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
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.
Rwanda
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
Before joining Steppes Travel over 25 years ago, I spent a decade working as a ranger, guide and lodge manager across Southern and East Africa. It’s also deeply personal place for me: I got married in Africa, honeymooned in Africa and still return every year with my family – proof that my love for the continent runs far deeper than just professional experience.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
Chris Johnston
Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Madagascar, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.
Almost three decades ago, I set off for a three-month trip to Africa – and ended up staying for two years. Since then, I’ve led groups through Rwanda, Uganda and Malawi, and have been named a Specialist for Madagascar, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda by Condé Nast Traveller. This depth of knowledge and on-the-ground experience is something I bring to each tailor-made itinerary I create.
Talk with our experts
- 01285 880 980
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Why Choose Steppes?
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