Gorilla Trekking outstanding lodges in 2023

Gorilla trekking is arguably one of the greatest wildlife encounter in Africa. For most travelers, its a must do once they start planning to go to Africa.

Mountain gorillas are found in two separate locations: the Virunga range of extinct volcanic mountains on the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda and Uganda, and in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.

Here are the most out standing gorilla trekking  lodges many guests have never regretted to book with us for their gorilla trek but rather plan to come back again and endure the tough gorilla trekking with an aim of staying in these little paradise hidden deep in the rush juggles of East Africa which gorillas call home.

Gorilla Trekking outstanding lodges

1. Wilderness Bisate lodge

Wilderness Bisate lodge in Volcanoes national park

Located in the Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park, Bisate’s pod-like thatched suites blend into the forest with onion dome-esque verve that looks like something out of Dr. Seuss. The luxury level here, though, is no joke: Wilderness Safaris is one of Africa’s finest operators, and they’ve spared no expense in building what’s probably the best base camp for spotting gorillas on the planet.

Each 91 square meter villa consists of a generous yet intimate combination of bedroom, reception space and bathroom, all warmed by a central fireplace and with breathtaking views out across your private deck towards Mount Bisoke.

If your goal is spotting gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, this should be your home base.

2. Singita Kwitonda lodge

Singita Kwitonda Lodge in Volcanoes National park

Singita’s debut in Rwanda on the very edge of Volcanoes National Park, makes for a compelling reason to add gorilla-trekking on you to do list while in Africa.

Designed with respect to and in acknowledgment of its remarkable location, Singita Kwitonda Lodge has been built in response to the natural geology of the site. With sustainability as a fundamental design focus, it treads lightly on the land and offers an intimate engagement with the landscape and a sense of solitude within nature.

A stay at Singita Kwitonda Lodge allows guests the unique opportunity to encounter one of Africa’s most majestic creatures in the wild, while immersed in the beauty of their pristine natural habitat. The lodge provides a contemplative, nurturing space in which to appreciate the transformative experience of coming face to face with the forest’s gentle giants.

3. One and Only Gorilla nest

One and only gorilla nest in Volcanoes national park

The constant sound of nature and local life is just one of the things that make the One & Only Gorilla Nest a place to experience the wild spirit of Rwanda. Rooms are  styled like tree houses up stilts, and with a design that draws the outside in. Like the wooden decks that look out over the eucalyptus forest around, and the decor in shades of browns with Rwandan imigongo motifs.

The surrounding landscape. This is perhaps why the hotel’s bar, restaurant and spa are all separately dotted down a path that weaves through the grounds: It gives the sense of wandering through a garden while further down the slopes, there are traditional Rwandan villages where the locals still farm the volcanic soil and the chef’s garden. Then, of course, the hotel’s restaurant and bar are places where the chatter is almost wholly gorilla-related after the day’s encounter with the great apesSabinyo silverback lodge

4. Gorilla heights Lodge

Gorilla heights lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable forest

Gorilla Heights Lodge occupies the axis of Bwindi impenetrable forest‘s Nkuringo sector, a gently sloping hill that soars at cloud level, sitting at 2,100meters above sea level. Whoever stays at this lodge remembers it as the highest vantage point in the Southern wing of Bwindi.

The horizon, as seen from the lodge, hovers over the park’s forest canopy, creating a surprising blend of a blue & green hued skyline. The cherry on the cake is the view of Virunga’s jagged mountain ranges that straddle Uganda’s borders with Congo and Rwanda.

5. Nkuringo Gorilla lodge

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge is a good choice for those looking for a remote experience in the heart of Bwindi impenetrable Forest. Compared to the northern area of the forest, this lodge is set on its own, and has access to Nkuringo and Rushaga gorilla trekking sectors on an 8 minutes and 40 minutes drive respectively.

The lodge is famous for the breathtaking  panoramic views of the majestic volcanoes – the Virunga chain, Bwindi Forest and the escarpment into the Albertine Rift Valley within the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The lodge has a cozy and intimate feel to it, with roaring fireplaces, freshly made food and an inviting dining room with views of the Virunga Volcanoes. The lodge has eight cottages and are located around the main area, overlooking the Bwindi Forest. The lodge has a spa which is the perfect place to restore harmony of mind, body and spirit in the forest.

harmony of mind, body and spirit in the forest.

     6. Gahinga lodge

Gahinga lodge in Mgahinga Gorilla national park

Located at the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, Mgahinga Gorilla national park is just a walk away from Gahinga lodge. This has made the lodge a famous spot to tick off a stunning array of bucket list experiences like gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking and volcanoes hikes.

The bandas are all decorated in the creative spirit of the Bufimbira people and a private butler service is standard for all guests, with your every whim catered to.

Relish delicious meals served al fresco surrounded by rolling mountain ranges or in the dining room. Spend relaxing hours in the comfortable lounge, strolling around the colorful gardens, or reading a good book in the shade of a leafy tree.

7. Sanctuary Gorilla forest camp

Sanctuary Gorilla forest camp in Bwindi Impenetrable forest

Set on a flat ridge, deep within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest’s Buhoma sector, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is a remote and atmospheric mountain sanctuary.

The only accommodation know for its gorilla visits in the premises of the camp since its  located within the national park.  The camp boasts an unrivalled location with exceptional wildlife and birdlife viewing opportunities. Eight tents feature queen-sized beds and generous bathtubs that look out onto the forest canopy.

Guests can sample delicious fare or enjoy an evening drink in the cosy bar and dining cottage overlooking the rainforest. In fine weather, meals are served al fresco on a raised natural platform that blends into the surroundings.