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.
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Steppes Travel is made by the people who work here. Incredible holidays are made possible because of their vast travel experience and the great enthusiasm they bring to their work.
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We carefully select our experts based on their knowledge, companionship and influence, ensuring that you can travel with the most knowledgeable leaders in the field.
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The people who lead the way when it comes to those things which matter to us: exploration, the environment, women’s empowerment and education.
Volcanoes National Park
The forested slopes of the Volcanoes National Park are spectacular and full of drama and this was the very first national park to be created in Africa.
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
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.
Experiences
What do you really love doing? We’ll tailor your itinerary to suit you.
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
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
