VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Follow in the footsteps of Dian Fossey in search of mountain gorillas in the beautiful Volcanoes National Park.

Made famous by the primatologist Dian Fossey, Volcanoes National Park is situated in the far north-west of Rwanda and is known as one of the few remaining strongholds of the mountain gorilla. Thanks to the gentler hills and more open bush, the tracking and observation of these magnificent animals is far easier here than some other parks.

The park offers a variety of different habitats and therefore various species make this area their home. Here you will find five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga mountain range with the slopes covered in bamboo forest and rainforest. Contrastingly, the swamps, marshes, lakes and open grassland mean that you have the chance of spotting many different birds alongside spotted hyena, golden monkeys and bushbuck.

Depart on a trek led by an experienced naturalist guide in search of gorillas and golden monkeys. The guides are experts and there is a maximum of eight permits per day for gorilla tracking so the whole experience means minimal impact on the animals and a more conscious experience for the visitors. The trek is at altitude so can take your breath away and watch out for all the stinging nettles in which the gorillas make a home.

WHERE TO STAY

Our favourite luxury hotels

One & Only Gorillas Nest, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

A stunning combination of design and outstanding natural beauty, this is a beautiful lodge situated at the foot of the Virunga Volcano Range. This is a secluded spot, home to the spectacular mountain gorilla. The 21 luxury lodges and suites balance on wooden pools over botanical gardens, giving you the feeling of being in the treetops. Each offers floor to ceiling windows, and outdoor tubs and some feature private pools. The restaurant serves Rwandan-inspired dishes prepared using produce from the organic gardens. This is an exceptional lodge in a breathtaking setting.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Singita’s first property in Rwanda, Kwitonda Lodge is a fine example of sustainable luxury. Everything about the lodge exerts as light a footprint as possible from the traditional techniques used in construction to the local materials, conservation and community engagement. Surrounded by wetlands and lush meadows, it offers beautiful views of Volcanoes National Park. Eight suites and a four-bedroom villa make up the accommodation, decorated with traditional touches. Guests can get involved with tree planting habitat restoration, expanding the gorilla’s habitat.

Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Bisate Lodge

A stunning luxury lodge offering stunning views across the hills and forests of Volcanoes National Park. Situated in an eroded volcano cone, Bisate Lodge is made up of six forest villas with a striking design. Luxurious yet authentic, there is a strong focus on environmental principles and staying true to the culture of the country. The rooms are cosy and intimate and feature central fireplaces and private decks with views of Mount Bisoke. Guests can explore the national park, head out on guided walks to local villages or even visit a market with the hotel’s chef.

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Rwanda’s first community-owned lodge, this is a charming property with an excellent ethos. Located in a stunning spot in the foothills in the Virunga mountains, the views here are spectacular and the welcome is warm. The nine individual cottages are decorated in a cosy style with large fireplaces and sheltered verandas from which to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The food here is excellent, locally inspired and prepared to a high standard. Guests can explore the area in search of mountain gorillas, head out on a village walk to local communities and visit the Dian Fossey memorial.

Virunga Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Virunga Lodge

This is a beautiful lodge in a stunning location. Located at 2,300 metres on top of a hill overlooking the Virunga volcanoes and the twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo, the beauty of the surroundings inspires the ethos of environmental sustainability throughout the lodge. The 10 individual cottages have a naturally luxurious style, scattered around the hotel’s gardens they offer beautiful views of the surroundings. Guests can indulge in a relaxing massage after a day exploring and dine on locally inspired dishes. This is a truly exceptional lodge in Rwanda.