Best Places to Stay in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Best Places to Stay in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

The Best Places to Stay in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda range from Luxury, Mid-range and Budget accommodation options in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. Let’s learn about the best places to stay near Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, including top hotels like Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel. Find out where to stay for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience

How to plan where to stay in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Planning a Rwanda gorilla safari? We’ve got you covered with reliable information on the best lodges, hotels, and accommodation facilities in and around Volcanoes National Park. Wondering where to stay in Rwanda? Look no further! Our comprehensive list of top lodges in this land of a thousand hills will answer all your questions. Ensuring you stay in a safe, comfortable, and quiet environment is essential for a successful and enjoyable gorilla trekking safari. Below, you’ll find a curated list of hotels in Rwanda, ranging from high-end to midrange and budget options.

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Musanze, formerly known as Ruhengeri province, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is a luxurious five-star accommodation conveniently located along the road to Kinigi, the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park. This prime location makes it an ideal base for your gorilla trekking adventures.


The hotel offers a serene and high-end retreat with stunning views of Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills, aptly named the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” The accommodation includes 13 beautifully appointed bedrooms, available as double or twin rooms, and a VIP cottage for those seeking an extra touch of luxury. Each room is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, and a kettle, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay.


Beyond the rooms, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel boasts a range of facilities designed to enhance your experience. The on-site restaurant serves a delightful array of local and international dishes, perfect for refuelling after a day of gorilla trekking. Guests can unwind in the inviting swimming pool or rejuvenate in the traditional sauna and steam sauna. The hotel’s attentive staff is dedicated to making your stay as pleasant and memorable as possible, providing exceptional service with a warm Rwandan welcome.


Whether you’re here for the gorillas or simply to soak in the natural beauty of Rwanda, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience. Your adventure in the Land of a Thousand Hills begins here, with a stay that promises relaxation and unforgettable memories.

Mountain Gorillas’ Nest Lodge

Nestled in the serene Eucalyptus forests of Musanze district, Jack Hannah’s Cottages offer a super luxury escape in northern Rwanda. This exquisite lodge provides family-sized accommodations with breathtaking views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and the slopes of Volcanoes National Park.


The Cottages: The spacious cottages are designed to accommodate up to four guests, making them perfect for families. Each cottage features two large bedrooms, each with its spacious bathroom offering lovely views of the surrounding golf course. The central area includes a beautifully appointed living room with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, a television, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen.

Step outside to a wrap-around porch/veranda accessible from the living room, where you can enjoy the picturesque views of the lush green golf course and the rolling hills of Rwanda. The cottages are designed to provide privacy and tranquility, ensuring a peaceful retreat.


Exceptional Service: At Jack Hannah’s Cottages, you will experience top-notch service. The professional and friendly staff are dedicated to ensuring your utmost comfort. They attend to the fireplace, keeping it well-stocked with firewood, and are always ready to assist with any needs you may have.

After each meal, you’ll be presented with a menu to select three courses for your next meal, offering flexibility and a personalized dining experience. The attention to detail and the warm hospitality makes your stay truly special.


Perfect for Families: Jack Hannah’s Cottages are an excellent choice for families, offering exclusive use of the house and ample space for everyone to relax and enjoy. Whether you’re here for gorilla trekking or simply to unwind in nature, this lodge provides a luxurious and comfortable base for your adventures

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Located in the Musanze district, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is ideally situated near the Parc National des Volcans park headquarters, making it a prime spot for gorilla safaris in Rwanda. Just a short distance from the Kinigi head offices, the lodge offers unparalleled access to the park’s main attractions.


Stunning Location and Views: Perched at the foothills of the Virunga ranges, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge provides breathtaking views of the rolling hills and the surrounding countryside. The lodge’s location offers a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.


Luxurious Cottages: The lodge features eight spacious cottages, each designed to offer maximum privacy and comfort. Every cottage boasts stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and includes a cozy sitting room with a fireplace, a comfortable bedroom, a dressing room, and a large bathroom equipped with both a bath and shower, complete with hot and cold running water. The cottages are also equipped with 24-hour electricity to ensure a comfortable stay.


Private Balconies: Each cottage has a sheltered balcony where guests can enjoy breakfast, read a book, or simply marvel at the stunning views. The balconies provide a perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area.


Additional Facilities: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge offers a range of additional facilities to enhance your stay. The main lodge includes a library and games room, perfect for unwinding after a day of trekking. Guests can also enjoy the on-site bar and restaurant, which serve a variety of delicious local and international dishes. The attentive staff are always on hand to ensure your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Best View Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Ruhengeri, the Best View Hotel is a must-stay for anyone visiting Rwanda, especially those heading to Volcanoes National Park. This hotel offers top-notch accommodation with all the comforts you need for a memorable stay.


Each room is equipped with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. After a long day of trekking, you can relax in the seating area of your room, which boasts stunning views. The private bathrooms are stocked with clean towels and hair dryers and offer hot and cold water around the clock.


The hotel staff is known for their hospitality and attentiveness, providing services like wake-up calls and laundry.


For those looking to unwind, the hotel’s bar is open 24/7, serving a wide range of local and international beverages. Whether you prefer hot or cold drinks, you’ll find something to suit your taste.


The on-site restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience with a buffet-style three-course menu featuring both local and international dishes. Plus, there’s free parking available for all guests.

Faraja Hotel

Staying at Faraja Hotel feels like being at home away from home. Nestled in Musanze along the Ruhengeri-Gisenyi Road, the lodge offers breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes.


Cottages: Faraja Hotel boasts 38 cottages, including 12 king-size rooms, 10 standard singles, 12 queen-size rooms, 3 singles, and 1 junior suite. Each room features a private bathroom with warm showers and free Wi-Fi access.


Room Services: The hotel provides a range of room services to make your stay memorable, including wake-up calls, laundry, fireplaces, hot water bottles, clean towels, and comfortable beds. The rooms are spacious and airy, perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a day of adventure.


Dining: The on-site restaurant offers an à la carte menu with a variety of delicious local Ugandan dishes and international cuisine, served in a cosy dining area. The bar is well-stocked with both local and international drinks to cater to all tastes.


Location: Faraja Hotel is conveniently located with quick access to Virunga National Park, Musanze Caves, and the Ruhondo and Bulera lakes, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.


Staff: The experienced and attentive staff at Faraja Hotel are dedicated to providing high-quality service, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Garden Place Hotel

If you’re looking for a place that feels like a home away from home, this hotel in Ruhengeri is the perfect choice. Offering stylish and comfortable accommodations, it’s ideal for both business and leisure travellers. Plus, it’s just a 90-minute drive from the airport, making it easily accessible.


Rooms: The hotel features 28 well-appointed rooms, including 17 doubles, 2 VIP suites, and 9 standard rooms. Each room comes with a modern bathroom equipped with plenty of hot water, a hairdryer, a telephone, a flat-screen satellite TV, and a balcony with stunning views.


VIP Suites: The VIP suites offer added luxury with separate living rooms, a kitchenette complete with a microwave, coffee pot, sink, and a small fridge.


Amenities: For business needs, the hotel provides meeting and conference rooms equipped with a PA system, Wi-Fi connectivity, a business centre, modern furniture, and a 24-hour generator to ensure an uninterrupted power supply.


Dining: The on-site restaurant caters to all tastes with a diverse menu featuring both local and international dishes. The meals are prepared by experienced chefs and served by friendly, well-trained staff.


Bar: The bar is open 24/7, offering a wide selection of local and international beverages at affordable prices.

Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Nestled in the scenic area of Kinigi, Musanze, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge offers a blend of mid-range and luxury services for visitors to Volcanoes National Park.


Rooms: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge features five well-appointed cottages, each designed to provide a natural and private setting. The cottages are available in double, single, and triple configurations, all equipped with private bathrooms, hot and cold water, hot water bottles, and hair dryers. Each room also includes a cozy sitting area for relaxation.


Services: The lodge prides itself on its experienced staff who deliver exceptional service. Guests can enjoy a variety of high-quality local and international dishes, along with a selection of beverages to suit every taste.


Experience: Staying at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge guarantees a memorable experience with top-notch services at affordable prices, ensuring that every traveller leaves with cherished memories. 

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, nestled in the Musanze district of northern Rwanda, offers a perfect blend of comfort and nature. Located at the foothills of Mount Sabinyo, one of the majestic volcanic mountains in the Virunga range, the lodge is just a 15-minute drive from the main entrance of Volcanoes National Park.


Accommodation: This eco-friendly lodge features 30 spacious cottages, each constructed with stone and thatch to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Every cottage includes a cozy living area with a fireplace, en-suite facilities, and a private veranda, providing a serene retreat after a day of adventure.


Dining and Amenities: The main lodge area boasts a restaurant that serves delicious home-cooked meals, ensuring you enjoy a taste of local and international cuisine. There’s also a bar where you can unwind with a drink while soaking in the beautiful views.

Gorilla Solution Lodge

Nestled in the Kinigi sector of Musanze/Ruhengeri district, the Gorilla Solution Lodge is just a two-hour drive from Kigali Airport. This charming lodge sits in the shadow of Mt. Karisimbi, offering breathtaking views of the Virunga volcano chain.


The lodge features 10 cozy cottages, including doubles, singles, twins, and a family cottage. Each room can be tailored to meet the specific needs of guests.


All rooms are spacious and come with a private veranda that offers stunning views of the surrounding communities. They are equipped with private bathrooms featuring hot and cold showers, hairdryers, clean towels, comfortable beds, hot water bottles, and fresh linens.


The lounge area provides free Wi-Fi and a welcoming fireplace where guests can gather to share stories and enjoy the warmth.


The lodge also boasts a fully stocked bar with a wide selection of international and local beverages, available 24/7. The on-site restaurant offers an à la carte menu and an African buffet, serving a variety of dishes prepared by experienced chefs, waiters, and waitresses, ensuring a delightful dining experience at any hour.

Hotel Muhabura

Located north of Kigali in Musanze province, right across from the Musanze district headquarters, this hotel offers a perfect retreat after a day of gorilla trekking or exploring the northern region of Rwanda. The hotel features 30 rooms and apartments, each designed to provide a cozy and relaxing environment.


Hotel Services:

  • All rooms are self-contained, featuring warm showers, with some offering a bath.
  • All accommodations are on the ground level, providing direct access to the garden.
  • Each room has its small balcony.
  • Equipped with satellite TV for your entertainment.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
  • Laundry service is also available for your convenience.

Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel

Located in Musanze, just north of Kigali, this modern hotel boasts a unique character and a welcoming ambience. It features 31 spacious and comfortable rooms, each equipped with an ensuite bathtub and shower. The hotel also has an impressive bar attached to its restaurant.


Start your day with a hearty breakfast served from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM. If you’re heading out early for gorilla trekking, simply inform the hotel management in advance, and they’ll prepare breakfast at your preferred time. From noon until late evening, you can enjoy a variety of dishes from the à la carte menu. The hotel also offers an outdoor terrace, a perfect spot to relax, share stories about your excursions, or discuss business.


Facilities:

  • 31 Rooms
  • 1 Restaurant (The Urugano) with a large bar
  • 1 Swimming Pool
  • 1 Event Room
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • A Fitness Center (opening soon)

Virunga Lodge

Situated about an hour’s drive from the park headquarters, Virunga Lodge is one of the premier lodges in the area, boasting one of the most breathtaking locations in Africa. Perched high on a ridge, it offers stunning views of both Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo.


The lodge features eight spacious stone rooms, each with wooden floors, sturdy wooden furniture, and large verandas. A short-covered walkway connects each room to a private toilet and shower. The eco-friendly toilets are low-flush, and the showers are powered by solar-heated hot water.


Virunga Lodge is known for its sociable atmosphere, with guests gathering around a large communal table for dinner each evening. In addition to gorilla trekking, guests can enjoy performances by local ‘Indore’ dance troupes and indulge in relaxing massages

Le Bambou Gorilla Village

Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge offers midrange safari accommodation in Rwanda’s Northern Province, conveniently located near the endangered gorillas of Volcanoes National Park. Renowned for its relaxing atmosphere, the lodge ensures guests feel at home even while away.


The lodge provides top-notch facilities, luxurious furnishings, and exceptional service. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding volcanoes and gorillas. All furniture at the lodge is handcrafted from bamboo, adding a unique and authentic touch to your stay.

Garr Hotel

Nestled in the lush, green suburbs of Kigali, Garr Hotel provides a tranquil retreat for its guests. Just a five-minute walk from Kigali’s Golf Club, it’s an ideal choice for golf enthusiasts and sports lovers alike.


Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, you’ll appreciate the hotel’s unique décor and inviting atmosphere. The modern guestrooms are equipped with all the essential amenities to ensure your utmost comfort. Plus, the hotel is conveniently located near top restaurants, foreign embassies, and the Parliament Building, making it a perfect base for exploring the city.

Villa Gorilla

Villa Gorilla is nestled in Kinigi, just a short two-hour drive from Kigali International Airport and close to the headquarters of Rwanda’s renowned Volcanoes National Park. This charming retreat features four cozy double occupancy bedrooms, each equipped with private bath and toilet facilities.


Ideal for small groups or families, Villa Gorilla offers a comfortable and intimate setting with attentive management, ensuring personalized service. Guests can enjoy privacy and stunning mountain views, making it a perfect getaway.

La Palme Hotel

La Palme Hotel, a three-star gem in Musanze Town, offers luxurious accommodations for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can indulge in an exceptional dining experience at the hotel’s renowned restaurant, which tantalizes the taste buds with a delightful mix of African, French, and Oriental cuisines.


For those looking to unwind, the Mini Bar offers a carefully curated selection of drinks to suit every palate. Whether you’re here for work or relaxation, La Palme Hotel promises a memorable stay.

Kinigi Guesthouse

The Guest House, located in the Kinigi district just 11 km from Ruhengeri City, offers a serene escape at the base of the majestic Sabyinyo volcanic mountain, which stands at an impressive 4,480 meters. With accommodations for over 40 guests, each room is equipped with electricity and warm water to ensure a comfortable stay.


The property features four VIP suites and a versatile hall that can seat up to 400 people, making it perfect for conferences, seminars, weddings, and other social events.

Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is more favourable for gorilla trekking, and the trails are less muddy. However, the park is open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience.

How Much Do You Need for a Rwanda Gorilla Safari?

A Rwanda gorilla safari can vary in cost depending on the level of luxury and the duration of your stay. On average, you can expect to spend between $1,500 to $3,000 per person for a 3-day safari, including gorilla permits, accommodation, and meals. Gorilla permits alone cost $1,500 per person.

What to Bring

  • Small Backpack: Handy for carrying water, packed lunch, camera, and binoculars.
  • Hiking Boots: Lightweight, waterproof boots with good ankle support are crucial due to the forest’s terrain and altitude.
  • Clothing: Bring a light jumper and breathable, waterproof jacket and trousers. The weather can be unpredictable, so layers are best. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers are also recommended to protect against insects.
  • Socks: Comfortable, lightweight long wool socks are ideal for trekking in a tropical forest.
  • Sweater: Useful for cool evenings and chilly mornings.
  • Hat and Sunglasses: A bush hat with a brim for sun protection and sunglasses with a neck strap are essential.
  • Sun Cream: Necessary to protect your skin from the sun.
  • Camera Gear: A video or photo camera with extra lenses and spare batteries. You’ll want to capture as many memories as possible during your one-hour encounter with the gorillas.
  • Torch: LED models are lightweight and have good battery life.
  • Insect Repellent: To protect against mosquito bites and other insects.
  • Garden Gloves: These will protect your hands from germs and scratches.
  • Binoculars: Great for spotting other wildlife, such as birds and primates, during your trek.
  • Energy Snacks and Water: Trekking can take anywhere from 30 minutes to eight hours, so bring energy-giving snacks and plenty of water.
  • Porter: Hiring a porter is highly recommended. They can assist you during the trek, making the journey more manageable.

Consider Booking with Dav Safaris

For a seamless and memorable experience, consider booking your trip with Dav Safaris. We offer a range of packages that include gorilla trekking, cultural tours, and accommodation options to suit your needs.


Contact Our Team for more information and check out our reviews on Trip Advisor to make the right decision.


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