Wilderness Bisate Reserve: Pioneering luxury conservation tourism in Rwanda

At the heart of the Bisate Concession’s mission is an ambitious reforestation project covering a 42-hectare site that was once agricultural land. This transformative rehabilitation programme has already resulted in the planting of over 100,000 indigenous trees, turning previously farmed areas into a flourishing forest and encouraging a number of wildlife and bird species to return. The on-site nursery cultivates indigenous plants such as Hagenia, Dombeya, and Afromontane bamboo, playing a crucial role in restoring vital habitats. Bisate’s reforestation efforts, alongside community engagement, are pioneering tourism impact projects that benefit the surrounding area of Volcanoes National Park. Through collaborative partnerships, these initiatives aim to restore critical mountain gorilla habitat while fostering sustainable neighbouring communities. By leveraging high-end tourism, Wilderness Rwanda has created job opportunities for local residents, providing more sustainable livelihoods and decreasing reliance on subsistence farming.

The property features a dedicated tree nursery that invites guests to actively participate in reforestation efforts through optional tree-planting activities. Meanwhile, invasive Eucalyptus is removed and repurposed as firewood, creating a full-circle approach that fuels the crackling fireplaces in the central areas, private villas, and wood-fired hot tubs, underscoring a steadfast commitment to sustainable resource management while enhancing Bisate Reserve’s warm and inviting atmosphere.

Central to its mission is the Children in the Wilderness (CITW) programme, which champions the Educate and Empower pillars of Wilderness’ strategy. CITW plays a vital role in nurturing environmental stewardship among local youth through an Eco-Club curriculum that includes reforestation lessons and fosters a deep respect for nature. The programme also hosts annual eco-camps that immerse children in their natural surroundings and provides scholarships for promising students, supported by Wilderness Trust allocations and generous guest contributions. In collaboration with CITW, Bisate actively supports Bisate Primary and Secondary schools and their Eco-Clubs and Youth Environmental Stewardship programme by contributing to numerous educational and environmental projects. Additionally, these contributions have facilitated the development of a clean water infrastructure that now benefits 5,000 community members.

“By supporting locally run nurseries, we not only advance our reforestation goals but also empower local communities economically. Our efforts have restored crucial habitats and ignited a regional movement, encouraging other lodges and research institutions to embrace similar conservation practices. Through the efforts of CITW, we aim to empower the next generation of conservation leaders. Together, these initiatives create a holistic strategy that leaves a lasting impact on both the environment and our partner communities”, says Jason Glanville, Wilderness Rwanda Environmental Manager.

Bisate Reserve artfully weaves sustainability into every facet of its design and operations. Two on-site kitchen gardens provide fresh produce and herbs, harvested daily, while a rigorous food sourcing strategy ensures that ingredients are procured from the shortest possible travel distances, supporting regional farmers and upholding Wilderness’ light ‘foodprint’ ethos. In keeping with this philosophy, Executive Chef Angelus ensures his menus evolve with the seasons, committing to local ingredients that are readily available and further diminish the lodge’s carbon footprint.

Additionally, the lodge's construction and operational practices prioritise sustainability, with local artisans playing a key role in the building process. The villas showcase mimosa bamboo, timber flooring, exposed volcanic rock, and woven reed mats – materials that enhance the lodge’s integration with its natural surroundings.

Local workforce skills and traditional techniques, including reed work, decking and basketry, are authentically integrated to pay tribute to Rwandan culture and exceptional craftsmanship, while the pathway connecting the gardens to the four villas and main guest areas – crafted from hand-chipped volcanic rock – serves as a labour of love that honours the region’s geological heritage.

Community involvement is a cornerstone of Bisate’s philosophy. Both lodges employ over 70% of their staff from local areas and have made substantial investments in regional infrastructure and education. Passionate team members have climbed the ranks, with new roles at Bisate Reserve filled through internal promotions rather than external hiring, reflecting a strong commitment to nurturing and supporting its workforce.

“Our dedication to reforestation, sustainable operations and community support allows us to offer guests a deeply enriching experience that extends well beyond their time with the mountain gorillas. We are committed to making a significant and lasting impact on both the environment and the local communities, and are proud custodians of this most breathtaking part of the world”, concluded Jason.