The magnificent Virunga Lodge is set on a stunning hillside with a panoramic view of the Virunga volcanoes and the lakes, Ruhondo and Bulera. One of the finest lodge locations in Africa.

This is a genuine “Eco-lodge”, so whilst providing “luxurious” western standards, the lodge does try to balance this with an understanding of the pressure local people face in obtaining food and clean water.  As a result the lodge ensures that water consumption is reduced, waste disposal controlled, and solar power is used instead of generators.

The 8 stone bandas are all decorated with hardwood floors and simple furniture described as “organic bush chic”.  New bathrooms have been installed to replace the original compost toilets and bucket showers.  Each room has a large veranda where you can take in the breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains.

There is also a central building which is a very sociable area during the evenings; guests can sit around a central dining table, relax in the lounge or enjoy the indoor fire place.  A local “Indore” dance group perform quite regularly to entertain everyone.

The lodge location is just under an hour from the Volcanoes park headquarters so this does mean a very early start when you are gorilla trekking, but the staff are very efficient in providing wake-up calls, breakfast and transfers. We have had nothing but positive feedback on the staff and the service.

In addition to gorilla trekking, this is an area of stunning scenery with some very rewarding activities such as climbing one of the volcanos, tracking the golden monkey, visits to the famous American zoologist and gorilla-lover – Dian Fossey’s grave, or simply taking a gentle stroll through one of the picturesque villages or lakes that are nearby.

A really wonderful experience.