Rwanda in the Mist
Rwanda
5 days
Follow in the footsteps of the late activist Dian Fossey and observe the “Gorillas in the Mist” on this extraordinary journey into Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains and Volcanoes National Park.
*This itinerary can only be booked in conjunction with an African Travel safari vacation.
How Your Trip Matters
Beyond a memorable trek with the endangered mountain gorillas, enjoy the sweeping views at your lovely eco-lodge, the gracious Rwandan hospitality, and stories of hope and survival.
Highlights
Explore the rich green rainforest environment of Volcanoes National Park.
Discover the site of Dian Fossey’s primate research when you hike to the remains of her Karisoke Research Center.
Experience and observe a magnificent mountain gorilla group as they interact and forage in the forest.
Enjoy gracious Rwandan hospitality and sweeping views at your lovely ecolodge.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences chosen with great care based on the positive social or environmental impact they have both on their communities, and on those who experience them our guests. You can identify these experiences across our trips by locating the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience seal.
Accommodations
1. Heaven Boutique Hotel
Kigali, Rwanda
Nestled on a tranquil residential street in the heart of Kigali, Heaven Boutique Hotel is a 4-star retreat offering 28 elegantly designed rooms across two lush properties. Guests are invited to experience authentic Rwandan hospitality, with local décor, solar-heated saltwater swimming, and expansive views of the city. Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at Heaven Restaurant, known for its modern African cuisine. Enjoy access to a fitness center, outdoor yoga deck, and tropical gardens. Heaven’s blend of luxury and cultural immersion ensures an unforgettable stay, just steps from downtown Kigali.
2. Virunga Lodge
Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park
Described as having ‘the best view in the world’, Virunga Lodge is perched high on a ridge with magnificent views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the twin lakes, Bulera and Ruhonda. The natural yet ‘bush-chic’ design reflects the building style of the area and offers eco-luxury comfort. Each “banda” (cottage) has its own stone fireplace, open living room and private terrace with breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes or twin lakes. The bedrooms are large, with either king-size or twin beds draped in mosquito netting. Built to environmentally friendly standards, the en-suite bathrooms are bright and sunny with solar powered hot water and low-flush toilets. The main lodge has a wide wrap-around veranda with exceptional views across the lakes. In the evenings, relax in the cozy lounge around a log fire and share stories about the day's adventures. The dining room features one large table where all guests dine together. A relaxing massage is particularly welcome after a day tracking the gorillas. Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge building.
3. Sabinyo Silverback Lodge
Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park
Set on the edge of the Parc National des Volcans Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge enjoys fabulous and dramatic views of the surrounding volcanoes.
All guest cottages are discretely situated in the folds of the hills and amongst the verdant vegetation of the Sabyinyo property. Each beautifully appointed ensuite cottage, with its country-chic style and open log fires, is a perfect haven of warmth and luxury. The main lodge building is designed with the guest in mind. Assorted seating areas in the main lounge, reception and entertainment room provide for intimate privacy, or the opportunity to meet other guests, and open-log fires throughout create a luxuriously warm and inviting atmosphere.
4. Amakoro Songa Lodge
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Set amidst the dramatic Virunga Mountains, Amakoro Songa Lodge offers a luxurious eco-retreat just minutes from Volcanoes National Park. Perfect for gorilla trekking enthusiasts, the lodge’s eight rustic-chic cottages blend modern comfort with Rwandan craftsmanship. Each spacious room features a fireplace, a deep soaking tub, and a private veranda with stunning mountain views. After a day of adventure, relax around the outdoor fire pit or enjoy local cuisine made from garden-grown ingredients. With its strong commitment to conservation and the local community, Amakoro Songa Lodge provides an unforgettable, sustainable safari experience.
Itinerary
Day 1. Arrive Kigali, Rwanda
You are welcomed on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy dinner and your first night in Rwanda, the "land of a thousand hills." (D)
Heaven Boutique Hotel
Day 2. Kigali / Volcanoes National Park
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving testimony to this country’s past, courageously overcome. After lunch, travel through the beautiful terraced hillsides, gradually ascending into the Virunga Mountains. Settle into your eco-lodge and let the sights and sounds of the rain forest envelop you. (BLD)
Virunga Lodge, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge or Amakoro Songa Lodge
Day 3. Volcanoes National Park
Rise early to start tracking through the steep and often muddy forest. While you may be lucky and catch up with the gorillas by mid-morning, sometimes tracking them down can take a full day, especially when it is wet. Quietly observe them as they feed on the lush foliage and tend to each other with uncannily human-like mannerisms. Return to the lodge in time for a late lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. (BLD)
Virunga Lodge, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge or Amakoro Songa Lodge
Day 4. Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy a day at leisure. Choose from a variety of optional excursions or perhaps go on a second trek (pre-purchase of the gorilla permit is required). Stroll through the forest to spot the lively golden monkeys. Trek in the footsteps of the late activist Dian Fossey on a full-day hike to visit her gravesite and the remains of her Karisoke Research Center. Visit Lake Kivu, take a guided walk to Lake Bulera or visit the Imbabazi Orphanage and have tea or lunch with the staff and volunteers. (BLD)
Virunga Lodge, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge or Amakoro Songa Lodge
Day 5. Volcanoes National Park / Depart
Travel back to Kigali. Enjoy lunch, and then transfer to the airport for your onward arrangements. (BL)
Pricing
Land Arrangements (Price per person)
**Surcharges Apply *This itinerary can only be booked in conjunction with an African Travel safari vacation.
Air Arrangements (Internal Airfare)
No internal air is required for this itinerary.
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