Boasting one of the most stunning locations anywhere in Africa, the recently opened Virunga Lodge sprawls across a 2,175m hilltop overlooking Lakes Burera and Ruhondo to the southeast. The view is phenomenal with four of the Virunga volcanoes to the northwest and the shimmering waters of the lakes far below. A good thing then that each of the individual cottages has a verandah with some comfortable seating, because you will be doing quite a bit of just sitting and enjoying the unfolding panorama. The spacious stone and wood chalets are spread out around the hill to allow guests maximum privacy. Built in an eco-friendly fashion and adhering to eco-friendly guidelines means that the lodge has full electricity supplied by solar panels, but it also means going to the bathroom can be a bit of an adventure. All the toilets operate in a well designed eco-friendly principle and it may require a bit of getting used to, especially the pouring ash down to flush! Friendly staff go out of their way to make your stay here an enjoyable one. In the mornings they pour piping hot water into your shower (which operates on a 'bucket' system) and deliver fresh hot chocolate or percolated coffee depending on your desire. The main reason to visit this eco-friendly lodge is for the gorillas. Situated just an hour away from the Volcanoes National Park entrance where all gorilla tracking activities leave from guests are woken at 5am for the journey. Once there you will be in the capable hands of trained guides who will lead you out into the jungle in search of a gorilla family. On your return to the lodge you might also want to spend some time in the library reading about the wonders of nature that you have just witnessed!