New From Wilderness Safaris: Bisate Lodge in Rwanda

One of the most exciting developments for African tourism this year will be the opening of the Bisate Lodge in Rwanda this month. Wilderness Safaris—which was first founded in Botswana in 1983 and today has a reputation as one of Africa's top ecotourism operators—will be unveiling this highly anticipated sanctuary next to Volcanoes National Park.

The location is stellar; to quote the official website, the lodge is situated in “a natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone along the Albertine Rift – the word bisate means ‘pieces’ in Kinyarwanda, describing how the cone was once whole but worn away by natural erosion.” This is a prime location for viewing the famous, endangered mountain gorillas; the lodge is close to Park Headquarters where expeditions depart every day.

Classified as one of Wilderness Safaris’ “Premier Camps,” Bisate Lodge will offer luxurious facilities. The six forest villas—accommodating 12 guests—were designed to reflect local culture and blend in with the natural surroundings. The views will be exceptional. Another highlight: the wine cellar where tastings and seminars will take place.

What’s particularly noteworthy about Bisate Lodge is that it is part of one of Wilderness Safaris’ largest conservation efforts: a reforestation program in partnership with Tuzamurane Cooperative. The lodge is surrounded by the fruits of this effort, with more than 7,000 indigenous trees improving the natural habitat (and the natural re-colonization of endemic bird species, insects, and animals). Guests will be invited to join the effort, spending time in the nursery and planting saplings. There will also be opportunities for guests to spend time in local communities.

Bisate Lodge offers a fully inclusive rate.