Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s crown jewel and the heart of gorilla trekking in Africa. Nestled in the northwest of the country, this park is a lush, mountainous sanctuary home to endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and spectacular volcanic landscapes.
Where Is Volcanoes National Park Located?
Volcanoes National Park lies in the Virunga Mountains, about 2.5 hours’ drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. It borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, forming part of the larger transboundary Virunga Conservation Area.
The nearest town is Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), which serves as the gateway for park activities.
Why Visit Volcanoes National Park?
This park is one of the few places in the world where you can track wild mountain gorillas. But gorilla trekking is just the beginning.
Volcanoes National Park is also famous for:
- Golden monkey tracking
- Hikes to Dian Fossey’s tomb and research center
- Volcano climbing, including Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi
- Birdwatching in lush bamboo and rainforest habitats
- Cultural encounters with local Rwandan communities
Each activity offers a deep connection to both nature and conservation history.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda offers some of the most accessible and well-managed gorilla treks in Africa. The treks begin early morning with a briefing at Kinigi Park Headquarters.
Visitors are grouped into small teams and assigned to one of the 12 habituated gorilla families. The hikes can range from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the group’s location.
Once you find them, you’re allowed one hour to observe, photograph, and quietly appreciate their behavior.
Permit cost in 2025: $1,500 per person
Other Top Activities in the Park
- Golden Monkey Tracking: An easy forest walk with a chance to see playful, rare monkeys unique to this region.
- Mount Bisoke Hike: A challenging but rewarding day hike to a crater lake at 3,711 meters.
- Mount Karisimbi Hike: A 2-day trek to Rwanda’s highest peak at 4,507 meters.
- Dian Fossey Hike: Visit the resting place of the legendary primatologist and learn about her gorilla conservation work.
Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park
The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, offer better trekking conditions and clear views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
However, gorilla trekking is available year-round. The rainy months bring lush scenery and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay Near Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation options range from luxury lodges to budget guesthouses, mostly around Musanze and Kinigi.
Popular choices include:
- Bisate Lodge – High-end eco-luxury
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge—Mid-luxury, close to the park
- Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge—Comfortable and mid-range
- Kinigi Guesthouse – Budget-friendly and community-run
Getting There
From Kigali International Airport, the drive to Musanze is about 120 km (2.5 hours). Most visitors travel by private car or with their tour operator. Helicopter transfers are also available for luxury travelers.
Plan Your Safari
Volcanoes National Park blends adventure, conservation, and cultural discovery. Whether you’re meeting mountain gorillas face-to-face or climbing volcanoes, it’s an experience that stays with you forever.
Book early, especially for gorilla permits, and prepare for a trek that’s both physically rewarding and emotionally powerful.
