The refurbished Virunga lodge will remain in the organic bush-chic style of Volcanoes Safaris but the bandas are being upgraded to provide greater elegance and comfort for our guests. Phase 1 of the refurbishment is complete - decorative external stonework has been added to reflect the local style and new larger terraces added so that guests can enjoy the spectacular views from their room.

In phase 2, taking place in the second half of 2009, the bedrooms are being redecorated and luxury bathrooms with full facilities being added. Our commitment to being ecologically sensitive remains strong. We will continue to use water collected through our own rainwater collection facilities for guest and staff use and we are adding more storage tanks for this purpose. Grey water - water from showers and basins - will be recycled for use in the garden. Power will continue to be provided by solar panels but the capacity of these will be increased significantly to enhance lighting in the rooms. The lodge remains open during the refurbishment as one banda is being worked on at a time and disruption to guests is being kept to a minimum.

The beautiful gardens are also redesigned to bring out the magic of the unique vegetation of this area - especially the beautiful wild flowers that grow in the area. Guests will be welcomed at a new reception area and terrace overlooking Lake Bulera. At the main lodge building, a new terrace overlooking the volcanoes is being built from which to enjoy the stunning scenery with a sundowner.

In phase 3 in 2010 two honeymoon bandas will be added to the lodges' existing 8 bandas. These will be more spacious and include two terrace areas and a fireplace.

Through the Volcanoes Safaris Trust , Virunga lodge and our guests will continue to support the local Mwiko School. A large water tank has recently been built there so that they can store enough water for all the pupils. Francine Bintu, the Volcanoes Safaris Community Coordinator continues to work closely with staff at the school to address their needs and how we can continue to support them. Further details on this will be released soon.

For safaris including accommodation at Virunga Lodge please contact one of our tours team on: salesug@volcanoessafaris.com