Nestled in the misty rainforests of Rwanda lies a hidden gem of luxury and natural wonder - the One&Only Gorilla's Nest. This exclusive retreat has earned its reputation as one of Africa's most exceptional lodges, where opulence meets wilderness in perfect harmony. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers guests a rare opportunity to experience the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat while enjoying world-class accommodations and service. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest stands as a testament to sustainable luxury, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Rwanda's rich biodiversity without compromising on comfort or environmental responsibility.
"The moment you step onto the property, you feel transported to another world," remarked one recent guest, capturing the essence of what makes the One&Only Gorilla's Nest so special. Indeed, this sanctuary represents the pinnacle of eco-luxury travel, becoming a destination of choice for those seeking meaningful wildlife encounters without sacrificing refinement and elegance.
Location of One&Only Gorilla's Nest
The One&Only Gorilla's Nest enjoys a prime position at the edge of the Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda, offering unparalleled access to some of the world's last remaining mountain gorillas. This strategic location of the One&Only Gorilla's Nest places guests just minutes away from the park headquarters, where the unforgettable gorilla trekking expeditions begin. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest journey typically takes between two and a half to three hours by road from Kigali International Airport, though the property also features a helipad for those preferring to arrive in style.
Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and nestled among volcanic hills, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers breathtaking panoramic views in every direction. The property's elevation provides a comfortable climate year-round, with cool mornings and evenings offering a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the Rwandan sun. From the One&Only Gorilla's Nest, guests can hear the distant sounds of local village life, creating an authentic sense of place that connects visitors to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The Backstory of One&Only Gorilla's Nest
One&Only has cultivated an impressive portfolio of nature retreats spanning the globe, from Reethi Rah in the Maldives to Desaru Coast in Malaysia, but their Rwandan properties represent a particularly special commitment to conservation and luxury. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest opened its doors in 2019, following the successful launch of its sister property, Nyungwe House. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest was conceived as a sanctuary where guests could experience profound connections with nature while enjoying uncompromising comfort and service. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest design draws inspiration from its primate namesakes, with subtle nods to these magnificent creatures throughout the property.
While focused firmly on the future of conservation, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest pays homage to its past through the Jack Hanna cottage, once the residence of the renowned wildlife expert. This secluded space celebrates Rwanda's conservation journey through carefully preserved original furnishings and decor. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest creates a perfect balance between heritage and innovation, offering guests a chance to reflect on the country's remarkable progress in protecting its natural treasures while enjoying modern luxuries.
The Rooms at One&Only Gorilla's Nest
The One&Only Gorilla's Nest features 14 elegantly appointed rooms and seven luxurious suites, each designed to maximize privacy while offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest. Throughout the One&Only Gorilla's Nest, accommodations feature wooden terraces that create a treehouse-like atmosphere, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural environment. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest rooms are spacious sanctuaries, boasting large lounge areas, generous bathrooms with oversized soaking tubs, and invigorating outdoor showers that connect guests with nature in the most intimate way.
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers impressive Silverback Suites complete with private pools and dining terraces for exclusive barbecues. These premium accommodations at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest showcase panoramic views of the volcanic landscape and come with the option of a private chef for personalized dining experiences. Throughout all accommodations, decor incorporates elements of Rwandan culture and craftsmanship, including volcanic stone accents and traditional black and white Imigongo prints, creating a sense of place that honors the local heritage.
The Food and Drink of One&Only Gorilla's Nest
The main restaurant at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest, aptly named Nest, offers both cozy indoor dining and a spectacular outdoor terrace overlooking the lush forest. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest culinary team crafts contemporary interpretations of Rwandan flavors, featuring an abundance of local fruits, herbs, and vegetables harvested from the property's organic gardens. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest regularly hosts traditional barbecues where guests can sample authentic Rwandan dishes prepared with modern flair, creating a perfect blend of local tradition and international sophistication.
The Boma experience at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest provides a cultural highlight not to be missed, featuring performances by local dance troupes around a crackling fire. The attentive staff at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest restaurant anticipate guests' needs with remarkable precision, remembering preferences and ensuring absolute comfort throughout the dining experience. After exhilarating days exploring the wilderness, guests gather in the restaurant and bar to share stories of their gorilla encounters, creating a wonderful sense of camaraderie that enhances the overall experience at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest.
The Neighborhood
The One&Only Gorilla's Nest sits among Rwanda's breathtaking Volcanic Range, spanning the country's northern border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Though relatively remote, the area surrounding the One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers remarkable experiences beyond the property itself. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest location provides easy access to the Dian Fossey Fund's new Ellen DeGeneres campus, a center dedicated to gorilla conservation and scientific research, where visitors can learn more about these magnificent primates.
Beyond gorilla trekking, guests at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest can participate in experiences like the "Honouring Dian Fossey Hike," which explores the legacy of the famed conservationist. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest also arranges excursions to the impressive Crater Lake for more adventurous travelers seeking to challenge themselves physically while enjoying Rwanda's stunning landscapes. Despite its seclusion, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich natural and cultural heritage of this fascinating region.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience Trekking with Gorillas
The crown jewel of any stay at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest is undoubtedly the opportunity to trek through the rainforest and encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest staff expertly arrange these experiences, ensuring guests are properly prepared and equipped for their adventure. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest provides guidance on everything from appropriate clothing to trekking techniques, helping visitors make the most of their limited time with these endangered primates.
After an early morning briefing at Kinigi park headquarters, guests from the One&Only Gorilla's Nest join small groups led by experienced guides who track specific gorilla families through the dense forest. The moment of first contact with these magnificent creatures creates an emotional connection that guests of the One&Only Gorilla's Nest describe as life-changing. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest experience allows travelers to observe gorillas engaging in natural behaviors—playing, feeding, grooming, and caring for their young—creating memories that last a lifetime and fostering a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts.
The Spa
Following a day of trekking, the spa at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers the perfect remedy for tired muscles and adventurous spirits. The signature 75-minute "Post Trek & Travel Treatment" at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest combines homegrown roses and local coffee with products from the Terres d'Afrique line to create a truly restorative experience. The skilled therapists at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest customize each treatment to address individual needs, ensuring guests leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated despite the physical demands of their wilderness exploration.
For those seeking a more comprehensive wellness journey, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers multi-day programs featuring detoxifying coffee and coconut scrubs alongside relaxing massages. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest also provides an outdoor gym where guests can participate in regular yoga and meditation classes surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest. The inviting outdoor pool at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers another opportunity for relaxation, particularly magical during sunrise and sunset when the changing light transforms the surrounding landscape.
The Service at One&Only Gorilla's Nest
The staff at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest demonstrate an exceptional level of attentiveness that elevates the guest experience to extraordinary heights. Most employees at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest come from nearby communities, bringing authentic insights into local culture and traditions that enrich visitors' understanding of Rwanda. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest team members share a genuine passion for their homeland's natural wonders and take pride in helping guests form meaningful connections with the environment and wildlife.
The thoughtful touches at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest reveal a deep commitment to guest comfort and satisfaction. When trekkers return from their gorilla encounters, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest staff welcome them with hot towels and comfortable slippers to ease their transition back to luxury. Later, guests at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest discover their hiking boots have been thoroughly cleaned and placed in their rooms, ready for packing—a small but significant gesture that exemplifies the property's attention to detail and commitment to service excellence.
Eco Effort of One&Only Gorilla's Nest
Sustainability stands at the core of the One&Only Gorilla's Nest philosophy, evident in every aspect of the property's operations. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest sources ingredients for its restaurant primarily from on-site gardens and local producers, reducing carbon footprint while supporting the surrounding community. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility by hiring locally and partnering with organizations like Handspun Hope, which supports vulnerable women, including genocide survivors and those living with HIV/AIDS.
The conservation ethos of the One&Only Gorilla's Nest extends to its architectural design, which minimizes environmental impact while maximizing immersion in the natural setting. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest actively participates in reforestation efforts and contributes to gorilla conservation initiatives, ensuring that tourism directly benefits the very creatures that draw visitors to the region. By staying at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest, guests become participants in a larger mission to preserve Rwanda's precious biodiversity for future generations.
Accessibility of One&Only Gorilla's Nest
The One&Only Gorilla's Nest has made commendable efforts to accommodate guests with varying mobility needs. The property features one accessible suite—the Virunga Suite—and one Queen/Twin room—the Susa Treehouse—specifically designed for guests requiring additional accessibility features. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers accessible dining options throughout the property, designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities, and personalized assistance for those with mobility challenges upon request.
While the One&Only Gorilla's Nest strives to be inclusive, potential visitors should note that gorilla trekking itself presents inherent challenges for those with limited mobility. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest staff can provide detailed information about alternative wildlife viewing experiences that may be more suitable for guests unable to participate in gorilla treks. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest team works diligently to ensure all guests enjoy meaningful encounters with Rwanda's natural wonders, regardless of physical capabilities.
For Families
The One&Only Gorilla's Nest welcomes children aged ten and above, though families should note that gorilla trekking has a minimum age requirement of 15 years. For younger guests, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest offers a variety of engaging on-site activities, including painting classes, archery lessons, and cycling adventures. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest chefs eagerly share their culinary expertise through cooking classes designed specifically for younger visitors, creating memorable experiences that connect children with local food traditions.
Families staying at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest can enjoy spacious accommodations that provide both togetherness and privacy. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest staff demonstrate particular warmth and patience with younger guests, helping them appreciate the natural environment and wildlife conservation in age-appropriate ways. While the One&Only Gorilla's Nest primarily caters to adult wildlife enthusiasts, the property ensures that families traveling with older children can create lasting memories together in this extraordinary setting.
Bottom Line
The One&Only Gorilla's Nest represents the pinnacle of luxury eco-tourism in Rwanda, offering an unparalleled combination of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and refined comfort. A stay at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest transcends typical travel experiences, creating profound connections with nature that have the power to transform perspectives and inspire conservation action. The One&Only Gorilla's Nest stands as a testament to how responsible tourism can benefit local communities, protect endangered species, and provide unforgettable experiences for discerning travelers.
For those seeking a truly exceptional African adventure, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest delivers on every level—from the heart-stopping thrill of gorilla encounters to the soothing luxury of its accommodations and the genuine warmth of its service. The memories created at the One&Only Gorilla's Nest will remain long after the journey ends, serving as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet's most precious creatures and the habitats they call home. When planning your next extraordinary journey, the One&Only Gorilla's Nest should undoubtedly be at the top of your list.