Wilderness Bisate Concession newsletter – July 2025

I would like to bring to the forefront of our avian stage, the absolutely beautiful, cheeky, interesting and criminally underrated black-headed waxbill. This lovely little specimen can be seen in the reeds and long grasses of the property in large flocks of up to 50 – and even as many as 100! These small finch-like birds feed on the seeds of the grasses, and swarm together to avoid predation by raptors. These little biscuits can be easily identified by their pretty plumage, with their chests being a dark grey, a jet-black beak and scarlet collar covering their neck and higher parts of their back. A truly beautiful species to look for while walking on our nature trails – and trust me, you will hear them long before you see them.

Our staff cross-pollination campaign continues to bring new and exciting skills to all of our camps. We have welcomed a few waves of staff coming from our sister lodge in Rwanda’s savannah biome, the absolutely breathtaking Wilderness Magashi. With some key members of the Magashi team foregoing the nice warm temperatures of Akagera National Park and heading to the chilly but cosy environment of the Virungas, and Bisate, we are happy to start the next phase of training, and sharing our skills to make our entire operation more well-rounded while maintaining the strong cohesion of the Wilderness Way in the region. 

Two large sections of eucalyptus have been removed from our volcanic crater edges, and this marks a very important turning point for Bisate, as this area is one of the last the last sections of invasive species before we can officially state that we are completely free of alien species. This effort by the team over the last eight years has been absolutely immense, and of course we owe it all to our lovely guests who make this happen. Our guests have played an unquestionably key role in assisting us in our effort to completely rehabilitate the land – and we are almost home and away. 

Every day, our entire team puts a lot of love and effort into preparing our guests for their gorilla adventures. So, when the opportunity arises for our team members to venture out into Volcanoes National Park to meet a gorilla family themselves, the whole Bisate Family joins in the excitement of seeing our colleagues undergo this life-changing experience.

In July, two wonderful guests had such a fantastic gorilla trek on their first day they decided to enjoy the next day relaxing in their hot tub at Wilderness Bisate Reserve, so they kindly offered to donate their second gorilla permits to two of our lucky staff members. In true Bisate tradition, we placed the names of all staff members who have never been trekking into a hat, and let the fates decided!

This time around, Jolly and Nepo were the chosen ones, and they got to trek to the Titus family. They had a very special guide taking them on this adventure – our very own lodge manager Elie! He made sure they got the VIP treatment, and the gorillas obviously picked up on this because the silverback decided to walk past and touch Nepo on the shoulder. Needless to say, this is one of the highlights of his entire time at Bisate. They both now enjoy sharing stories with our guests about their own magic time with our shaggy primate cousins. Congratulations to Jolly and Nepo! 

Your hospitality is spectacular! The warmth and passion is beautiful. Every detail is very mindful, and that made our stay memorable. – M&R

Your service has been extraordinary! Food has been outstanding! Friendliness and attention to detail has been exceptional. – K&J

Authentically kind and caring team, anticipated our every nee, remembered our preferences, gorgeous villa and lodge. D&S

The friendliness and care of the team is extraordinary. We love the design and architecture of the Wilderness Bisate & your commitment to the environment and local people. J&A

Customizing food requests an remembering all the detail and special needs of the guests while making them feel special. Wonderful team!! Amazing service and staff.  P&L

The friendliness and helpfulness of all staff members really stands out and made our stay more comfortable and enjoyable. Their warmth and enthusiasm is contagious. It makes it hard to leave and want to come back. It's also heartwarming to hear how many of them have been promoted and so proud of their work. M& L