Bisate Lodge
SIGNATURE GUIDED SAFARIS® • RWANDA
Signature Guided Safaris®
Bisate Lodge
Bisate lodge in Rwanda is the epitome of luxury, located in one of Africa's most biodiverse regions - in the natural amphitheater of an eroded volcanic cone. In Kinyarwanda, the word bisate means 'pieces' describing how the once-whole cone was worn away by natural erosion. Six luxurious suites encompass warmth, comfort and panoramic views while retaining the environmental principles and culture of Rwanda. Each suite at Bisate Lodge also includes a private viewing deck, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature right from their own space. Additionally, scenic running trails wind along the forest, providing a perfect way to explore the surrounding beauty.
Gorillas in the Mist
Born in San Francisco in 1932, Dian Fossey was a primatologist known for her substantial research on the mountain gorillas of Rwanda which led to her inspiring autobiography ‘Gorillas in the Mist’, a must-read for anyone planning a Gorilla safari. During your stay at Bisate Lodge, we can help arrange a spectacular hiking excursion to the ruins of the Karisoke Research Centre and burial site of Dian Fossey, sited next to her favorite primate Digit. “Little did I know then that by setting up two small tents in the wilderness of the Virungas I had launched the beginnings of what was to become an internationally renowned research station eventually to be utilized by students and scientists from many countries.” — Dian Fossey.
Safari Films
The land of
fire and ice
A GLIMPSE INSIDE
Bisate Lodge
Bisate experience
Bisate experience
Only six suites, each offering wraparound views of the stunning landscape. Beautifully crafted by traditional Rwandan artisans combining authentic design with modern comfort, each suite spans a vast area of 1000 square ft. Set at an elevation of 6070 ft, these villas are spread across a remote and private forest area taking in incredible views of the Bisoke and Kasimbi mountain range. The distant volcanoes of Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhambura complete the spectacular panorama from the lounge areas of Bisate Lodge. Enjoy some refreshing Rwandan coffee as you are led to your beautiful forest villa in a private setting overlooking the wilderness. Given the fragile rainforest location, Bisate's foremost purpose is Gorilla conservation and a strong commitment to sustainable eco-tourism which is reflected in the safari architecture and service ethos.
The Gorilla Safari
Encountering a giant silverback gorilla up close is undeniably one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on earth. Our thrilling trek takes us along the trails once walked by the rare and critically endangered Mountain Gorillas, the largest primates alive today. The journey begins in the cultivated foothills of the Virunga Mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views. As we enter the national park, where fresh signs of elusive buffalo and elephants are often spotted, trekkers are enveloped in the enchanting atmosphere of the rainforest, alive with vibrant bird songs, fluttering butterflies, and more. Peeking through gaps in the dense forest canopy, the majestic Virunga peaks—among the highest in Africa—loom in the distance, tempting adventurers to climb higher. Navigating through tangles of vines, moss-covered trees, and towering tropical plants like giant lobelias, we follow our expert trackers, many of whom have spent their entire lives in or near this ancient forest. Before long, we find ourselves close to a gorilla family. For a magical hour, we observe these incredible creatures as they go about their day—feeding, playing, resting, and caring for their young.
Bisate Lodge
Close encounters
Close encounters
See Africa’s oldest wilderness; a rainforest like no other: The scenic Albertine Rift, one of the world’s most biodiverse areas, home to critically endangered Mountain Gorillas and Golden monkeys. Through gaps in the canopy, the magnificent Virungas show their peaks beckoning your ascent. As you weave through the overhanging vines moss-covered hagenia and giant lobelias are revealed. The Volcanoes Park with its beautiful bamboo and fern forests is the finest place to track habituated families of Gorillas and spend time with these Great Apes, watching them at play with their young. There are 12 habituated gorilla groups that can be tracked and observed in the Volcanoes National Park. There are approximately 1,000 mountain gorillas in the wild, with 604 in the Virunga Massif. This population is slowly increasing, thanks to concerted efforts between our governments, communities and NGOs.
What you'll love
Guided Safaris® guests are welcomed at Bisate Lodge in the warm hospitality of our Rwandan hosts and escorted on a thrilling funicular ride to the hill housing the main lodge building as the forest surrounds you. Start your day with freshly-brewed Rwandan coffee and made-to-order full American breakfast before your Gorilla safari trek begins. As with safari custom, your stay at Bisate Lodge includes all meals and local beverages. Back at camp, lunch and dinner are served a la carte on the lodge deck with stunning views of the Virungas. A selection of fine wine is inclusive of your stay. Fresh produce is locally-grown by members of the lodge community cooperative. Our guests at Bisate Lodge are welcome to visit the village to meet the farmers and stroll the vegetable gardens. Guests can also trek for Golden Monkeys, a rare old world monkey in the Volcanoes Park. Plan your safari with Guided Safaris® for a complete package experience with Guided Gorilla treks, all applicable Gorilla permits and lodge transfers inclusive.
Bisate Lodge
Bisate Reserve
Bisate Reserve
A perfect experience for private travel, the new Bisate Reserve elevates standards of luxury, conservation, and exclusivity in Rwanda. The exclusive Bisate Reserve will offer only four expansive villas, reinforcing a commitment to promoting conservation-focused tourism in the area. A perfect private villa for families or friends traveling together, this brand new experience is one of the most exclusive accommodations in Rwanda.
Facts + Features
Bisate Lodge
The suites at Bisate Lodge are beautifully crafted by traditional Rwandan artisans, combining authentic design with modern comfort, spanning a vast area of 1000 square feet. Set at an elevation of 6070-feet, the villas are spread across a remote and private forest area taking in incredible views of Bisoke and Kasimbi mountain range. The distant volcanoes of Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhambura complete the spectacular panorama from Bisate Lodge. Bisate Lodge provides Natura® water purification systems and a sparkling water solutions to supply clean, great tasting water at lodge.
Guided Safaris®
A Day on Safari
Luxury Safari Lodges
Always Tailormade
Every detail defines an experience in your private safari.
Our custom safaris are meticulously planned journeys where nothing is left to chance, so you can enjoy unique moments with your loved ones in total luxury and privacy. Having the ultimate say in your preferences from start to finish allows you to explore our exclusive destinations in absolute freedom, whenever you want. No set dates; no groups, ever.
Bisate Lodge Reservations
Let’s plan your dream safari.
Now the time comes to make it real. And since every dream is so personal, your desires tailor how it all takes shape. No set dates, no group travel. This is how each Guided Safaris® bespoke journey is created, always custom to you.
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Immersive, remote wilderness
At the very heart, the idea for the Guided Safaris® collection of experiences was to be poetic and endlessly inspiring: for you, as an explorer, to interpret your dreams with these visual stories and breathe life into each safari. We invite you to discover our Signature Journeys.
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Conservation at the
heart of every journey
30 year legacy
Official Guided Safaris®
Always tailormade
No groups, no set dates
Finest in Africa
Luxury safaris, exclusively