Virunga Lodge is located about an hour’s drive from Volcanoes National Park. It is one of the premier and most exceptional luxury lodges used by visitors interested in trekking mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Click here to view mountain gorilla trekking safaris.

Virunga Lodge covers an approximately 2175-meter hilltop overlooking Lake Ruhondo and Burera, the twin lakes, and the views of the four phenomenal Virunga volcanoes to the northwest. Click here to see our recommended gorilla trekking tour.

Virunga Lodge was magnificently constructed in an eco-friendly style, with eight spacious stone rooms, all with chunky wooden furniture, wooden floors, and wide verandas where one can easily sit comfortably while admiring the Virunga ranges panorama.

The Virunga Lodge rooms are attached by a walkway to a private flushing toilet that is eco-friendly, and the shower rooms have solar-heated water.

Virunga Lodge is sociable and adventurous in nature, where everyone can eat together on a large table in the evening.

Virunga Lodge goes the extra mile to provide local "Indore" dance troupes that entertain guests after an adorable mountain gorilla trek, which makes it an enjoyable facility to stay at.

A visit to the Volcanoes National Park takes most travelers to see mountain gorillas because it is the dominant activity in this park, although there are several other incredible tourists’ activities to choose from for potential activities. Many travelers can be spoiled for choice and always wish they had more time to do all the activities in Volcanoes National Park.

Mountain Gorilla Tracking: Volcanoes National Park is among the four national parks where mountain gorillas can be spotted in the world. The remaining national parks include Virunga National Park in the Congo, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. Volcanoes National Park has more than 10 mountain gorilla families available for tracking under the guidance of experienced park rangers.

Tracking golden monkeys: trekking golden monkeys have gained popularity over the years and are now considered second only to mountain gorillas. Seeing the endangered golden monkeys feed, groom, and swing from bamboo tree branches at a cost of $100 per year Touring the Volcanoes National Park, a family of golden monkeys can consist of about 100 individuals and is led by a dominant male. Golden monkey tracking can be done after mountain gorilla trekking or before.

Visiting the Tomb of Dian Fossey: Dian Fossey is considered among the greatest primatologists of all time. Because of her determination for conservation of nature, such as the poaching of animals, particularly mountain gorillas, in Volcanoes National Park.

Hiking Mount Karisimbi Volcano, which is an extinct volcano that stands at a height of about 4,507 m. Hiking Mount Karisimbi is regarded as a top tourist attraction in Musanze. Mount Karisimbi is the fifth-highest mountain in Africa and requires mental and physical attention for two days of hiking.

Mount Bisoke Hike: Mount Bisoke is also an extinct volcano that is part of the wider Virunga range of mountains. Hiking Mount Bisoke takes only a day and is relatively easier compared to hiking Mount Karisimbi. However, hikers still need to be fit to complete the activity.

Mount Muhabura Hike: Mount Muhabura is another interesting and adventurous volcano for hikers while touring Volcanoes National Park. Mount Muhabura stands at 4,127m; it is considered the third highest mountain in the Virunga ranges.

Visiting the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera: This can be done after mountain gorilla trekking. Travelers can relax by visiting the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera. A boat cruise via the deep waters of these two lakes is so rewarding, with the beautiful sights of many bird species and the vast hilly landscape with flashing waterfalls. Visiting the lake islands offers you a chance to mingle with the locals as you learn about their rich heritage and different cultures that define who they are in Rwanda.

Regardless of the activity you choose to participate in in Volcanoes National Park, you can be sure to have it arranged all year round. However, most travelers prefer visiting Volcanoes National Park during the drier months. The drier months fall between June and September and December and February. This is the best time to go mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park because the mountain slopes are easier for hiking.

The rainy months of March, April, May, and again from October to November are all characterized by heavy rainfall that makes trekking and hiking trails slippery and muddy. Photographers and nature lovers should come to Volcanoes National Park during the rainy season to witness the lush scenery. A safari in Volcanoes National Park can be combined with other exceptional activities in other top national parks in Rwanda.