Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Kinigi, in Rwanda's Northern Province, is where Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge sits, a short drive from the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park. The lodge holds 23 self-contained cottages, each with its own fireplace, built using bamboo and other locally sourced, environmentally friendly materials. It is a compact stay. Rooms range from singles to triples, with a newer family cottage set apart for longer visits and extra space. The park beyond is home to ten habituated gorilla groups and two troops of golden monkeys, and treks to Dian Fossey's tomb and the old Karisoke research camp start nearby. Kigali International Airport lies about two and a half hours south by road; the park office is roughly ten minutes away. In the evenings staff light the cottage fires and guests can hear the local cultural troupe's drumming from the grounds. Beyond gorilla trekking, the area offers volcano hikes up Bisoke and Karisimbi, boat trips on the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and the lava tube caves near Musanze. The lodge works with the surrounding community on jobs and cultural exchange, including visits to the Gorilla Guardians Village. Breakfast is included, and the restaurant serves Rwandan and international dishes.