One&Only Nyungwe House
Alongside ancient rainforest, nestled within the lush expanse of a working tea plantation, One&Only Nyungwe House is a rare haven of creature comforts offering an exclusive window to the wonders of Rwanda. Fascinating wildlife, roaming free. Captivating communities, carving their path through time. Dramatic mountain landscapes, creating endless vistas. And in the midst of it all, world-class dining, blissful wellness, and transformational moments, curated for you.
Sink into the comfort of your private rainforest sanctuary, blending seamlessly into tropical foliage for an unrivalled sense of seclusion. A chic, lodge-inspired aesthetic weaves through every room. Each filled with luxurious amenities, a crackling fireplace and vibrant art inspired by Rwanda’s natural beauty. Serene balconies, comfortably furnished, frame the wilderness beyond, perfect for spotting birds and playful primates in their element.
One-of-a-kind encounters are a daily reality in Nyungwe, between towering mahoganies and enchanting ferns. Head out on foot to track troops of wild primates, from playful chimpanzees to Mangabey and Colobus monkeys. Follow colourful orchid trails frequented by butterflies and identify birds by their melody. Ascend peaks to reveal epic panoramas of Lake Kivu and mountain ranges across the border. Jump on a mountain bike, take to the skies on a helicopter tour, or brave the 60-metre high canopy-walk – we promise the views won’t disappoint.
One&Only Nyungwe House’s accommodations offer a one-of-a-kind escape, bordering one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Situated in five striking wooden villa clusters, our treetop-skimming, luxury suites and rooms are secluded in wonderfully untamed surroundings, accommodating all adventure seekers and paying homage to Rwanda’s beauty and heritage. Enjoy exceptional dining and selected beverages included in your stay, plus two signature resort experiences daily.
NYUNGWE ROOM
Your Nyungwe Room is the perfect immersive retreat for your luxury once-in-a-lifetime Rwandan experience. Sleeping two, with your choice of a king-sized bed or two twin beds, our signature bedroom is secluded within lush treetops and opens out to a large, private balcony.
You’ll discover plenty of room to stretch out, with the bedroom also offering a plush lounging area. Fully-furnished, the open space invites you to step outside to soak up the sounds of the wilderness and watch rare birds dart overhead. Keep an eye out for the jungle’s most mischievous residents; curious colobus monkeys.
TWO-BEDROOM FOREST SUITE
Nestled between lush rainforest and verdant tea plantations, the luxury Two-Bedroom Forest Suite offers warm, welcoming respite to adventurers.
Two large bedrooms and airy living areas boasts plenty of space for family, friends and larger groups. The master bedroom boasts a four-poster king-sized bed, while the second bedroom includes queen-sized twin beds. Both bedrooms offer their own wood-burning stoves and en suite bathrooms, plus private decks with hypnotic views. The bathrooms feature twin vanities, a walk-in shower, and a deep standalone bath.
One&Only Nyungwe House offers an exceptional array of activites, from primate tracking to spear throwing, there is something for everyone.
NATURE’S BOOTCAMP
Work up a sweat in a gymnasium unlike any you’ve seen before – the great outdoors! Allow our motivating guide to lead you on a kinetic workout through the leafy tracks surrounding our tea plantation. The natural landscape is the only equipment you’ll need for this jungle-style bootcamp in the fresh, mountain air.
SPEAR THROWING
An iconic part of Africa’s history, the spear is a symbol of strength, but it’s also a lot of fun! On a hill top above our tea plantation, enjoy a refreshing cool drink as you learn how to make your own spear take flight and take in the fabulous fresh air views.
CONSERVATION
We don’t just exist within Nyungwe’s environment, we exist alongside it, which means conservation is part of our daily routine. Come and explore some of the initiatives that operate within the Nyungwe National Park and also around the resort.
CHEF’S GARDEN
Our world-class menus must be tasted to be believed, and now you can discover first-hand where the inspiration for every dish begins. Revealing the secrets of seasonal cultivation and flavour, one of our senior chefs will personally guide you through our kitchen’s dedicated garden filled with unique native ingredients and a few culinary staples! AVAILABLE DAILY UPON REQUEST
UMUGANDA: COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
‘Umuganda’ has roots back to Rwanda’s independence, and is now a nationwide programme where citizens devote the last Saturday morning of every month to working in the local community. From developing infrastructure to environmental protection, you can elect to take part in this positive initiative, giving back to the communities of Nyungwe and getting to know the local people in a uniquely hands-on way.
THE SECRETS OF AFRICAN TEA
What makes the perfect cup of tea? Some will say it’s all in the brew, but our tea expert will show you it starts right at the beginning. You will be invited to go into the tea plantation and learn the art of picking tea leaves and trying it out on your own. Don’t miss the interactive and visual presentation revealing the process of growing and processing African tea leaves. No demonstration would be complete without a taste, so you will have the chance to sample some beautiful black tea grown in the local area of Gisakura.
HILLTOP ARCHERY
There’s fun for all the family as you dabble in the ancient sport of archery. Located on a hilltop in our property’s tea plantation, prepare to breathe in the fabulous views as you enjoy a refreshing cold drink and set your sights on the bullseye – ready, aim, fire!
EXPLORING BY BICYCLE
Saddle up and explore the beautiful surrounds of our property, with the breeze in your hair, at a pace that suits you. There’s a few hills around and some dirt track riding, but let your friendly guide know and we can tailor the journey to your comfort levels.
SIGNATURE NYUNGWE NOCTURNAL SPOTLIGHTING & STARGAZING TOUR
When the sun goes down, the forest really comes to life, and now you don’t have to miss a thing! Heading out on foot with your expert Field 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. On clear nights, you can then take a turn on the telescope and hear fascinating stories about the dazzling equatorial night sky. Many of the major planets can be seen just after sunset, while famous constellations reveal their beauty against the dusk. Extra charge applies.
THE BEAUTIFUL BIRDS OF NYUNGWE
Nyungwe is home to an abundant array of unique and captivating bird life, even on our doorstep. Along with our specialist guide, you’ll be taken to the periphery of the National Park to spot and learn about the most prolific, iconic and rare species, so get your cameras ready! Extra charge applies.
NYUNGWE BY HELICOPTER
Take in the epic panorama of Nyungwe Forest, Lake Kivu and other iconic landmarks from the unrivalled perspective of a helicopter. With 60 minutes in the air, you’ll discover the true vastness of the jungle around you and learn more about the geography of this mountainous region. Flights take off and land at One&Only Nyungwe House’s private helipad, for a truly door-to-door service. Extra charge applies.
CHIMPANZEE TREKKING
Dashing at high speed through the flora, hooting and clanging – it truly is an exhilarating experience to encounter chimpanzees playing, wild and free. Home to one of East Africa’s last intact chimpanzee populations, Nyungwe is an ideal place early morning to observe chimps in their natural habitat. Most active in the morning, an early rise is required for maximum viewing opportunity, and a beautifully prepared breakfast will be enjoyed ‘on the go’. So, allow our experienced, expert trackers to guide you on a deep forest trail, learning about these fascinating creatures and the enchanting forest they call home. With a maximum of 8 people per tour, this popular adventure requires early advanced booking. As this experience is authentically wild, chimpanzee viewing cannot be guaranteed. You must be fifteen years of age or over to take part in this activity. Extra charge applies.
COLOBUS MONKEY TREKKING
Embrace the home of East Africa’s most diverse primate population, as you track the Colobus monkeys through Nyungwe’s lush forest trails. Most active and visible in the early morning, an early rise is required for maximum viewing opportunity, and a beautifully prepared breakfast will be enjoyed ‘on the go’. We’ll take you to the only location in Africa where you can encounter Colobus monkeys, and one of the few places on the planet where L’Hoests’s monkeys can be seen. So keep your eyes peeled and prepare to be surprised at every turn by the sights and sounds of our jungle filled with life. With a maximum of 8 people per tour, this popular adventure requires early advanced booking. As this experience is authentically wild, primate viewing cannot be guaranteed. Please note, children must be fifteen years or over to take part in this activity. Extra charge applies.
BIRD WATCHING IN THE NATIONAL PARK
Welcome to a true birder’s paradise. Described by Bird life International as «the most important site for biodiversity conservation in Rwanda,» the Nyungwe National Park is home to over 300 bird species, 27 of which are endemic to the local Albertine Rift. You’ll enjoy a mesmerising trail through the forest floor as bird song accompanies your every step, and your expert guide identifies birds by ear alone, from the elusive Rwenzori Turaco to the Grey-Chested Kakamega. A beautifully prepared breakfast or lunch is included. As this experience is authentically wild, bird viewing cannot be guaranteed. Extra charge applies.
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. An iconic experience, not to be missed! We recommend: Comfortable outdoor clothing, covered footwear and sun protection. Please note, children must be six years or over to take part in this activity. Extra charge applies.
HIKING
The area around Nyungwe offers an abundance of hiking opportunities.
KARAMBE TRAIL
The perfect option for those seeking a more leisurely hike, this relatively flat, sparkling quartz trail begins in the open-air site of an original gold mine, market, and army camp, and leads through an area of low fern trees and young vegetation, the ideal conditions for spotting birds in Nyungwe. Extra charge applies.
UMUGOTE TRAIL
With moderate inclines, this hike reveals exceptional views of numerous stunning ridges, as far as the mountains of Kibira National Park in Burundi. Clearings along the way offer sunlit spaces for flowers to bloom, and viewpoints over different layers of the rainforest. Monkeys and birds can be spotted from this trail, along with tree frogs and swirls of brightly coloured butterflies. Extra charge applies.
UMOYOVE TRAIL
Also known as the Mahogany Trail, this is one of Nyungwe’s most popular hikes. Relax by an idyllic natural waterfall, stroll under some of the park’s tallest trees and savour the scent of aromatic flora. Branching off the main trail, you’ll also have the chance to sight Grey-Cheeked Mangabeys, Colobus monkeys and chimpanzees, among other famous local primates. Extra charge applies.
IREBRO TRAIL
‘Irebero’ means a ‘place to observe from’, and views are certainly the highlight of this trail. Looping around one of the park’s highest peaks, you can gaze all the way across the Rwandan border to the first ridge of Burundi on the south, and also to Lake Kivu, 30 km northwest. Wildflowers, towering trees and an abundance of birds complement this beautiful journey. Extra charge applies.
ISUMO TRAIL
Meaning ‘waterfall’ in Kinyarwanda, the culmination of the ‘Isumo’ trail is Nyungwe’s biggest waterfall, thundering down to produce beautiful plumes of mist above the rocky river, surrounded by ferns. The journey begins differently - in open-air tea fields, bursting with life from goats and butterflies to sun-loving wildflowers, offering views across to Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Extra charge applies.
KAMIRANZOVU TRAIL
Behold the park’s largest wetland - the Kamiranzovu Marsh - an impressive geological formation with a circular rim of lush, forest-covered mountains, resembling a giant caldera. Along the trail you’ll discover waterfalls, colourful begonia and species that thrive in the humid swap, from ferns and lichens, to Grauer’s Rush Warblers and frogs. Extra charge applies.
RUKUZI TRAIL
This exhilarating hike is characterised by continuous open vistas on one side of the track, and the opportunity to spot chimps in their natural habitat. Lake Kivu and the islands of the Democratic Republic of Congo are visible early on, and as you descend the peak, listen out for the sounds of children playing as their voices carry up the mountainside from Banda village below. Extra charge applies.
IMBARAGE TRAIL (CHALLENGING) Geared towards more experienced hikers, this challenging trail rewards you with the sight of not one, but four, scenic waterfalls and spectacular views across the Bururi valley. Covering approximately 740m of ascent and descent, you can listen to the variety of bird calls, along with tree frogs, crickets, cicadas and sometimes monkeys. A fully-equipped backpack will be provided, including binoculars to help you catch every exceptional detail, and authentic African walking sticks to help you master the trail itself. US$50 PER PERSON AVAILABLE DAILY
UWINKA TRAIL
This may be considered a challenging hike, but it is also considered one of the most beautiful. Views over Kamiranzovu Marsh are spectacular, and along the trail you will encounter towering trees, glossy yellowflowered begonia, and a small remote waterfall. Mangabeys, Blue Monkeys and Colobus can often be seen here, along with the red flashes of a passing Turaco birds which you can also hear singing in the morning. Extra charge applies.
MT. BIGUGU TRAIL
Surrounding the highest peak in the park, this trail is known for its incredible array of colourful flora and the stunning views of Lake Kivu as well as the hills of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Covering around 660m of ascent and descent, birders will be treated with chance to see the Red-Collared Mountain-Babbler among other attractive species. Extra charge applies.
In Southwest Rwanda, just south of Lake Kivu on the Burundi border, One&Only Nyungwe House is set amongst the rich tea-plantations of Gisakura, on the edge of the iconic Nyungwe National Park. The park itself covers approximately 1020 km² of rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps and bogs, and is one of the last mountain rainforest habitats on the planet.
Nyungwe Forest remains the largest mountain rainforest on the African continent and is home to over 13 different species of primate and 20% of all the apes in Africa. The lush and diverse habitat is famously home to a large population of chimpanzees and endangered monkeys; including the owl faced monkey and the golden monkey, of which sightings are reported, but unverified.
The forest was cited by Birdlife International as “the most important site for biodiversity conservation in Rwanda” for its 275 recorded bird species of which 27 are endemic. Home to a myriad of stunning orchids, butterflies, moths and other fascinating creatures and insects, the Government of Rwanda declared Nyungwe a national park in 2005, affording it the highest level of protection in the country.
The resort itself, on the edge of the park, was originally developed in conjunction with the Rwandan Government in 2010. In 2017, it came under the management of One&Only, and after an extensive renovation and upgrade of facilities, it has become the unrivalled rainforest oasis you see today.
KIGALI AIRPORT (INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS)
Our closest international airport is served by several weekly flights from key European, African and Middle Eastern hubs. Some of the airlines that fly to Rwanda include SN Brussels, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Turkish airlines, Rwanda Air, KLM and Qatar Airways. Flights from Guangzhou and New York are also expected to launch soon.
KAMEMBE AIRPORT (DOMESTIC FLIGHTS)
RwandAir operate daily domestic flights of approximately 35 mins from Kigali Airport. A short car transfer of 45 mins can then be arranged from Kamembe Airport to the resort.
BY ROAD
Rwanda has possibly the best roads in East Africa, and all major centres are connected by local and luxury transfer services. The 5-hour journey from Kigali Airport (the last 1.5 hours is through the National Park) will take you south through scenic countryside towards Butare, a university town, home to the Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda.
BY HELICOPTER
For an awe-inspiring and expedited arrival, a 30-minute helicopter charter will reveal incredible views of the Rwandan countryside, Lake Kivu and the Nyungwe National Park, bringing you directly to the resort’s helipad.
