Overview
Unique, luxury, sustainable
Set in a natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone near Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge is the ideal base for your bucket-list gorilla trek. Enjoy dramatic views of the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes’ peaks above the Afro-alpine forests.
The lodge’s six unique and spacious en-suite Forest Villas are both opulent and comfortable. They have been designed with the environment in mind and reflect Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage. The lodge itself has large living areas with fireplaces for you to relax in, as well as a cosy wine cellar.
Apart from trekking, your stay at Bisate can include fascinating walks around the property and bird watching.
One of Bisate’s main aims is to be a leader when it comes to sustainable ecotourism. With this in mind, you can get involved in the pioneering reforestation and rehabilitation project. Your participation helps contribute to conservation and community upliftment, as well as having a positive impact on the endangered mountain gorillas.
Facts
At a glance
-
Six forest villas
-
Wine Cellar
-
Bar
-
Spa
Experiences
-
![Bisate Lodge Rwanda Gorilla trekking 8]()
Mountain gorilla trekking
You’ll head out from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters which is only a short drive from the lodge. You will be assigned to one of the 12 habituated gorilla groups for your one-hour encounter.
-
![Bisate Lodge Rwanda Gorilla trekking 14]()
Meet the community
Go on a guided visit to the nearby community where you’ll meet members of the cooperative, like the farmers who sell their vegetables to Bisate.
-
![Bisate Lodge Rwanda Gorilla trekking 10]()
Golden monkey trekking
Endemic to the area, the beautifully-coloured golden monkey can be found in the park’s bamboo forest. They usually live in groups of between 30 and 80.
-
![Visitors embarking on a gorilla trekking safari]()
Guided walks in Volcanoes National Park
If you’re feeling energetic, you can go on a full-day hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke (3711m). With beautiful views of the rainforest and crater lake, it’s well worth the effort of making it to the top.
-
![Bisate Lodge Rwanda Gorilla trekking 4]()
Plant a tree
So far, the team at Bisate Lodge has planted more than 20,000 indigenous trees on the property. While you’re here, you’re encouraged to visit the nursery and plant a tree yourself. It’s one way in which you can be directly involved in restoring the area.
-
![Bisate Lodge Rwanda Gorilla trekking 6]()
Hike to Dian Fossey’s Grave and Karisoke
This challenging hike will take you to Dian Fossey’s grave and the ruins of her Karisoke Research Centre. You’ll make your way to the saddle of Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes at an elevation of around 3,000 metres.
Community & Culture
The Bisate site was bought from 103 community members, feeding some $500,000 into the community. Over 200 local people were employed during construction on the property and another 24 community members have been permanently employed at Bisate. They also buy fresh produce and other goods from nearby. Bisate also contributes to various community projects with the help of guests. They have helped to rehabilitate the water infrastructure at Bunyenyeri and Bushokoro, providing more than 5000 people will better access to clean water.
Conservation
One of Bisate’s main aims is to become an authority on great ape research, with its focus on mountain gorillas, and establishing a sustainable conservation-based economy. The desired result is an increase in Rwanda’s population of mountain gorillas. Another of their initiatives is the reforestation of 43 hectares (103 acres) of land. There will be a bamboo forest at the lower level, with hagenia and dombea trees further up creating a rainforest, mimicking the area’s natural vegetation. It is hoped that this reforestation will in turn attract many of the species that once lived here.
Footprint
Bisate Lodge has implemented various eco-friendly principles and systems on site, including recycling water and waste, harvesting rainwater and generating solar energy for power.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
-
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
-
Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
-
Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
-
Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
