Volcanoes National Park

A Primal Encounter in the Mist

Dreaming of locking eyes with a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat? Welcome to Volcanoes National Park—Rwanda’s most iconic conservation area nestled in the Virunga Mountains.

Quick Facts

• Location: Northwestern Rwanda, near the town of Musanze
• Distance from Kigali: ~105 km (2.5 hours by road)
• Size: 160 km²
• Established: 1925 (one of Africa’s oldest national park)
• Best time to visit: June – September (dry season)

What Makes Volcanoes Special?

• Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Intimate, unforgettable encounters with habituated gorilla families
• Dian Fossey Legacy: Visit the research center and her resting place on Mount Karisimbi
• Volcanic Terrain: Lush rainforests set against a backdrop of five towering volcanoes
• Golden Monkey Tracking: A delightful and rare primate experience

Wildlife You’ll See

While gorillas steal the spotlight, Volcanoes is home to a surprising diversity:

• Primates: Mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, bushbabies
• Mammals: Forest elephants, buffalo, giant forest hogs (rarely seen)
• Birds: Over 180 species including Rwenzori turaco and francolin

Top Things to Do

• 🦍 Gorilla Trekking: The park's signature experience (permit required)
• 🐒 Golden Monkey Trekking: Playful and accessible alternative to gorillas
• 🥾 Hike Mount Bisoke: Climb to a crater lake at 3,700m
• 🕯 Visit Dian Fossey’s Tomb: Pay tribute to a conservation legend
• 🌍 Cultural Encounters: Learn from local communities around Musanze

Where to Stay

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
• Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
• Budget: Kinigi Guest House, local homestays

How to Get There

🚗 By Road

Drive from Kigali to Musanze (2.5 hours). Roads are paved and accessible year-round. Tour operators often handle permits, transport, and accommodation.

What to Pack

• Sturdy hiking boots (it gets muddy)
• Rain jacket & waterproof layers
• Gloves (for trekking through thick vegetation)
• Camera (no flash)
• Reusable water bottle
• Daypack & walking stick (often provided)

Volcanoes vs. Bwindi: Which Should You Choose?

Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) offers easier access, more developed infrastructure, and a premium gorilla trekking experience—ideal for travelers short on time or seeking a luxury feel.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) is larger, wilder, and more diverse—perfect for adventure travelers and those combining it with other Ugandan safaris. It also tends to be more budget-friendly.

If your trip is all about gorillas and comfort, go Volcanoes. If you're on a bigger East African journey and want a rugged forest trek—Bwindi is your park.

Traveler Tips

• Gorilla permits must be booked in advance ($1,500 in Rwanda)
• Acclimate to the altitude if hiking Bisoke or Karisimbi
• Support local guides and community projects
• Leave no trace—carry out all plastic and waste