Wilderness Bisate

Wilderness Bisate

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About

#1 of 8 lodges in Ruhengeri
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Location
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Value
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Bisate Lodge is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone – the word bisate means ‘pieces’ in Kinyarwanda, describing how the cone was once whole but worn away by natural erosion. The area has dramatic views of the peaks of the volcanoes Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno rearing up through the Afro-alpine forests of nearby Volcanoes National Park. Six sumptuous en-suite rooms maximise comfort, warmth and views while retaining environmental principles and reflecting the culture of surrounding rural Rwanda. Bisate is within easy driving distance of Park Headquarters, from where gorilla treks depart daily. Its vision of reforestation and rehabilitation means that each guest is invited to participate in our biodiversity conservation efforts, as well as engage and meet the local community – in addition to learning about and making a far-reaching positive impact on an iconic Critically Endangered species: the mountain gorilla.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Free breakfast
Hiking
Airport transportation
Massage
Concierge
Non-smoking hotel
Wifi
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Room features
Bathrobes
Fireplace
Room service
Safe
Minibar
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
5.0 of 5 stars
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Detailed Reviews
NicoleRuby wrote a review Dec 2024
Creston, Canada
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had an absolutely dreamy stay. Every staff member was kind, friendly and welcoming. The rooms are unique and cozy. The food was amazing. We don’t eat meat and they knew in advance and catered a delicious menu for us each day. The nightly drinks with the other guests were very fun. It was nice to compare Gorilla experiences. The cozy fireplace lit everyday and night made the room cozy and warm. After our two trekking days our clothes and boats were covered in mud… the staff cleaned and washed everything to perfection. I have no idea how they got our boats so clean. We planted trees and learned all about the volcanoes national park expansion plans. Thank you to the entire staff for making our gorilla trek in Rwanda so magical.
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Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Go have pizza in the day lodge and visit the shop and garden.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Richard Keenan-Heard, Other at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Dec 9, 2024
Dear NicoleRuby, Thank you so much for taking the time to reflect on your time spent at Bisate. We really appreciate your kind words and attention to all of the small touches that our team are so good at doing! We are also so happy that you chose to visit the gorillas twice. Having the two experiences, one with the Amahoro and one with the newly formed Kigoma group, definitely gave you lots of stories to share with your fellow guests in the evenings 😃 Gaby has assured that he will take great care of your Hagenia trees and will make sure they continue to grow strong for the future gorilla visitors to enjoy. We hope that you will return to visit us again one day. Warmest regards, The Wilderness Bisate Family
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desertduo1 wrote a review Nov 2021
Palm Springs, California
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The accommodations are beyond words, the gorilla trekking will be one of the highlights of your life, and the people are so friendly and warm, we cried when saying goodbye. Upon arrival, Jason and Ally took us up to the lounge area to familiarize us with the property. After that, we were taken to our rooms and our jaws dropped when we entered the front door. Each room has an amazing view of the volcano, decorated beautifully, and you even have a fireplace lit for you each night if so desired. A bar and coffee setup has everything you might need for a drink and snack or maybe a cup of coffee or tea. The bathroom is very large with a double-sided fireplace so pour yourself a glass of wine and do not miss taking a bath! Each night, you meet up in the lounge with other guests to chat and have a drink. There is no wifi in the lounge to encourage people to talk rather than stare at their phones. Bosco, Alice, Benjamin, and Patience are there to make sure you have whatever you want during your meals and always serve it all up with a beautiful smile. Jean Pierre will always be around to greet you and see if you have any questions and even give you tips on what to do around the property. If you can, take the hike up to the volcano behind Villa Six. Also, don't miss out on the tree planting, You pick the tree, you plant it yourself, and they give you the GPS coordinates so you can keep track of it. I can't say enough about this place and hope to one day return and do it all again, only a few days longer next time. I also hope that we left the staff with some fun memories as well. Michael, Ray, Faye, and Pam.
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Date of stay: October 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tenneil Zondagh, Marketing at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Dec 13, 2021
Thank you for the brilliant review, we are thrilled to see that you had a truly "Life changing" journey with us. Bisate is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone, with dramatic views of the peaks of the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes rearing up through Afro-alpine forests. Encountering one of the gorilla groups in the nearby Volcanoes National Park is a unique experience. We have shared your kind words with our wonderful staff in camp, and they remember you with fond memories. The team hopes that you will visit us soon again to create more memories together. Thank you for visiting and for complimenting us on our conservation efforts. We appreciate your contribution to our reforestation efforts by planting your tree! Kind regards, Wilderness Safaris
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FrequentFlier788418 wrote a review Nov 2023
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Staff, food, and rooms were amazing. The location is beautiful and the architect of the facility did an amazing job with luxurious accommodations that resembled traditional houses. Everything has been considered, from starting the fireplace in your room to cleaning your muddy boots to like new condition in preparation for the next trek. Hard to describe how much we enjoyed our stay at Bisate Lodge. Would have been fantastic by itself, but then you get to see gorillas.
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Date of stay: November 2023
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Wilderness Destinations, Other at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Nov 23, 2023
Dear FrequentFlier788418, Thank you for your lovely review and we are thrilled that you thoroughly enjoyed your stay with us at Wilderness Bisate. Thank you also noticing the small things that our staff do to make our guests feel all the more welcome. We are thrilled you enjoyed your time and seeing the gorillas which is such a special experience. We hope you will return one day to visit us again. Yours in Safaris, Wilderness
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YAC wrote a review May 2022
San Francisco, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
People say that Bisate is one of the world’s best hotels. And guess what, they’re not wrong. It’s by far one of the best that I have enjoyed and I highly recommend this hotel to anyone seeking an exceptional experience during their once in a lifetime vacation to visit the mountain gorillas.

Let’s start with the property itself. Bisate is at the end of a bumpy road and the entrance gate is situated near one of the entry points to see the mountain gorillas. It’s unassuming. But past the entrance, you get your first look at the 6 identical villas perched on the side of a hill.

The rooms are large and beautifully appointed with local art and modern amenities. From the balcony, you overlook the valley and have a perfect view of one of the five volcanoes of the national park. Comfort is king in each villa and you’ll find your stay comfortable and relaxing.

Food and wine are included in your stay and not only will you NEVER be hungry, the food is world class. The complimentary wine options are many and are chosen with care. The vegetables come from the greenhouse and gardens on the property and are bursting with flavor as they’re all picked at the peak. Most of all, the chefs are so innovative and create simple dishes with exceptional flavors. All the dishes are cooked to perfection and nothing is dry. Dessert is a must as the options change everyday.

But in my opinion, Bisate is one of the world’s best hotels because of its staff. You are greeted by a team of people when you arrive and from that moment, you are cared for by some of the kindest and most thoughtful people in the world. The staff remember every detail that you have provided before your trip and pick up additional details during your stay. Staff members constantly coordinate with other staff members, so your experience is seamless.

One night at Bisate is not enough. Trust me - after the first night, you realize that you are already looking forward to returning back to the hotel before you even leave for your mountain gorilla adventure that I’m sure you have planned.

I am so happy that I stayed at Bisate and highly recommend it.
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Date of stay: May 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tenneil Zondagh, Marketing at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Jun 9, 2022
Dear yumingc2019, Thank you for your beautiful review. We are thrilled to see how much you enjoyed your stay with us, and that everything was able to meet your expectations. Bisate is indeed a magical camp - with our local staff from the surrounding villages, and we are delighted to read that our staff was one of your highlights. We will be sure to pass your kind words to all our wonderful staff in camp. We hope that you visit us again soon to create more memories together. Kind regards The Bisate team
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TiyendePamodzi wrote a review Mar 2020
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We simply loved our time at Bisate. The lodge is located in such a picturesque location - I could spend hours, just admiring the view of the volcanoes, the greenery, and the clouds playing hide and seek. I had heard about Rwanda being clean and green, but seeing it first hand was still rather shocking, in a good way. What I was blown over with the most was the diversity of flora that grew in the wild. Plants such as fuchsias and butterfly bushes that we spend small fortunes on, grew in the wild in Rwanda!

Bisate was wonderful. The people were very polite and professional. We traveled with friends who had certain last minute meal requests that the chef was able to accommodate immediately. The lodge provided gators, thick gloves, and trekking bags. They also provided raincoats, but as we had our own, we did not need them. When we got back to the lodge after each trek, the staff helped us take off our gators and boots and provide slip ons for us to wear. Our muddy boots were returned by evening, looking better than new, and our muddy clothes too were laundered perfectly.

Ingrid and Tataum, the camp managers, were just wonderful, competent, and engaging ladies.

The only concerns I had were:
While the dinner menu was diverse and varied every day, the lunch menu was not. It was the same menu every day, and even though the food was flavorful, seeing the same menu got a bit boring.
Service was occasionally a little slow.
The rooms were comfortable but the bathrooms needed much better lighting especially as the days begin early when its still dark outside and getting ready can be tough due to poor lighting.
Lastly, Bisate has wonderfully serene surroundings, perfect for yoga and/or meditation, for those who are interested. As an avid yogi, I was a bit disappointed that neither was offered. But, I was told that in the next few months, they are opening an adjoining property where yoga and meditation will be offered.

The gorilla trek was beyond anything that we could have imagined. The treks are expensive, but if you can, I would definitely recommend going on more than one trek. Also, if you plan on doing a golden monkey trek, try and to do that before the gorillas, as if you do it after, it will be anticlimactic.
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Date of stay: February 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: if you are not very fit, request a villa on a lower elevation
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tenneil Zondagh, Marketing at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Mar 16, 2020
Dear TiyendePamodzi, Thank you for your great review and for sharing all your fond memories with us. We have shared your kind words with Ingrid and all the staff in camp and they tell us they are looking forward to your next visit very much. Our lunch menu comes with changing daily specials, so although the basis of the menu is the same the daily specials offered change - we will make sure our staff is more forthcoming with these specials. We have spoken to Ingrid and we are sorry about the delay that might have been experienced during service but she did explain this was due to the dietary requirements and special requests. We do usually request all this information prior to guests arrival so that we can be prepared when in camp but this unfortunately took a little longer for our chefs to prepare these dishes and hope this did not effect your stay with us. We are excited about the ideas to offer yoga experiences in the future. When this is implemented we will make sure to keep you updated so that you can plan your next trip to Bisate. Kind regards Wilderness Safaris
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Bruce C wrote a review Sep 2024
Bethlehem, New Hampshire
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The lodge was fantastic - the rooms / villas are really well done and very spacious and private. The people were incredibly warm and welcoming and helpful - it's really great to see what they're doing with their staff. And we love their commitment to conservation and preservation of wildlife and the surrounding environment (including having an option for us to plant a tree (they've already planted 100,000! over the last 7 years - amazing). We're also vegetarian, which often creates an issue, but of the 4 places we stayed throughout Africa, their offerings were far and above the best! They had a whole vegetarian menu for us at each meal! The food was creative, delicious, filled with protein, starches - everything you want. And flavors and presentation were fantastic - thank you!!
I would like to see more focus on the environment - every time someone serviced the room they turned on, and left every single light on - and that's a lot of lights. Def not necessary, And there was no need for a fire in our room every day - but those are little things that are super easy to fix.
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Date of stay: September 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Wilderness Destinations, Other at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Sep 20, 2024
Dear 521bruceec Thank you for the thoughtful review. We are so thrilled that you enjoyed our vegetarian options during meal times. The variety and quality of the fresh produce in Rwanda is second to none, and our chefs enjoy taking the time to come up with new and inventive ways to showcase the local cuisine. Especially the delicious local Kinigi potatoes and avocadoes! We also value your feedback regarding the lights and fire and will be sure to be more mindful of these aspects in the lodge. Your commitment to the environment is deeply appreciated. We do hope that you return to Bisate one day again enjoy some more quality time in our Kwanda gardens and more walks throughout the property and beyond into the community. We would also love for you to check on your Hypericum and Dombeya trees (we are keeping a watchful eye on them and are happy to announce that the rains are now in full swing to help them grow strong) and maybe even to enjoy another visit to the Ntambara Gorilla family and the Golden Monkeys! Warmest regards, The Bisate Family Wilderness Destinations
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J-P Foster wrote a review Sep 2023
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had the most wonderful time at the lodge. Compared to other places we have stayed on this, and other trips, there was definitely a different vibe / more positive energy right from the moment we stepped out of the car and Ryan greeted us (along with the rest of the team). Over our two night’s stay Ryan was fantastic, full of infectious enthusiasm and good insights on what to do and get the best out of our stay. And on our final night he was an amazing help and went beyond what would be expected, by helping us out when our helicopter transfer (arranged by others) fell through; he was calling and emailing people, and was a big part on why our arrangements eventually came good. Ryan is a fantastic host, the best we’ve come across over our many adventures.
The rest of the staff were all very friendly and very helpful. We especially enjoyed the evening talk with the guide, and hope the team put on more little events like that in future.
The food was the best we’ve had in our numerous trips to Africa, the chef and kitchen staff have made great dishes – nothing too fancy (good) but the use of quality ingredients really showed.
The cleaning services for were quick and efficient, and it is great to have additional apparel available for the hikes. Every need was catered for.
And finally, the day lodge is the icing on the cake – a wonderful idea, that shows the team recognise that a lot of people have evening flights and helps them still make the most of their final day. We, and other guests, managed to squeeze in a trip to see the golden monkeys, so having space to shower and change afterwards, is great – whilst still allowing the Bisate team to prepare our vacated room for the next guests. Brilliant.
So scores of 10 out of 10 all round! We’ll definitely be recommending Bisate to our friends and fellow travellers. It is definitely worth the cost.
The Bisate team for made it the holiday of a lifetime (at least until we come Bisate again!).
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Date of stay: December 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: The day lodge can be used for your last day - allowing you to spend a few more hours there after...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from We Are Wilderness, Marketing at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Sep 4, 2023
Dear JipFoster, We are absolutely thrilled by your wonderful review of Wilderness Bisate! Your kind words and praise for Ryan and our team's exceptional service, the fantastic food, and the convenience of our day lounge, Bisate Kwanda, mean the world to us. Thank you for your perfect scores and for recommending us to your friends and fellow travelers. We can't wait to welcome you back for another incredible experience. Safe travels and see you soon! Warm regards, Wilderness
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Webster37 wrote a review Sep 2023
Boston, Massachusetts
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The most magical, luxurious, welcoming place ! Like other reviewers, we have stayed in lots of fabulous lodges and hotels, but Bisate tops them all. We are an older couple (69, 83) and didn't realize the number of stairs (beautifully sculpted) involved to reach our room ( we were in number 1) and the main area. Staff just encouraged us to "take our time" and we did and everything was perfect! There just are not enough adjectives to describe how every detail and I mean every detail is thought of and taken care of. The rooms are gorgeous, lush bedding and towels, a stunning fireplace that they restoke anytime you call, a meal delivered to your room if you want, and so much more. And the staff - it starts from the top with the warmest management (Ryan and Tiffany) and every single person who takes care of you. It feels like a large loving family, there is such a welcoming camaraderie. We were outfitted with backpacks, gaiters and a snack bag for our gorilla trek. Upon our return, staff scooped up our seriously mud covered boots ( that I thought I might have to toss) and returned them later, clean as new. Also, I have a dietary issue ( no salt) and the chef made me the BEST meals I have had in years. I was able to have soups and other dishes that I can never usually touch. The food is fantastic! Don't even think about the decision to stay at Bisate, just tell your travel agent this is where you want to go. This was our final stop on our 19 day trip, and it was the highlight. On departure day, they sent us off with lunch. Driving back to Kigali, I had the most delicious sandwich you can imagine.
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Date of stay: September 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Wilderness Destinations, Marketing at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Oct 10, 2023
Dear Webster37, Thank you so much for sharing your personal experience at Bisate. We are so happy that you picked up on all of the intricate design and architectural features that make up our special piece of paradise. We have been stoking more than a few fires over the past days as the mist continues to roll in through the lodge. We are all taking our time to climb up the hill (this is a strategic trick we have all learnt over time). Our chefs send their gratitude to you for your kind words about the food - we are all partial to a good soup at Bisate! It was our absolute pleasure to take your dietary needs into consideration and we are thrilled that you we were able to delight in all of the fresh tastes from our garden. We hope that you will return one day to celebrate another anniversary and perhaps pop in to check on how the Kwisanga Gorilla Family are doing. The entire Bisate family send you their warmest greetings. Until we meet again, Villa 1 and the wine cellar, together with a lovely bottle of Shiraz will be waiting for you. Warm regards, Ryan & Tiffany
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Leslie A wrote a review Feb 2025
New York City, New York
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This place is so amazing that I don't know even know where to begin. First, I am going to start with the lodge's incredible staff because without their hospitality, our stay would not have been as lovely as it was. Each and every person who works at Bisate (and we had contact with everyone) is absolutely fabulous. They made us feel like family. They were warm, friendly, genuine and so kind. They just love what they do. The lodge itself is truly authentic. Warm and charming. There are only six villas and they are huge and beautifully appointed. Keep in mind that the higher your room number the higher your climb but the views of the volcanoes are so beautiful that it is worth it. The food is great and I took lots of recipes home. We also each planted a tree on the property to help towards the reforestation and restoration of the gorilla's natural habitat. We stayed at Bisate for four nights. We did two gorilla treks and in between we saw the Golden Monkeys, which I highly recommend. The other people staying at Bisate were awesome. Very friendly and down to earth. When we travel we stay at the best places and don't always feel relaxed and satisfied. Bisate did not disappoint.
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Date of stay: January 2025
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: They do your daily laundry each night . See the Golden Monkeys. Go to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Wilderness Destinations, Other at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Feb 6, 2025
Dear Leslie A, Thank you so much for your beautiful review of Bisate. As we chatted about, the lodge is incredibly beautiful but our team really are the heart and soul of our property. We are so happy that you felt at home during your stay and that you got to learn so much about our reforestation efforts. Thank you so much for assisting us to plant your Hagenia (African Redwood) trees. Jimmy will keep an eye on them for you to make sure they grow tall and strong. We are also glad you did two gorilla treks, although not everyone is as lucky as you were to have a ‘two for one’ special on their first trek! Kwisanga and Agashya were definitely showing off for you 😃 Next time you come to stay (perhaps for your 15th anniversary?) we will allocate you a little lower down the hill. As much as you enjoyed the views from villa 5, we think you earned your stripes going up and down during your four nights. Warmest regards,
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culturebound wrote a review Jun 2021
los angeles
5.0 of 5 bubbles
First off, Rwanda has handled Covid better than almost any other African Country, so it is very, very safe to travel [all visitors take covid test on arrival at the airport, which only took 20 minutes and was very flawlessly executed].

The most unique hotel architecture. Check

The most amazing location. Check

The most kind and attentive staff. Check.

And oh yes… the Gorilla Treks…

How great is Bisate? Well, we would go back there even if there were no Gorilla Treks… it is simply that unique. It hits every 5 star requirement, and does it with elegance of bygone era. Each room is a series of woven circles, and decorated as if Architectural Digest was coming to visit… The stone tub… the two sided fireplaces… the circular stone shower encased in glass… the fixtures… the textures… All this founded on a devotion to the locals, and a program to increase forestation at an uber rapid pace [they have planted thousands and thousands of trees, such that you will likely see a golden monkey playing in the bamboo below]

The food is perhaps the best of any hotel we have ever been to, and we have travelled top tier for the last 15 years…everything is so fresh and so pure, that you are reminded of what our genetically engineered fruit and vegetables were supposed to taste like!! But the menu does not limit itself [my wife is a pescatarian but I am a red meat fellow]. All taste and needs were not only satisfied, but exceeded. A simple pureed soup because heaven with each spoonful…roasted beets… and a breakfast that is served on tiered banquets of silver…. Wow!

The staff were so amazing and so warm, that we left thinking they were family. A Special thank you to Amazing Alice, Seraphina, Benson, Mamatusi and of course Alley the GM who was always ready for the guest needs..

This is one of those hotels, where you pinch yourself, because it does not seem possible.

Note, this hotel involved hand carved stone stairs everywhere, so if you are of limited mobility, this would not be for you. The guest ranged from all ages and countries, with a few 80 year olds not intimidated the steps… so keep that in mind. The steps are worth the location.
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Date of stay: June 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: All Rooms are wonderful... only 8 villas... all have amazing views... lower rooms involve less of...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tenneil Zondagh, Marketing at Wilderness Bisate
Responded Jun 17, 2021
Dear culturebound, Thank you for this amazing review, we have shared your kind words with Ally and the entire team and they hope you will visit again soon. We are very proud of our sustainable menu and thrilled to see it was enjoyed by both you and your wife. We have recently increased our vegitable garden and are now growing majority of the produce used in camp on the door step of the Bisate Kwanda. Walking can be a bit of a hike but should any one prefer a room closer to the bottom of the camp let us know during your bookig and we can make arrangements. On the otherhand being up the side of the ampitheatre has the benifits of feeling almost alone in this amazing area. Kind regards Wilderness Safaris
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Answer from Wilderness
Johannesburg, South Africa236 contributions1 helpful vote
In the coming months Bisate Lodge will open a separate Day Lounge specifically to cater for the later departure requests. It will depend on your travel dates if you will be able to make use of the new facility or not. If you are not able to make use of the Day Lounge, lodge management will do their best to accommodate the request but it will depend on the arriving bookings for that day. You will need to depart the room latest by 11h00 after which it might be possible to still enjoy lunch at the lodge and depart after lunch. Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge at Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, is enhancing its guest experience by building an exclusive new Day Lounge to accommodate early arrivals and later departures. As the only lodge in the area to offer this service as part of its fully-inclusive offering, guests will be able to shower, change, enjoy a light meal, in-room massage, or simply relax in the lodge’s supremely hospitable and peaceful environment.
Joyce V asked a question Jan 2020
New York8 contributions9 helpful votes
What made you select Bisate over the other lodges?
Answer from Wilderness
Johannesburg, South Africa236 contributions1 helpful vote
Hello Joyce, I will leave your question for past guests to help you get a real answer as I am slightly biased :). If however, you would like to get some more information we have several blogs available on our website as well as camp news giving you first hand experience of what you can expect when you stay with us. You can also get more information about activities on offer and some of the community projects we are involved in including our wonderful reforestation programme. We hope the Wilderness Safaris website will help you find the information you are looking for. Thank you Tenneil Zondagh - Wilderness Safaris
Voyager918 asked a question Jan 2020
New York60 contributions79 helpful votes
What is the best time of the year to visit/
Answer from ShawnEBoi
Tucson, Arizona73 contributions11 helpful votes
I was there late January early February...storms happened fast and often. Luckily no rain while trekking but we were always prepared.
Answer from Wilderness
Johannesburg, South Africa236 contributions1 helpful vote
Hello, The previous instructions are all correct, you can get all the information you need off the Wilderness-safaris website. In addition if you would like to leave a message for our enquiries department (via the link on the website) we will get a Travel Agent to contact you and assist you further. Kind regards Wilderness Safaris
Brian D asked a question Jan 2019
New York City, New York9 contributions5 helpful votes
Hello - Does the lodge provide transportation to/from the park for the gorilla treks? Thank you!
Answer from Wilderness
Johannesburg, South Africa236 contributions1 helpful vote
Hello Brian, Thank you for your question, I have confirmed with our office in Rwanada as well as our partenrs at Thousand Hills Africa (who manage all our Kigali touring and transfers. The lodge does not provide transportation to and from the park. All our guests arrive with a chauffeur (private driver/guide) and book their trip through a local tour operator like Thousand Hills Africa. The private driver/guide takes the guests to the Head Quarters and after the guests have been informed which gorilla group they will trek, the driver/guide will take the guests to the starting point for this particular group. The vehicle and driver/guide will wait for the guests to finish their gorilla trekking and will collect the guests where they exit the park. From there the driver/guide will take the guests back to the lodge or continue any sightseeing or souvenir shopping on request. I hope this has been helpful - should you require any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact us directly via the Enquiries section on the Wilderness Safaris website. Thank you Wilderness Safaris
Leslie A wrote a tip Feb 2025
New York City, New York180 contributions86 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"They do your daily laundry each night . See the Golden Monkeys. Go to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund."
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NicoleRuby wrote a tip Dec 2024
Creston, Canada64 contributions13 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Go have pizza in the day lodge and visit the shop and garden."
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Matt M wrote a tip Feb 2024
Atherton, California, United States18 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Odds are you are here to do gorilla trekking. Do consider going twice as one trek may yield a more limited exposure. "
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Dixiegrand wrote a tip Oct 2023
London, United Kingdom87 contributions43 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Make your travel arrangements with the availability of the brilliant separate day lodge in mind."
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kacclt wrote a tip Sep 2023
Raleigh, North Carolina96 contributions56 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"If you have any mobility issues then stay in lodge one or two."
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LOCATION
RwandaNorthern ProvinceMusanze DistrictRuhengeri
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Wilderness Bisate - UPDATED 2025 Reviews & Photos

Frequently Asked Questions about Wilderness Bisate
Which popular attractions are close to Wilderness Bisate?
Nearby attractions include Volcanoes National Park (7.8 km), Iby'iwacu Cultural Village (2.0 km), and Volcanoes National Park Rwanda (6.8 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Wilderness Bisate?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at Wilderness Bisate?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Wilderness Bisate?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Does Wilderness Bisate have airport transportation?
Yes, Wilderness Bisate offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are there any historical sites close to Wilderness Bisate?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Iby'iwacu Cultural Village (2.0 km).
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