*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
The experience at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is high quality yet homely. Built by Governors’ Camps and owned by a community trust, it’s run by a superb small team for whom nothing is too much trouble. The main lodge building has a cosy sitting room with snug, library/games room and a dining room. You can choose to dine with your fellow travellers, with everyone gathered together around a long table to share your day’s experience. Outdoors, two patio areas make the most of the dramatic view towards the Virunga Volcanoes. Eight stone cottages are stylish with traditional touches and have a large sitting area with fireplace, lovely bathroom, dressing room and terrace.
Rustic and authentic, Cormoran Lodge is a lovely relaxing base to take in the stunning views of Lake Kivu. Its cabins on stilts are perched on a lush hillside near the ‘beach city’ of Kibuye, with the largest cabin housing a restaurant and bar that serves up some great local fish. Seven characterful cabin-style rooms are simple but perfectly comfortable and all have a television, Wi-Fi, mini fridge and a stone and slate bathroom with shower. There’s the choice of double or twin rooms or the VIP cabin, which has views of the Nyiragongo volcano in neighbouring Congo. Canoeing, boat rides and waterskiing can all be arranged on the lake at extra cost.
There’s a certain charm about the Gorilla Mountain View Lodge, with its stone cottages, traditional décor and friendly staff. And its location is hard to beat – in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes with stunning views, just ten minutes from where you’ll register for your gorilla trek. There’s a restaurant and bar, with meals created from farm-fresh produce to support the local community, and local dancers provide evening entertainment. Rooms are individual stone chalets with traditional orange and brown African décor, an open fire (very welcome in the evenings) and a simple bathroom.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Cormoran Lodge, Lake Kivu
Gorilla Mountain View Lodge
