Overview
Chimpanzees and more
One&Only Nyungwe House is surrounded by bright green tea plantations right on the edge of the lush Nyungwe National Park, some 1020 km² of ancient montane rainforest that’s home to an incredible diversity of life.
Split between five striking timber villa clusters, 22 suites look out through the canopy into the great untamed wilderness from balconies and huge picture frame windows. Each is luxurious, with crackling fireplaces and vibrant Rwandan art. An organic farm-to-table restaurant, tea room, bar and spa are at the heart of the lodge.
Head into the forest to encounter chimpanzees and a dozen other primate species, hundreds of birds and more, or see it from above from a canopy walkway. Local culture and conservation are core to the experience here too.
Facts
At a glance
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22 suites
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Restaurant, tea room and bar
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Infinity pool
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Spa
Experiences
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Chimpanzee trekking
It truly is an exhilarating experience to encounter chimpanzees in the wild and Nyungwe is home to one of East Africa’s last intact populations. Most active in the morning, an early rise is required for maximum viewing opportunity, joining expert trackers and learning about these fascinating creatures and the enchanting forest they call home. Other rare monkeys can be seen here too.
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Canopy walk
Experience the rainforest from a dazzling new perspective – on the famous Canopy Walkway. The only walk of its kind in East Africa, this breathtaking construction hangs 60 metres above the forest floor between giant trees and towers, revealing a stunning view of the flora and fauna, both below and above.
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Nature walks.
There are a number of forest trails of varying difficulty to explore with a guide. When the sun goes down, the forest really comes to life. Heading out on foot with your expert guide, this private tour uses spotlights to seek out the intriguing nocturnal creatures that emerge from their tree hollows, burrows, nests, and dens at twilight.
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Cycling
Saddle up and explore the beautiful surround on two wheels. There are a few hills around and some dirt track riding, but let your friendly guide can tailor the journey to your comfort levels.
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Tea experience
Learn about the entire tea growing process, from visiting a plantation and harvesting leaves to processing and, of course, tasting.
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Get involved
Explore some of the conservation and community initiatives that operate within the Nyungwe National Park and also around the lodge.
Community & Culture
The lodge offers numerous opportunities whereby you can help our communities to flourish, supporting local artisans and producers during your stay. Umuganda, translating to ‘coming together in common purpose to achieve an outcome', is a traditional Rwandan practice undertaken on the last Saturday of each month. If this corresponds with your stay, you can be invited to join the lodge on these initiatives which range from planting new trees, to helping to build schools.
Conservation
One&Only Nyungwe House both supports and initiates a number of conservation efforts in our resort’s unique jungle location, safeguarding it for future generations. During your stay, you can contribute to our conservation efforts, both in and around the lodge.
Footprint
An organic, garden-to-plate menu is designed with sustainability at its heart and from environmentally-friendly sources, with a range of ingredients grown in the lodge's very own Chef’s Garden.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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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.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.