Wilderness Bisate Lodge

Bisate sits inside a natural volcanic bowl next to Volcanoes National Park, about 15 kilometers from Musanze, with views across to Mount Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno. There are just six forest villas, spread up the slope and inspired by the royal architecture of Rwanda. Higher villas have the wider views. Since opening in 2017, Wilderness has planted more than 120,000 indigenous trees on the property, and guests can plant one too.

Gorilla treks start from the park headquarters, and the lodge also arranges golden monkey treks, the climb up Mount Bisoke and the hike to Dian Fossey's grave. Rest days are for birding and nature walks, village and nursery visits and the spa. With only six villas, it works well as the gorilla stop in a longer Rwanda or East Africa trip.

Bisate suits couples and small groups who like an intimate lodge with strong guiding. Children six and older are welcome, though under-15s stay behind on trek days. Paths between villas are steep, so it is not the right choice for anyone who has trouble with hills, and the higher villas mean a real climb. If that is not a concern, it is one of the most personal places to stay near the park.