Virunga Mountain Spirits by BE_Design

In the shadow of the Virunga Volcanoes in Musanze, Northern Province, Rwanda, this 1.100 sqm distillery and agro-tourism destination is home to Virunga Mountain Spirits, a women-led company advancing economic empowerment. Located along a busy route used by farmers and tourists traveling to see mountain gorillas, the project supports local agriculture while engaging Rwanda’s growing tourism economy.

A transparent central volume filled with natural light showcases a 10-meter copper and stainless-steel vodka still. Thick, hand-shaped volcanic rock walls surround the distillery, housing offices, bottling, storage, kitchen, bar, tasting room, reception, and gift shop. Its geometry draws from the surrounding volcanoes and traditional Imigongo patterns. Built primarily with locally sourced materials, the project employed a local workforce with 35% female representation, providing skills, training, and lasting economic impact.