Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, although as I travel along its steep, winding roads on our five-hour drive from the capital, Kigali, I begin to think this must be an understatement. Vast rainforest-covered mountains frame lush green-tea plantations that rise and fall in the distance as far as the eye can see; the countryside looks pristine, with not a speck of rubbish in sight. Our driver, Anaclet, explains that plastic bags and packaging have been banned since 2008 and that once a month, there is a mandatory clean-up day called Umuganda—a source of great national pride that has helped unite the country in the wake of its recent tragic history, healing communities that had been ripped apart by genocide.
Emerging from a backdrop of seemingly never-ending wilderness, we arrive amid torrential rain at our first destination: One&Only Nyungwe House, an eco-retreat nestled at the edge of Nyungwe National Park. After being welcomed into the main lodge with a dark timber interior and a roaring fire, we are soon sipping delicious iced tea on the terrace while colobus monkeys play beside us, their black-and-white tails flashing through the bushes. The resort’s 22 rooms are arranged around the edge of the property and have four-poster beds (warmed during the turn-down service by a hot water bottle), wood-burning stoves, and private balconies overlooking the jungle. It’s easy to stay cocooned in my luxury wooden cabin or just lie by the infinity pool sampling the array of botanical gins, but I’m here for adventure. So the next day, after trying my hand at archery, spear-throwing, and tea-picking at the resort, I set out with the group to explore the forest beyond.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
BEYOND BEACHES
Escape Down Under for everything your heart desires a romantic intimate wedding, or a cruise along Sydney's picturesque harbour. The world is your oyster and the best thing is you can eat it too.
DOWN TO EARTH
In the spacious apartment of Geraldine Toh and Vincent Lim, art, design elements and an earthy sensibility commingle in perfect harmony.
DO YOU FASHION, BRO?
As the number of male fashion influencers swells, we look at what's driving this trend.
CRUISING ALTITUDE
With his idiosyncratic Thai movies, dashing movie star good looks and frequent Paris red carpet appearances, Apo Nattawin Wattanagitiphat is bringing the best of Thailand to the rest of the world.
PUT A RING ON IT
Complete your love story with a beautiful engagement ring and exquisite bridal jewellery from storied London jeweller, GRAFF.
PERFECTING TIME
With its unique Atelier d'Antoine programme and an assembly of artisans, Jaeger-LeCoultre shows how it takes watchcraft into the next level.
SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW
'The Shape of Colours', Hermès haute bijouterie collection, is a true technicolour dream.
HAUTE BIJOUX
The latest and most talked-about collections.
REPAIR REVOLUTION
Unlock your skin's potential.
LIKE SECOND SKIN
Arissa Ha speaks to Christine Nagel about Barénia, Hermès first ever chypre fragrance.