Rwanda is open for visitors - explore it in eco-luxury!
Rwanda has adopted a tourism strategy that preserves its attractions for the long term: deliberately restricting the number of visitors and focusing on the high-end traveler. I love this approach because it promotes sustainability. What's more, you can make a difference in Rwanda, even with your family.
Rwanda has seen an influx of new eco-luxury properties: One & Only now has two properties in Rwanda: Nyungwe House for watching chimpanzees and Gorillas Nest for, well, gorillas.
And even more recently, Singita opened two properties, Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House near the gorillas.
And to complete the "awesome quartet", Wilderness Safaris opened the incredible Bisate Lodge near Gorillas and Magashi Lodge in Akagera National Park in Rwanda.
Located in the beautiful northwestern part of Rwanda, right on the edge of the Volcanoes National Park, Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House are part of an ambitious conservation partnership with the Rwandan government and local communities.
The One Planet Sustainability Framework, which supports all of Singita's operations, is central to the construction of Singita Volcanoes National Park, which was designed with and in recognition of its remarkable location.
This conservation philosophy translates into sourcing local materials, reducing waste, saving water and conserving energy, and this is integral to Singita's continued commitment to sustainability. . At Singita Volcanoes National Park, the decoration and design of Kwitonda Lodge and the four bedroom exclusive use villa, Kataza House, incorporates local materials and products for the walls, ceilings and surface finishes, while celebrating the work of local artisans such as stonemasons. , weavers and ceramists.
Their striking handcrafted details and the predominance of local expertise and artistry ensure not only an authentic aesthetic that is true to the geological setting of the lodge, but also fully aligned with Singita's goals and desire to partner with communities in and around its lodges.
The lodge and villa are set against the backdrop of the spectacular Virunga mountain range - home to critically endangered mountain gorillas and also one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, enveloping everything from the steppes to swamps, through lava plains, savannas and dense. mountain forests.
Bisate Lodge, adjacent to Volcanoes National Park, combines gorilla trekking with a pioneering vision of reforestation and community partnership.
Bisate is set in the natural amphitheater of an eroded volcanic cone, with spectacular views of the peaks of Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes rising through Afro-alpine forests. Meeting one of the gorilla groups in the nearby Volcanoes National Park is a once in a lifetime experience.
Six sumptuous forest villas with private bathrooms maximize comfort and views while adhering to environmentally responsible principles and reflecting the rich culture of rural Rwanda. Bisate is a short drive from the park headquarters, where gorilla treks depart daily. Walks on the Bisate property allow bird watching and participation in the reforestation program.
Akagera National Park is one of Africa's greatest wildlife success stories and complements gorilla treks. Magashi Camp is located in the productive and phenomenally diverse northeast corner of Akagera National Park, overlooking the beautiful Lake Rwanyakazinga. The Akagera includes some of East Africa's most scenic savannas - open plains, forests, lakes, swamps, and grassy low mountains - and is home to one of the highest densities of African hippos, very large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 species of birds.
Swarming with plains game, the Akagera now also has a healthy population of lions, which were reintroduced to the park in 2015 after a 20-year absence, as well as black rhinos which were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi - the only one Akagera exclusive use area - also home to a good density of leopard.
Six spacious and airy tents offer stunning views of Lake Rwanyakazinga, while the main area of Magashi features a luxurious lounge, dining area and bar, swimming pool, and expansive observation deck with a friendly fireplace. The architecture and interiors pay homage to traditional Rwandan culture.
Make a difference in Rwanda by staying at these amazing properties You can make a difference in Rwanda by teaching English to young girls from difficult backgrounds who are eager to learn and improve their chances of finding paid employment.
So you can stay at these amazing new properties while making a lasting difference and leaving a legacy - explore these enchanting destinations, meet mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and chimpanzees in Rwanda (and enjoy hippos, crocs, lions and birds of Akagera National Park).
Christopher Hill is the founder and CEO of Hands Up Holidays. Hands Up Holidays is an award-winning travel agency specializing in bespoke luxury family travel that combines sightseeing with hands-on service projects. If you are interested in becoming a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog to enhance your profile, please contact us.
