VENUE NEWS

Newmark Hotels & Reserves expands portfolio

Specialist management group, Newmark Hotels & Reserves recently announced the addition of Gorilla Heights Lodge, defined by luxury accommodation and outstanding gorilla trekking experiences, to its rapidly expanding African portfolio.

The lodge will officially open under Newmark’s management from 7 November 2024, which will mark the group’s reentry into the gorilla trekking market, having formerly operated in this industry at an exclusive Rwandan property.

Gorilla Heights Lodge spans 12 acres and is set at the highest vantage point in the Bwindi sector of the exquisite and highly sought-after Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Given its unique location, the lodge offers spectacular views of the great Virunga Mountain ranges and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where several mountain gorilla families reside.

Neil Markovitz, founder and chief executive officer of Newmark Hotels & Reserves says: “Having taken the time to meticulously evaluate opportunities to reenter the gorilla trekking market, we are incredibly enthusiastic about introducing Gorilla Heights Lodge to our portfolio. We look forward to hosting guests in luxury and providing them with access to the breathtaking experiences that the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park presents. It is such a special region in terms of the altitude, its natural beauty and trekking opportunities, along with other excursions, that await. Consequently, we expect to see massive global demand for visits to this destination.”

The ‘ultimate blend of luxury’ at Gorilla Heights Lodge

The eco-friendly lodge comprises 15 cottages, which have each been luxuriously appointed and decorated with locally sourced, handcrafted treasures. The accommodation is well thought out, offering large windows and private balconies that take advantage of the magnificent views over the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Nearby gorilla encounters and nature experiences

Gorilla Heights Lodge is perfectly situated for guests to embrace gorilla and golden monkey trekking excursions, with Nkuringo, the closest gorilla trekking sector, only a 15minute walk from the lodge. This area is home to four gorilla families, amounting to a population of 48. Nearby, the Rushaga trekking sector is home to another ten gorilla families and, in the Mgahinga sector, the rare golden monkey species. In addition to these trekking experiences, guests will be able to enjoy the biodiversity of the National Park, which boasts an array of tree species, ferns and birds.

Dining

The in-house Humura Restaurant incorporates delectable ingredients and delightfully conceptualised menus, under the expert guidance of Newmark’s Group Head Chef, Chris Erasmus, and its Group Sommelier, Marlvin Gwese. Dining experiences unfold on the terrace, where guests can enjoy mesmerising views of the Virunga Mountains and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, to top off each culinary journey.

Additionally, Canopy Bar, which overlooks the Impenetrable Forest is an ideal spot for guests to savour beverages, coffees and African blended teas. At night, the sight of the active Nyiragongo volcano, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is truly breathtaking.

Facilities

The IKE Spa, enhanced by the lodge’s serene surroundings, welcomes guests to unwind after a long day of gorilla trekking. Skilled therapists offer a variety of treatments and massages. Guests can also relax at the steam and sauna facilities or at the lodge’s swimming pool.

The impressive Gorilla Heights Lodge offering will form part of the broader African network of Newmark properties that offer multi-destination experiences from Cape Town, the Greater Kruger National Park, and the Karoo, to Mauritius and Zanzibar.