Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, Beacon for mountain gorilla trekking to golden monkey tracking

Volcanoes National Park is a unique destination as one of only four forest reserves globally protecting mountain gorillas and hosting gorilla trekking adventures. This park provides a rare opportunity for visitors to trek and have close encounters with the critically endangered mountain gorillas in the untamed jungle. Covering 62 square miles (160 square km), the park is part of the Virunga Mountains, home to a string of nine volcanoes extending into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Established in 1925, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda was initially a subdivision of the larger Virunga National Park, formerly known as the Albert Cook National Park during the Belgian colonial era. The park was created in three parts, forming Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park as the second-largest covering 160 km², and Virunga Park as the largest covering 7,769 km². Volcanoes National Park gained fame for hosting endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and five volcanic mountains: Mt Gahinga, Sabinyo, Bisoke, Karisimbi, and Muhavvura.

Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its role in gorilla conservation, thanks to the work of American primatologist Dian Fossey in the 1960s and 70s. The park houses 20 mountain gorilla families, with 12 dedicated to regular gorilla tracking and eight assigned to the Diane Fossey Research Centre (Karisoke Research Centre Fund) for ongoing research. This arrangement honors Fossey’s contributions and supports sustainability and conservation efforts. To participate in gorilla tracking, visitors must be 15 years or older, possess a valid gorilla permit, and plan ahead due to permit availability constraints.

What to see & Do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking Adventure

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is the perfect destination for you. The park is renowned for its thrilling gorilla trekking experiences. Ten habituated gorilla families are available for hiking, making it a top goal for many visitors. The journey through the forest in search of these majestic creatures is not only exhausting but also incredibly rewarding. Volcanoes National Park is the exclusive upscale location for gorilla trekking, and obtaining a permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is essential. The permit costs $1500, allowing you to spend up to an hour with the gorillas, creating a unique and unforgettable encounter with these remarkable animals.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Another fascinating activity in Volcanoes National Park is Golden Monkey Tracking. The park is home to critically endangered golden monkeys, adding a beautiful touch to the wildlife experience. This activity attracts thousands of visitors who want to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Golden monkey trekking is a more affordable option at $100, providing an opportunity for travelers to connect with nature and observe these unique primates up close.

Visiting the Tomb of Dian Fossey

Dian Fossey, one of the greatest primatologists of all time, left an indelible mark on Volcanoes National Park. Her tenacity and efforts significantly reduced animal poaching, especially of mountain gorillas. The park owes much of its success in gorilla conservation to her pioneering work. A visit to the Tomb of Dian Fossey, situated between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke, is a humbling experience. A guided hike, lasting about three hours and costing $75, allows visitors to understand her dedication and enthusiasm for gorilla conservation as they scale the volcanoes to her former base.

Volcano Climbing Adventure

For those seeking panoramic views and a physical challenge, volcano climbing is an option at Volcanoes National Park. The park boasts three extinct volcanoes, with Mount Karisimbi being the most frequently ascended. Climbing to the summit offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills of Rwanda, Kigali, the Virunga volcanoes, and nearby villages. The experience is both challenging and worthwhile, providing a unique perspective of the park’s diverse landscapes.

How to Reach Volcanoes National Park

By Road via Musanze

The most common and cost-effective way to reach Volcanoes National Park is by road. If you’re coming from Gisenyi, take the Gisenyi-Goma road, approximately 70 km, a 1-hour and 30-minute drive via the Nyabihu road. Upon reaching Musanze district, turn left onto the Cyanika Uganda road, driving for about 900m before taking another left turn that leads straight for almost 11km. Exercise caution on the narrow roads with pedestrians and cyclists, adhering to the 60km/hr speed limit. Head to Kinigi town, marked by a signpost welcoming you to the park headquarters.

By Air

For a faster and more convenient option, consider taking a helicopter flight to Volcanoes National Park. Akagera Aviation operates daily scheduled flights from Kigali International Airport to Musanze. This option provides a unique aerial perspective of the landscape and a quicker journey to the park.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time for gorilla trekking is during Rwanda’s two dry seasons: December to early February and June to September. These drier months ensure a more pleasant and less muddy hiking experience. However, during the high season, gorilla permits are in high demand, and accommodations can be expensive. It is advisable to secure your gorilla permit and accommodation well in advance to avoid logistical challenges.

Alternatively, the rainy months offer fewer crowds and lower prices. Visitors can take advantage of low-season pricing and enjoy a less crowded experience. Regardless of when you go, be prepared for unpredictable temperatures, and pack a jacket and rain poncho for potential gloomy weather.