Volcanoes National Park sits high in the mountains of northwest Rwanda, a place so cool it makes you shiver! This small but mighty park covers the slopes of the stunning Virunga volcanoes and is famous for its mountain gorillas. From dense rainforests and bamboo thickets to open grasslands and swamps, it’s a world of its own, offering breathtaking views and unique wildlife.
- Discover paths through ancient forests where gorillas roam and birds sing.
- Visit Buhanga Eco-Park, a forest filled with old legends and vibrant stories.
- Explore deep Musanze Caves formed millions of years ago by volcanic lava.
- Enjoy hiking, biking, and learning from the locals about their way of life.
In Volcanoes National Park, every step is an adventure and a chance to see nature in ways you’ve never imagined. A visit to the park on Rwanda Safaris is like stepping into a living story that continues to unfold with each visit.
Best Time To Visit
Right at the edge of Volcanoes National Park, more than one-third of mountain gorillas exist in the cloud forests.
Volcanoes National Park welcomes visitors year-round, making any season a good time for gorilla trekking and hiking adventures. The best months for these activities are from June to August when the trails are drier and hiking is more comfortable. During these months, the skies may clear more often, making for a pleasant trekking experience, though securing a gorilla trekking permit can be challenging due to high demand. Lodges tend to be busier and may charge higher rates.
In contrast, the Wet Season, spanning from September to May, offers certain advantages. Gorilla trekking permits are more readily available, and lodges may offer discounted rates. Although rains typically occur in the afternoons, allowing morning activities to proceed with fewer interruptions, the rain can make the trails slippery and challenging, and visibility may sometimes be reduced.
Wildlife
Volcanoes National Park is a premier destination for Tracking Mountain Gorillas, home to 20 habituated troops, 12 of which welcome visitors, the rest are reserved for research. Each gorilla group has its distinct family dynamics and territory. For those who wish to delve deeper, consider arranging multiple treks to witness different family interactions.
Besides the iconic gorillas, the park is also known for its troops of golden monkeys. These monkeys are not just beautiful but have a calm demeanour, allowing for close observation. They’ve grown comfortable around humans, offering a unique opportunity to see their daily activities up close.
Volcanoes National Park is in northwest Rwanda, near Kinigi village. It’s part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which also includes parks in Uganda and Congo.
The park opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM daily. These times may vary, so it’s best to check with the park or official sources for any updates.
You can get a permit through the Rwanda Development Board’s website or by using a local tour operator who will handle the booking and details for you.
No, gorilla permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. However, under certain conditions like health issues, rescheduling might be possible if there’s availability.
The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. This is when trails are drier and trekking conditions are more favourable.
Trekking
Encounter ten families of the world's most majestic mountain gorillas.
Golden Monkeys
Affordable and unique, track endangered golden monkeys in their natural habitat.
Climbing
Scale the Virunga Volcanoes for breathtaking views and gorilla sightings.
Birdwatching
Over 8000 bird species, including 27 Albertine endemics, await you.
Nature Walks
Explore forest trails leading to waterfalls, caves, and serene twin lakes.
Culture
Experience Rwandan traditions, from dance to cuisine, at Ibiwacu Village.
