VIRUNGA SAFARI LODGE RWANDA
HOTEL REVIEW BY VANESSA BALLARD
WHEN: November 2024
WHERE: Rwanda
When I first arrived at Virunga Safari Lodge in Rwanda, I thought of it simply as a great base for my bucket-list adventure—trekking with mountain gorillas. What I didn’t expect was that the lodge itself would become one of the true highlights of my time in Africa.
Perched high on a ridge with sweeping 360-degree views of the Virunga mountains and volcanoes, Virunga Safari Lodge takes your breath away from the moment you step onto the property. The views alone are worth the trip, but they are only the beginning of what makes this place so extraordinary.
I came to Rwanda dreaming of gorillas, but I left with something unexpected: a deep affection for a lodge that felt less like a hotel and more like a home carved into the mountains. Virunga Safari Lodge is one of those rare places that lingers with you long after you’ve gone, and I know no matter where my travels take me, a piece of my heart will always stay perched on that ridge in Rwanda. Contact Vanessa for totally customized travel planning.
THE INSIDE SCOOP
VIBE // Serene, luxurious, and deeply connected to the surrounding environment.
WELLNESS // This property takes wellness to another level. Rather than treating spa treatments as an occasional indulgence, every guest enjoys a complimentary daily massage as part of their stay. The spa itself is beautifully designed in traditional Rwandan style, complete with crackling fireplaces in the treatment rooms, creating an atmosphere that is both relaxing and authentic.
CULINARY SCENE // The menu changes daily and showcases locally sourced ingredients at their freshest. Every meal was a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and thoughtful presentation. Be sure not to miss the African tea, crafted from fresh herbs and spices grown in the region.
BEST FOR // Adventure travelers who want more than just a base for gorilla trekking. This property is a destination in its own right and leaves a lasting impression long after the journey ends.
HOW DID THIS HOTEL MAKE ME FEEL // Like I was experiencing the true heart of Rwanda. The genuine warmth and hospitality of the staff is something I will remember just as vividly as the breathtaking views. Rather than a typical wake-up call, I was gently awakened each morning by my butler singing a beautiful African song outside my villa while carrying a pot of perfectly brewed tea. For a moment, it felt as though I was still dreaming.
IF I DID THE SAME TRIP AGAIN, HERE’S WHAT I WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY // Stay longer. While this was my base for gorilla trekking, the hotel itself deserves to be the destination. I would happily spend several extra days simply enjoying everything the property has to offer.
COMPLIMENTARY VACATION CONSULTATION
Contact The Journey Group to start planning your next getaway, and we’ll schedule a complimentary call to answer your questions, explore ideas, and walk you through how we design seamless, custom vacations. What sets us apart is that we work as one highly experienced team and are part of the world’s largest network of vetted travel providers, giving you unmatched access and peace of mind.