Jack Hanna’s Cottage

Set on an elevated perch, surrounded by a low hedge and a garden full of tropical vegetation, the cottage is distinctly separate from the rest of the property. From the shaded veranda that surrounds the building, the views are exceptional. Indoors, the relaxed atmosphere will help you feel quite at home, and you'll enjoy its spaces: a lounge furnished with soft leather chairs and a natural wood fireplace, and the adjacent smart dining room, with its long mahogany table.

​There are two spacious bedrooms, with hardwood floors and smart furnishings with rich red fabrics. Both rooms have large sliding glass doors that open on to the furnished veranda and those lush, gorgeous views. Large double beds are dressed with good-quality bedding, and there's a small writing desk in the corner. The en-suite bathrooms have both bathtubs and showers. Everything is designed with a clear eye for detail and is impeccably maintained.

Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 habituated groups of mountain gorillas – nearly half of the world's population. Expect to pay a hefty price tag (a permit costs US$1,500 for an hour – used principally to protect these endangered apes). Just 96 permits are issued per day, so we recommend you book well in advance. Once gorillas are found, you'll be able to observe them from a safe distance, and to take non-flash photographs. Expect some heartwarming interactions.