Wilderness Bisate Reserve
Not to be confused with its multi-award-winning sister Wilderness Bisate, Wilderness Bisate Reserve is a brand new eco-friendly camp from the Wilderness family. Set on the ridge of a forested slope looking out to the Volcanoes National Park (one of the oldest parks in Africa), this remarkable sanctuary gives breathtaking views. Its luxurious lodges blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, minimizing its environmental footprint. Four well-crafted thatched luxury villas, with viewing decks and hot tubs, set in the heart of the rainforest.
Like the other retreats featured in this post, we will examine the conservancy and community initiatives at this beautiful retreat.
Known for its diligent work protecting the iconic endangered mountain gorilla, Bisate actively contributes by providing a haven within its protected boundaries. They also actively contribute to the reforestation and rehabilitation of the land. Nearly one hundred indigenous trees have been planted, transforming a former agricultural site into a thriving forest. They have a water harvesting project that provides clean water to five thousand people in the nearby village of Bisate. A beehive project that allows local villagers to practice beekeeping, and the honey is sold back to the lodges.
The Bisate school project assists with installing internet solar installations and providing water tanks, plus sanitation for the local schools reopening. They also have community-based medical insurance that supports around two hundred and forty-four villagers with medical insurance.
These are a few conservation and community engagement projects they are pursuing.
A true blend of luxury, conservation, and community engagement.
We will be posting a more in-depth look at Bisate Reserve and Wilderness in a later post, but for now, have a look at their website https://www.wildernessdestinations.com/africa/rwanda/volcanoes-national-park/bisate-reserve and follow their journey on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wearewilderness/
| Activities Gorilla Trekking, Nature Walks, Guided Nursery Visit/Reforestation project, Massage Treatments, Bird Watching |
Rates Standard Season: From $3140ppPremium Season: From $4200pp |
Isambane Camp
Situated in the heart of the Great Kruger Park, Isambane Camp is more than just a boutique retreat, it is a sanctuary where nature, luxury, and eco-consciousness are at the forefront. This beautiful boutique camp, which has three luxury tents, and two charming bush cabins, caught our eye. Not only does Isambane Camp excel in providing excellent lodging, but the owners and staff also have an eye for detail when it comes to hospitality. Additionally, their commitment to conservancy and creating an eco-conscious safari experience for their guests is noble.
This gem of a camp gives the environment the respect it deserves. I say this because they ensure minimal environmental footprint in many ways. When they built Isambane, they barely cut down any trees but built smartly around the natural vegetation. The result? A camp that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Isambane Camp is completely off the grid, therefore the use of solar power and on-site reverse osmosis filtration to produce high-quality water is applauded. Plastic usage? Minimal.
This unfenced camp, designed to minimize impact on wildlife movement in and around the camp, has let the animals roam freely, which must also be a sight for the visitors. That is what you call an immersive experience.
Their game drives also seem to be well thought out, with their knowledgeable and welcoming guides treating their guests with unforgettable experiences.
Their model for this camp is great to see. Keeping it small and intimate. Which works both for the surroundings and I am sure for the lucky guests.
Community partnership and engagement are also a priority for them. Their curio shop proceeds go to providing for and uplifting local families and their communities.
They also have numerous research projects throughout the year, such as monitoring the migration of different bird species.
While we only scratched the surface for now, soon in a later post we will delve into Isambane Camp and all it has to offer. For now, check out their website https://www.isambanecamp.com/ and follow their story on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/isambanecamp/
Experiences
• Morning and Evening Game Drives
• Sundowners in the Bush
• Boma Dinners around the fire
• Stargazing
• Bush walks
• Spa & Wellness
Rates 2025
• Luxury Safari Tent
2 Adults Sharing: R8910
Single Adult: R5390
• Bush Cabin
2 Adults Sharing: R6820
Single Adult: R4400
• Exclusive Use of The Whole Camp
Up to 10 guests: R29495
*SA residents check their website for reduced rates
Kyaninga Lodge
Completed in 2010 by the owner, Steve Williams, this impressive lodge is no stranger to us. We wrote a piece about this stunning eco-friendly African boutique retreat not so long ago. It stands on the rim of the crater at Kyaninga. This lovely lodge hosts nine exclusive lodges, which took six years to build. Crazy right? No lifting machinery nor cranes were used. It’s just pure grit and vision. And what a vision. It took two years to train the local community in the skills required to nail this masterpiece.
Runs almost entirely on solar power. Log cabins produce significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions than your average home. All building materials were sourced locally, and all labour was locally sourced as well. Even the stone pillars were built using the nearby volcanic rock. It took around 130 people two years to build it. The food is sourced from their kitchen garden and the local markets.
This is more than a luxurious retreat. What Kyaninga Lodge has done for the local community is outstanding. In 2013, Kyaninga launched the Kyaninga Child Development Centre project. KCDC has been educating and supporting local parent and peer groups by delivering community-based rehabilitation services and connecting with around five thousand children with disabilities. They provide much-needed therapy while also managing severe acute malnutrition. The KCDC encourages families to break down the stigma of disabled children and persons. It is helping them foster acceptance, inclusion, and equal opportunities.
Kyaninga Mobility was established to manufacture and supply locally produced wheelchairs and other mobility equipment for people with disabilities. Kyaninga Forest Foundation was established to protect ecosystems such as rivers, forests, and swamps. They have already successfully planted forty thousand Indigenous trees, raising the biodiversity around them.
That is what you call stepping up. A retreat, showing up and caring for the community and their environment. You can have a look at our full post about the lodge, and also check out their website https://www.kyaningalodge.com/ and follow their story on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyaninga_lodge/
Experiences
• Crater Rim Walk
• Forest walk
• Kayak and Paddleboarding at Lake Kyaninga
• National Park Visits
Lake Albert Safari Camp
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Albert in Uganda, Lake Albert Safari Lodge is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers. This idyllic retreat not only offers breathtaking views and thrilling wildlife experiences but also stands as a beacon of sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
Lake Albert Safari Lodge is renowned for its unwavering commitment to preserving the natural environment. From the very foundation of its infrastructure, the lodge was designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding ecosystem. The use of locally sourced materials and traditional building techniques not only supports the local economy but also minimizes the ecological footprint of the construction process.
One of the lodge’s standout eco-friendly initiatives is its robust waste management system. The lodge prioritizes waste reduction by implementing recycling programs and composting organic materials. By avoiding single-use plastics and encouraging guests to participate in waste segregation, Lake Albert Safari Lodge significantly reduces its impact on the environment.
Water conservation is another cornerstone of the lodge’s sustainability strategy. Rainwater harvesting systems are in place to provide clean water for various uses, while low-flow fixtures and water-efficient landscaping help minimize water wastage. Additionally, wastewater is treated through natural filtration systems, ensuring that it does not contaminate the pristine lake and surrounding habitats.
The lodge also harnesses renewable energy sources to power its operations. Solar panels provide a significant portion of the lodge’s electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Guests can enjoy the comfort of modern amenities without compromising the health of the planet.
Lake Albert Safari Lodge is deeply committed to supporting local communities and wildlife conservation efforts. By partnering with local artisans and farmers, the lodge promotes fair trade and sustainable livelihoods. Furthermore, the lodge actively supports wildlife protection initiatives, working closely with conservation organizations to safeguard the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home.
Guests at Lake Albert Safari Lodge are encouraged to immerse themselves in eco-friendly activities, such as guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and cultural tours that highlight the rich heritage of the local communities. These experiences not only foster a deeper appreciation for nature but also contribute to the lodge’s mission of sustainable tourism.
In choosing Lake Albert Safari Lodge, visitors are not just embarking on an unforgettable adventure but also becoming part of a collective effort to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
Bomanoma
Founded by Brian and Selina in 2022, Bomanoma is not just a place; it’s a way of life. This 100% off-grid sanctuary is where every digital nomad and adventure seeker dreams of staying. Located within the gorgeous Great Rift Valley, it is positioned between the Mau Forest to the North and the beautiful savannas of the Maasai Mara to the south. This stay is hugely impressive. Since this post is about sustainability practiced by Retreats, I won’t delve too far into the characteristics and the experiences to be had.
They follow many eco-friendly and cultural preservation implementations, such as rainwater collection, solar power generation, composting food waste, beekeeping, and having a food forest. To name a few. Their 100% organic farm is truly a beacon of sustainability. Volunteers play a crucial role while staying here. They help in the planting and farming while learning from the experts. The model they have created not only produces food but seeks to better and uplift the local Maasai community
The founders are the heart and soul of this beautiful retreat. They collectively possess extensive expertise in hosting travelers and volunteers from all over the globe. They excel at customizing and crafting experiences for adventure enthusiasts and dedicated volunteers. The volunteer opportunities are vast: education, regenerative agriculture, community development, and Maasai cultural preservation. Giving back is woven into Bomanoma’s DNA. Whether you’re passionate about community service, wildlife conservation, or even sustainable agriculture, they have something for you.
Stay Tuned. In an upcoming post, we’ll explore this one-of-a-kind retreat in more detail. But for now, bookmark their website, Bomanoma, and follow their Instagram journey @bomanomakenya.
Amenities
• Solar Powered Electricity
• High Speed Wi-Fi
• Bonfire Pit
• Motorcycles for rent
• Full-stocked Tiki Bar
• Restaurant/café – 24/7
• Short Excursions
• Personalized Itineraries
• Game Drives
Rates
Non-Resident
• Private Cottage starts from $75.
• Honeymoon Tower Suite starts from $85.
• Family House, max five people is $215.
Residents
• Private cottage starts from Kshs 7,500/=
• Honeymoon Tower Suite starts from Kshs 8,500/= • Family House max five people is Ks 25,000/=
