Overview
Nestled within the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—Mikeno Lodge is a luxurious retreat offering a seamless balance of adventure and tranquility. Renowned for its comfort and the warmth of its staff, the lodge is perfectly positioned for gorilla treks while serving as a vibrant hub for the region’s abundant birdlife and resident monkeys.
Location & Setting
Mikeno Lodge enjoys a breathtaking backdrop, with panoramic views of the Rift Valley, Nyiragongo, and Mikeno volcanoes. Conveniently located just a 90-minute drive from the eastern city of Goma, the lodge features twelve uniquely designed bungalows. Set within the surrounding forest, these bungalows are constructed from local lava stone, mahogany, and thatch, seamlessly blending into their natural environment. The area is a haven for wildlife, with frequent sightings of baboons, colobus monkeys, chimpanzees, and numerous bird species—part of Congo’s remarkable count of 1,185 bird species.
Food & Service
The lodge offers an exceptional dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seating options. Guests can enjoy fresh, flavorful cuisine, with breakfast included in the stay and additional meals available upon request. Thoughtful touches such as a variety of local beverages, warm hospitality, and generous portions further elevate the dining experience.
Standard Room
Each bungalow combines modern luxury with natural elegance, enhanced by furnishings and textures that reflect the lodge’s exotic surroundings. The bungalows are entirely private, featuring en-suite bathrooms with stone-carved bathtubs, cozy fireplaces (lit during dinner for added ambiance), double or twin beds, and private decks with serene views of the forest and mountains.
The lodge’s communal spaces include spacious lounges that flow seamlessly from the interior to an outdoor deck, complete with a large fireplace and bar. Guests can relax in the inviting atmosphere, staying warm on cooler evenings while socializing or enjoying a drink. The décor combines high-quality, contemporary comforts—such as WiFi accessibility—with traditional elements like bare-stone floors, colorful rugs, local artwork, and thatched roofs.
Activities
Mikeno Lodge is an ideal base for a variety of safari experiences. Guests can embark on chimpanzee treks within the nearby forest or explore the iconic Nyiragongo Volcano. The region’s most celebrated highlight—mountain gorillas—takes center stage, with a gorilla orphanage located just a short walk from the lodge. Guests can also participate in treks to observe gorillas in the wild, a truly unforgettable experience.
Impact
Conservation
Mikeno Lodge contributes significantly to conservation efforts, with 50% of permit fees allocated to ICCN (Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature). ICCN is the Congolese wildlife authority responsible for managing and conserving biodiversity in the country’s protected areas. Permit funds support critical initiatives, including wildlife management, scientific research, and ecotourism development, as well as community engagement around protected zones.
An additional 20% of permit fees is used to cover the operational costs of Virunga National Park. These funds support ranger salaries—essential for the park’s security and biodiversity protection—as well as infrastructure projects that benefit both the park and surrounding communities.
Community
The remaining 30% of permit fees is reinvested into community development projects by Virunga National Park. These initiatives include building schools, improving healthcare facilities, and enhancing local water supplies, providing direct benefits to communities living near the park.
