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Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge is one of the most beautiful and comfortable places to stay near the Buhoma entrance of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Known for its warm hospitality, excellent service, and peaceful forest setting, the lodge is owned and operated by Volcanoes Safaris, a well-respected company that also runs the famous Virunga Lodge in Rwanda.
This property is especially popular with travellers who want to enjoy comfortable accommodation while being only a short walk from the start of the gorilla trekking trail. With ten spacious bandas overlooking the forest canopy, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge makes an ideal base for both gorilla trekking and exploring the culture and landscapes of the surrounding area.
Access & Location
Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge is located just outside the boundary of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, only 500 metres from the starting point of the gorilla trekking trail in the Buhoma sector. Its close proximity means guests can enjoy a relaxed morning before their trek, without long drives or early travel.
You can reach the lodge by:
- Scheduled flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip (approximately 1 hour), followed by a short road transfer.
- Road transfer from Kigali, Rwanda (about 8 hours), passing through beautiful terraced hills and rural countryside.
The lodge sits within peaceful grounds overlooking the famous rainforest. Mist drifting across the canopy, bird calls in the morning, and views of endless green ridges make the setting feel magical and deeply calming.
Accommodation & Facilities
Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge offers ten charming bandas, each designed with local stone, timber, and thatch to blend naturally into the forest environment. Every banda is named after a gorilla in Bwindi, adding a personal touch that many guests enjoy.
Guest Bandas
Each of the ten guest bandas includes:
- A comfortable double bed or twin beds
- Soft bedside lighting (240v)
- A small lounge area for reading or relaxing
- En-suite bathroom with: Flush toilet, Twin washbasins, and Solar-heated shower with hot and cold running water
The bandas are warm, cosy, and simple in style, yet still elegant. Natural materials and soft colours help them feel peaceful and connected to the environment.
At the front of each banda is a large private balcony furnished with a table and chairs. This is an excellent spot for morning coffee or afternoon relaxation. Guests often see colourful birds, monkeys, and sometimes even gorillas moving through the trees below.
Main Lodge Area
The central lodge building is made from stone, wood, and thatch. It includes:
- A comfortable lounge with sofas and a cosy evening fireplace
- A welcoming bar
- A lovely dining area where guests can enjoy meals with beautiful forest views
- A wide terrace that serves as a perfect viewing deck
- A massage room for relaxing treatments
- A small gift shop offering handmade crafts and souvenirs
Wi-Fi is available throughout the lodge, though because of the remote forest location it can be slow or unreliable at times.
Nearby – Bwindi Bar
A short walk from the lodge takes you to Bwindi Bar, located on the village high street. Run by the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust, the bar acts as a training centre where young local people gain skills in hospitality. It’s a great place to enjoy snacks, drinks, or light meals while supporting a meaningful community project.
Activities at Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
The lodge offers a wide range of activities for guests of all ages. Whether you want adventure, culture, or gentle nature walks, there is something for everyone.
1. Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is the main highlight of staying at Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge. The trailhead is only a 500-metre walk from the property, making it one of the most convenient lodges for this activity. The trek takes you deep into the forest, where you follow ranger guides along narrow paths and across hillside terrain. Some days the gorillas are found close to the edge of the forest, while on other days they may be further inside, making the experience longer and more challenging. Once your group reaches the gorilla family, you can spend one unforgettable hour observing them. Watching the gorillas feed, play, interact, and relax is a powerful, moving experience that many guests describe as life-changing.
2. Waterfall Walks & Hiking Trails
For guests who enjoy hiking, Bwindi offers several beautiful trails starting near the lodge:
- Munyaga River Trail – A gentle walk along a river, ideal for birdwatching and spotting butterflies.
- Rushurra Hill/Border Trail – A scenic climb offering panoramic views toward the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Muzabajirro Loop Trail – A circular route through thick forest with excellent wildlife-spotting opportunities.
- Waterfall Walk – A refreshing walk leading to a stunning forest waterfall, perfect for photography and birding.
These hikes vary in difficulty so guests of all fitness levels can enjoy exploring the national park safely with trained guides.
3. Batwa Cultural Experience
Visitors have the chance to meet members of the Batwa community, the original forest inhabitants who once lived inside Bwindi. The Batwa share stories, music, dance, traditional hunting skills, and knowledge of forest plants. Learning about their history and culture offers important insight into life in the forest before it became a protected national park.
4. Tea Farm Tours
Uganda’s tea plantations are famous for their beauty, and the region around Bwindi is no exception. Guests can visit a nearby tea farm to learn about tea growing, harvesting, and processing. The tour often includes a tasting session, giving you the chance to sample fresh local flavours.
5. Community & Social Visits
For travellers interested in local culture and community life, the lodge can arrange visits to: The local hospital, An orphanage and A school. These visits offer meaningful opportunities to learn about daily life in the region and support local initiatives.
The Bwindi Lodge Experience
Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge offers a rare combination of comfort, warmth, and closeness to nature. Days begin with mist drifting across the forest and end with stories shared around the fire. Whether you are visiting for gorilla trekking, cultural exploration, or simply the joy of being surrounded by ancient rainforest, this lodge provides everything you need for a memorable stay.
Its welcoming staff, beautiful views, and excellent location make it one of the best accommodation options in the Buhoma sector. With forest sounds all around, easy access to trekking routes, and a strong commitment to community and conservation, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge delivers a truly special experience for every guest.
