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Rwanda

Virunga Lodge

PLAN MY TRIP

Ringed by volcanoes, Virunga Lodge is perched on a hilltop between the beautiful volcanic lakes, Ruhondo and Bulera.

Virunga Lodge is an eco-luxury lodge and accommodations consist of ten individual luxury cottages known as bandas that have been refurbished for even more luxury and comfort. There are four doubles, four twins, and two deluxe rooms to choose from. The deluxe bandas with their romantic stone fireplaces and open living rooms are perfect for honeymooners or families. The unique Rwandese décor of each banda includes colorful fabrics, grass mats, ethnic art, and hand-carved wooden sculptures. The en suite bathrooms feature double sinks, solar-heated showers, and flushing toilets. For added relaxation, each cottage enjoys a private terrace with stunning views overlooking the volcanoes or twin lakes.

The lodge’s elevation allows it to benefit from cool mountain breezes while offering breathtaking views of the five Virunga Volcanoes—Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo—all of which are covered in rainforest and bamboo. It is also about an hour by vehicle from the Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda, which is the prime location in Africa for tracking mountain gorillas. Spanning ninety-nine miles, it is the oldest national park in Africa. Most famously it is home to around half of the world’s precious mountain gorillas – some 400 of them.

The gorilla treks are the main draw of the lodge. From the park’s headquarters, guests can take a one-hour guided hike through lush bamboo forests with the chance of spotting a fully-grown silverback gorilla, up to three times the size of an average man, yet remarkably peaceable and tolerant of human visitors. Five habituated groups of gorillas, composed of seven to over 35 individuals each, can be visited. The park is also the site of groundbreaking gorilla conservation efforts conducted by primatologist, Dian Fossey, the inspiration for the book and film, Gorillas in the Mist. Guests can visit her grave and research center. For an easier walk, there is always a golden monkey trek to watch these playful creatures jumping and climbing through the trees. For the more adventurous, there is a more challenging hike to the Karisimbi or Bisoke Volcanoes.

Volcanoes Virungas Lodge is constructed of wood and stone and has a rustic, calm atmosphere. Evenings are spent around the fire discussing the day’s sights and experiences. The main area houses an inviting communal lounge and dining room. A highlight of the evening is the traditional dancing at sunset by local performers. The new Ikirunga Spa has two relaxing treatment rooms and a sauna overlooking the Virungas. There is even a gift shop near the main building. Virunga Lodge won Africa’s Most Romantic Hotel at the World Boutique Hotel Awards in 2016.

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8 of 15
9 of 15
10 of 15
11 of 15
12 of 15
13 of 15
14 of 15
15 of 15

Rwanda

Virunga Lodge

PLAN MY TRIP

Ringed by volcanoes, Virunga Lodge is perched on a hilltop between the beautiful volcanic lakes, Ruhondo and Bulera.

Virunga Lodge is an eco-luxury lodge and accommodations consist of ten individual luxury cottages known as bandas that have been refurbished for even more luxury and comfort. There are four doubles, four twins, and two deluxe rooms to choose from. The deluxe bandas with their romantic stone fireplaces and open living rooms are perfect for honeymooners or families. The unique Rwandese décor of each banda includes colorful fabrics, grass mats, ethnic art, and hand-carved wooden sculptures. The en suite bathrooms feature double sinks, solar-heated showers, and flushing toilets. For added relaxation, each cottage enjoys a private terrace with stunning views overlooking the volcanoes or twin lakes.

The lodge’s elevation allows it to benefit from cool mountain breezes while offering breathtaking views of the five Virunga Volcanoes—Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo—all of which are covered in rainforest and bamboo. It is also about an hour by vehicle from the Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda, which is the prime location in Africa for tracking mountain gorillas. Spanning ninety-nine miles, it is the oldest national park in Africa. Most famously it is home to around half of the world’s precious mountain gorillas – some 400 of them.

The gorilla treks are the main draw of the lodge. From the park’s headquarters, guests can take a one-hour guided hike through lush bamboo forests with the chance of spotting a fully-grown silverback gorilla, up to three times the size of an average man, yet remarkably peaceable and tolerant of human visitors. Five habituated groups of gorillas, composed of seven to over 35 individuals each, can be visited. The park is also the site of groundbreaking gorilla conservation efforts conducted by primatologist, Dian Fossey, the inspiration for the book and film, Gorillas in the Mist. Guests can visit her grave and research center. For an easier walk, there is always a golden monkey trek to watch these playful creatures jumping and climbing through the trees. For the more adventurous, there is a more challenging hike to the Karisimbi or Bisoke Volcanoes.

Volcanoes Virungas Lodge is constructed of wood and stone and has a rustic, calm atmosphere. Evenings are spent around the fire discussing the day’s sights and experiences. The main area houses an inviting communal lounge and dining room. A highlight of the evening is the traditional dancing at sunset by local performers. The new Ikirunga Spa has two relaxing treatment rooms and a sauna overlooking the Virungas. There is even a gift shop near the main building. Virunga Lodge won Africa’s Most Romantic Hotel at the World Boutique Hotel Awards in 2016.