Stay at the iconic Virunga Lodge and trek the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Perched high on a ridge, Virunga Lodge offers guests some of the finest views in Africa looking out across the Virunga Volcanoes, exceptional hospitality and locally-inspired food. As well as trek the gorillas, you can see the rare golden monkey or hike to Dian Fossey’s grave in the park.
Highlights Include:
- Gorilla tracking in Parc National des Volcans (PNV)
- Golden monkey tracking in Parc National des Volcans (PNV)
- Hike to Dian Fossey’s grave and visit the Karisoke Research Centre
- Intore dance group performance
- Community visit
Safari Itinerary
Day 1
Arriving in Kigali you will be welcomed by your expert guide who will provide knowledge and assistance throughout your safari. Set off for the Volcanoes Virunga Lodge. Enjoy your pre-dinner drinks on the terrace with stunning views of the Volcanoes or warm yourself inside by the roaring fire.
Approximate Travel Time: Driving 3 hours
Please book flights arriving no later than 10:00am.
O/N Virunga Lodge (L,D)
Day 2
It is an early start for gorilla tracking in Parc National des Volcans, through the enchanting bamboo forest on the slopes of the Virunga range of volcanoes. After a gentle climb of between one and three hours, you will spend one hour in the company of these gentle apes before returning to base in time for a late lunch. Some gorilla families can be more elusive, and tracking can take a full day, especially if it is wet and muddy.
O/N Virunga Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 3
Today choose from one of the optional activities:
- Go for a second gorilla trek (additional permits required)
- Trek to the grave of pioneer primatologist Dian Fossey and visit the gorilla cemetery, the final resting place of her favorite gorilla, Digit, and many other gorillas.
- Visit Lake Kivu, location of the finest inland beaches in Africa.
- Take a guided walk to Lake Bulera, to experience village life.
- Tour the former Imbabazi Orphanage and beautiful English cottage gardens.
O/N: Virunga Lodge (B, L, D)
Day 4
Drive to Kigali, and time permitting, enjoy a city tour and a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial before your international flight.
A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a moving testimony to this country’s past that it has courageously overcome (guests to pay/donate entrance fees directly).
Transfer to the airport in time for your return flight.
(B, L)
Approximate Travel Time: Driving 3 hours
Quotes
“Virunga Lodge – my favourite place in Rwanda”
Clare Richardson, President Emerita, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International
“They say that feng shui gives you peace and harmony but nothing like the tranquillity and serenity that embraces you on arrival at Virunga Lodge. The love from Praveen and his family and his staff exudes in making a stay here totally unique.”
Duchess of York
“A magnificent lodge with beautifully designed bandas and a private terrace. The staff’s warm hospitality and professionalism made our stay at Virunga lodge a wonderful one.”
“Rwanda is the place to see gorillas and this lodge is a very special place. Incredible views of the volcanoes and the crater twin lakes below. One of the first lodges to start the tourism in Rwanda after the genocide — the tourism really protects these creatures and their habitat which justifies the cost.”
Maddi, USA
“Words do not suffice how beautiful it is here!”
Byishimo, Portland