Rwanda’s hospitality sector is set to get a shot in the arm following the announcement by a globally renowned tour operator, Wilderness Safaris, to establish two lodges in the country. The development was announced through a media release by the Botswana-based tour operator that has over 30 years of experience. The investment is also expected to contribute towards ongoing conservation efforts, according to industry watchers. One of the lodges, Bisate Lodge will be located near the Volcanoes National Park, in Musanze District and will also serve as a conservation and community project with its first phase focusing on indigenous reforestation of a core 64 acre site. Discussions are currently ongoing between the Rwanda Development Board and Wilderness Safaris to develop a second lodge in Gishwati-Mukura National Park. The two projects are set to be complete by mid next year according to sources from RDB. Keith Vincent, CEO of Wilderness Safaris said that their investment decision was partly informed by Rwanda’s investment climate. "We have found the Rwanda government, ecotourism industry and conservation community to be nothing but welcoming and hospitable," Vincent said in a press statement. Confirming the development, Yamina Karitanyi, head of Tourism and Conservation at Rwanda Development Board said that the first lodge was set to be open by mid next year and discussions were at an advanced stage for the second one. Wilderness tours operate all over the continent offering a wide range of services including accommodation, logistics (road and air travel) among others.

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