For fans of extra-large primates, there鈥檚 arguably no more coveted experience than viewing a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat. If you fall into this camp, consider a bucket-list trek to the upscale in Rwanda鈥檚 northwest聽Volcanoes National Park鈥攁 mountainous, jungle-covered area made famous by the late naturalist Dian Fossey and her mountain gorilla pals.
Today, Rwanda is home to about 400 of the endangered apes, with another 400 to 600 spread between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Sabyinyo鈥檚 eight stone cottages sit in the foothills of the Virunga Mountain range and just two miles from park headquarters. Each is decked out with a terracotta roof, fireplace, a spa-like bathroom, and sheltered veranda. You鈥檒l find a restaurant and lounge in the main lodge, as well as an information center and small shop. In case you鈥檙e concerned about where your Rwandan francs are going, know that Sabyinyo isn鈥檛 just some fancy pet project for outsider investors. The lodge is owned by an area community trust that funnels some of its profits into local conservation and socioeconomic initiatives.
The Details: Sabyinyo is a two-hour drive from the Rwandan capital of Kigali. Room rates vary depending on the season鈥攔ight now, they range from $775 to $970 per person per night. Only 80 visitors per day are allowed in the park, so make your reservation early and be prepared to buy a $750 permit for the gorilla hike.
