Volcanoes Virunga Lodge

The very word Virunga conjures up images of densely forested, mist-shrouded mountains and their enigmatic wildlife – especially the mountain gorilla. Volcanoes Virunga Lodge offers an excellent introduction to this world, and as a Virunga safari lodge, is the ideal entry point into this mystical, magical world and a destination in its own right.

Simply arriving at Volcanoes Virunga Lodge is a breathtaking experience. Of course, that could be due to the altitude, but it’s just as likely to be the stunning views – views that are quite different, depending on which way visitors face.

From the ridgeline on which this Virunga safari lodge sits, looking west opens up views of the fabled Virunga mountains, while in the opposite direction lie the twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo.

This is a rarefied position indeed, and being able to indulge in safari luxuries at such an elevation and in such a seemingly inaccessible position only adds to the pleasure. Of course, the major drawcard in the Virungas is the opportunity to spend time with habituated groups of wild mountain gorilla, and staying at Volcanoes Virunga Lodge places guests front and centre for one of Africa’s most rewarding wildlife experiences.

The lodge itself provides a welcome sanctuary after the serious – but immensely enjoyable – experience of gorilla trekking. Sturdily constructed from stone, with tile roofs, each guest banda features a fireplace which may seem superfluous in the tropics, until it’s recalled that this lodge sits at an altitude of 2,300m – a fact brought home by the mornings and evenings, which can be invigoratingly fresh.

As well as seeking gorillas, other mountain activities on offer include hiking up to the grave of primatologist Dian Fossey, who helped put this area on the conservation map, and volcano hikes to experience more of this incredible landscape and its unique flora and fauna.