Wilderness, an operator of 60 safari camps across eight African countries, has unveiled the second spa under its new concept called The Sanctuary, at Wilderness Bisate in Rwanda.

The Sanctuary is a concept that pairs design and wellness with raw, restorative landscapes. The offering at the Rwandan property follows the opening of a different interpretation of The Sanctuary’s concept at Wilderness Mombo in Botswana. Read more about that property here.

The Sanctuary is a new space for guests to ground themselves, re-centre and unwind. Wilderness is evolving the way it delivers conscious travel.

Manzi Kayihura, Wilderness Rwanda chair, said: “Set against the views of Mount Bisoke and the surrounding rainforest, the Sanctuary is deeply connected to its setting. In collaboration with local artisans, Artichoke Interior Design and Black Sable Architecture, we focused on creating a space that prioritises experience over ornamentation. Its circular form, inspired by the symbolism of a cocoon, establishes an immediate sense of calm and transformation on arrival. We are delighted to welcome guests to experience this important new chapter for Wilderness Rwanda.”

At Wilderness Bisate, The Sanctuary offers a spatial journey that combines high contrast areas in terms of scale, light and movement. Narrow, low-lit corridors offer a significantly different atmosphere from the light-filled volumes in the hydrotherapy areas.

All materials except tiles and aluminium doors were sourced from within Rwanda. This includes the country’s signature handmade red clay bricks, slate and volcanic stone. Traditional imigongo patterns, bespoke artworks and geometric motifs provide a rich reflection of Rwanda’s cultural identity.

There are four treatment rooms, one of which is a double and there will also be meditation pods.

Hydrotherapy facilities include a heated indoor lap pool, which only requires occasional top-ups due to its engineering for responsible water use. There is also a steamroom, sauna and ice bath.

There is also a deck for self-guided yoga that overlooks the landscaped gardens, forest and volcanic peaks.

Treatments at The Sanctuary blend indigenous botanicals and traditional African wellness rituals with microbiome-focused science.

The Bisate Reserve Signature Experience involves warm Himalayan salt poultices infused with lavender and ginger to ease tension from feet to face in a massage and full-body treatment to promote muscle recovery and lymphatic drainage. 

A curated soundscape called Sanctum – The Sounds of Bisate captures the natural sounds that surround the property. It features the ambient rainforest, birdsong and distant gorilla calls. The original album plays in the buildings and signature scents promote deep relaxation.

See more photos of the new spa in the most recent edition of Spa Business.