Where to Stay
Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.
Volcanoes National Park
The forested slopes of the Volcanoes National Park, the very first national park to be created in Africa, are spectacular and full of drama.
A chain of free-standing volcanoes are home to local snake spirits, active volcanoes and the place where Dian Fossey lived – and died – for mountain gorillas. With peaks reaching nearly 4,500 metres, rare forest elephants and a network of rugged trails, this is a park that is as spectacular as it is thrilling and despite its popularity, it is still the best place to see mountain gorillas.
Straddling the borders of Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC, the massif itself includes six active and three extinct volcanoes so wherever you look there is a photograph waiting to be taken. Whilst the gorillas are the draw, an extra day or so spent at one of the lodges will allow you to explore the rural villages dotted around the region, taking in a few lively markets and traditional Intore dancing – something which the region is also famous for.
Why visit Volcanoes National Park
- Release your inner Attenborough and come face to face with mountain gorillas
- Take in the breath-taking views of mist-shrouded mountains and volcanic lakes
- Pay your respects at Karisoke – the final resting place of Dian Fossey
- Try and keep up with the endemic and nimble golden monkeys
Holiday Idea
Highlights of Rwanda
Rwanda has become synonymous with gorilla trekking, but this holiday also showcases the diverse wildlife and landscapes elsewhere in this fascinating country. As well as trekking for endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Virunga Massif, explore the lakes, savannah and hills of Akagera in the east, and the chimpanzee inhabited forests of western Nyungwe.
Experiences
What do you really love doing? We’ll tailor your itinerary to suit you.
The main attraction
Gorillas of Volcanoes National Park
Spend time at the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project, with whom Steppes has worked closely over the years, to gain a privileged insight into gorilla conservation. Alternatively, join the great and the good at the annual Kwita Izina ceremony in Ruhengeri, where each June, gorillas born in the last year are officially named.
Africa
Singita Kataza House
Surrounded by the imposing Virunga Mountains in Rwanda, Kataza House is an exclusive-use option for a maximum of eight travellers.
Rwanda
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is located at the base of the Virunga Mountains, just 20 minutes from where gorilla treks begin.
Rwanda
Singita Kwitonda
Set right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, Singita Kwitonda is a stylish lodge that puts life-changing gorilla trekking experiences within easy reach.
Rwanda
Bisate Lodge
Perched on a reforested hillside on the southern edge of Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge is perfectly located for gorilla trekking within the park.
Meet our experts
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Illona Cross
Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Chris Johnston
Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.
25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Explore other regions
Akagera
Akagera could not be more different from the dramatic, cultivated hills that distinguish much of the country, offering a wonderful savannah contrast.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
The largest single tract of montane forest remaining anywhere in East or Central Africa, Nyungwe is considered to be one of the…
Kigali
Small, charming and with a surprisingly buoyant atmosphere, Kigali is a great place to explore on foot.
Lake Kivu
The Lake Kivu area is centred on the town of Gisenyi, offering a relaxed atmosphere on the shores of one of the…
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
Are you ready to discover extraordinary once again?
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