Five volcanoes boutique hotel
Davinci Gorilla lodge
Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is one of Rwanda’s most luxurious safari lodges, offering an extraordinary blend of world-class hospitality, refined comfort, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. Located just minutes from Volcanoes National Park, this exclusive retreat provides the perfect gateway to one of Africa’s most iconic adventures—mountain gorilla trekking. Surrounded by eucalyptus forests, lush gardens, and dramatic volcanic scenery, the lodge offers guests a peaceful sanctuary where luxury meets nature.
Whether you are planning a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking safari, a romantic honeymoon, a family holiday, or a luxury wildlife escape, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest promises an exceptional stay. From elegant accommodations and gourmet dining to wellness experiences and personalized service, every aspect of the lodge is designed to create unforgettable memories while celebrating Rwanda’s remarkable natural and cultural heritage.
About One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a five-star luxury safari lodge located in Kinigi, Musanze District, on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Managed by the internationally renowned One&Only Resorts, the lodge is celebrated for its exceptional service, sophisticated design, and commitment to sustainable luxury.
Set within a tranquil eucalyptus forest, the lodge seamlessly blends contemporary architecture with traditional Rwandan influences. Natural materials, handcrafted décor, locally inspired artwork, and beautifully landscaped gardens create an atmosphere of elegance while reflecting the surrounding environment. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to provide guests with privacy, comfort, and a deep connection to nature.
The lodge is an ideal destination for travelers seeking exclusive accommodation while exploring Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and the spectacular Virunga Mountains.
Location of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest enjoys a prime location in Kinigi, within Musanze District in Rwanda’s Northern Province. Situated only a few minutes from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, the lodge provides convenient access to early morning gorilla trekking briefings, making it one of the most sought-after luxury accommodations in the region.
The lodge is approximately 120 kilometres (75 miles) from Kigali International Airport, a scenic drive of around 2½ to 3 hours through Rwanda’s rolling hills, vibrant villages, terraced farmland, and breathtaking countryside. Its strategic location also allows guests to explore many of northern Rwanda’s leading attractions, including the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Gorilla Guardians Village, Musanze Caves, the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and hiking trails leading to Mount Bisoke, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Muhabura.
Surrounded by lush eucalyptus forests with magnificent views of the Virunga Volcanoes, the lodge provides a peaceful and luxurious retreat close to Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife destination.
Accommodation
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offers a variety of tastefully furnished accommodations designed to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay. The rooms and cottages combine contemporary design with traditional Rwandan touches, creating warm and inviting spaces after a day of adventure.
Accommodation options include Standard Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Family Rooms, and spacious Cottages suitable for couples, families, and small groups. Each room is equipped with comfortable king-size or twin beds, private en-suite bathrooms with hot showers, complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite television, tea and coffee-making facilities, work desks, wardrobes, and private terraces or balconies overlooking the gardens or surrounding volcanoes.
The peaceful atmosphere, comfortable furnishings, and beautiful surroundings make every room a relaxing sanctuary for guests visiting Volcanoes National Park.
Dining Experience
The hotel’s restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience featuring a wide selection of local Rwandan specialties and international cuisine prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests begin each day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for gorilla trekking or other excursions and return to delicious lunches and carefully prepared dinners served in an elegant dining setting.
The menu includes grilled meats, fresh vegetables, seasonal fruits, vegetarian and vegan options, homemade desserts, freshly brewed Rwandan coffee, premium teas, local beverages, and international wines. Guests can also enjoy meals outdoors while admiring the lush gardens and spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is one of the best places to stay for travelers planning gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Its close proximity to the park headquarters allows guests to enjoy stress-free early morning departures for the gorilla trekking briefing.
After breakfast, visitors are transferred to the park headquarters, where Rwanda Development Board rangers conduct a briefing before assigning each group to a habituated gorilla family. Guided by experienced trackers, guests hike through bamboo forests and volcanic terrain until they encounter the gorillas. Spending one hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural habitat is an unforgettable wildlife experience and the highlight of many visits to Rwanda.
Upon returning from the trek, guests can relax at the hotel with a delicious meal, a refreshing swim, or a soothing massage.
Facilities
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance every guest’s stay. These include a fine dining restaurant, fully stocked bar, outdoor swimming pool, spa and massage services, beautifully landscaped gardens, complimentary Wi-Fi, conference facilities, laundry services, airport transfers upon request, free parking, 24-hour reception, room service, and a tour desk that assists with gorilla permits, guided excursions, and transportation.
The peaceful environment and excellent amenities make the hotel a comfortable place to unwind before or after exploring Volcanoes National Park.
Activities
Guests staying at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel can enjoy numerous activities throughout northern Rwanda. These include mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, hiking Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi, visiting the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, exploring Musanze Caves, cultural visits to the Gorilla Guardians Village, birdwatching, guided nature walks, coffee farm tours, and scenic excursions to the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
These experiences allow visitors to discover Rwanda’s incredible wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel welcomes visitors throughout the year. The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are considered the best times for gorilla trekking because the forest trails are generally drier and easier to navigate. However, Rwanda’s lush green landscapes during the rainy seasons also provide spectacular scenery, and gorilla trekking remains available year-round.
Why Stay at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel?
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel combines luxury accommodation, personalized service, modern facilities, and an excellent location near Volcanoes National Park, making it one of the best places to stay in northern Rwanda. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking safari, honeymoon, family holiday, wildlife photography trip, or cultural adventure, the hotel offers comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality in a tranquil setting surrounded by the stunning Virunga Mountains.
Booking Your Stay
Due to its popularity among gorilla trekkers, it is advisable to book your stay at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel well in advance, particularly during the peak travel seasons. Travelers should also reserve their Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking permits early, as the number of permits available each day is limited. Many tour operators offer complete safari packages that include accommodation, permits, transportation, and guided activities for a seamless travel experience.
Conclusion
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offers the perfect combination of luxury, comfort, and convenience for travelers exploring Volcanoes National Park and northern Rwanda. With elegant accommodation, outstanding dining, modern facilities, personalized service, and easy access to gorilla trekking and other exciting activities, the hotel provides an exceptional base for discovering one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife destinations. Whether you are visiting for adventure, relaxation, or a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel promises a memorable and rewarding stay.