One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Is Finally Open
November 7, 2019
Video: Babylonstoren the Hidden Gem of the Winelands South Africa
December 5, 2019One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Is Finally Open
November 7, 2019Video: Babylonstoren the Hidden Gem of the Winelands South Africa
December 5, 2019
As Virunga Lodge celebrates its 15th anniversary we take a look back at the milestones of the Virungas, gorillas, Volcanoes Safaris and Virunga Lodge.
To celebrate the 15th anniversary of Virunga Lodge, plans for re-imagining the property have been unveiled on 18 November 2019.
The iconic property has defined Rwandese Afro-chic since the lodge was built by Praveen Moman in 2004. The understated, timeless, hand-made style will be refined to meet the needs of today’s luxury traveller.
Volcanoes Safaris
Volcanoes Safaris has been at the forefront of reviving gorilla and chimpanzee tourism in Uganda and Rwanda since 1997.
Rwanda has become the first country in East Africa to ban on all single-use plastics! In 2017 Volcanoes Safaris started a gradual program to reduce plastic use and in early 2020 will review what further measures can be taken.
Virunga Lodge Milestones
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1899 - 1902 | Robert von BringeDiscovery of mountain gorillas. Camps near the site of current day Virunga Lodge. |
| 1966 | Dian Fossey starts working in the Virungas.Praveen Moman founder of Volcanoes Safaris walsk in the Virungas aged 12. |
| 1997 | Volcnaoes Safaris set up and become the pioneers of great ape tourism. |
| 2000 | Volcanoes Safaris becomes the first international safari company to take guests to Rwanda. |
| 2002 - 2004 | Praveen Moman builds Virunga LodgeFirst gorilla lodge to be opened by an international company in Rwanda.Gorilla population census: 380 |
| 2003 - 2006 | Volcanoes Safaris BLCF project helps kick start gorilla tourism in Rwanda. |
| 2014 | 10th AnniversaryUpgrade to luxury lodge with two new deluxe Bandas added.Into the Virungas is published. |
| 2016 | Africa's Most Romantic HotelVirunga Lodge wins the award at the World Boutique Hotel Awards. |
| 2017 | Dian Fossey Map Room opensMap Room celebrates 50th anniversary of Dian Fossey's Karisoke Centre.Explorers and Conservationists of the Virunga Volcanoes is published. |
| Virunga Lodge wins Conde Nast Traveller Reader's Choice Award. | |
| 2019 | Parternship with the community300 Homes connected to electricity; 138 water tanks distributed; 293 sheep distributed. |
| 15th AnniversaryReimaging of the lodge and new Virunga Sewing Centre and Community Cafe announced.Gorilla population census: 600+ |
Re-Imagining Virunga Lodge
The design and decor of the public areas and bandas will be upgraded.
The 2 deluxe bandas will also include a hot tub and a larger terrace overlooking the majestic Virunga volcanoes or the twin lakes.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Experience a unique 4-Day Virunga Safari for a chance to encounter the iconic Mountain Gorilla in the magic of the Virunga forest.
Not only do you get to experience gorillas in their natural habitat in Volcanoes National Park, but you could also get the chance to see the beautiful Golden Monkey.
Rwanda is also perfect to combine a primate and big-5 safari in one safari trip.
To find out more about Virunga Lodge or to find out how to combine gorilla trekking and a big 5 safari in one trip contact us.
