Visit Virunga Lodge
In one of Africa’s most picturesque locations, Virunga Lodge commands a fabulous setting on a high ridge within the unique terraced landscape for which Rwanda is renowned. Surrounded by folding hills, the lodge has unsurpassed panoramic views of Rwanda’s Virunga Volcanoes and the shimmering volcanic lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo. The well-established attractive gardens hide peaceful seating areas where guests can relax and take in the spectacular scenery.
This elegant high-end property is the perfect choice with guests taking safaris in search of Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys. The lodge is a 45 minute drive from the starting point of treks within the Park National des Volcans, but this journey is scenic and gives guests the opportunity to see a little of Rwandan life in the local villages enroute.
Virunga Lodge is run on eco-friendly principles. Solar power is used for lighting and heating water, and the furnishings, fabrics and materials are locally-sourced.
Accommodation
The attractive accommodation at Virunga Lodge provides space and privacy. There are 8 large individual stone and tile cottages set on the hillside. Each cottage has exposed beams on its high ceilings and the tasteful wooden furnishings include large-framed beds that are adorned with elegant mosquito nets. The African-style decor includes colourful fabrics, grass mats, ethnic art and hand-carved wooden sculptures. The en-suite bathrooms have a stone decor and large walk-in showers. A private veranda on each cottage provides a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the wonderful views of the surrounding volcanoes and lakes.
Facilities
The public areas of the main building include a reception, a comfortable lounge with a unique central stone fireplace and a dining area and bar. There is a cosy atmosphere and guests enjoy meeting here of an evening to share the day’s adventures. Meals are of a good standard, with breakfast and a three-course dinner served at the communal dining table. Picnic lunches are provided for guests who are spending the day on excursions.
Activities
Excursions can be arranged to the Park National des Volcans to track Mountain Gorillas or Golden Monkeys or to visit the grave of the late Dian Fossey who lived and worked in the Park. Guests can also see nearby waterfalls or join guided walks to nearby lakeside villages to learn about the local culture. Guests can also visit nearby community projects and local schools.
This elegant high-end property is the perfect choice with guests taking safaris in search of Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys. The lodge is a 45 minute drive from the starting point of treks within the Park National des Volcans, but this journey is scenic and gives guests the opportunity to see a little of Rwandan life in the local villages enroute.
Virunga Lodge is run on eco-friendly principles. Solar power is used for lighting and heating water, and the furnishings, fabrics and materials are locally-sourced.
Accommodation
The attractive accommodation at Virunga Lodge provides space and privacy. There are 8 large individual stone and tile cottages set on the hillside. Each cottage has exposed beams on its high ceilings and the tasteful wooden furnishings include large-framed beds that are adorned with elegant mosquito nets. The African-style decor includes colourful fabrics, grass mats, ethnic art and hand-carved wooden sculptures. The en-suite bathrooms have a stone decor and large walk-in showers. A private veranda on each cottage provides a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the wonderful views of the surrounding volcanoes and lakes.
Facilities
The public areas of the main building include a reception, a comfortable lounge with a unique central stone fireplace and a dining area and bar. There is a cosy atmosphere and guests enjoy meeting here of an evening to share the day’s adventures. Meals are of a good standard, with breakfast and a three-course dinner served at the communal dining table. Picnic lunches are provided for guests who are spending the day on excursions.
Activities
Excursions can be arranged to the Park National des Volcans to track Mountain Gorillas or Golden Monkeys or to visit the grave of the late Dian Fossey who lived and worked in the Park. Guests can also see nearby waterfalls or join guided walks to nearby lakeside villages to learn about the local culture. Guests can also visit nearby community projects and local schools.
Virunga Lodge Gallery
Virunga Lodge Gallery
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Rwanda.
Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014.
Rachel Chambers
Rachel Chambers
Rachel resides on the vibrant West Coast of Canada, specifically on Vancouver Island. She has a profound love for travel, having explored nearly 30 countries. However, it was a solo journey to Africa that truly ignited her passion. Upon stepping foot in Botswana for the first time, Rachel was captivated and knew she needed to explore more of the continent. Since then, she has ventured solo to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya, where she traveled with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps.
It was during these experiences that Rachel realized her desire to be a part of the Gamewatchers team.
You can contact Rae at rae@gamewatchers.com or WattsApp +1-250-588-9112
Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014.
Sally Wanjau
Hello, I am Sally Wanjau, and I have been travelling to Kenya on safari since the 1980’s which led to me living and working there for several years. Married to a Kenyan, it is a place that I now call home. I currently live in the UK with my husband. For a number of years, I ran my own safari business as an agent working closely with Gamewatchers Safaris creating unique and tailor-made holidays for my clients, and in 2017 I joined Gamewatchers Safaris full-time as one of their dedicated team of Safari Advisers.
Having travelled extensively throughout East, South and Southern Africa, I remain passionate about Kenya, my love of which is fed by my many fantastic wildlife experiences at the Porini Camps.
You can contact me at sallywanjau@gamewatchers.com or call me at +44 7546 433 250
Wayne Hammond
Wayne Hammond
Hello, I'm Wayne Hammond, and I'm fortunate to have embarked on over 30 incredible journeys to the enchanting continent of Africa. It's a place that has captured my heart time and time again. My travels have taken me to Kenya, which I've had the pleasure of visiting far more times than I can recall, as well as to Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and Mozambique. Among my cherished bush haunts, I hold dear the Masai Mara in Kenya, the mesmerizing Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, and the wondrous South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. I'm not just a passionate traveler but also an avid amateur wildlife photographer and an occasional travel writer.
If you're ready to embark on your own African adventure, don't hesitate to reach out to me at wayne@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +44 7986 978 985.
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I've had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you're eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@gamewatchers.com
Let's connect and embark on a journey through Africa's wild wonders together.
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or by phone at +91 801 788 5256
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Rwanda.
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@gamewatchers.com
Let’s connect and embark on a journey through Africa’s wild wonders together.
Andrea Landaeta
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendors of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges. I’m based in Bangalore, India, and you can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or reach me by phone at +91 801 788 5256, including WhatsApp. Let’s embark on a journey to celebrate the beauty and conservation of our natural world together.
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call +61 419 175 672
Kristy Thomson
Curating ultimate tailor-made safari experiences for 35 years
Curating ultimate tailor-made safari experiences for 35 years
What Our Clients Say About Us
In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our clients’ feedback.
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
What Our Clients Say About Us
In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our clients’ feedback.
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
David C
Once I narrowed my choice of African tour providers to 4, I wrote and asked them to compare themselves to the others. I got several very candid responses including this one from Gamewatchers Safaris: “I can guarantee you I can give you a..
Veronica P
I booked my holiday to Kenya as a solo traveller via a company in the UK. They used Gamewatchers Safaris as their local contact. From start to finish of my trip I felt very safe and all the arrangements went without a hitch. I was collected from the..
Dev P
We've just returned from a Kenyan Safari and Beach holiday all advised and organised by Wayne Hammond of Gamewatchers. He was always available, full of knowledge, and the itinerary delivered on all expectations. We would..
Stories on Botswana Safaris
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Exploring Africa’s Wilderness on foot – Mara Walking Safaris
A Maasai women group from the Greater Maasai Mara region in the former Ol Kinyei Group Ranch has benefit from a 3,000-litre solar-powered milk coolant donated by the World Wide Foundation for Nature(WWF) with funding from the German government in partnership with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps.