Where to stay in Volcanoes national park. Volcanoes National Park is a prominent national park located in northwestern Rwanda, near Musanze at 160km2 and it was established in 1925 making it one of the oldest parks in Africa however Virunga national park in Democratic Republic of Congo is considered the oldest national park in Africa. The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes in Virunga massif: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo and it is known for its unique landscapes and diverse wildlife. Volcanoes National Park is one of the only three parks in the world where visitors can view the endangered mountain gorillas.
Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, encompassing a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park boasts diverse vegetation types that vary with altitude and topography. The park has bamboo forests covering about 30% of the park which is crucial for the mountain gorillas, African redwood, sub-alpine, and alpine zone. Much as the park is known for the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, it also supports a wide variety of other species for both mammals and birds including buffaloes, elephants, bushbucks, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, hyenas, civet cats, leopards, golden cats, duikers, serval cats and birds like Ruwenzori batis, Ruwenzori Apalis, dusky crimsonwing, Grauer’s swamp warbler, handsome francolin, strange weavers, Rwenzori turaco and many more. The landscape is very ideal and stunning for various avian life and animals.
The park has very many places for accommodation within and outside depending on how much one is willing to spend, or their intentions while at the park. Below are some of the different places one can stay while in Volcanoes national park:
Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge
This lodge is situated at the foot of Mount Sabyinyo one of the Virunga Mountains offering a mix of luxury and adventure as it’s an amazing spot for those who want to experience the stunning side of the wilderness of East Africa and is only a few minutes away from the entrance of Volcanoes National Park. The lodge offers a range of amenities and services to ensure guests have an unforgettable experience while residing there. The lodge has spacious cottages, and family units all self-contained with beds, and bathrooms, and some even have private balconies where one can relax and soak in nature. The lodge offers a gourmet dining experience, with meals that feature both local and international flavors. The lodge has a spa and wellness center, bar and lounge, and library and lounge areas, all contributing to the experience offered.
Gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, cultural visits, nature walks, and birding are some of the activities enjoyed by the guests residing at the lodge. Sabyinyo is strong on sustainability and conservation through involvement in local community development programs, supporting anti-poaching efforts, and protecting endangered species in the region.
Bisate Lodge
This is another incredible lodge on the edge of Volcanoes National Park offering breathtaking views of the volcanic peaks, including Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi. Bisate Lodge is a unique combination of eco-luxury and sustainability emphasizing both nature and conservation. The lodge is designed to blend seamlessly into its environment inspired by traditional Rwandan circular homes.
Bisate Lodge has six private villas, ensuring a more intimate experience for guests. Each villa has a modern and stylish interior that combines comfort with traditional Rwandan design elements. The lodge offers a gourmet dining experience, both privately and publicly with food often prepared offering a variety of international and local flavors. The lodge has a bar, lounge, spa, and fireplace. Activities like gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, nature walks, birding, and cultural immersion can be enjoyed by guests.
Virunga lodge
Virunga Lodge is a luxury safari lodge, perched on a high ridge providing panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains and the nearby twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. The location makes it an ideal base for activities like gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and hiking, and is one of the top accommodations for travelers exploring the park.
The lodge features ten bandas with spacious interiors, private terraces, and en-suite bathrooms with each banda named after a Rwandan lake or peak. It reflects traditional Rwandan design with eco-friendly touches. Visitors can enjoy fine dining, lounge area, spa, and cultural performances by local communities. Guests can participate in activities like gorilla trekking, visiting the Dian Fossey gorilla fund headquarters, exploring the lakes and surrounding villages, and cultural experiences once at the lodge.
One and only Gorillas nest
Located at the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, surrounded by a lush eucalyptus forest. Known for its breathtaking surroundings exclusive experiences, and exceptional service. The nest is ideally located just minutes from the entrance of Volcanoes National Park making it perfect for gorilla trekking and other wildlife experiences.
The lodge has 14 rooms and 7 suites, each featuring a private balcony with stunning views and all fully self-contained with open-air bathrooms. It has a dining area, lounge, barbecue terrace, fire pit, bar, and spa. Guests at the lodge can enjoy gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking and nature walks, cultural immersion, and wellness activities. One and Only Gorilla’s Nest is ideal for travelers seeking unparalleled luxury while exploring the unique biodiversity and rich culture of Rwanda.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is situated in Musanze-Ruhengeri, only a short drive from the entrance of Volcanoes National Park, making it an excellent base for gorilla trekking. It is a popular choice for travelers seeking mid-range luxury and proximity to the park, especially for gorilla trekking and other wildlife adventures.
The hotel features 11 modern rooms and a family suite, all designed for comfort and relaxation with the rooms equipped with amenities like air conditioning, TVs, free Wi-Fi, and private terraces with stunning views of the gardens and volcanoes. The hotel has facilities like a restaurant, spa, swimming pool, bar, and fireplace lounge which provide for an amazing stay. Activities like gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking, and cultural tours can be enjoyed by the residents staying at the hotel.
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
This lodge is located near Volcanoes National Park and is an amazing option for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and an authentic nature experience; nestling on the foothills of Mount Sabyinyo, with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge has 30 cottages, built using local materials to blend with the natural surroundings, with each cottage having a fireplace, private bathroom, and a view of the mountains. The lodge offers services like a restaurant, bar, lounge area, cultural performances, and frees Wi-Fi making for a pleasant stay. While staying at the lodge, guests can engage in activities like gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking, cultural experiences, and twin lakes excursions of Burera, and Ruhondo.
Hotel Muhabura
Hotel Muhabura is a budget-friendly and historic hotel located in Musanze, making it a convenient base for gorilla trekking. It is well-known for its simple charm and connection to Dian Fossey, the legendary primatologist who studied mountain gorillas.
The hotel has 30 rooms inclusive of single, twin, double, and family rooms as well as suites all with basic amenities not forgetting the famous Diane Fossey room (room 12) occupied by her during her visits to Ruhengeri. Hotel Muhabura has facilities like a restaurant, bar, spa, gardens, terrace, and free Wi-Fi accessible to the guests. While enjoying their stay at the hotel, guests can partake in activities like gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking, visiting the Dian Fossey tomb, exploring Musanze caves, and cultural tours.
Kinigi guesthouse
Situated at the base of the Virunga mountains, Kinigi Guesthouse is a budget-friendly community-run accommodation offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape as is 1km from the briefing point of Volcanoes National Park.
The guesthouse has 20 rooms inclusive of dormitories with basic amenities including beds, hot showers, and seating areas. It offers facilities like a restaurant, bar, garden, terrace, conference room, and hot water. Guests residing can enjoy gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking, cultural experiences, and the twin lakes of Burera, and Ruhondo for activities. Please note that the money collected from the guesthouse supports the local orphans, agricultural projects, and groups of widows and also provides a market for art pieces from local artists.
Villa Gorilla Hotel
Located in Kinigi, Villa Gorilla Hotel is just a few minutes’ drive from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters where gorilla trekking begins. Known for its personalized service, homely atmosphere, and close proximity to gorilla trekking, the hotel is a great choice for travelers as it offers scenic views of the Virunga Mountains and surrounding landscapes.
The hotel has 7 rooms including standard double rooms and bungalows with private bathrooms, free toiletries, free Wi-Fi, and private balconies overlooking the volcano views. Facilities like a restaurant, bar, gardens, fireplace, and outdoor seating areas are available for guests. Gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, hiking, cultural experiences, and exploring the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo can be enjoyed by guests while staying at the hotel.
Volcanoes National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from ultra-luxurious lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses. Your choice depends on budget, comfort level, and proximity to the park for gorilla trekking and other activities.
