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Sinamatella  Rwanda  Virunga  Pano  11

Virunga Lodge

Beautifully styled chalets in the heart of the volcanic landscape
Volcanoes National ParkRwanda· 10 Rooms · £££
An eco-friendly lodge full of iconic Rwandan decor

An amazing place no Rwanda trip would be without – the views alone will take your breath away

Location: Virunga Lodge enjoys one of the most dramatic settings of any lodge in East Africa, perched high on a ridge with commanding 360-degree views over Rwanda's twin lakes - Burera and Ruhondo - and the chain of Virunga volcanoes stretching across the horizon. It's about 45-munute drive from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, so not the closest lodge to the gorilla trekking start point, but the views and peaceful atmosphere more than make up for the extra drive. You get a real sense of being above it all - away from roads, villages, and other properties. Sunsets here are spectacular, and the morning mists rolling over the lakes add to the sense of magic. It's a place where you feel deeply connected to the landscape, and the location plays a huge part in the lodge's character and charm.

Rooms: There are ten bandas (rooms), each individually named after a nearby lake or volcano, and each offering privacy, comfort and stunning views. The design blends traditional Rwandan style - think colourful textiles, local artwork and hand-built stone walls - with a simple, elegant layout. All rooms are spacious, with large verandas, dressing areas, and ensuite bathrooms that include hot shower, flush loos and double vanities. Some also have indoor fireplaces to take the edge of the cool mountain air. There is no high-gloss luxury here, but that is part of the appeal - everything is thoughtful, well-made an in harmony with the surroundings. The two deluxe bandas are ideal for honeymooners or anyone wanting extra space, with their own private sitting rooms and more expansive terraces.

Amenities: Virunga Lodge is small and personal, but it still offers excellent facilities for its size. The main lodge has a warm, communal feel, with a large open-plan lounge and dining area where guests gather around the fire in the evenings. Meals are shared at a long table unless you request something more private, and the food is fresh and hearty, with an emphasis on locally grown ingredients and Rwandan specialists. There is also a spa treatment room offering massages, a well-stocked bar with local and international drinks, and a small boutique with locally made crafts. A unique feature here is the Dian Fossey Map Room, a space dedicated to the history of conservation in the Virunga's, with fascinating maps, photos and stories about the region's mountain gorillas and those who have worked to protect them.

Activities: The headlines activity here, of course, is mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park - and Virunga Lodge is perfectly placed for it. The lodge takes care of all the logistics, from securing permits to preparing you for the early morning start. Beyond gorillas, guests can also go golden monkey trekking, hike to the Dian Fossey tomb, climb one of the nearby volcanoes (Mount Bisoke is a popular choice), or visit the local Iby'iwacu cultural village. One of the lodge's signature experiences is the guided walk through the nearby communities supported by the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust, offering a more meaningful insight into rural life in the region. You can also take a peaceful guided walk around the twin lakes below the lodge, or simply relax and watch the light change across the landscape from your terrace.

Sustainability: Virunga Lodge has long been a pioneer of responsible tourism in Rwanda, with sustainability woven into every aspect of its operation. The lodge is owned by Volcanoes Safaris, a company with a deep commitment to conservation and community development in the region. It operates off-grid, powered by solar energy, and works actively to reduce water and plastic waste. The Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust funds a wide range of projects nearby, from reforestation and catchment restoration to education, healthcare and vocational training for local people. Guests are encouraged to visit these initiatives and learn more about how their stay directly supports conservation and community development. This isn't a place that just talks about sustainability - it lives it, day in, day out, and it makes your experience feel all the more purposeful.

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Shirley Newman

What can I say….my son and myself had the most wonderful time in Kenya thanks to the first-class itinerary that Ben and Louise put together for us. We spoke with Ben many times to ensure he ‘got it right’. This was our 2nd visit to Kenya, and it certainly lived up to our expectations and memories. Throughout our time in Kenya, we saw many lions, giraffes, elephants, ostriches, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards, to name just a few. Nothing was too much trouble for all the staff; we cannot have been looked after any better. I would highly recommend Far and Wild; they are so knowledgeable and have personally visited the lodges and areas. We are already planning another visit, and we cannot wait. Since our return again Ben phoned to see how it went in addition to emails.

August, 2025
Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

July, 2024
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

June, 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

July, 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

June, 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

May, 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

April, 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

March, 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

March, 2024

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