Tell any seasoned traveler that you’re heading to Rwanda and their mind will go to one place: Gorillas. Deep in the heart of the country’s Volcanoes National Park lives a small population of majestic mountain gorilla, roaming free in their natural habitat.
While permits to trek to see the gorilla have to be obtained from the government (official bodies robustly limit the number of visitors seeing the animals in a bid to protect their unstable future), the aptly named One&Only Gorilla's Nest (which is the closest hotel to the national park) can arrange luxury transfers to and from for a seamless experience.
After a long, transformative day in the mountains, retreat to the sublime comfort of the hotel’s Silverback Suite. Covering over 4,400 sq ft, the suite spreads across two levels and cooly brings the outdoors in with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the misty forest and farmland views beyond.
The suite is smartly finished with an interior décor that merges all the modern amenities expected of a five-star hotel with examples of local art and craftsmanship. Outside, a private pool and barbecue terrace await.
All rates at the resort are inclusive of daily meals, drinks, activities and trekking and excursion equipment, but for the Silverback Suite, the ante seriously gets upped: expect daily in-suite lunch or dinner courtesy of a private chef, complimentary airport transfers and a private tour of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest’s community partnership, Handspun Hope.
In the main hotel is the open-air Nest restaurant which serves seasonal cuisine using local ingredients; the Nest Bar, where guests can come together to share tales from the day over expertly crafted cocktails; and a spa and fitness center that intertwines contemporary and traditional remedies in its treatment menu.
Details
| Company | One&Only Gorilla's Nest |
| Location | Ruhengeri, Rwanda |
| Price per night ($) | 27,000 |
| Profile type | Enhanced |
| Award winners | Top Eco Suites |
| Price range | $10,000 - $49,999 |
| Number of bedrooms | One bedroom |
| Features - in suite | Art collection Dining room Fireplace Floor-to-ceiling windows Kitchen Hot tub Library Pool Walk in wardrobes Welcome gifts Wellness facilities Wine cellar |
| Leisure facilities - Hotel | Cinema Fire pit Garden Gym Library Outdoor pool Spa Yoga studio Family/Child friendly |
| Luxury and privacy options | Dedicated staff quarters Packing/unpacking service Private door away from rest of hotel Private use of hotel amenities |
| Size of master bed | King (152 × 198cm) |
| Number of bathrooms | One bathroom |
| Number of floors | One floor |
| Food and drink facilities - Hotel | Private Dining |
| Number of restaurants | One restaurant |
| Business facilities - Hotel | Board room Conference room |
| Number of dedicated staff | One member of staff |
| Exclusive guest services | Butler Chauffeur Dedicated concierge/guest relations manager Masseuse Private chef |
| Outside space | Terrace |
| Transport options | Airport transfers Helipad |
| Luxury brands | Terre D'Afrique Nespresso Africology Dyson SMEG Samsung |
| TV size | 65" |
| Sustainability initiatives | Onsite produce Recycling systems - Food Recycling systems - Glass Recycling systems - Metals Recycling systems - Paper/card Recycling systems - Plastic 26-50% (Energy - Renewable sources) Linen and towel reuse programs Low-flow fixtures |
| Bed linen brand | Rivolta Carmignani |
VIP Contact
Craig Storkey, General manager
What attracted you to your position at the hotel?
One&Only is a renowned ultra-luxury brand, and the chance to lead the team at both of our resorts in Rwanda, One&Only Nyungwe House and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, in which sustainable practices and active involvement with communities is paramount, was an exceptional opportunity. We are committed to creating everlasting memories for our guests, whilst making a positive impact on the local community and environment.
What should Elite Traveler readers expect from a VIP experience at the hotel?
Upon your arrival, you’ll be welcomed in the traditional Rwandan way, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of drummers. As our guest, you’ll have a dedicated Guest Experience Host throughout your stay to ensure your every need and desire is met. The Silverback Suite offers unparalleled levels of space and privacy, with a private outdoor pool and multi-level terrace overlooking the dramatic volcanic landscape.
Additionally, all our suite guests receive a complimentary VIP back-of-house tour of the Ellen DeGeneres Campus at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund facility. This tour will be led by a senior staff member, providing you with a rare and insightful glimpse into the study and protection of gorillas, including visits to the scientific labs.
Tell us what separates this suite from anything else on offer in the region
The Silverback Suite is an exceptional space, designed to frame nature, encircled by trees and awe-inspiring landscape. It is a secluded suite, separate from other rooms, offering the utmost privacy for guests who desire exclusivity and solitude.
The one-bedroom suite has outstanding levels of space, comfort, and privacy. The impressive interiors and expansive multi-level spaces lead out to the private swimming pool, lounge, and barbecue dining terrace overlooking the volcanic lands beyond. Guests can sip aperitifs on the open-air lounge, savor fresh grills on the barbecue terrace, and share stories of the day around the cozy firepit.
Gold 2024, In-Suite Facilities
Gold 2024, Luxury
Gold 2024, Staff and Services
Gold 2024, Technology
Silver 2024, Access
Silver 2024, Privacy
Silver 2024, Sustainability
Bronze 2024, Food & Drinks
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