Background and Lodge Mission

Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge was established to provide reliable, well-managed accommodation that supports gorilla tourism while remaining accessible to a broad range of travelers. The lodge’s mission focuses on delivering genuine hospitality, promoting responsible tourism, and supporting the local Kinigi community through employment and sourcing. It balances guest comfort with environmental awareness and cultural respect.

Location and Accessibility

The lodge is located in the Kinigi area, just a short drive from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. This location allows guests to reach early-morning gorilla trekking briefings quickly and with minimal stress. Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Kigali International Airport via paved and scenic roads. Private transfers and guided road transport can be arranged in advance.

Accommodation Style and Comfort

Accommodation at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge features well-spaced cottages and lodge-style rooms designed for comfort in a cool, high-altitude climate. Rooms are furnished with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, warm showers, and simple yet tasteful décor. Some rooms offer garden or volcano views, and fireplaces or heating elements help create a cozy atmosphere during evenings.

Dining Experience

Dining at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge is relaxed and guest-focused. Meals are prepared using fresh local ingredients and served in a communal dining area. The menu includes a mix of international comfort dishes and locally inspired meals. Early breakfasts are arranged for gorilla trekking days, while dinner provides a social setting where guests unwind after a day in the forest.

Activities at or Around the Lodge

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking is the primary activity for guests staying at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge. Its proximity to the park headquarters ensures quick access to briefing points. Treks vary in length and difficulty, but each culminates in a one-hour encounter with a habituated mountain gorilla family under ranger guidance.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking offers a shorter and less strenuous primate experience. Guests trek through bamboo forests to observe these endangered monkeys as they move energetically through the canopy, making it a rewarding addition to a gorilla safari.

Volcano Hiking Experiences

Guided hikes to Mount Bisoke or Mount Muhabura can be arranged for guests seeking adventure. These hikes offer crater lakes, alpine scenery, and panoramic views across the Virunga region and neighboring countries.

Cultural and Community Visits

Guests can participate in cultural visits around Kinigi, including village walks and community projects. These experiences provide insight into local life and allow travelers to support community-based tourism initiatives.

Leisure and Relaxation at the Lodge

Between activities, guests can relax in the lodge gardens, enjoy quiet moments by the fireplace, or share stories with fellow travelers in the common areas.

Services at the Lodge

Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge offers attentive, practical services that support smooth gorilla trekking experiences while maintaining a relaxed lodge atmosphere.

Services offered include:

Assistance with gorilla and golden monkey trekking logistics

Early breakfast service for trekking days

Airport and park transfers on request

Laundry and housekeeping services

On-site restaurant and bar

Local activity and guide coordination

Secure parking and on-site staff support

Conservation and Social Impact

The lodge contributes to conservation through responsible tourism practices and by supporting the local economy. It employs staff from surrounding communities and sources supplies locally where possible. By hosting travelers visiting Volcanoes National Park, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge indirectly supports mountain gorilla conservation through tourism revenue sharing.

Who Should Stay at the Lodge

Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge is ideal for midrange travelers, couples, small groups, and primate enthusiasts seeking comfort, good service, and proximity to Volcanoes National Park. It suits guests who value practicality and warmth over luxury excess.

Planning Your Stay

Stays at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge should be booked alongside confirmed gorilla permits, especially during peak seasons. Guests are advised to pack warm clothing for cool mornings and evenings. The lodge works well as part of a Rwanda itinerary that includes Kigali city tours, Lake Kivu, or Nyungwe Forest, offering a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and relaxation.