One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Rwanda: Luxury Lodge Review, Prices & Gorilla Trekking Guide (2027)
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest stands as Rwanda’s most exclusive luxury gorilla lodge. It is set among eucalyptus trees near Volcanoes National Park. The private tract offers privacy and serene views. Its architecture blends natural materials with modern comforts. The result is a refined, intimate mountain retreat.
As a gateway to experiences, the lodge offers easy access to the park. It showcases a luxury gorilla lodge, rwanda gorilla trek,gorilla trekking, luxury gorilla safari in context. The setting provides privacy with forest views and seamless connections to the trails.
Kigali International Airport is about 2.5 hours away. Kinigi’s gorilla briefing headquarters are just a few minutes from the lodge. Guests enjoy fine dining, personalized service, and easy forest access. This combination makes it ideal for a luxury gorilla safari. Training and staff anticipate guests’ needs with discretion.
But is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest worth its premium price?
At Buutu Safaris, we have now experienced the lodge first-hand on two separate visits. Our original two-night stay included an unforgettable trek to the Susa gorilla family, exceptional dining and time in the forest spa. I returned for another overnight stay in April 2026, giving me an opportunity to see how the property had evolved.
What impressed us most on our return was the consistency of the staff’s exceptional hospitality and the noticeably improved privacy. The eucalyptus trees and surrounding plants and shrubs have grown, the individual accommodation units feel increasingly secluded within the forest.
This is our firsthand review of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, including its location, rooms, service, dining, gorilla trekking access, accommodation prices and whether it deserves a place on your luxury Rwanda safari.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Kinigi, Musanze District, Rwanda |
| National park | Volcanoes National Park |
| Accommodation | Luxury forest treehouses and suites |
| Kigali International Airport | Approximately 2.5–3 hours by road |
| Helicopter transfer | Approximately 25 minutes from Kigali |
| Gorilla trekking briefing point | Approximately 5–10 minutes by road to Kinigi |
| Gorilla permit | US$1,500 per international visitor |
| Dining | Fine dining featuring Rwandan and international cuisine |
| Wellness | Forest spa, heated pool and fitness facilities |
| Other experiences | Golden monkeys, cultural visits, hiking and wellness |
| Ideal stay | 2–3 nights, or longer for multiple experiences |
| Best suited for | Luxury travellers, couples, honeymooners and gorilla trekking enthusiasts |
| Buutu Safaris visits | Original two-night stay and April 2026 return visit |
Our verdict: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a luxury Rwanda gorilla safari, particularly those who value personalized service, privacy, exceptional accommodation and a short morning transfer to the gorilla trekking starting point.
Is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Worth It? Our Firsthand Review
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest delivers a style of luxury that goes beyond elaborate interiors and expensive facilities.
What sets it apart is how successfully it combines comfort, nature, personal attention and access to one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife experiences.
Our first visit left a lasting impression. We were welcomed with traditional Rwandan dancing, shown to an exceptionally spacious forest suite, treated to memorable meals in different restaurants and carefully prepared for our gorilla trek.
On returning in April 2026, we were interested to discover whether the property had maintained the same standards.
I found the staff just as exceptional as we remembered. A warm welcome felt more intimate as Patrick put his hand to his chest as he welcomed us.
The warmth of the welcome, attentiveness and professionalism remained defining features of the experience.
We also noticed an important change in the environment: the trees around the accommodation had matured, creating greater natural screening between the suites.
This additional vegetation improved the sense of seclusion and made the resort feel even more deeply integrated into its forest surroundings.
For a luxury lodge, privacy is almost as important as the physical accommodation itself, and this improvement was particularly noticeable.
What stood out during our two visits
- Exceptional staff and consistently personalized service.
- Spacious, beautifully furnished accommodation surrounded by eucalyptus trees.
- Greater privacy during our January 2026 return visit.
- Convenient access to the Volcanoes National Park trekking headquarters.
- Memorable dining with locally inspired ingredients.
- Thoughtful preparation for the gorilla trekking experience.
- A relaxing forest spa that provided welcome recovery after trekking.
These are the qualities that make us comfortable recommending the lodge to travelers seeking an exclusive Rwanda gorilla safari.
Where Is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Located?
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is located in Kinigi, near Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda.
The resort is set within a beautiful eucalyptus forest with the Virunga volcanoes forming the dramatic backdrop to the region.
Its location is one of its greatest practical advantages.
Just Minutes from the Gorilla Trekking Starting Point
One of the biggest advantages of staying at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is the very short drive to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters at Kinigi, where the gorilla trekking morning briefing takes place.
The headquarters is approximately 5–10 minutes away by road, depending on the exact transfer arrangements.
This makes the early morning much more comfortable.
Instead of a lengthy drive before the day’s activities, guests can enjoy breakfast at the lodge and reach the briefing point without spending a substantial amount of time traveling.
For older travelers, families with eligible trekking-age children, photographers carrying equipment and anyone who prefers a relaxed morning, this proximity is a meaningful advantage.
After the briefing, guests travel with their assigned group towards the appropriate trail head. That additional journey depends on which gorilla family has been allocated and should not be confused with the short drive to the park headquarters.
Our experience: I particularly value this location because it reduces unnecessary travel before what may already be a physically demanding day in the mountains.
Getting to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest from Kigali
In December 2024, we approached the lodge after crossing the Uganda-Rwanda Border at Cyanika. This was after our first gorilla trek on a safari that had 2 gorilla trekking experiences: the gorilla habituation experience in Uganda and standard gorilla trekking in Rwanda.The drive from Bwindi to One and Only Gorilla Nest took about 5 hours.
In 2026, we drove for approximately 2.5–3 hours from Kigali International Airport by road.
The drive passes through Rwanda’s beautiful hills and rural landscapes towards the Virunga Mountains.
A helicopter transfer from Kigali is also possible, with flight time of approximately 25 minutes, subject to scheduling and weather conditions.
For visitors arriving from the United States, I normally recommend spending at least two nights at the lodge so that the gorilla trek is not squeezed between long travel days.
Our First Visit: An Extraordinary Rwandan Welcome
Our first visit began with a welcome that remains one of our fondest memories of the resort.
As we drove towards the entrance, the distant sounds of traditional Rwandan Intore drums grew louder.
The performers approached our vehicle in an energetic display of traditional dance. The male dancers wore ceremonial headpieces and carried shields and spears, while the women moved gracefully in a performance that celebrated Rwanda’s cultural heritage.
It was a memorable introduction to the property.
Our host, Barbara, welcomed us and guided us into the reception area, where a warm fireplace and beautifully presented refreshments awaited. The open and exceedingly spacious reception was inviting with multiple sitting areas. A massage chair was available for those who wanted neck massages.
The welcome immediately established the atmosphere of the lodge: elegant, attentive and unmistakably Rwandan.
From the beginning, the staff made us feel genuinely welcome rather than simply processed through the formalities of checking in.
That distinction is important at a luxury property.
The meals were first class as the lodge ensured we dined in different dining areas where food was served.
Our January 2026 Return Visit: Exceptional Staff and Greater Privacy
When we returned to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest for an overnight stay in January 2026, we were keen to see how the resort had developed since our previous experience.
Luxury properties can sometimes impress on a first visit but struggle to maintain the same level of service over time.
That was not our experience here.
The staff remained exceptional.
We again encountered the same culture of warm, attentive hospitality that had impressed us during our original stay.
Service felt polished without becoming overly formal, and the overall attention to guest comfort remained outstanding.
A More Private Forest Retreat
The most noticeable physical improvement was the growth of the trees and vegetation around the accommodation.
On our earlier visit, the forest setting had already been beautiful, with treehouses and suites surrounded by greenery.
By January 2026, the trees had matured further, providing more natural screening and greater privacy.
The accommodation felt more enclosed by the forest, with increased separation from neighboring units.
This change enhanced one of the resort’s greatest attractions: the opportunity to enjoy a luxury retreat surrounded by nature without sacrificing personal space.
The growth of the trees also gave the property a more established, immersive forest atmosphere.
For couples, honeymooners and travelers seeking quiet time after a demanding gorilla trek, this additional privacy makes a meaningful difference.
Our return visit confirmed that One&Only Gorilla’s Nest has retained its exceptional service while its forest environment has become even more attractive.
Luxury Accommodation at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
The resort offers a collection of freestanding treehouses and suites carefully positioned among eucalyptus trees and landscaped gardens.
Rather than one large hotel building, the accommodation is spread across the forest setting.
This design contributes significantly to the property’s atmosphere.
The rooms combine contemporary luxury with natural materials, local artistic influences, fireplaces, private outdoor spaces and large windows that bring the surrounding greenery into the living areas.
Forest Treehouse
The Forest Treehouse is an attractive option for couples seeking a luxurious forest retreat.
Features include a private deck, a comfortable bedroom, a soaking bathtub, outdoor shower and fireplace.
Its intimate scale makes it particularly appealing for honeymooners and couples whose main priority is spending time together surrounded by nature.
Virunga Suite
The Virunga Suite offers approximately 147 square meters (1,582 square feet) of space.
Its larger living areas and connection to the outdoors provide additional comfort for guests who appreciate spacious accommodation.
Ingagi Suite
The Ingagi Suite offers approximately 251 square meters (2,702 square feet), with generous living spaces and an expansive outdoor deck.
During our original stay, we enjoyed a beautifully secluded suite of this size, situated in a quiet part of the property.
Our host had carefully selected accommodation offering privacy and wonderful views of the surrounding forest.
A golf cart transferred us through the grounds to the suite, where floor-to-ceiling glass windows immediately drew our attention to the greenery outside.
The spacious interior featured elegant furniture, a fireplace, a dining area and beautiful natural finishes.
Outside, the expansive deck was furnished for relaxation, with comfortable seating and an open-air bathtub.
The gentle movement of eucalyptus leaves in the breeze created a remarkably peaceful atmosphere.
This became one of our favorite places to unwind.
Silverback Suite
The Silverback Suite sits at the top of the accommodation range.
It offers exceptionally generous living space, extensive privacy and premium facilities, including a private pool.
For travelers seeking the highest category of accommodation at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, it is worth considering.
Which Room Would We Recommend?
For couples wanting a luxurious but intimate forest experience, the Forest Treehouse is a strong choice.
For guests who value additional living space and an expansive private deck, the Ingagi Suite is particularly attractive.
For travelers seeking the resort’s most exclusive accommodation experience, the Silverback Suite deserves consideration.
We recommend selecting the room based on the traveler’s privacy requirements, preferred facilities and budget rather than automatically choosing the most expensive category.
How Much Does One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Cost in 2027?
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is an ultra-luxury property, and its accommodation prices reflect that positioning. Rates range from $4,830 to $26,000 per room per night depending on the season.
Rates vary considerably depending on the room category, season, occupancy, length of stay and package inclusions.
Accommodation prices depend on the season, room category, occupancy and inclusions.
The published One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Rwanda rates for 2026–2027 start at approximately US$2,415 per person per night sharing, depending on the season.
These are the rates advertised for the entry-level Forest Treehouse, based on two guests sharing.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest nightly rates
| Travel dates | Per person/night | Per room/night (2 guests) |
| 1 Nov – 21 Dec 2026 | $2,415 | $4,830 |
| 22 Dec 2026 – 6 Jan 2027 | $4,130 | $8,260 |
| 7 Jan – 28 Feb 2027 | $3,005 | $6,010 |
| 1 Mar – 31 May 2027 | $2,415 | $4,830 |
| Jun – Dec 2027 | On request | On request |
For 2027, travelers should request a date-specific quotation rather than assume that one published nightly price applies throughout the year.
What Is Included in the Accommodation Rate?
The lodge’s published Forest Treehouse inclusions currently feature:
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Selected beverages with meals.
- Selected resort activities, subject to availability.
- Trekking equipment such as ponchos, gaiters and backpacks.
- Assistance with preparing for outdoor activities.
- Additional resort services according to the selected booking conditions.
Not every service or experience is necessarily included in every reservation, so inclusions should be confirmed before booking.
Is the Gorilla Permit Included?
Gorilla trekking permits are generally arranged separately unless specifically included in a safari package.
The standard Rwanda gorilla permit costs US$1,500 per international visitor.
This provides access to a guided gorilla trek and up to one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family once located.
At Buutu Safaris, we can prepare a customized luxury Rwanda safari quotation combining the accommodation, gorilla permits, private transfers, guiding and other requested activities.
Planning a stay in 2027? Request current One&Only Gorilla’s Nest rates and gorilla permit availability for your preferred dates.
Gorilla Trekking from One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Gorilla trekking is the primary reason many travelers visit Volcanoes National Park.
The experience begins early in the morning with a briefing at Kinigi park headquarters, where visitors receive instructions and are assigned to trekking groups.
From there, guests proceed towards the relevant trailheads with guides, trackers and park staff.
The hiking time depends on the location of the assigned gorilla family, weather conditions, terrain and the group’s pace.
Once the gorillas are located, visitors can spend up to one hour observing them.
Our Trek to the Susa Gorilla Family
During our original stay, we trekked to see the Susa gorilla family.
The experience was extraordinary.
Our encounter involved 23 mountain gorillas, a remarkable sight that made the trek especially memorable.
Watching the interactions between different members of the family reinforced why mountain gorilla trekking remains one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences.
Before departing, the lodge staff had carefully prepared us for the day.
They provided or helped organize useful trekking equipment, including walking sticks, gloves, ponchos and gaiters.
Our packed lunch was beautifully presented, reflecting the same attention to detail we experienced throughout our stay.
Although the trek was physically demanding, the combination of the gorilla encounter and the lodge’s thoughtful preparation made it one of the highlights of our visit.
On our second visit we trekked the Kwitonda family of gorillas. The trek lasted no more than an hour before we found the gorillas. The trek was special because we had never had 5 gorilla silverbacks in one place. We also got to see recently named babies which remained jolly throughout the hour.
What Should You Bring for Gorilla Trekking?
We recommend sturdy waterproof hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, rain protection, drinking water and a small daypack.
Porters are available to assist trekkers and can be particularly helpful on steep or slippery trails.
Guests should also be realistic about their fitness and mobility. Trekking conditions vary daily, and no operator can guarantee an easy walk.
Dining at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Food was one of the great pleasures of our original stay.
The lodge offers refined dining that draws inspiration from Rwandan produce while incorporating a range of international culinary influences.
Our first dinner was a beautifully presented four-course meal.
The menu featured locally inspired ingredients, including baby aubergines and fresh seasonal produce.
We selected duck for our main course and thoroughly enjoyed the balance of flavors and presentation.
On another evening, we chose Osso buco, a rich and memorable dish that demonstrated the kitchen’s ability to combine familiar international cuisine with the hospitality of Rwanda.
Breakfast was equally impressive.
We enjoyed an extensive selection of dishes before departing for our gorilla trek, and the staff ensured everything was carefully timed around the morning’s activities.
What impressed us was not simply the quality of the food but the service surrounding each meal.
Dining felt unhurried, personal and beautifully coordinated.
For a luxury gorilla lodge, this matters because guests often arrive after long international journeys or return tired from trekking.
The Forest Spa: Relaxation After Gorilla Trekking
After our memorable trek to the Susa gorilla family, we returned to the resort and made our way to the spa.
The wellness facilities are set within the eucalyptus forest, creating a peaceful environment surrounded by greenery, flowers and birdsong.
We chose a full-body massage using coconut oil and locally grown coffee ingredients.
After hours spent walking through the forest, the treatment was exactly what we needed.
The combination of skilled therapists, natural surroundings and soothing treatments made the experience particularly memorable.
Later, we returned to our suite and spent time relaxing on the large outdoor deck.
The tranquil setting was ideal for an evening yoga session and quiet reflection after the day’s adventures.
For travelers planning a luxury gorilla safari, we strongly recommend leaving free time after the trek rather than scheduling too many activities.
The lodge itself is part of the experience and deserves time to be enjoyed.
Other Activities at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
While mountain gorilla trekking is the main attraction, the resort and surrounding region offer several other experiences.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden monkeys inhabit the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Their energetic movements, striking coloring and social behavior provide a very different primate experience from mountain gorilla trekking.
Rwandan Cultural Experiences
Guests can explore local cultural traditions through visits and activities organized in the surrounding communities.
The lodge also offers opportunities to learn about Rwandan coffee, music, storytelling and traditional performances.
Hiking and Nature Experiences
Volcanoes National Park provides opportunities for guided walks and hikes, including routes associated with the Virunga volcanoes and Dian Fossey’s conservation legacy.
Spa and Wellness
Guests can enjoy spa treatments, relaxation, yoga and the lodge’s wellness facilities.
For travelers staying three nights or longer, these experiences can be incorporated without rushing the main gorilla trek.
All three provide access to gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
The gorilla encounter itself is not determined by the price of the lodge.
Instead, the main differences involve accommodation, resort facilities, atmosphere, privacy, service style and individual preferences.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest vs Other Luxury Gorilla Lodges in Rwanda
Rwanda has several exceptional luxury lodges near Volcanoes National Park.
Travelers comparing One&Only Gorilla’s Nest often also consider Wilderness Bisate and Singita Kwitonda Lodge.
| Lodge | Distinguishing character | Best for |
| One&Only Gorilla’s Nest | Luxury forest resort with extensive wellness facilities | Travellers wanting a private forest retreat with a full luxury resort experience |
| Wilderness Bisate | Distinctive architecture, intimate setting and conservation emphasis | Travellers seeking an architecturally distinctive, conservation-focused stay |
| Singita Kwitonda Lodge | Contemporary ultra-luxury accommodation and strong conservation positioning | Travellers seeking an exclusive, highly personalised luxury experience |
Why we particularly like Gorilla’s Nest: Having stayed there twice, we can speak directly about the service, suite experience, dining, wellness facilities and the improved natural privacy we noticed in January 2026.
A 3-Day Luxury Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
For travelers with limited time, three days and two nights provide an excellent introduction to Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.
Day 1: Kigali to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where your private Buutu Safaris guide will meet you.
Travel through Rwanda’s beautiful hills towards Volcanoes National Park.
Check in at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, enjoy your suite and relax before dinner.
Overnight: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy an early breakfast before the short transfer to Kinigi park headquarters.
Attend the gorilla trekking briefing and proceed with your assigned guide and group to locate a habituated gorilla family.
Spend up to one hour observing the mountain gorillas.
Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation.
A spa treatment is an excellent way to finish the day.
Overnight: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Day 3: Return to Kigali
Enjoy breakfast before departing for Kigali.
Depending on your international flight schedule, add a city tour or other experiences before proceeding to the airport.
Optional extension: Add golden monkey trekking, a second gorilla trek, Nyungwe chimpanzees, Akagera National Park or a longer safari in Uganda, Kenya or Tanzania.
When Is the Best Time to Stay at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest?
Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year, and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest can be enjoyed in every season.
The drier periods generally offer more comfortable hiking conditions, while the rainy seasons bring particularly lush forest landscapes.
| Period | General conditions |
| June–September | Typically drier; popular gorilla trekking period |
| December–February | Often relatively drier; good for trekking |
| March–May | Wetter, with lush green scenery |
| October–November | Wetter conditions and potentially muddy trails |
Because Rwanda has a tropical mountain climate, rain can occur at any time of year.
For high-demand travel periods, book accommodation and gorilla permits well in advance.
Is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Suitable for Older Travelers?
Yes, it can be an excellent accommodation choice for older luxury travelers because the lodge is in a largely flat location with barely any steps compared to lodges in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park. The lodge is also close to the starting point with a short drive to the park headquarters.
Its spacious accommodation, attentive staff, comfortable transfers and wellness facilities are all valuable.
However, staying at a luxury lodge does not make the gorilla trek itself easy.
Mountain gorillas move freely through the forest, and trekking terrain can be steep and slippery.
We recommend discussing any mobility concerns during the planning stage.
A porter can provide valuable assistance, while more substantial mobility support may require special arrangements and advance confirmation.
The lodge’s proximity reduces the morning road transfer, but it does not remove the physical demands of the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions About One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Where is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest in Rwanda?
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is located in Kinigi, near Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda, approximately 2.5–3 hours by road from Kigali International Airport.
How far is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest from the gorilla trekking starting point?
The lodge is approximately 5–10 minutes by road from the Kinigi park headquarters, where morning gorilla trekking briefings take place. After the briefing, additional travel to an allocated trail head may be required.
Is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest worth the money?
For travelers who value privacy, exceptional hospitality, luxury accommodation, fine dining, wellness facilities and convenient access to gorilla trekking, it is a compelling option. Our January 2026 return visit reinforced our positive impression of the staff and the property’s increasingly private forest setting.
How much does it cost to stay at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest in 2027?
Accommodation prices depend on the season, room category, occupancy and inclusions.
The published One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Rwanda rates for 2026–2027 start at approximately US$2,415 per person per night sharing, depending on the season.
These are the rates advertised for the entry-level Forest Treehouse, based on two guests sharing.
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest nightly rates
| Travel dates | Per person/night | Per room/night (2 guests) |
| 1 Nov – 21 Dec 2026 | $2,415 | $4,830 |
| 22 Dec 2026 – 6 Jan 2027 | $4,130 | $8,260 |
| 7 Jan – 28 Feb 2027 | $3,005 | $6,010 |
| 1 Mar – 31 May 2027 | $2,415 | $4,830 |
| Jun – Dec 2027 | On request | On request |
Because rates change, we recommend requesting a personalized 2027 quotation rather than relying on a generic nightly rate.
Is the gorilla permit included in the accommodation price?
Not necessarily. The standard gorilla permit for international visitors is US$1,500 per person and is usually booked separately unless specifically included in a package.
How many nights should I stay?
We recommend at least two nights for a comfortable gorilla trekking trip. Three nights allow more time to enjoy the spa, accommodation and optional golden monkey trekking or other activities.
Does One&Only Gorilla’s Nest have a spa?
Yes. The property features forest-inspired wellness facilities and spa treatments, making it particularly attractive for relaxation after gorilla trekking.
Can I visit One&Only Gorilla’s Nest without trekking gorillas?
Yes. Visitors can enjoy the accommodation, dining, wellness facilities and selected cultural experiences without undertaking a gorilla trek.
Is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest suitable for families?
Family suitability depends on the ages of the children, room configurations and the resort’s current booking policies. Mountain gorilla trekking itself is restricted to visitors aged 15 and above. Families should confirm the lodge’s minimum guest age before booking.
Can I combine One&Only Gorilla’s Nest with a safari in Uganda?
Yes. A stay at Gorilla’s Nest can be combined with Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Park. Travelers can also continue to Kenya or Tanzania for a classic East African safari.
Our Final Verdict: Would We Stay at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Again?
Absolutely.
Having experienced One&Only Gorilla’s Nest on two separate occasions, including our return visit in January 2026, we remain particularly impressed by the consistency of the staff’s service.
The lodge combines an exceptional location near Volcanoes National Park with luxury accommodation, beautiful grounds, memorable dining and a wonderfully relaxing spa.
On our return, the maturing forest vegetation had created noticeably greater privacy, enhancing the sense of staying within a secluded natural retreat.
And for gorilla trekkers, the short drive to the Kinigi briefing point is a genuine practical advantage.
There are several outstanding luxury gorilla lodges in Rwanda, and the best choice ultimately depends on personal preferences.
But for travelers seeking a luxurious forest resort with exceptional service and convenient access to mountain gorilla trekking, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest remains one of our strongest recommendations.
Plan Your Luxury Rwanda Gorilla Safari with Buutu Safaris
Experience One&Only Gorilla’s Nest with local safari experts who have stayed there themselves.
Buutu Safaris is a family-owned Ugandan safari company operating since 1995, specializing in gorilla trekking and tailor-made East African wildlife journeys.
We arrange luxury gorilla safaris in Rwanda and Uganda, including accommodation, gorilla permits, private transportation, experienced guiding and onward travel.
Whether you are planning a three-day Rwanda gorilla escape, a luxury honeymoon or a longer East African safari, our team can design an itinerary around your interests, travel dates and preferred style of accommodation.
Request One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Rates & Availability
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit One & Only Gorilla’s Nest?
The best time to visit One & Only Gorilla’s Nest is during the dry seasons, which are:
- June to September: This is generally considered the peak season with the best weather. Expect less rain and pleasant temperatures, making trekking more comfortable.
- December to February: Another dry period with good weather conditions for exploring the park.
Why these times are ideal:
Better Weather: Less rain means drier trails and more comfortable trekking conditions.
Clearer Views: Reduced rainfall often results in clearer views of the stunning volcanic scenery.
Peak Season: While this means higher prices and more crowds, it also ensures the best availability for gorilla trekking permits.
2. How much does it cost to stay at The One & Only Gorilla’s Nest?
Prices range from $,4800 to $26,000 depending on the season.
4. Is One&Only Gorilla’s Nest family-friendly?
Yes, The One&Only Gorilla Nest is child friendly with the team taking special care to look after families. They have spacious Virunga Suite at 147 square meters, The Ingagi Suite at 251 square meters and the Silverback Suite at 409 square meters. The chefs also prepare personalized meals for the kids and there are several play areas for children.
