Reviews of Virunga Lodge

"Magical setting with 360 degree views overlooking lakes and volcaneos. Particularly impressed with ecological credentials - the solar toilets are ingenious. Staff couldn't be faulted and made our stay memorable.

Tribal dancing was uplifting & fun - not at all "cheesey" as we're experienced elsewhere. The kids looked like they really enjoyed it too!

The gorilla treks were everything we had hoped for. The organistion at park HQ was slick, the guides were first class (knowlegable, informative and aware of comfort / safety / needs of guests). We left with great pictures and even more wonderful memories!!" See all these reviews: 7n in Rwanda; 1n in Kenya

"Again, a qualified rating, given that we were actually accommodated in the Jack Hannah Cottage at Mountain Gorilla's Nest Lodge (MGNL) for the first two nights, owing to a Primate Safari's 'upgrade', for what they informed us was a result of overbooking (and no room available) at Virunga for the nights of 5th and 6th.

Although situated in the grounds of what is now a tired and largely unoccupied lodge complex, the Cottage was absolutely fantastic. We had three permanent staff - chef, waiter and housekeeper - and lived in sheer opulence for the two days and nights. The MGNL is a very short drive to the park HQ, so was actually better situated and convenient than Virunga, at approx 0.75 hour. It's fair to say that we lived very well at the Cottage - absolutely no complaints whatsoever - but then again, it wasn't part of the original package.

Virunga Lodge - for the night of the 7th & 8th only, was very comfortable and, rather spookily, largely unoccupied for our limited time there. The service was excellent and the location breathtaking - the rooms and facilities extremely comfortable.

Our evening meal (served in the main dining room) was very good for the 7th and superb for the 8th, by which time we were the only guests in the whole Lodge (!) and were able to dine and subsequently breakfast on the 9th in the central lounge area next to the fire. Again, a unique experience brought about by circumstances.

The Gorillas themselves defy description. The organisation by Primate Safaris seamless and without fault. Rwanda is stunning in its scenery and vibrancy. This will not be our only visit to the country, although from what we learn (the Jack Hannah Cottage is available for rent at $2000 per day??), we would certainly revisit Virunga Lodge in view of our experience." See all these reviews: 10n in Tanzania; 4n in Rwanda; 1n in Kenya