Opened in 2018 as One&Only's first Rwanda property, Nyungwe House sits in Gisakura, on a working tea plantation directly bordering the rainforest.
The approach sets the tone — a nearly two-kilometre driveway through tea ridges, with the wild forest visible as a dramatic backdrop beyond the cultivated plantation. Roughly 22 guestrooms and suites are spread across several villas encircling the main homestead, each with an open fireplace, private deck and views toward either forest or plantation.
Rooms
Suites feature open fireplaces traditionally lit with fragrant eucalyptus wood, large soaking tubs, and Rwandan art and craftwork throughout including hand-woven plates and Imigongo-style wall accents. Two-bedroom suites accommodate families or groups.
Experiences
Beyond chimpanzee trekking and the canopy walk, the property offers a dedicated Tea Lounge hosting both traditional Rwandan tea ceremonies and a distinct gin-and-tea evening service, an infinity pool facing the forest, a spa using Africology products, and plantation-based experiences from guided tea-picking to hilltop archery. All-inclusive rates cover meals, beverages, and two complimentary activities per person per day.
Community
Members of the Nyungwe Cultural Village Cooperative from neighbouring Gisakura pick tea from the resort's own plantation as part of a direct income-generating partnership funding community needs including local school fees — a tangible link between the property's operation and the surrounding community rather than a general sustainability claim.
Access
Reachable from Kigali by road (five to six hours) or via a scenic helicopter transfer where operationally arranged — genuinely useful given the road distance.