The Virunga Safari Lodge near the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda not only overlooks the Virunga volcanoes but also faces the shimmering lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera. Three hours drive from Kigali, the lavish lodge provides easy access for guests to go gorilla tracking, climb volcanoes, look for the delightful golden monkeys of the area and visit Dian Fosseys grave.
Consisting of eight individual bright and sunny chalets, each with either volcano or lake views, Virunga Safari Lodge includes private gardens and verandas from where guests can enjoy the mesmerising views.
Each of the private chalets is named after a lake in the area and features large bedrooms with king-size or twin beds. Boasting the local style of building, the chalets are made from wood and stone and create a rustic and tranquil atmosphere. Exuding an air of understated Rwandese elegance, local fabrics and grass mats were used in the interior decorating and the lodge was built to environmentally friendly standards – all electricity is solar powered and water is supplied to guests in tanks.
The en-suite bathrooms (including eco-toilets, basins and bucket showers) are access by small corridors where warm water is delivered without disturbing guests.
As Virunga Safari Lodge is set on the crown of a high hill, it affords sensational views of all five the Virunga Volcanoes, as well as 360-degree views of the surrounding area, which include idyllic farmlands, hills and the lakes. One of the favourite pastimes here is to relax around a log fire in the evenings, enjoying the unique ambience and swopping stories about the days gorilla-tracking adventures. Other activities on offer at the lodge include tribal dancing performances, having a look at the famed golden monkeys, visiting Diane Fosseys grave and hiking to the top of the nearby volcanoes.
With mountain gorilla tracking as a prime focus, Virunga Safari Lodge has pride of place in Rwanda’s portfolio of wilderness establishments offering authentic natural experiences.
