For many years Rwanda’s flagship luxury eco-lodge, and located in north-west Rwanda, in the Parc des National Volcano, on a bluff overlooking lakes Burera and Ruhondo, Virunga Lodge is the recipient of outstanding reviews, both from within the industry, and from returning travelers, all of whom make a point of mentioning the service, the food and the levels of personal care afforded each guest.
A stone and tile build, Virunga consists of a main lodge and 8 bandas. The main lodge includes a lounge, bar, library and dining room. All on one level, the main lodge is characterized by mixed seating – lightweight cane chairs, slumber seats, stools, and cushioned benches – and by dark wooden floors, exposed beams and a penchant for all things chic and eclectic. The food at Virunga Lodge- limited menu, international cuisine – is truly excellent, and meals are taken communally.
A short walk from away, and very much like the lodge in build and design, the bandas is spacious, airy and have excellent views of the lake. Each Banda includes a twin bed, verandah, seating and a separate bathroom. Again, the taste here is eclectic, and old hand carved chairs sit cheek to jowl with brand new hand-woven rugs. The overall effect is one that is warm and beautiful, while the bathroom – Eco-toilet, solar heated shower, double basin – is as luxurious as an ecologically conscious bathroom can be.
Activities at Virunga Lodge centre on gorilla, but Dian Fossey’s grave is always of interest, and tracking golden monkeys serves as good warm up for the gorilla treks. Sample of the travel Plans 2 Days Gorilla Trek Rwanda, 3 Days Gorilla Safari Rwanda, Check the Gorilla Safaris and Rwanda Safaris or Honeymoon Safaris