Virunga Hotel - Parc National des Volcans

Virunga Hotel is a hotel near Parc National des Volcans.

Location
Parc National des Volcans, Northern Rwanda Volcanoes, Rwanda, East Africa
Coordinates
-1.508222, 29.642822
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 28/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

555 species observed within 20 km, 20 mammals, 154 birds.

  • Eastern Gorilla (Mammalia, 239 observations)
  • Coarse Chameleon (Reptilia, 130 observations)
  • Blue Monkey (Mammalia, 120 observations)
  • Variable Sunbird (Aves, 86 observations)
  • Streaky Seedeater (Aves, 62 observations)
  • African Stonechat (Aves, 59 observations)
  • Lobelia giberroa (Plantae, 53 observations)
  • Bronze Sunbird (Aves, 42 observations)
  • Black Kite (Aves, 39 observations)
  • White-eyed Slaty-Flycatcher (Aves, 39 observations)

Best Time to Visit Virunga Hotel

The best months to visit Virunga Hotel are July, August, January, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 14.94°C, rainfall 100.1mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 76.3%
  • February: Good, temperature 15.37°C, rainfall 147.1mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 75.4%
  • March: Good, temperature 15.2°C, rainfall 149.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 77.3%
  • April: Good, temperature 14.64°C, rainfall 138.8mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 83.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 14.5°C, rainfall 94.7mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 82.8%
  • June: Good, temperature 13.95°C, rainfall 22.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 74.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 14.5°C, rainfall 12.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 64.6%
  • August: Great, temperature 15.22°C, rainfall 37.9mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 65.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 15.07°C, rainfall 84.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 72.5%
  • October: Good, temperature 15.15°C, rainfall 116.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 74.4%
  • November: Poor, temperature 14.54°C, rainfall 146.9mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 79.6%
  • December: Good, temperature 14.6°C, rainfall 122.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 79.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to experience the gorillas from Virunga Hotel?

While Virunga Hotel itself doesn't offer gorilla trekking, it's perfectly positioned for accessing Parc National des Volcans. We recommend booking your gorilla permits well in advance, as they are essential and sell out quickly. The lodge can arrange transfers to the park headquarters, where your trek will begin.

Beyond gorillas, what other wildlife can we expect to see near Virunga Hotel?

While the mountain gorillas are the undeniable stars, Parc National des Volcans is also home to other fascinating creatures. We've spotted golden monkeys on our visits, which are a real treat, and the birdlife is exceptional. Keep an eye out for forest elephants and buffalo too, though they are more elusive.

What are the accommodation and dining like at Virunga Hotel?

We find Virunga Hotel offers a comfortable and welcoming base. The rooms are clean and well appointed, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration. The dining is hearty and satisfying, with a focus on local ingredients, perfect for refueling.

When is the ideal time to visit Virunga Hotel and the surrounding area?

We love visiting during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. This generally means clearer skies and easier trekking conditions in the park. However, even in the wetter months, the mist can add a dramatic, atmospheric beauty to the volcanic landscapes.

What are the safety considerations when staying at Virunga Hotel and visiting the park?

We've always felt very secure at Virunga Hotel, and the park rangers are highly professional. The primary safety focus is on the gorilla trek itself, where you'll be accompanied by experienced guides. It's wise to follow all instructions from your guides and rangers for a smooth and safe experience.

Other Safari Lodges in Parc National des Volcans

Parks in Northern Rwanda Volcanoes

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Rwanda

Travel advisory for Rwanda