Virunga Lodge is the latest addition to Volcanoes’ eco-lodges, set on a stunning hillside with breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes and Lakes Ruhondo and Bulera. The first phase of the lodge features public areas and eight bandas. Aside from gorilla tracking, clients can climb the Visoke or Karisimbi volcanoes, track the golden monkey, visit Dian Fossey’s grave at Karisoke or go for gentle strolls around the picturesque villages near the lakes. The lodge lies three hours’ drive from Kigali or a long day’s drive from Kampala.
As evidenced by the term eco-lodge, the camp ownership do their part to minimize environmental disturbance by using a variety of natural energy sources, especially solar power; reducing water consumption and controlling waste disposal. Additionally, they respect and work with local populations and recruit staff from their communities to help manage the properties.
Karell’s African Dream Vacations offers a 4day/3night package to/from Kigali.
Day 1 SATURDAY
Met on arrival at airport and transfer to Kigali. After a briefing on your safari and lunch, depart for PNV at 2pm. The journey north goes through the beautiful terraced hillsides that characterize much of Rwanda’s landscape, gradually climbing to the base of the awesome Virunga volcanoes, sometimes with as many as five peaks visible. O/N: Virunga Lodge (FB).
Day 2 SUNDAY
Go gorilla tracking in Parc National des Volcans (subject to permit availability at the time of booking). Tracking the gorillas through the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virungas is a magical experience. If you are lucky you can get to the gorillas, spend an hour with them, and be back at the base in time for a late lunch! Some gorilla families however are more elusive, and tracking can take a full day, especially when it is wet and muddy. O/N: Virunga Lodge (FB).
Day 3 MONDAY
Either go gorilla tracking again in Parc National des Volcans (on payment of supplement at time of booking), or enjoy other activities like a visit the golden monkeys, a drive to Gisenyi, visit Ross Carr’s orphanage and Lake Kivu. climb the Visoke/Muhavura volcanoes, trek to Dian Fossey’s grave, visit the local school and community projects or walk to Lake Bulera. O/N: Virunga Lodge (FB).
Day 4 TUESDAY
Leave for Kigali. Time permitting, go for a tour of the city including a visit to the market, a pottery project, handicraft shops, the Franco-Rwandan cultural center and the genocide memorial. Transfer to the airport (HB).
Virunga Lodge Photos courtesy of Volcanoes Safaris and Karell Chairman Norman Pieters
