Nyungwe Forest Lodge in Rwanda
Nyungwe Forest in the mountainous southwest of Rwanda is one of the oldest forests in Africa.
This area is regarded as the largest remaining extension of uninterrupted montane forest in central and east Africa, and is one of the most ancient, dating back to before the last Ice Age. It is known for its rugged terrain and complex mosaic of vegetation types from tall dense forests to open, flower filled marshes. The escarpment has a varied topography with an array of soil types providing micro habitats for plants and animals. Moist, fertile soil supports tall forests, and dry ridges provide habitat for shorter trees and thickets.
Nyungwe Forest has more than 200 different types of tree species, and a myriad of flowering plants including the otherworldly giant lobelia and a host of colourful orchids. Some of the largest trees include the African Mahogany, Mulanje Cedar and Waterberry, and smaller trees like the Giant Tree Ferns, flank the sides of the Waterfall Trail and forest beds.
More than 275 different birds and 75 different species of mammals and hundreds of butterflies live in these plush green surrounds. The birds are spectacular – giant hornbills, great blue turacos and red-breasted sparrowhawks are among the specials, of which 24 are endemic to this section of the Rift Valley – this is a birdwatchers’ paradise with hundreds of rainforest species.
Nyungwe Forest is most alluring for its primates: 13 species in all, including humankind’s closest living relative the chimpanzee, as well as the handsome LHoests monkey and hundred strong troops of the acrobatic Black and White Colobus.
Nyungwe Forest Lodge is a South Africa-based Mantis property on a tea plantation on the edge of the Nyungwe closed canopy rain forest and the only five star establishment in the Nyungwe National Park area, and is due to open on March 14.
The lodge consists of 24 luxurious suites with private decks overlooking the forest. Lodge facilities include a bistro with an outdoor heated swimming pool, a boma for outdoor dining and sundowners, a restaurant with a private terrace, a tea lounge and bar, a relaxation retreat with two treatment rooms and Jacuzzi, plus a fitness centre. The lodge also offers the latest in Wi-Fi technology with conferences facilities accommodating up to 18 delegates. Also, the main lodge is wheelchair friendly with facilities for people with disabilities.
The architecture and design of the lodge are influenced by traditional Rwandese buildings. Local materials and construction methods were used to the greatest extent possible. Like most Rwandan architecture, the buildings blend with the landscape, celebrating the site with views over the tea plantation, to the forest and beyond.
Activities include tracking chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, blue and golden monkeys, cultural walks and Kamiranzovu swamp and waterfall walks. An extensive network of well-maintained walking trails lead through Nyungwe forest to various waterfalls and viewing points.
Call 041 407 1000 or visit www.mantiscollection.com.
