Exceptionally scenic and ecologically diverse
Parc National des Volcans (Volcanoes National Park), hidden away in the deep, dense jungles of northern Rwanda
Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, is part of a Transfrontier Conservation Area, that includes the southern section of DR Congo's Virunga National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and together they are the home of about half of the world’s endangered mountain gorilla. Five of the nine free standing volcanoes fall within, or partly within, the Parc National des Volcans.
In the 1950s George Schaller completed groundbreaking study on Mountain gorilla behaviour in the Virungas. This was followed by more recent, better-known behavioural studies by American primatologist Dian Fossey, who was supported by Kenyan paleontologist Louis Leaky. In 1967, Fossey founded the Karisoke Research Centre on the slopes of Mt Karisimbi, where she dedicated over 18 years of her life to her ongoing studies and struggle to protect the Rwandan Mountain gorilla population. This was to cost her her life, as she was murdered in December 1985.
Due to its altitudinal variation, the park has a varied array of habitat zones including agricultural land and lower afro-montane forest, bamboo forest, Hagenia woodlands, upper Afro-montane forest, and grasslands, meadows, and marshes.
The park has a modest bird checklist and notable among the primates present is the Golden monkey, a subspecies of the Blue monkey. Elephant and buffalo do inhabit the forest, but deep within the park so are almost never sighted.
Activities
First and foremost, the park is renowned for Gorilla tracking. Golden monkey tracking too, is popular. Active travellers can climb Mt Bisoke as a full day excursion.
Those who don’t mind overnight camping, can tackle Mt Karisimbi. This entails a two day trek during which you summit Africa’s 5th highest mountain and stay at the campsite (3,800m).
There is also a fairly challenging hike up Mt Bisoke (3,000m) or to Ngezi Crater Lake at the top. Many visit Dian Fossey’s tomb and Karisoke Research Centre.
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FAQs About Your Volcanoes National Park Holiday
Planning a holiday to Volcanoes National Park? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
What is Volcanoes National Park famous for?
This is unquestionably one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas – these remarkable, and highly endangered, giants of the forest. Volcanoes National Park is also home to (very interesting) golden monkeys, scenic volcanoes, and to American primatologist Dian Fossey’s research legacy.
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
The distance and duration of gorilla treks depend on where the gorilla families are located within the national park. Prior to starting your gorilla trek, park rangers will put you into a group that matches your general fitness level – this system works very well and means that in the past 7 years we have had a 100% success rate for gorilla tracking.
How do I get permits for gorilla trekking?
Permits must be booked in advance through a licensed tour operator. There are only a limited number of permits for each day, so early booking is essential.
How much does gorilla trekking cost?
A permit for Gorilla tracking in Rwanda currently costs $1,500 per person. Gorilla encounters last roughly an hour, and you are accompanied by experienced rangers who know the gorilla family you are visiting. They ensure your visit is both safe and rewarding. The gorilla tracking fee is a key contributor to the successful conservation of these highly endangered gentle giants of the forest.
What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
A good pair of hiking boots, long trousers, a waterproof jacket, and gloves are recommended. You may be walking through dense rainforest, open savannah interspersed with bamboo thickets, as well as local farmland, and we find that having layers helps keep us comfortable in the changing mountain conditions.
Can I see wildlife other than gorillas here?
Yes, Volcanoes National Park is home to golden monkeys, forest elephants, and a rich variety of birdlife. Cultural visits can also enhance the experience.
How far is Volcanoes National Park from Kigali?
It takes between two and three hours to drive from Kigali to the Volcanoes National Park. This makes it possible to trek gorillas even on a short trip to Rwanda.
Is accommodation available near Volcanoes National Park?
Yes, there’s a wide range of hotels and lodges from luxury to more modest options. Many have wonderful views of the volcanoes and most have easy access to park headquarters.
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