- Type: Luxury Lodge
- Summary: A tranquil retreat nestled in Rwanda's rainforest
- Feature: A range of activities that embrace the striking surroundings
- Rooms: 22 rooms
- Nearest airport: Kigali International Airport
Amenities
Location and transfer
The hotel nestles in the centre of a tea plantation on the western side of Nyungwe Forest. It is reached in approximately five hours by scenic private road transfer from Kigali International Airport. Alternatively, domestic flights operate from Kigali to Kamembe Airport, which is just a 45-minute drive from the resort. Private helicopter charters can also be arranged, revealing dazzling views of the Rwandan countryside.
Rooms and suites are located in clusters of rustic lodges, surrounded by the forest-covered mountains and the local wildlife that they house. Plush furnishings, four-poster beds, warm colours, crackling fireplaces and colourful Rwandan art create luxurious havens that combine authenticity with modern touches – including air-conditioning, an LCD TV with satellite channels, electronic safe, mini bar and in-room iPad that features everything you need to know during your stay. Beautiful, locally-inspired bathrooms include twin vanities, wilderness-view showers, stand-alone baths and premium Africology toiletries. Private al fresco decks allow you to absorb the sights and sounds of the forest. A backpack per guest is also included, for when you venture into the dense forest. Choose from the one-bedroom Nyungwe Room or the Two-Bedroom Forest Suite.
Dining at Nyungwe House is an experience for all five senses. Expect a wealth of authentic Rwandan dishes and international favourites to choose from, each created with organic ingredients from the onsite chef’s garden. From nutritious breakfasts at sunrise, to picnic lunches amid the rainforest, and private dinners overlooking the valley, meal times (like everything else here) are an experience in themselves. An excellent wine cellar accompanies the cuisine. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in each stay.
The Dining Room:expand_more
- Cuisine: Delicious, nutritious breakfasts and daily changing lunch and dinner menus that showcase local produce and flavours, as well a serving international cuisine.
- Setting: A light-filled space that features local art, crackling fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling windows flaunting brilliant plantation views.
- Dress Code: Smart resort wear
- Children's Menu: No
- Vegetarian Option: Yes
- Reservation Required: No
Tea Lounge:expand_more
- Cuisine: High tea ceremonies serving a combination of freshly-prepared sweet and savoury delights, and, of course, tea grown in the surrounding plantations
- Setting: An elegant lounge with rustic beams, plush furnishing and views of the forest.
- Dress Code: Smart resort wear
- Children's Menu: No
- Vegetarian Option: Yes
- Reservation Required: No
Hotel Experiences
A stay at One&Only Nyungwe House promises an unmatchable and truly unforgettable experience from start to finish, with a huge variety of daily activities for you to choose from. Complimentary examples include hilltop archery, a tour of the dedicated kitchen garden with a senior chef, and Nature’s Bootcamp, a kinetic workout through the leafy tracks of the plantation. At an additional cost, epic panoramas of the forest can be enjoyed on a breathtaking helicopter ride, while the Canopy Walkway is the only of its kind in East Arica. A swinging bridge hangs 60-metres above the forest floor between giant trees and towers, showcasing the incredible flora and fauna below.
Wildlife Encounters
The lush rainforest is home to some of Rwanda’s most incredible wildlife. As well as hundreds of tree species and many rare flowers, the protected forest houses thirteen species of primate. Chimpanzee trekking is the reason for many guests’ visit, allowing them to join expert trackers deep into the forest, learning about these incredible animals and spotting them in their natural habitat. Colobus monkeys can also be spotted here (the only place in Africa!), while birdwatching is a real treat with 27 species endemic to the area. A wonderful Nyungwe Nature Walk is complimentary, while specialised excursions (including the chimpanzee trekking) can be arranged for an additional cost.
Culture & History
As well as the natural delights of Nyungwe, a stay amid the plantation guarantees an immersive experience of the area’s rich heritage. The Secrets Of African Tea is a complimentary activity that allows you to join a tea expert in picking tea leaves and learn about the entire process, before a taste of the delicious local brew. Meet friendly local people and assist them in their wonderful community participation scheme, learning more about their crafts, customs and cuisine, or master the art of spear throwing, an iconic part of Africa’s history.
Spa Breaks
The perfect place for unwinding after an adventure amid the rainforest, the One&Only Spa is an oasis of serenity in which you can choose from a menu of unique treatments from Africology, that combine Rwandan tradition with scientific innovation. Bespoke therapies range from a body wrap using Rwandan coffee and mint, to an anti-ageing facial designed to honour the sacred energy within. Al fresco yoga can be enjoyed surrounded by mountains, while the outdoor gym and nutritious menus guarantee a full wellness experience.
In Addition
Please note that, due to the remote location, the resort has an age restriction of ten years old.