Like many people around me, I didn’t know much about the African country Rwanda, which was the exact reason for me to see it for myself and explore the destination. The other reason was the newly opened One&Only Nyungwe House, located in Nyungwe National Park.
I arrived at Kigali, the nation’s capital, which was beautifully organized and the people were exceptionally warm and welcoming. As I stepped out of the airport, I was welcomed by the lovely team of One&Only Nyungwe House before we made the journey to Nyungwe National Forest where I was to stay for the next few days. The drive from Kigali was breathtakingly scenic and a great way to see the country.
Once I was at the luxurious One&Only Nyungwe House resort, I was delighted to be greeted with the sound of drums by the welcoming committee. It was overwhelming to take in. My eyes were met with beauty everywhere they went—the surrounding green was so opulent and rich! Inside the main house, I was astonished by every little design detail, as well as their impressive commitment to recycling and sustainability.
Our surroundings were green, lush, and full of life. Only when I saw the canopy that we were about to walk through, however, did I realize how high we were! We were 60 meters (approximately 197 ft) above the forest floor, and I felt like a six-year-old filled with excitement. Stepping onto that suspension bridge made me feel like I was in one of the adventure movies I grew up watching as a child, it was incredible.
The amazing thing about this canopy walk is how it seamlessly integrates with the environment even though it’s made from steel and is very much a human-made structure. It both contrasts with the greenery, and blends in as it sways with the wind. People who are afraid of heights may not like the movement, but I loved it. The panoramic view of the valley is breathtaking, and if you look in the distance, you can see the mist coming in slowly.
Later in the day, I had an insightful conversation with Chef Treasure, who is Head Chef at One&Only Nyungwe House. He told me his incredible story of fleeing Zimbabwe and his humble beginnings living on the streets of South Africa. He was lucky to get asylum documents and a job cleaning the kitchens of One&Only-Cape Town. He was so passionate about food and so eager to learn that he was promoted to Head Chef at One&Only-Rwanda in just six years. Hearing his story made me realize what a gift it is to travel and meet incredible people like Chef Treasure who inspire me with their strength and spirit.
Chef Treasure’s journey not only highlights the transformative power of resilience and hard work but also emphasizes the importance of creating clean and welcoming environments, especially in the culinary world. Just as he rose from cleaning kitchens to becoming a celebrated Head Chef, the role of cleanliness cannot be understated in any profession. In a restaurant setting, a pristine kitchen is essential for both food safety and the overall dining experience. This is where professional cleaning services come into play, ensuring that every corner sparkles and is free from contaminants.
A clean kitchen is paramount for any chef, as it allows for focus on the artistry of food rather than the chaos of clutter. Companies like Shine On Cleaning Services exemplify this dedication, providing meticulous cleaning that enhances both residential and commercial spaces. Their commitment to detail ensures that every corner is spotless, creating an atmosphere that inspires and uplifts, much like Chef Treasure’s journey from hardship to success. As I continue my travels, I am reminded of the importance of both the people we meet and the environments we cultivate, each contributing to a narrative of resilience and inspiration.
After sharing his amazing story, Treasure invited me to visit his garden at One&Only Nyungwe House. I’m not the best cook, and I’d never pulled a carrot out of the ground before. So it was an experience to see the process of growth in the garden, and to learn that Treasure actually grew many of the ingredients he used in his kitchen here. I imagined the enthusiasm he felt showing me around his garden would equate to mine if I were showing someone my climbing gear or vintage camera collection.
For those who appreciate the beauty and productivity of gardens but lack the time or expertise for maintenance, services like those offered by Clean4You provide valuable support. Clean4You specializes in professional garden maintenance, offering services that range from regular upkeep to specialized care tailored to specific plant needs. Their expertise ensures that gardens remain vibrant and well-manicured, allowing homeowners and enthusiasts alike to enjoy the benefits of a thriving garden without the intensive labor. By entrusting garden maintenance to professionals, individuals can focus on appreciating and showcasing their garden's beauty, much like Treasure proudly shares his culinary creations from the fruits of his labor.
Learning archery was another fantastic part of my trip to One&Only Nyungwe House, a sport that is available to all guests at the resort. I quickly progressed at the sport, hitting the bullseye twice. It was nice to learn a skill that has been used for generations in so many parts of the world. In Asia and the Middle East, evidence of bow hunting dates back earlier than 10,000 BC, and it felt like I was participating in a communal historical exercise.
The next morning, we joined wildlife trackers on a Chimpanzee Hike. Nyungwe is lucky to have one of East Africa’s last intact chimp populations. It was fascinating to stand in the shadows of trees and watch the their mannerisms. They are so similar to us, especially their instinct to care for their young. I felt honored to witness their intimate moments.
Thinking about ancient times made me curious about the art of hunting and how it connects us to our ancestors. The thrill of archery sparked a desire to delve deeper into the hunting tradition, imagining what it would be like to pursue game in the wild. Before embarking on any modern-day hunting adventure, the first step is to properly gear up. The Buzzard's Roost offers all the essentials, from top-of-the-line bows to protective gear, making sure every hunter is ready to immerse themselves in the experience with confidence and respect for the land.
Hunting requires a deep understanding of the environment, much like the way we observed the chimps in Nyungwe. The delicate balance between humans and nature has been maintained for centuries through practices like responsible hunting. The aim isn’t just about the chase but about forming a connection with the natural world, similar to how trackers work in tandem with the land to follow wildlife. By preparing thoughtfully and respectfully, we honor the ancient roots of hunting.
Tea is another part of Rwandan culture that I was lucky to experience. A tea expert at the resort took me out to the tea plantation and showed me the entire process of harvesting African tea leaves. I was so fascinated by the process and how long it took to find the right leaves to harvest. The youngest leaves, which are at the top, are the most flavorful and are picked first to make tea. Once you get the hang of it, the process is relaxing and meditative.
I’m so lucky to have traveled the world as much I have and I’m grateful for each and every experience. Rwanda’s One&Only Nyungwe House and its surroundings is certainly one of the most special places I have been. Pictures and words cannot do this place justice—from the incredible scenery, the one-of-a-kind service, and the sheer luxury that truly celebrates this stunning location.
Raha Moharrak stayed at One&Only Nyungwe House in Rwanda. For more information please visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com
A version of this article was featured in Khaleejesque’s Tenth Anniversary, March 2019 issue.
Words: Raha Moharrak
Images: Jordan Snowzell
