Captivating experiences in the mountainous landscapes of Rwanda

Rwanda has shaken off its dark past and as the ninth safest country in the world, is facing the future with optimism and deep pride in its stunning natural beauty

Hidden on the edge of the vast and ancient Nyungwe rainforest in the dramatic mountains of Rwanda’s southwest, lies a stunning new nature resort that offers a rare opportunity to explore this remote and authentically wild location. Set within the lush green expanse of a working tea plantation, alongside one of the largest and best-preserved rainforests in Africa, One&Only Nyungwe House is immersed in wild beauty and surrounded by awe-inspiring jungle views. One&Only has designed the 23 guest rooms and suites to fit within the natural surroundings, using local African craftsmanship inspired by Rwanda and offering a contemporary look and feel. Log burners in each room and suite burn fragrant eucalyptus, and expansive private decks offer breath-taking views over the sweeping African terrain or viewing galleries of the lush rainforest and awe-inspiring wildlife.

There are adventures around every corner here from a canopy treetop walk at the very top of the rainforest to learning spear throwing, one of Africa’s ancient traditions. Work up a sweat in the fresh mountain air at Nature’s Bootcamp, where a guide leads guests on foot along a Jurassic track surrounding the tea plantation and through a motivating workout. For budding astronomers, the nocturnal spotlighting and stargazing is not to be missed, with stunning observations of planets and constellations from the resort’s elevated decks or the forest.

Being one of the oldest mountainous ecosystems, Nyungwe Forest has 13 species of primates, including the chimpanzee population and the primate experiences here are the highlight of a visit. To discover the Colobus monkey, an early rise is needed as a guide takes guests to one of the very few places in Africa where this species, as well as L’Hoest’s monkeys can be spotted. Chimpanzee trekking through the ancient forest is a fun, yet incredibly fast-paced experience along wild paths and lush forests. Spotting these shy primates is difficult but if lucky enough to observe one, keeping up with the speed at which they move is challenging but a privilege, and an awe-inspiring experience.

If that’s not enough, take a helicopter ride over the panoramic African landscapes or hike on the sparkling quartz Karamba Trail that leads from the resort deep into the jungle. Conservation and support for local communities is genuinely considered by the team and guests can get involved too. At Umuganda, a nationwide initiative in Rwanda, guests can spend the last Saturday morning of every month working in the community, from developing infrastructure to environmental protection.

 This ultra-luxury resort celebrates the remote jungle environment from sunrise breakfasts, treehouse yoga, indigenous spa therapies to evening cocktails by a fire pit. Guests can enjoy an introduction to the African kitchen garden and experience the natural flavours of Nyungwe with farm-to-table cuisine that favours organic, seasonal ingredients. For those wanting to learn more about the plantations on the estate, tea picking followed by a tasting is offered.

If adventure and wonder are what you are looking for in your next escape, then look no further than this exclusive window in to Africa’s fascinating wildlife, nature and culture. To create once in a lifetime moments, there really is nowhere else like it on earth.
oneandonlyresorts.com