"One Week in Rwanda: A Stay with One&Only Resorts
Rwanda is a stunning country—mountainous, green, and pristine, with no litter in sight. Its beauty is matched by the warmth and friendliness of its people.
In just one week, we experienced:
One&Only Nyungwe House
Nestled within a tea plantation, this resort offers breathtaking mountain views often cloaked in mist. Highlights of our stay included:
- Wildlife encounters: Mountain monkeys peeking through our windows, baboons, Colobus monkeys, and deer.
- Activities: Guided bird walks, a successful and short chimpanzee trek, and an exhilarating rope bridge hike.
- Amenities: Beautifully designed accommodations with a peaceful ambiance, an infinity pool with panoramic mountain views, and locally crafted gifts delivered daily.
- Cuisine and service: Delicious, abundant food, and unmatched service—our laundry was washed within hours.
One&Only Gorilla's Nest
Our next stop was lush and equally luxurious, with service elevated by the presence of an in-residence doctor. This resort is designed to support the daily gorilla and golden monkey treks. Highlights included:
- Gorilla treks: These are meticulously organized with experienced guides, porters, and trackers. While the treks can be physically demanding, the center accommodates different fitness levels. It’s important to communicate your preferences, as the gorillas are always on the move, which can extend the duration of the trek.
- Preparation and gear: The resort provides gaiters, rain gear, and backpacks, ensuring you’re fully equipped.
- Unforgettable encounters: The gorillas come within a foot of you, offering an intimate experience like no other. Despite their proximity, the guides ensure a safe and respectful interaction.
- Cuisine and amenities: Outstanding food and luxurious accommodations catered to our every need. One evening we joined other guests for a holiday dinner at the charming Jack Hannah cottage located within the resort.
Tips for Trekking: Bring cash for tipping trackers, porters, and guides. Their expertise and effort make the experience seamless.
The Secret to a Seamless Week: Olivier
Olivier, the driver provided by One&Only, was the key to our smooth and enjoyable trip. From airport pickup to navigating between resorts, he handled everything effortlessly:
- Transportation: Driving a new Toyota Land Cruiser stocked with water and snacks, he expertly managed mountain roads, mud, and even flooded routes.
- Knowledge: Olivier answered all our questions about Rwandan culture, economy, and daily life in perfect English.
- Coordination: He arranged everything, including securing ideal treks and scheduling our last-day visit to the Genocide Museum in Kigali before our flight.
The 5-hour drive between the resorts took us through beautiful landscapes, including Lake Kivu.
Travel Notes
We flew Kenya Airways from New York to Nairobi, and the flights were on time and smooth.
Final Thoughts
Our one-week Rwandan adventure was nothing short of fantastic. From the luxury of the One&Only resorts to the extraordinary gorilla encounters and the flawless logistics managed by Olivier, it was an unforgettable experience. Rwanda’s beauty, wildlife, and hospitality will stay with us forever."
A Tripadvisor traveler review
Oct 25, 2025