Enjoy French press coffee in your huge hillside suite, perhaps spotting colobus monkeys scampering in the trees outside, before you set off through the jungle in search of the king of the primates. The trek through dense, steep forest means a level of physical fitness is required. But all the exertion is worthwhile once you spend time with the incredible mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Return to the newly revamped lodge for downtime: perhaps a spa treatment to warm down after the morning’s exercise, or leafing through the books in the Explorer’s Lounge. Anyone keen to get back out into the forest can embark on a guided walk to Munyaga waterfall, ticking off the abundant species along the way (from forest hogs to African emerald cuckoo), or take a short stroll to the local female-run bike shop, amongst other projects set up by A&K Philanthropy. Sundowners back by the fire are a special moment, with long-time team member Wallen singing and playing a distinctive harp, followed by dinner in the softly lit restaurant. After such an active day, a soak in the round tub of your spacious bathroom awaits, with even more forest views on tap.