rwandan cultural traditions.

From the outside, Bisate’s structures mimic traditional huts on the while interiors are sumptuous, offering comfort, warmth and luxury. In addition to six spacious suites, the lodge has a large living area with fireplaces and a cosy wine cellar. You will be able to enjoy walks through the 26-hectare reserve and learn about the reforestation project. The national park headquarters are located within easy driving distance, from where gorilla treks depart daily.

Area & Location

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Volcanoes National Park | Rwanda

Bisate Lodge

Explore bisate lodge.

Bisate Lodge has truly raised the bar for eco-luxury travel in Rwanda and East Africa. Operated by the esteemed Wilderness Safari group, the lodge not only offers uniquely designed and outstanding accommodation but also a range of exclusive and immersive local experiences. Perfect for travellers looking for a rare and enchanting sense of stunning Rwanda.

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Awarded: Gold

Bisate Lodge is situated within the amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone in the heart of the Albertine Rift. Lying just outside the Southern border of Volcanoes National Park and close to the town of Kinigi, the lodge is rare in that the location, on a hillside gazing down on the slopes of Mount Bisoke and shielded from the lights of the nearby villages, make guests feel as if they are actually inside the National Park.

Bisate Lodge can work in conjunction with Wilderness Safari’s other Rwanda property,  Magashi Camp . Situated in  Akagera National Park , this combination offers two very different Rwanda wildlife experiences.

With only six en-suite forest villas, guests can enjoy an incredibly private and exclusive space amid the landscape. Designed in a typically Rwandan style using all natural materials, the buildings are domed, clad in dried and woven grass and very unique in contract to other hotel properties in the area. The interiors of the rooms are contemporary and soft with dashes of lively colour and all open out onto bamboo balconies facing the forest valley and volcanic peaks.

Communal Areas

Bisate has a main lounge area with an elegant bar, wine cellar, central fireplace and viewing deck to wile away an afternoon surveying the forest from this elevated sanctuary.

The lodge offers a range of enriching and involved experiences. As well as captivating gorilla trekking experiences, guests have the opportunity to extend their knowledge of the natural wildlife with those who are committed and passionate about it. Evening presentations and opportunities to chat with an onsite gorilla expert, researcher or scientist ensure that guests can return home with a well-rounded wildlife experience.

The property also offers guided nursery visits to meet their agronomist and the opportunity to get involved in some indigenous tree planting (The lodge has a supply of garden gloves for those wishing to get stuck in!)

Guided birding and nature walks can be taken on the property and visits to the local community can be organised as well as running trails, wine tasting and documentary film screenings.

All Inclusive

Find out when is best to visit

DRIER PERIOD

A slightly drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.

Rwanda is just two degrees south of the equator; this equatorial location means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Rwanda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on temperature, which is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.

Its equatorial location does, however, mean that rainfall is likely throughout the year. There are main two wet seasons in Rwanda; the first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November.

The best time to visit Rwanda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.

Whilst rain is possible throughout the year, during this period rainfall tends to be more intense and prolonged.

A brief drier interlude before the more consistent rains arrive in October.

A slightly drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in October.

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Wilderness Bisate

Romantic safari lodge in a dramatic setting amongst the volcanoes.

• Indian Ocean Islands
• South America
• Volcanoes National Park

Wilderness Bisate enjoys a truly dramatic natural setting at the heart of an amphitheatre formed by eroded volcano cones. Six conically shaped thatched forest villas are tucked into the lush forest setting with spacious verandas opening out onto magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. The traditional shapes of the suites are a nod to Rwandan culture, while the sumptuous interiors maximise comfort and warmth while making the most of the scenic views. 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 breathtaking views out across your private deck towards Mount Bisoke.

Blending the traditional with the modern, the exquisite guest areas feature floor to ceiling windows through which you can marvel at the world outside while enjoying a refreshing drink at the elegant bar or the contemporary wine cellar. Fusing local Rwandan flavours with contemporary international cuisine, enjoy wholesome farm-to-table dishes including wild honey, avocado, climbing beans, mango, kale, papaya, plantain, passion fruit, pineapple, macadamia nuts and chilies. Fresh produce is sourced from the onsite kitchen garden. A highlight for many is the Rwandan coffee.

The wine cellar is spectacular and a great spot for a romantic dinner and sipping on a fine glass of wine. Activities in the area include gorilla tracking, cultural village visits, sightings of the golden monkey, birding and tours to places of interest such as Lakes Ruhondo and Burera, the Musanze Caves and the grave of Dian Fossey. Enjoy a wonderful couples treatment in the spa after a captivating day trekking.

What we love about Wilderness Bisate

• You can both spend wonderful time in the lodge’s nursery and help in the area’s reforestation by planting a tree.
• Join the lodge’s chef when he ventures out to the local market for the day’s fresh ingredients and meet the warm and welcoming people.
• Set off on a pilgrimage to the grave of Dian Fossey, famed for her research on the mountain gorilla.

Perfect for a romantic getaway

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Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake you stay to any of our destinations

Our favourite experiences in the Volcanoes National Park

Visiting the volcanoes national park allows access to a range of unique experiences, tailormade tours, stay here on these inspirational journeys, i dream of travel that leaves our world a better place.

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• Buhanga Eco Park
• Dian Fossey Museum
• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
• Musanze Caves
• Dian Fossey Memorial Hike
• Mount Bisoke Crater Hike
• Mount Gahinga Hike
• Mount Karisimbi Hike
• Reptiles & Amphibians
• History of the Park
• DeGeneres Campus
• Covid 19 Gorilla Guidelines
• Accessibility
• Responsible Travel
• 1 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek

2 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour

3 day rwanda gorilla trek, 4 days rwanda gorillas (2 treks), 4 days rwanda gorillas & lake kivu.

• 4 Days Rwanda Gorillas & Golden Monkeys
• 5 Days Gorillas & Karisimbi Hike
• 7 Days Rwanda Safari
• Golden Monkeys
• Mountain Gorillas
• Mount Muhabura
• Virunga Birdlife
• Gorilla Trekking
• Bird Watching
• Golden Monkey Tracking
• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience
• Kwita Izina
• Nature Walks
• Voluntourism
• Getting There
• Gorilla Etiquette
• Gorilla Permits
• Tour Operators
• Trekking Guidelines

Bisate Lodge

Bisate Lodge is an ultimate high end world class eco-lodge in the Volcanoes National Park. With over 34 awards collected from just 2017, this is the ultimate place to stay while on a luxury gorilla safari in Africa. The lodge can accommodate only a maximum of 12 tourists in six luxury ensuite villas facing the Mount Bisoke.

Description

Bisate Lodge is a luxury hospitality establishment and it is rated the best high end eco-lodge in the Volcanoes National Park. It consists of six forest villas set over viewing the lush forest of Volcanoes National Park in Northwestern Rwanda. The six ensuite villas embody the unique Rwandan culture and edify cultural exchange, superlative accommodation and exuberant hospitality. The suites encompass warmth, comfort and panoramic views whilst retaining the ecological principles and culture of Rwanda.

This luxury lodge was officially opened to visitors in 2017. It is owned and managed by the Wilderness Safaris properties that are spread over East and Southern Africa. It is a perfect choice for luxury travelers going on gorilla safaris in the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda.

Bisate Lodge enjoys a dramatic natural setting at the heart of an ampitheatre formed by eroded volcano cones. The forest villas are set with spacious verandas offering scenic views of the sorrouding peaks of the Virunga Mountains.

Forest Villas

The villas are built in traditional shapes of suites that depict Rwandan culture. All the six ensuite rooms are designed in the traditions of Rwanda royalty, and it is among the most beautiful nature lodges in Africa.

Each villa consist of an intimate combination of bedroom, reception space, bathroom, a fire place to keep you warm during your stay and a private deck where you can relax after your gorilla trek.

In addition to six spacious suites, the lodge has a large living area with fireplaces and a cosy wine cellar. You will be able to enjoy walks through the 26-hectare reserve and learn about the reforestation project. The national park headquarters are located within easy driving distance, from where gorilla treks depart daily.

An intimate Lodge in the Virunga Mountains

Since 2017, the lodge has won over 34 Awards in Luxury Accommodation Awards. The lodge accommodates up to a maximum of only 12 tourists a day. Therefore an early booking is highly recommended if you would like to stay at this beautiful world class lodge.

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Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge

One-of-a-kind, authentic, eco-design

Bisate Lodge, Ruhengeri, Rwanda

+250 788-315-269

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At a Glance

A series of otherworldly spherical fiber-thatched pods built into the side of an eroded volcanic cone make up the extraordinary Bisate Lodge, which sits adjacent to Volcanoes National Park. The Wilderness Safaris property draws its design inspiration from the King’s Palace at Nyanza, formerly the seat of Rwanda’s last traditional monarchs. Each of the six suites has a bedroom area and a grand bathroom with a deep soaking tub and a shower carved out of volcanic rock—with impressive views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Interiors reflect Rwandan craftsmanship, incorporating locally made woven baskets and colorful kitenge fabrics, and the emerald green in the chandeliers, created from recycled glass, represents the green hills of Rwanda’s countryside. Imigongo tiles with geometric patterns also turn up throughout the property. From this fabulous home base, guests can go gorilla trekking, visit local villages and lakes, take birding walks and plant trees as part of Bisate’s forest rehabilitation program or enjoy a private meal in the wine cellar.

**The Standout:**The extraordinary architecture of the thatched suites, which sit flush **Don’t Miss:**The community-oriented outreach programs, including the reforestation project, which is adding trees back to the land and attracting silverback gorillas into new areas

Indagare Loves

• Visiting nearby villages
• Gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park with incredible guides
• The design, both exterior (suites are clad in swatches of recycled plastic made to look like thatch) and interior (highlighting the best of traditional Rwandan handcrafted treasures)

On a stunning hillside near Volcanoes National Park, a series of thatched huts that resemble peanut shells appear almost like a mirage. Volcanic stone steps lead up to the main building, which houses the lounge, bar, dining area and the lodge's six suites. Fiber-thatch, which looks like leaf thatch but is made from recycled plastic strips, adorns each structure and is a testament to the focus on sustainable design throughout Bisate. Volcanic stone walls and fireplaces emphasize the grandeur and the durability of the surrounding volcanoes, which are always on view from the terraces, where black and white striped chairs and loungers invite all-day lingering before and after gorilla-trekking.

The six suites consist of a bedroom area and a large bathroom with a soaking tub, both with knock-out views from floor-to-ceiling windows. Interiors draw on traditional elements of Rwanda such as the bright colorful fabrics of the Great Lakes region. The emerald green in the chandeliers of recycled glass pay tribute to the deep green hills of Rwanda’s countryside. The traditional craft, Imigongo—geometric-patterned tiles made from cow dung—appear in spaces like the wine cellar, which is a perfect spot for a private meal. The culinary program at Bisate is incredible, given the property's remoteness: guests can enjoy delicious sweet potato gnocchi and mezze platters at lunch and fare including butternut squash with wild rice, chickpeas and feta for dinner.

While the rates at Bisate do not include gorilla permits, which must be arranged separately, activities offered by the lodge include trekking to see the gorillas and the golden monkeys but also visiting local villages and lakes, birding walks and participating in the forest rehabilitation program. The lodge has an agronomist who is in charge of an ambitious reforestation project, and guests can spend time meeting with him and planting a sapling to help increase the gorilla habitat. And after a long day of trekking, there's no better way to relax than with an in-room massage.

It is common on a visit to Volcanoes to primate trek on your final day in the region (often before flying out of the country on late flights that same day) and all lodges have early check-out times. To solve this problem, Bisate recently unveiled a first-of-its-kind stylish new day lounge called Kwanda located at the base of Bisate Lodge. Kwanda offers four spacious en-suite relaxation rooms, each with a bathroom and lounge area allowing guests to shower and change or also opt for an in-room massage before leaving property. The lounge has a spacious circular open-plan featuring a traditional center fireplace, comfortable leather couches for lounging and the Bisate Boutique, which is stocked with local art and artisanal crafts. Guests can also enjoy lunch at the Bisate Kwanda restaurant (don’t miss the pizzas from Bisate’s brand new pizza oven!), which has both indoor and outdoor seating - the lounge is set in Bisate’s organic vegetable garden. The day lounge makes it even more challenging to leave the property and this option also prevents guests from needing to pay for a day-room once back in Kigali before flights out of the country. A win-win all around.

Who Should Stay

Adventurers seeking the thrill of gorilla trekking, authenticity and ultimate intimacy and luxury.

Who Should Not Stay

Anyone with mobility issues; there are a lot of steps to climb to and from rooms. Also larger groups or people who are looking for a communal experience with other guests, as rooms are spread out and the emphasis is more on privacy than camaraderie. This lodge is also not for those looking for the amenities of a larger resort. If a spa, pool and wellness center are of interest than One&Only Gorilla's Nest is the better option.

Written by Melissa Biggs Bradley

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Wilderness Bisate

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

PROPERTY FACILITIES

Eco-Friendly

AVAILABLE SERVICES

Laundry Service

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Is the Wilderness Bisate for Me?

Wilderness Bisate is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone and has dramatic views of the peaks of the volcanoes, Bisoke and Karisimbi, rearing up through the Afro-alpine forests of nearby Volcanoes National Park. Six luxurious en-suite Forest Villas maximise comfort and views, while retaining environmental principles and reflecting the culture of rural Rwanda. Each guest contributes to Bisate’s biodiversity conservation and local community projects – making a far-reaching impact on an iconic endangered species: the mountain gorilla.

Aside from tracking one of the several habituated gorilla groups, activities include visiting nearby natural attractions, hiking to Dian Fossey’s burial site, and observing the Park’s group of endangered endemic golden monkey. Walks on Bisate’s property offer birding and participation in the reforestation programme.

INSIDER’S TIP: Wilderness Bisate is within easy driving distance of Volcanoes National Park Headquarters, from where gorilla treks depart daily.

Wilderness Bisate Photo Gallery

Wilderness bisate rooms.

The Wilderness Bisate has 6 rooms. Select a room for more details.

Twin/Double Villas

Although spacious (each villa measures 91 square metres), the Forest Villas feel warm and intimate, thanks to the carefully designed layout which includes a reception area, luxury bedroom and en-suite bathroom – all warmed by a generous central fireplace.

With only six villas, the true luxury lies in the exclusivity and privacy that surrounds Bisate and the rare, raw beauty of its setting, tucked into the phenomenal abundance of Albertine Rift biodiversity with glorious views in every direction.

Room facilities

Activities offered by wilderness bisate, activities on site.

Bird Watching

Activities off site

Cultural Tour

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More about Wilderness Bisate

• Activities Offered

Wilderness Bisate – Gorilla Trekking *

The legendary Virunga Mountains in the north-east are home to volcanoes, swathes of cloud forest and half the world’s total population of endangered mountain gorillas. The primates of Rwanda are unparalleled, and Wilderness Bisate is the perfect base for mountain gorilla trekking. This thrilling excursion takes place from Volcanoes National Park headquarters where guests are allocated to one of the twelve habituated gorilla families for a one-hour awe-inspiring encounter.

* Gorilla Trekking Permits, per person, at an additional cost.

Wilderness Bisate – Golden Monkey Trekking

View this beautifully-coloured primate, which is endemic to the area and lives in groups of between 30 to 80 individuals in the Park’s bamboo forest.

Wilderness Bisate – Guided Walks In Volcanoes National Park

Set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, and an easy drive to the park gate, Wilderness Bisate is located in a vantage point that feels part of the park, offering breathtaking views of six volcanoes, including Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno.

A full-day guided hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke (3 711 metres) can be strenuous, however, is well worth the effort, offering sweeping views of the rainforest and crater lake. Explore the diversity of habitats, and visibly discover the flourishing wildlife.

Wilderness Bisate – Nursery Visit & Tree Planting

One of the Wilderness Bisate agronomists will show you around the tree nursery and help you plant a sapling as part of our visionary reforestation project. Includes a visit to the Bamboo Greenhouse to see our greater indigenous tree nursery efforts.

Wilderness Bisate – Meet The Community

Guided visit to the nearby community and members of the cooperative, including the farmers who cultivate and sell their vegetables to Wilderness Bisate.

Wilderness Bisate – Hike To Dian Fossey’s Grave & Karisoke

A spectacular, challenging hike to Dian Fossey’s burial site and the ruins of her Karisoke Research Centre, set in the saddle of Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes at an elevation of some 3 000 metres.

Wilderness Bisate – Bisate Kwanda Offering

Bisate Kwanda accommodates early arrivals and later departures, providing more flexibility with transfers in and out of the lodge. Further enhancing our guest experience, the offering at Bisate Kwanda will allow guests to shower, change, have a light meal, visit the Wilderness Bisate Boutique stocked with items from Rwanda (purchases at an additional cost), have a massage (treatments at an additional cost), or simply relax in the informal lounge with fireplace, while enjoying the sweeping views overlooking the organic vegetable garden and the reforestation efforts towards Volcanoes National Park.

Kwanda is a Kinyarwanda word meaning growth or expansion; a place to gather; a gift – all three of which perfectly sum up the day lounge’s unique offering. Located close to the main lodge, tucked out of sight, Bisate Kwanda has local craftspeople to thank for its uniquely Rwandan flavour. From hand-tooled wooden utensils and food boards to delicate crockery, striking entrance floors and hallways, volcanic rock walls and facings, hand-woven baskets and placemats, and garden pots, everything has been designed and hand-crafted by Rwandans to create a truly authentic ambience.

Wilderness Bisate – Wilderness & Olympus, A Visionary Partnership *

Wilderness and Olympus have joined forces to use their high-end services and combined passion for wildlife photography to ensure the ongoing conservation and protection of Africa’s remote wilderness areas, whilst contributing to the empowerment of local people through conservation education.

We are proud to partner with a like-minded company like Olympus. Together we not only share a love of wildlife photography, we hold a similar set of values and ideals about making a bigger, positive impact on the world and our place in it.

The Olympus Tough TG-5 camera is the ultimate partner for the most challenging adventures, like gorilla trekking or any other activities in Volcanoes National Park. The Olympus Tough! Camera is waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, freeze proof, and dustproof for adventure travels. It features 4K video and RAW capture for the perfect pictures, and videos, whilst exploring. The waterproof performance allows one to take the best pictures in the rainforest, and the camera is robust with an interior protective structure. The cameras ability to deal with low light is key to a great image of the gorillas, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The camera is lightweight and easy to operate, ideal for hiking or to use during a community village visit at Bisate.

* Olympus Photo Hub experience dependent on camera availability.

Wilderness Bisate – The Ellen DeGeneres Campus Of The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund *

Established in 1967, the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund works to protect and study gorillas, and their habitats, as well as to empower people who live near their forest home. With a team of hundreds working in Rwanda and the DRC, the Fossey Fund is the world’s longest-running and largest organisation dedicated entirely to gorilla conservation.

In 2022, the organisation moved to its first permanent, purpose built home, the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Nestled in a beautiful, reforested landscape near the Volcanoes National Park it is worth visiting, with a stop at the campus easy to add during a stay at Wilderness Bisate or Wilderness Sabyinyo.

The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

* No additional costs besides the entrance fee, and may be experienced either on arrival or departure, or in the afternoon after gorilla trekking.

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" Odds are you are here to do gorilla trekking. Do consider going twice as one trek may yield a more limited exposure. "

" Make your travel arrangements with the availability of the brilliant separate day lodge in mind. "

" If you have any mobility issues then stay in lodge one or two. "

" The day lodge can be used for your last day - allowing you to spend a few more hours there after you have checked out. "

" Loved the hot water bottle in your bed and the tea/coffee as a wake-up "

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WILDERNESS BISATE Reviews (Rwanda/Ruhengeri)

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Bisate Lodge

Enjoy the wilderness area by choosing Bisate lodge as your accommodation facility during your safari at Volcanoes national park. The lodge is located within a natural amphitheater of an eroded volcanic cone and it comprises of 6 luxurious suites/rooms.

These beautiful rooms comprise of different amenities like en suite private bathrooms with showers, hot and cold water and clean flashing toilets. Each room has a got a veranda which provide a spending view of the surrounding features like beautiful rain forests, mountain peaks and different wildlife species such as birds and small animals.

Facilities and services offered at the lodge

• Restaurant that serves tasty meals
• CCTV cameras for the safety of the clients and their belongings
• Well stocked bar
• Friendly staff

During your stay at the lodge, you will take part in various park experiences including a face to face encounter of the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. Volcanoes national park has 10 habituated gorilla family groups that are open for tourism purposes.

Other activities at the park include golden monkey tracking, bird watching, forest walks, visiting the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, a cultural experience at Gorilla Guardian village and also visiting the tombs of the primatologist – Dian Fossey .

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WILDERNESS BISATE

This is a super luxury lodge in Rwanda offering the best thrilling primate experiences in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. The camp is composed of six forest villas that are simply spacious and will make a visitor feel at home. It’s a perfect base for clients going for gorilla tracking in volcano national park and not forgetting other activities around.

The camp ensures sustainability and with their Earth to plate food journey, visionary reforestation programme, community initiatives, rich culture and with fierce passion to conserve and protect the land of a thousand hills make wilderness Bisate an eco-tourism place and popular to many tourists.

The six sublime Ensuite forest villas are designed as a home to Rwandan Devotion overlooking the magical mount Bisoke, Karisimbi and mikeno. Adding on the forest villas, the lodge offers a wine cellar, library, spa, restaurant and tree nursery, all these makes the Bisate camp natural and a wonderful place to stay.

The camp has a green garden; therefore, their menu comprises of seasonal ingredients for freshness, they also support the community by buying fresh foods like red skinned potatoes, eggs and etc. from the neighboring communities.

Wilderness Bisate has the Bisate Kwanda Day lounge. This is located in Bisate’s organic vegetable garden, it’s a place where you can refresh from the exhausting activity like gorilla tracking , it allows to shower, move around the gardens, eat fresh mean or get a perfect massage or get yourself a souvenir from a craft shop.

Since some of the aims of Bisate is to preserve, protect and sustain, they have reforestation projects which deals in planting trees. Every minute of your stay at Bisate will remind you of their shared purpose in preserving and expanding the wilderness of Rwanda.

What to see and do in Wilderness Bisate

Gorilla Tracking:

Many of visitors who visit Rwanda do track mountain gorillas in Volcano National Park. They are rare primates restricted in 3 countries, Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Travel luxury and make Bisate lodge a base for Tracking Mountain gorillas in Rwanda.

Golden Monkey Tracking:

Tracking Golden monkeys is a reason why visitors should stay more nights around volcano National Park. Visitors who come to see the Mountain gorillas do not miss out to enjoy another rare species in volcano National Park the golden monkeys.

Volcano Hike:

Most visitors who come to Rwanda for Volcano Hiking prefer Mount Bisoke, it’s a day hike and do not need an overnight on the mountain. Other volcanoes to hike are Muhabura and also karisimbi which needs an overnight stay etc.

Nature walks and Birding:

Enjoy different other attractions besides gorilla tracking in Volcanoes, the park has different bird species and some of them are Albertine Endemics.The lodge also offers the guided nursery visits which will make visitors appreciate the protective and sustainability measures.

Our Most selling Trips That Include Volcanoes national Park

6 Days Akagera Wildlife & Mountain Gorillas

Great primates like Mountain gorillas can also be seen in another magical park of Rwanda like Volcanoes National Park. This Luxury safari presents the best of Rwanda’s wildlife and staying at Top Notch Luxury safari Lodges

7 DAYS RWANDA VOLCANOS AND LAKE KIVU

This package, involves experiencing most of the activities in Volcano national park and relaxing on Lake Kivu in Gisenyi. Scenic views, city tour, Gorilla Tracking, Golden monkey tracking, Dian Fossey grave visit, visiting twin lake of Rubondo and Bulera.

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Bisate Lodge

“I shall never forget my first encounter with gorillas. Sound preceded sight. Odor preceded sound. The air was suddenly rent by a high-pitched series of screams followed by the rhythmic chestbeats of a Great Silverback male obscured by what seemed an impenetrable wall of vegetation.”

THE MOST EXCLUSIVE LUXURY LODGE IN RWANDA WITH MAGNIFICENT VIEWS OF THE VIRUNGAS RIGHT FROM YOUR FOREST VILLA

GORILLAS IN THE MIST

“Little did I know then that by setting up two small tents in the wilderness of the Virungas I had launched the beginnings of what was to become an internationally renowned research station eventually to be utilized by students and scientists from many countries.” —  Dian Fossey.

Born in San Francisco in 1932, Dian Fossey was a primatologist known for her substantial research on the mountain gorillas of Rwanda. During your stay at Bisate Lodge we’ll arrange a spectacular hiking excursion to the ruins of the Karisoke Research Centre and burial site of Dian Fossey, sited next to her favorite primate Digit.

What you'll love

›   The most luxurious eco-lodge in Rwanda ›   One of Africa’s most biodiverse regions ›   Only 6 private villas with wraparound views ›   Designed by traditional Rwandan craftsmen ›   Private viewing deck in your own villa space ›   Enjoy scenic running trails along the forest

The most dramatic Gorilla trek in Africa

Only 6 luxury suites

Authentic Rwandan experience

An unforgettable adventure

Gorilla permit Conservation fee

$1,500 daily* *per person

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Personalized meet & assist on arrival at lodge Luxury safari accommodation at Bisate Lodge All meals, lunch & dinner served with fine wine Full breakfast made-to-order daily Complimentary in-room minibar & cocktails Select wines from the Bisate cellars included Traditional afternoon tea service Complimentary laundry service Complimentary in-suite WiFi at lodge All local government & hotel taxes

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A Bountiful Harvest at Bisate Camp, Rwanda

Conservation

Ingrid Baas

Thursday the 21st of January was a great day at Bisate as the construction team was able to resume work on the lodge’s amazing new Day Lounge. It’s very exciting to be able to continue with this project after having to put it on hold for several months due to COVID-19. Soon the Bisate Kwanda Day Lounge will be available to all our guests who arrive early or depart later from the lodge.

However, we weren’t sitting still during the months that we could not construct the lounge, and the Bisate team has developed a beautiful organic vegetable garden. It won’t be long before our guests will be having lunch surrounded by magnificent fresh local produce.

Once the Kwanda is completed, our early arrivals and later departures will be able to freshen up, shower, enjoy a relaxing massage, change, and have a meal and a drink or two, all in supreme Bisate-style comfort. Guests arriving earlier than noon can make use of the Kwanda before heading to the lodge to check in. Check-out time from Bisate Lodge is usually 10:30, but now guests who are not departing straight away can take advantage of all the lounge’s amenities until the latest departure time of 15:30.

Additionally, guests who depart after their trek, can have their boots cleaned while they relax and compare stories of an unforgettable encounter, before heading on to their next destination.

The Bisate Kwanda Day Lounge's organic vegetable garden is based on the concept of an ecosystem intended to be sustainable and self-sufficient.

Companion planting is practiced, as symbiotic relationships have been shown to enhance the growth and yield of both plants, as well as succession planting, to ensure the soil is continually renewed and enriched. Our agriculturalists are always on hand to assist or accompany guests should they wish to see how the garden grows.

Current plantings include the following…

The garden is still a work in progress and as the construction team completes work on the Kwanda, so we continue to develop the garden. We are looking forward to the outside of the building being finished and the construction team moving on to the interior finishes, so that our agriculturalists can finalise their wonderful vision for this amazing vegetable garden.

Purple Beans

Our talented kitchen team have put together a couple of recipes for you to try - all these recipes include vegetables from our bountiful harvest.

Try our Ikirayi Recipe here

Try our Imboga Garden Recipe here

Try our Zucchini Noodles Recipe here

Written by Ingrid Baas, Wilderness Safaris Rwanda Operations Manager

Photographed by Jason Glanville, Bisate Lodge Manager

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

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