Akarabo Nursery and Garden
Since 2017, Singita has worked closely with neighbouring communities to restore previously forested areas that were cleared as former dairy pastures and agricultural lands around Volcanoes National Park.
The reforestation and rewilding of this area provide a critical buffer zone between agricultural lands and the unique rainforests of the Park – Africa’s oldest protected area. These pastures are being cleared of invasive alien species and replanted with indigenous trees and shrubs that are native to the Virunga Massive or Albertine Rift region.
Within a year of the opening of the lodge in August 2019, 250,000 tree saplings – sourced from local community nurseries – have been replanted across the property. Some 60,000 saplings have been propagated and grown at our onsite Akarabo Nursery. Our conservation and nursery teams regularly monitor the growth of the plants and replace those that die off. Guests are also invited to leave a lasting legacy by visiting the nursery and planting trees on the property as part of the ongoing reforestation programme.
