Virunga Lodge

Where Luxury Meets the Volcanoes

Tucked high on a ridge between twin lakes and volcano peaks, Virunga Lodge delivers one of East Africa’s most striking safari-lodge experiences. The views alone over the misty Virunga volcano slopes to the west and the serene waters of Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo to the east set the stage before you even enter the door.

What immediately impressed us was the atmosphere: handcrafted “bandas” built with local materials, hardwood floors, warm textiles and décor that balances comfort with rustic elegance. Each of the lodge’s ten bandas has a private terrace that frames breathtaking landscapes, perfect for early-morning coffee or a sunset glass of wine.

Gorilla Trekking in the Volcanoes

The core reason anyone stays at Virunga Lodge is access to the forest of the Volcanoes National Park and the chance to trek with the endangered mountain gorillas. From the lodge it’s roughly a 45-minute drive to the park, which positions you comfortably close, yet far enough to feel secluded and peaceful at the ridge.

Early in the morning, we ventured into dense forest, mist still lifting from the leafy canopy. The trek is real, you move carefully through undergrowth, following trackers and guides. And then, there they are: silverbacks, mothers with infants, curious juveniles, wild, majestic, and so unlike anything we’d ever experienced. It felt profound.

Beyond gorillas, Virunga Lodge also offers golden-monkey tracking, volcano hikes, and opportunities to explore local villages or waterfall trails for those wanting less intense but equally immersive nature time.

Comfort, Care & Consciousness

After jungle trails and mud-stained boots, returning to your banda is a relief.

Hot, solar-heated showers, soft beds, and a private terrace with one of the most beautiful sunsets in Africa, these comforts make the contrast between wild adventure and serene luxury striking.

The lodge’s commitment to sustainability stands out: eco-friendly construction materials, solar water heating, and efforts that support community and conservation work in the region.

In the evenings, a fireside chat in the lodge’s “Map Room”, dedicated to the legacy of conservation icon Dian Fossey provides context about gorilla conservation, local ecology, and the stories behind the Volcanoes region.

Evening Culture, Community & Cuisine

Dinner is a communal affair, often shared around a large table with other travelers. It’s not just a meal, but a gathering, a chance to exchange impressions, photos, and excitement about what tomorrow may bring.

On select evenings, traditional dance performances by local “Intore” troupes bring an added layer of cultural immersion.

Why Virunga Lodge Left a Mark

Our time at Virunga Lodge wasn’t about ticking off a bucket list, it was about being grounded in two powerful contrasts: raw wilderness and thoughtful comfort. We saw gorillas up close in their natural habitat, explored volcano slopes and lakeside trails, and ended our days under soft linens, warm showers, and starry skies.

Virunga Lodge balances adventure and calm, nature and nurture, wild and refined. For anyone looking to experience Rwanda’s volcano landscapes, its wildlife, its history, and its soul, this place isn’t just a base, it’s part of the experience.

If you’re planning a visit to the Volcanoes region, I strongly recommend building in at least three nights here, it’s more than enough time to appreciate the land, the lodge, and everything in between.

Links: https://virungalodge.com/