Staying at Bisate Lodge during Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Bisate Lodge offers stunning views of the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcano peaks, set in the forests of Volcanoes National Park. It’s a short drive from the park headquarters, where daily gorilla treks begin. Guests can explore the area through community visits, birdwatching, golden monkey tracking, and reforestation projects. You can also visit the Gorilla Guardian Village, the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, and Dian Fossey’s grave.
Bisate Lodge covers 42 hectares of land, ensuring privacy and protection from outside disturbances. The lodge’s traditional architecture is inspired by Rwandan culture, while the luxurious interiors provide comfort and warmth. Each villa is 91 square meters, featuring a bedroom, reception space, and bathroom, all with a central fireplace and panoramic views of Mount Bisoke.
The main guest areas include large windows that offer incredible views, an elegant bar, and a contemporary wine cellar. The restaurant serves a mix of local Rwandan and international dishes, with ingredients sourced from the lodge’s garden. You can enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and Rwandan coffee. The wine cellar offers a romantic setting for dinner, and you can relax with a drink after a day of adventure.
Accommodation
Bisate Lodge accommodation includes six forest villas, each with en-suite facilities, a fireplace, and a private deck. The lodge can accommodate 12 guests, plus 4 guides or tour leaders. There are also two single rooms for guides, with separate en-suite facilities. Additional activities include gorilla trekking, cultural village visits, and sightseeing tours of nearby lakes and caves. The lodge also has a spa for guests to enjoy after their trek.
Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an exciting adventure that allows you to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Rwanda has Volcanoes National Park, home to many gorillas. The park is located in the Virunga Mountains, and it is one of the best places in the world for gorilla trekking.
On your trek, you will hike through beautiful forests with stunning views of the mountains. Experienced guides lead you through the forest, sharing their knowledge about the animals and plants. The trek can be challenging at times, but the excitement of seeing a gorilla group makes it all worthwhile. You will be able to watch the gorillas up close as they feed, play, and rest. These gentle creatures live in family groups, and you can see how they care for each other.
Before your trek, you need a permit, which is required for everyone who wants to see the gorillas. The cost of the permit is $1,500 and it helps to protect the gorillas and the environment. Rwanda limits the number of people allowed to visit the gorillas each day to reduce the risk of disease transmission and to protect their natural habitat.
Best time for Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is generally sunny, and the trails are less muddy, making it easier to trek through the forests. The dry weather also means that the gorillas are easier to find because they stay at lower altitudes.
The rainy season, from March to May and October to November, makes trekking more challenging. The trails become slippery, and the vegetation is thicker, which can make it harder to see the gorillas. However, there are fewer tourists during the rainy season, so you may have a more private experience if you decide to visit during this time.
Regardless of when you visit, gorilla trekking is an unforgettable experience. You can still track gorillas year-round, but if you want to make the trek easier and more comfortable, the dry months are the best time to go.
How to reach Volcanoes National Park from Kigali City
To reach Volcanoes National Park from Kigali City, you can take a car or a bus. The park is about a 2.5-hour drive from the city, covering a distance of around 100 kilometers (62 miles). If you prefer to travel by car, you can hire a private vehicle, which is the most comfortable option. Many tour companies in Kigali offer transportation services, and you can book one in advance.
Alternatively, you can take a public bus or shared minibus (known locally as a “matatu”). These buses usually depart from the Nyabugogo Bus Park in Kigali. They are cheaper, but the journey might take a bit longer, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Once you leave Kigali, the drive to Volcanoes National Park takes you through scenic landscapes of rolling hills and small villages, offering a beautiful view of Rwanda’s countryside. The road is mostly paved, but be prepared for some bumpy sections as you approach the park. If you’re traveling early in the morning, you can enjoy the misty views of the park’s famous volcanoes along the way.