Volcanoes National Park Rwanda (Parc National Des Volcans)
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda: Located in the heart of Central Africa, Volcanoes National Park is without doubt the only Rwanda gorilla safari park. Volcanoes National Park is set in far Northwestern Rwanda within the Virunga Conservation Area featuring a distinct ecosystem characterized by bamboo, swamp, health, and evergreen vegetation.
Volcanoes National Park the leading Rwanda tour destination takes its name from the chain of dormant Virunga volcanoes, five of which are all sheltered in this protected area alone- Muhabura, Gahinga, Bisoke, Sabyinyo and Karisimbi (4507m) which is the highest of all the 8.
Parc National Des Volcans is one of the oldest parks Africa has, founded in 1925 and occupies a compact land area of up to 160sq.kms. It is part of the extensive Virunga Conservation Area that also extends to include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park of Uganda and Virunga National Park of D.R. Congo.
Top Attractions in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Wildlife
Volcanoes NP is compact but very rich in biodiversity, inhabiting mainly the world’s most sought-after wildlife species. The Volcanoes National Park wildlife to see on Rwanda safari include mountain gorillas (gorilla beringei beringei), golden monkeys, spotted hyenas, elephants, bushbucks, buffaloes, black-fronted duikers, and more.
Birds of Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park hosts up to 200 bird species mostly the Albertine rift endemic birds. The birds any enthusiastic birder should expect to spot on the Rwanda tour in Volcanoes include;
Handsome francolin, dusky crimson wing, grauer’s rush warblers, Rwenzori double collared sunbird, Rwenzori turacos, Rwenzori Batis, Archer’s ground robin, red-faced woodland warblers.
Other birds of Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri include the dusky turtle dove, lagden’s bush shrike, Rwenzori apalis, Rwenzori nightjars, scarlet tufted malachite sunbird, and more.
Mountain Gorillas
Mountain gorillas are a major reason why Volcanoes National Park is visited by thousands of tourists on the Rwanda safari. These are large apes living only in the Afro-montane forests specifically in Rwanda, Uganda, and D.R. Congo. While in Rwanda, mountain gorillas can only be sighted in Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri.
To see Rwanda mountain gorillas, 13 gorilla families have been habituated and are officially available for gorilla trekking. They include Titus, Amahoro, Agashya, Susa A, Karisimbi/Susa B, Sabyinyo, Hirwa, Kwitonda, Ugenda, Umubano, Bwenge and others.
Dian Fossey tomb site
Dian Fossey is remembered for her great conservation work, particularly gorilla conservation and research in the Virunga volcanoes area. She settled at Volcanoes National Park conducting research for 18 years and fought strongly against poaching.
Unfortunately, in 1985, she was murdered and laid to rest near Digit the gorilla she so much loved. To facilitate her gorilla research work, Dian Fossey established the Karisoke Research Center which can be visited while on Dian Fossey‘s tomb walk.
Karisimbi Volcano.
Mount Karisimbi is the highest of the 8 Virunga volcanoes, rising up to 4507m, and in Africa, it ranks 11th highest. This volcano is positioned on Albertine Rift and East African Rift Valley and it is amazing hiking to its submits.
Mount Visoke/Bisoke
Mount Visoke 3711m a dormant volcano in Volcanoes National Park is known for its scenic crater on the summits. It is found at the border of D.R. Congo and Rwanda, from Goma about 11 km away and just near Lake Kivu.
Tourist Activities in Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri
Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is Volcanoes National Park’s most enjoyed safari activity by most Rwanda safari holidaymakers. The park has many groups but currently, 13 of them are fully open for gorilla trekking and others are for research.
Each gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park is allocated to only 8 persons per day and a park guide takes tourists to look for mountain gorillas starting at 8:00 am after briefing.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes starts at 8:00 am lasting for 2-6 hours depending on visitors’ hiking speed. There is a guaranteed one hour to enjoy face-to-face with a family of these large apes, taking pictures.
Gorilla permits are required for anyone visiting Volcanoes Rwanda Gorilla Park for gorilla trekking and each permit costs USD1500. To book for one, reach out to the reservation team at Hail Tours Uganda, and due to high demand, we advise all our clients to book their permits early enough preferably 2 to 4 months before the actual date of visiting Rwanda to track gorillas.
Golden Monkey Tracking
Golden monkey tracking is the second most treasured primate experience Volcanoes National Park has to offer nature lovers on Rwanda safaris. This offers tourists a lifetime opportunity to strike their imaginations with the golden monkeys while in the wild.
Like gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park begins with a briefing at Kinigi offices and the park has 2 troops for tourists to explore.
Golden monkey permits are a must-have if you planning to go golden monkey tracking and a single permit costs USD100 per person.
What to carry for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking/Golden Monkey Tracking?
Some of the important items to expect to carry while on Rwanda gorilla safari or golden monkey tour in Volcanoes National Park include a gorilla permit, a golden monkey permit, a camera free from a flashlight, a rain jacket, insect repellent, waterproof hiking boots, sunscreen, gardening gloves, long-sleeved shirts.
Also, don’t leave behind a first aid kit, long trousers, a day pack, snacks, toiletries, bottled water and more.
Birding
This Rwanda Gorilla Safari Park is a home to variety of Albertine rift bird species making it an exceptional birding destination.
The birds to look out for while on tour in Volcanoes NP include Archer’s ground robin, Rwenzori Batis, Collared apalis, Handsome francolin, grauer’s rush warblers, strange weavers, red-faced woodland warblers, Rwenzori turacos, dusky turtle dove, lagden’s bush shrike, Rwenzori apalis, Rwenzori nightjars, scarlet tufted malachite sunbird and others.
Dian Fossey hiking trail
Dian Fossey trail takes you through Dian Fossey’s gorilla conservation legacy. It is a 2-3 hour hike and comes with astonishing sights of birds, primate species, and many other wildlife.
Dian Fossey lived in the Virunga region conducting research about gorillas for 18 years and she was murdered by unknown people.
Volcano hiking-Visoke & Karisimbi
Volcano climbing in Volcanoes Rwanda means even enthusiastic climbers/hikers are not left out.
Of 8 Virunga Massifs, all 5 are in Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri including Karisimbi, Visoke, Gahinga, Muhabura, and Sabyinyo.
Hiking Mount Gahinga (3474m) takes up to 6 hours, Karisimbi 4507m requires two days and Visoke Volcano 6 hours.
Musanze cave visit
Musanze cave trail introduces you to the long Musanze caves that extend up to 2 km and offer a thrilling walk. The caves are located in Musanze District and they can be visited before or after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Cultural visits
Other than wildlife safari activities, there is also a chance for tourists to get the best of Rwandese cultures, and traditions, enjoy dances, music performances, and more.
The best place to begin your cultural tour at Volcanoes National Park is Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village or Gorilla Guardian’s Village.
Visit Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera- The Twin Lakes
After or before your gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park, the Twin Lakes are among the exceptional tourist sites any nature lover should expect to visit on Rwanda safaris.
Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo are best explored while on a boat ride taking you to one of the stunning islands while spotting diverse birds such as weaver birds, African spoonbill, and weaver birds to mention but a few.
When to visit?
Volcanoes Rwanda Park is open for visitor exploration at any month, week, or day of the year. But to have the best of gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking, the dry season is the best due to the favorable weather and climatic conditions it comes with.
In every year, there are 2 dry seasons- the short and long with short running from December, January to February, and long dry months beginning from June, July, and August to September.
Visits to Volcanoes NP can still be made during the wet or rainy season. The park also records two wetter or rainy seasons- the long rains starting from March to May and short from October to November.
Where to stay- Safari Lodges and Camps at Volcanoes National Park
All categories of accommodation facilities are found in and around Volcanoes Rwanda.
Visitors on gorilla safaris choose from budget to luxury and they include Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Virunga Lodge, Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, Garden Palace Hotel, One & Only Gorilla Nest, Kwitonda Lodge, Muhabura Hotel and more.
Getting to Volcanoes National Park- Ruhengeri
Volcanoes National Park- Ruhengeri is easier to reach by road transportation due to its close location to Kigali Capital. It takes holidaymakers on safari in Rwanda 2 to 3 hours to drive up to Volcanoes Gorilla Park from Kigali.
Preferably, hire a 4×4 safari vehicle for your road trip and there is also an alternative of driving from Kabale/Kisoro in Uganda to Volcanoes Rwanda Park through Chanika or Katuna border. From Kisoro or Kabale, driving to Rwanda Volcanoes NP may take you 3-5 hours depending on your driver’s speed.
FAQs about Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda:
1. Where is Volcanoes National Park located?
- Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwest of Rwanda, near the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is part of the Virunga Mountain range, which is home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
2. How do I get to Volcanoes National Park?
- The park is about a 2-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. You can travel by private car, tour operator, or public transport. The nearest town is Musanze, which is approximately 10 km from the park entrance.
3. What activities can I do in Volcanoes National Park?
- The main activities include:
- Gorilla Trekking: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek and observe the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Golden Monkey Trekking: A chance to observe the rare golden monkeys.
- Hiking to Volcano Peaks: Hike up Mount Karisimbi, Bisoke, or other peaks for stunning views.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit the nearby Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about Rwandan culture and traditions.
- Bird Watching: The park is home to various bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco and the handsome francolin.
4. How much does gorilla trekking cost?
- The permit for gorilla trekking costs $1,500 per person for international visitors. Discounts may apply for East African citizens and residents.
5. What is the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park?
- The best time to visit is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and December to February. However, trekking can be done year-round, as long as you’re prepared for the rain and the muddy terrain.
6. Do I need a permit for gorilla trekking?
- Yes, a trekking permit is required to visit the gorillas, and they are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). It is advisable to book permits in advance, as they can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
7. How difficult is gorilla trekking?
- The difficulty of gorilla trekking varies depending on the group you’re assigned and the location of the gorillas. It can range from a 30-minute to a 6-hour hike, with varying terrain. Trekking can be challenging, so it’s important to be in reasonable physical condition.
8. What should I wear for trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
- Wear long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots to protect yourself from thorns and mud. A hat, gloves, and a rain jacket are also recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent.
9. How many people can go on a gorilla trek?
- Each gorilla group is limited to 8 visitors per day to reduce human impact on the gorillas and ensure a safe and respectful experience.
10. Are there accommodations near Volcanoes National Park?
- Yes, there are various accommodation options near the park, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury lodges such as the Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Bisate Lodge, and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
11. Can I visit other national parks after Volcanoes?
- Yes, Rwanda has several other national parks that you can visit, such as Nyungwe Forest National Park (famous for chimpanzee trekking) and Akagera National Park (known for its wildlife and safaris).
12. Is it safe to visit Volcanoes National Park?
- Yes, Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. The park is well-managed, and there is a strong focus on eco-tourism and conservation.
13. What should I do if I’m sick during trekking?
- If you feel unwell during the trek, inform your guide immediately. Rangers and guides are well-trained and can assist in case of emergencies. It’s essential to disclose any medical conditions before the trek to ensure proper preparation.
14. Can I take photos during gorilla trekking?
- Yes, you are allowed to take photos of the gorillas during the trek, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals.