Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, Volcano National Park Africa

Volcanoes National Park is a spectacular misty park also referred to as Parc National des Volcanos in French. This protected area in the far northwest of Rwanda shares borders with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is famously known for its Mountain gorillas! It also houses five out of the eight volcanoes that form the Virunga Mountains. These include; Mount Bisoke, Karisimbi, Muhabura, Gahinga, and the teeth like Sabyinyo Mountain.

Volcano National Park Rwanda has varying vegetation; montane forests, alpine, meadows, marshes, swamps, and even grasslands situated along different altitudinal ranges. The Bamboo forest habitat for Golden monkeys covers over 30% of Rwanda Volcanoes Park.

Mountain gorillas are the most famous animal species in Volcanoes park but, there are other wild animals in this park! Among others include the Elephants, Giant hogs, Bushbucks, spotted Hyenas, plus Black fronted duikers.  Around 200 bird species dwell in Volcanoes National Park Africa, 17 species are Albertine endemic birds.

During Volcanoes National Park, tracking gorillas is the main thing to do. Other activities in Rwanda Volcanoes park include volcano climbing, bird watching, golden monkey tracking, and hikes to Dian Fossey tomb, among others.

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda tours are open to travelers year round but, for gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda, target the dry months.

Location of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

Volcanoes park- Parc National des Volcans is located in the far northwest of the country and encompasses approximately 160km2 of a diverse range of highland ecosystems, including magnificent bamboo forests, wetlands, open grasslands, and a heather vegetation zone. Rwanda Volcano National Park is near Musanze Town.

This park is around 2-3 hours’ drive from Kigali International Airport.

Weather and Climate in Volcanoes National Park- Parc National Des Volcans

As a mountainous park, Rwanda Volcanoes Park has a cold montane climate with practically year-round rainfall. On average, daily temperatures in this park reach 15°C and drop to 7°C at night. Because it is near the Equator, temperatures do not vary much.

The dryer months are June through early September, with the long rain season lasting from March to May

Facts About Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda 

1. Volcanoes Rwanda Park is the most accessible site for Mountain gorilla trekking safaris in East Africa.
2. The park holds 5 of the 8 mountains in the Virunga Mountains
3. Volcanoes Rwanda Park is one of three national parks in Africa for to go for gorilla tracking experience. Others include Virunga National Park in DR Congo and even Mgahinga and Bwindi in Uganda.

What Is the History of Volcanoes National Park Africa?

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda was established as a park in 1925, making it one of Africa’s oldest. It was designated to protect the endangered Mountain gorillas who live in the misty jungles of the Virunga ranges- the Virunga Conservation Area.

In 1929, the boundaries of this protected area were expanded more into Rwanda and the colonial Congo, forming Albert National Park covering 8,090km², managed by Belgian colonial authorities who were administering the two colonies. After the independence of the two countries, the park was divided into two though the Rwandan side had to be reduced in 1969 for pyrethrum growing.

In 1967, a renowned American primatologist arrived in this park carrying out her research about Mountain gorillas. This lady- Fossey was murdered in 1985 under unclear circumstances, but her works for gorilla conservation are depicted in documentaries and films such as The Gorillas in the Mist.

Best Tourist Attractions in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Rwanda Volcanoes National Park main attraction is the endangered Mountain gorillas, but there’s more to see than that for example, Golden monkeys, Musanze caves, and the Virunga Mountains.

The following are the main things to see in Volcanoes National Park Africa;

1. The Mountain Gorillas

Mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, are among the world’s most critically endangered primates. Amazingly, Mountain gorillas are the world’s largest apes, residing solely in Africa’s misty tropical rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC.

Taking a mountain gorilla trekking adventure is the only way to encounter these mighty endangered primate species in their lovely natural habitat.

Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes park are conducted on around 14 mountain gorilla families. All the gorilla treks in Volcanoes Park Rwanda begin early morning at 8 am and can take about -8 hours depending on the movement of Mountain gorillas.

If you plan to visit Rwanda Volcano NP for a gorilla trekking experience, book your gorilla permit in advance. It’s better to book Rwanda gorilla trekking permits within 3-6 months before you travel, these permits are limited.

Seeing Mountain gorillas feed in their natural habitat is a safari experience to remember! In case you visit a mountain gorilla family with baby gorillas, you’ll be delighted by the way they hug their mother’s back.

2. Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

The Golden monkeys are Volcanoes National Park’s second most popular attraction, following the endangered mountain gorilla species. These rare primate species in East Africa are only found in Rwanda’s Volcano National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park.

Golden monkeys, like mountain gorillas, live in families of three to sixty people. These beautiful primates are mostly spotted in Bamboo forests.

3. The Volcanoes in Rwanda Volcanoes Park

Volcanoes are one of the most intriguing features in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Within this misty park, you can see 5 of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga ranges. All of these volcanoes offer excellent hiking opportunities in Rwanda.

Below are the most popular volcanoes in Rwanda Volcanoes Park;

MOUNT BISOKE

Mount Bisoke, which is 3,711 meters high, is well-known for its spectacular crater lake. Mount Bisoke is along Rwanda and the DRC border.

During the Mount Bisoke hike, travelers will enjoy brilliant views of Virunga massif and Lake Kivu, among other sights.

MOUNT KARISIMBI

Mount Karisimbi, which stands at 4,507 meters high, is located on the boundary between DRC and Rwanda. Rwanda’s Mount Karisimbi has four vegetation zones: montane forest, bamboo zone, heather, and moorland at the summit.

Along the Mount Karisimbi climb, you will see a variety of beautiful bird species, as well as rare animal and plant species. The views from the high steep slopes of Mount Karisimbi are stunning.

Other mountains in the Rwanda Volcano National Park;

• Mount Sabyinyo
• Mount Gahinga
• Mount Muhabura.

4. Dian Fossey Tombs

Dian Fossey tomb is among the must-see attractions in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. It’s one of the most visited features after the gorilla tracking experience, miss it at your own risk!

Globally, Dian Fossey is a well well-known American primatologist known for laying a foundation for Mountain gorilla conservation in Africa.  Unfortunately, regardless of her great conservation efforts, Dian Fossey was killed by poachers (it’s alleged) in her cabin in 1985. She was buried in the Mountain gorillas cemetery.

Tourists on Dian Fossey tomb hike also visit her Karisoke Research Center around.  Without Dian Fossey great work in the conservation of Mountain gorillas, gorilla tourism wouldn’t be around!

5. Musanze Caves

Musanze Cave in Volcano National Park is gaining popularity as a tourist destination in Rwanda. Musanze caverns are an incredible cave complex said to have created some 65 million years ago during the volcanic eruptions of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Rwanda Musanze Cave is approximately 2 kilometers long. It contains a tunnel with steps that lead to the cave’s darkest part.

Hundreds of people sought refuge in this cave during the 1994 Rwanda Genocide. Musanze caves can be explored on the same day after tracking Mountain gorillas in Volcanoes NP.

The Rwanda Development Board began offering adventure trips to these mystical caves in 2013.

Other tourist attractions near Volcanoes National Park to explore by tourists on Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris

• Ibyiwacu Cultural Centre
• The Twin Lakes
• Kivu Lake

Best Things to Do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

The most amazing things to do in Volcano National Park Rwanda Africa:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Africa

Gorilla trekking is the main adventure among the tourist activities in Volcanoes National Park.

Gorilla tracking tours in Rwanda Volcano Park are incredible! They provide an excellent opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas, the cool giants living in the misty & mountainous tropical rainforest.

During the gorilla trek, visitors should maintain maximum silence and follow the instructions of the ranger. The highlight of a gorilla trekking expedition is meeting the Mountain gorillas. You’ll realize that the behaviors of Mountain gorillas are just similar to those of human beings.

Tourists on Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda should expect to learn about the amazing behaviors of Mountain gorillas.

Avoid using flashlights when photographing or filming mountain gorillas since it worries them out and can make them aggressive.

Rwanda Gorilla trekking safaris are similar to those in Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park.

GORILLA FAMILIES IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK Rwanda

The 14 gorilla families in Rwanda Volcanoes Park are listed below;

1.       Karisimbi Gorilla Family 2.       Sabyinyo Gorilla Family 3.       Noheli 4.       Kigoma 5.       Isimbi 6.       Igisha 7.       Kwitonda

8.       Urwego 9.       Susa 10.    Muhoza 11.    Kwisinga 12.    Agashya 13.    Amahoro 14.    Umubano family

Note:

• Gorilla permits in Rwanda Volcanoes Park must be booked before the tracking day. The gorilla permits are limited in number. A group of eight individuals is allowed to track a group each day
• Rwanda gorilla trekking adventures are safe. Most groups of Mountain gorillas are accustomed to human presence. Similarly, the Rwandan army (rangers) assures guests’ safety in the jungle.
• There are gorilla protection guidelines to follow while tracking Mountain gorillas in Rwanda

COST OF GORILLA PERMITS IN RWANDA VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK AFRICA: RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING PERMIT COST

The gorilla permit in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park costs 1500 USD per person for foreign residents. A safari trip to Volcanoes park from Kigali costs around $1700- 1 day Rwanda gorilla trek. It includes payments for the driving guide, & the gorilla permit.

2. Volcano Hiking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park

Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke offer the best hiking experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. These hikes are usually done after the gorilla trekking experience.

The other volcanoes include; Mount Sabyinyo, Muhabura, and Mount Gahinga.

3. Golden Monkey Trekking

One of the most popular activities in Volcanoes National Park is the golden monkey trekking adventure.

These expeditions begin with an early morning briefing from the park headquarters before venturing into the jungle to search for these colorful monkey species. Along the hike in a beautiful misty landscape, expect to see unique animal species like the Black-fronted duiker. Forest Elephants, Bushbucks, Buffaloes, spotted Hyenas, giant forest hogs, and even colorful birds can be encountered also.

4. Bird Watching in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes park is regarded as one of the best birding national parks in Rwanda. Over 200 bird species have been identified in this park, including 17 Albertine unique bird species.

While birding in the park, the scarlet tufted sunbird and the endangered Grauer’s swamp warbler are observed on Mount Bisoke.

Other birds in Volcanoes NP to spot include the Rwenzori Turaco, Brown-necked parrot, Ruwenzori double-collared sunbird, Strange Weaver, Red-faced woodland warbler, Ruwenzori Apalis, and Doherty’s bushshrike and Baglafecht weaver, etc.

Bird watching expeditions in Volcanoes National Park are open to visitors on Rwanda tours all year round.

More interesting things to do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

• Exploring Musanze Cave, often after tracking mountain gorillas
• Visiting Dian Fossey tombs and Karisoke Research Centre
• Exploring the Ibyiwacu Cultural Center near the park

When is the Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park Africa?

The greatest time to visit Rwanda Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, or volcanic hiking, is during the dry season. It lasts from June until mid-September, and again from December to February. During these months, gorilla tracking trails are easily accessed since they are mud-free usually.

Within Volcano Rwanda Park, the long wet season runs from March to May, whereas the short rainy season lasts from October to November. Gorilla trekking is still possible; however, you must be prepared for rain during the hike.

Gorilla trekking during the rainy season has the advantage of being somewhat inexpensive! Because it’s low season, several lodges provide visitors with discounts.

Best Safari Lodges in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda- Where to Stay Near Volcano National Park Rwanda?

Tourists coming for Volcanoes National Park tours should expect to find various beautiful and standard lodges catering to visitors taking budget or luxury Rwanda safari tours. Most of the accommodation in Volcanoes Park Rwanda is in Musanze and Kinigi region, a short drive from the park headquarters.

Here are the best safari hotels in Volcanoes National Park

1) Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is located over 15 15-minute drive from the Volcanoes park entrance gate. The lodge offers a flawless ground for tourists interested in Mountain gorilla trekking and Golden Monkey tracking. It holds 30 cottages, a bar, and a restaurant all with good sights over the vicinities.

2)  Kinigi Guesthouse

Kinigi Guesthouse is located in the District of Kinigi- northeastern Rwanda around 11km from Ruhengeri City.

The accommodation facility can contain averagely 40 people and the rooms have warm water and electricity. It’s on the doorway to the magnificent splendor of the volcanic mountain range, the dwelling of the endangered Mountain gorillas.

3)  Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

The lodge is just a short drive to Volcanoes Park Headquarters.  This lodge has 6 cottages and 2 suites that flourish in magnificent gardens, with private verandas, en-suite bathrooms, and sitting rooms overlooking fireplaces.

4)  Virunga Lodge

Virunga Lodge is a luxurious accommodation facility situated within one hour’s drive from Volcanoes Park Headquarters. It has 8 spacious chalets featuring a large private veranda.

Rwanda Safari Packing List for Volcanoes National Park Africa- What to Pack for a Gorilla Trek in Volcanoes National Park

When you visit Rwanda Volcanoes National Park for a gorilla trekking expedition, we recommend the following for a rewarding safari experience:

• Waterproof walking boots
• Bring a camera to capture photos of wildlife
• Have insect repellent to avoid mosquitoes while tracking mountain gorillas in the jungle
• Long-sleeved pants and shirts
• A backpack to carry your daily necessities like the water bottle, camera, and snacks when tracking mountain gorillas
• Bring a rain jacket when tracking mountain gorillas
• Sun hats and sunscreen
• Medical kit with  some pain killers & bandages

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park Africa?

Travelers intending to track Mountain gorillas on their Volcanoes National Park safari tour should put on neutral safari gear. Normally, shades of grey, khaki, green, and brown are recommended. Bright colors red inclusive, scare away wildlife, avoid them.

Since the gorilla trek mainly takes place in a hilly rain forest, visitors should put on jungle boots.

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers are the best outfit while in the jungle as they cover well your body, making it safe from biting insects and jungle cuts also.

Rain can be expected any time of the day therefore, have a rain jacket with you. If it’s cold, you can put on a sweater during the adventure.

FAQs About Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

1. How Do You Get to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Africa?

It’s possible to access Rwanda Volcanoes park from either the Democratic Republic of Congo or Uganda by road or air. For travelers flying into Rwanda- the Land of a Thousand Hills, the main gateway is using a flight to Kigali International Airport which is around 116km to Volcanoes park. The picturesque drive from Kigali to the park headquarters takes around 2-3 hours drive in a tour vehicle.

2. What is Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Known for? : What Is Unique About Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

Rwanda Volcanoes National Park in Africa is known for its Mountain gorillas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers the best gorilla trekking experience in Africa and it’s even home to the rare Golden monkeys.

3. How Much Time to Spend in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

The amount of time you spend in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is heavily influenced by the tourism activities you want to conduct. Among these include gorilla trekking, bird watching, plus Dian Fossey hike among others. Email Prime safaris & Tours friendly safari specialist for guidance!

4. How Much Does It Cost to Go to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Africa?

The gorilla trek in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park costs $1500 for non-foreign residents and includes the entrance fees into this park. A 1 day Rwanda gorilla safari in Volcano NP is about $1800 including transfer fees & accommodation.

5. Is Volcanoes National Park Safari Worth it?

Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is well worth a visit! Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of spectacular safari experiences, including gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, and volcano hiking, among others.

6. Why Trek Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

Although the cost of gorilla trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is high compared to other safari destinations; Uganda & DR Congo, it’s worth undertaking. Rwanda’s gorilla trekking tours are ideal for time-bad travelers undertaking safaris in Africa and even they are safer!

Rwanda holiday tours would be incomplete without Volcanoes National Park tours! This misty hilly park is a biologically diverse protected area home to two of the most endangered primates in Africa- Mountain gorillas inclusive, among other wildlife species. Tourists on the Rwanda Volcanoes National Park safari adventure can enjoy Mountain gorilla trekking, bird watching, tracking golden monkeys, or hiking the Virunga volcanoes, among others.

For a remarkable vacation on Rwanda safari, supplement gorilla tours in Volcano National Park Africa with wildlife safaris in Akagera park or chimp tours in Nyungwe National Park.

For any questions about Rwanda gorilla safaris, please contact us!