Tucked deep in the mighty Virunga National Park – home to endangered mountain gorillas, Mikeno Lodge is a secure and tranquil accommodation. You can spend as many nights as you can at Mikeno Lodge in a calm and secure environment. The lodge is an up-market accommodation and factually far from cheap at nearly US$ 800 a night.
However, you need to keep it in your mind that Mikeno competes with the best luxury lodges of Africa and you should always expect the best from your stay here. It must also be noted that the price includes all meals as well as transfers/logistics.
The main area of the lodge comprises of a shop, bar, large fire pit, terrace and restaurant area. It’s all well maintained and built to facilitate a comfortable stay. Reading a book by the blazing fire with a cold beer in hand is a joy.
Meals are included and are of a very high standard. The lodge has its own garden in the local village which grows fresh vegetables which go straight to the kitchen. The menu each day is a fixed 3 course meal. The staff transfers hot embers to the dinner table to warm your feet, it’s really a lovely touch!
The lodge is within a close proximity to the Virunga main Park headquarters. As a result, you will see the park staff and get to interact with them, which is also a highlight. You can also go to the Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage center – which is also nearby, visit the widows’ workshop, see the graveyard for deceased gorillas and generally watch the workings of the park. Lots of primates can be seen around the lodge such as; the blue monkeys, Colobus, baboons, among others.
You should however be aware demonstrations by the bloodhound unit are no longer carried out for health & safety reasons. All in all, plenty to occupy a few hours but the real reason to stay here is relaxation. The rooms are actually large standalone huts (closer to houses). These spaces are great with a wonderful double bed, each with its own open fire and comfortable seating. The bathroom is equally well equipped with a separate bath and shower. There is plentiful hot water and excellent water pressure.
Furthermore, the staff is very enthusiastic and friendly. You will really love it more when you’re there; it always looks after you and – will clean your boots and gear whenever you come from the gorilla treks and other activities in Virunga, isn’t that awesome?! Location wise, Mikeno Lodge is situated in a perfect position for gorilla treks and Nyiragongo hikes.
Trekking the endangered mountain gorillas and then go for the Nyiragongo hikes will offer you an unrivalled experience in the eastern part of Democratic Republic of Congo. On top of the Volcano, Nyiragongo, there are well equipped shelters to offer you a special night stay atop the fascinating Nyiragongo Volcano.
Everything on top of this legendary volcano is perfect and eye-catching; you will enjoy astonishing views of the bubbling lava lake. You will also be offered with spectacular views from the nearby Nyamuragira Volcano, which is believed to be among the most active volcanoes in Africa.
All these activities are provided by Mikeno Lodge, returning back home with a very great experience and lots of memories. Therefore, make sure you pack a high-quality camera whenever you’re visiting Virunga and Mikeno Lodge as there is a lot to discover.
You will thus have to take as many photos as you can – to always remember your fantastic trip and to also attract your friends and relatives to go for this thrilling trip in Virunga, staying at Mikeno Lodge.
