Volcanoes NP

Volcanoes National Park: Rwanda’s Primate Haven

Lying in the heart of East-Central Africa is the splendid, bamboo forest-dominated Volcanoes National Park. This park is located within the Virunga Mountain Range, a chain of volcanic mountains spanning three African nations: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Situated in northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is renowned as the research site of Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to studying the endangered mountain gorillas until her tragic murder in 1985.

Location, Size & Facts About Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is located in the Ruhengeri region of northwestern Rwanda, approximately a 2 to 3-hour drive from Kigali. It shares borders with Congo’s Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, forming part of the vast Virunga Conservation Area, which covers 433 square kilometers. The park itself spans 160 square kilometers, with an altitude range of 2,400 to 4,507 meters. This extraordinary park is a premier destination for mountain gorilla trekking and other adventure activities.

Attractions in Volcanoes National Park

Mountain Gorillas

The primary attraction in Volcanoes National Park is its population of endangered mountain gorillas. Dian Fossey’s pioneering research brought global attention to these magnificent apes, particularly following the release of the film Gorillas in the Mist. Today, an estimated 1,063 mountain gorillas exist in the wild, with about 30% residing in the park’s bamboo forests. Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 habituated gorilla families, allowing for 96 gorilla trekking permits per day.

Other Wildlife

Beyond mountain gorillas, the park shelters an array of wildlife, including spotted hyenas, golden monkeys, forest elephants, giant forest hogs, buffaloes, bushbucks, bush pigs, black-and-white colobus monkeys, black-fronted duikers, and more.

Bird Species

Volcanoes National Park boasts a rich birdlife, with over 200 bird species, including several endemic to the Albertine Rift. Key species include the handsome francolin, collared apalis, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, Archer’s ground robin, red-faced woodland warbler, Grauer’s rush warbler, Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori batis, dusky crimson wing, paradise flycatcher, long-crested eagle, and African marsh harrier.

Virunga Volcanoes

The park features five of the eight Virunga Volcanoes: Mount Bisoke (3,700m), Mount Karisimbi (4,507m), Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura. These towering peaks offer thrilling hiking experiences.

Tourism Activities in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is the most sought-after experience in Volcanoes National Park. A maximum of eight tourists visit each of the 12 habituated gorilla families daily. The trek, beginning with a briefing at Kinigi, lasts between 2 to 6 hours, including one hour of observation. Each permit costs USD 1,500 per person.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking provides a unique opportunity to observe these playful primates in their natural habitat. The trek lasts 2 to 4 hours, with an hour spent in close proximity to the golden monkeys. The permit costs USD 100 per person.

Birdwatching

The park’s diverse bird population makes it a haven for birdwatchers. Commonly sighted species include the handsome francolin, paradise flycatcher, Rwenzori batis, long-crested eagle, and Rwenzori double-collared sunbird.

Volcano Climbing

For adventure seekers, volcano hiking in the park is a rewarding experience. Mount Bisoke’s hike takes about six hours (four hours ascending and two hours descending), while Mount Karisimbi requires two days to reach its summit at 4,507 meters.

Musanze Cave Exploration

Located near the park, the Musanze Caves are a volcanic formation with a 2-kilometer walkway. A visit to these caves is a fascinating pre- or post-gorilla trekking activity.

Dian Fossey Tomb Hike

A 2-3 hour hike leads visitors to the tomb of Dian Fossey, where they can learn about her conservation legacy. The site also serves as the resting place of some of the gorillas she studied, including her beloved silverback, Digit.

Cultural Encounters

Visitors can immerse themselves in Rwandan culture at the Gorilla Guardians Village (Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village), where they can interact with local communities, enjoy traditional music and dance performances, and learn about indigenous customs.

Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park

While Volcanoes National Park is open year-round, the best time for gorilla trekking and other activities is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer better hiking conditions with less mud and clearer trails.

Accommodation Options

Visitors to Volcanoes National Park can choose from a range of accommodations, including budget, mid-range, and luxury lodges:

Luxury Lodges: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
Mid-Range Lodges: Virunga Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Budget Options: Five Volcanoes Boutique Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is conveniently located a 2-3 hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Its close proximity to the city allows for short gorilla trekking tours, including one-day and two-day itineraries.

Conclusion

Volcanoes National Park stands as a premier safari destination, offering unparalleled encounters with endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, diverse birdlife, and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Whether for trekking, wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, or adventure hikes, this Rwandan gem provides an unforgettable journey into Africa’s wilderness.