About Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda’s only Gorilla Tracking Hub)

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans), in northwestern Rwanda, spans 160 km² of rainforest across five Virunga volcanoes: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

Established in 1925 as Africa’s first national park to protect mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park gained fame through Dian Fossey’s research from 1967 at Karisoke Research Center; her anti-poaching efforts were pivotal until her 1985 murder. Tourism in this park halted during the 1990s civil war but resumed in 1999.

Volcanoes National Park is famous for its endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, among others, and activities include gorilla trekking, volcano hikes (e.g., Bisoke Crater Lake), Dian Fossey tomb visits, birdwatching (over 200 species), and cultural experiences.

To make the most of your Rwanda safari in Volcanoes National Park, you should take part in the tourist activities described below!

1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

The best thing to do at Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, is mountain gorilla trekking, which allows you to see habituated gorilla families in the wild. The park harbours over a third of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas in approximately 12 habituated gorilla groups exposed to tourism.

Treks launch from Kinigi park headquarters with a 7:30 AM briefing, kicking off at 8:00 AM. Expect 2–6 hours of hiking through bamboo forests and various vegetation zones, varying depending on gorilla family location and fitness.

Gorilla permits cost $1500 per person and are bookable via the Rwanda Development Board or local tour operators—secure 3 months ahead in peak season. Minimum age: 15 years. Treks demand moderate to strenuous effort across Virunga volcanoes like Mount Karisimbi.

Rules and Regulations for Gorilla Trekking:

• Keep a distance of 7 meters from the gorilla family
• Attend the required briefing at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters
• Limited to 1-hour observation guaranteed by the $1500 gorilla permits
• No eating/smoking in proximity
• If you are ill, skip it.
• No flash photography
• Follow instructions
• Up to 8 visitors per group
• Bring good shoes, long pants, gloves and a rain jacket for the trails.
• Trekking in Volcanoes NP in long socks, pants and good walking shoes

2. Bird Watching in Parc National des Volcans

If you love birds, Volcanoes National Park is a real treat. The park has over 200 recorded species, including Albertine Rift specials you won’t easily see elsewhere, like the handsome Rwenzori Turaco and the shy Kivu Ground Thrush.

You head out with a guide, walking slowly up through the different vegetation zones. It’s quiet, green, and you start picking out calls and flashes of colour in the canopy. It pairs really well with a hike or as a gentle morning after your gorilla trek. A must for nature lovers.

3. Mount Karisimbi Hike in Volcanoes National Park

Adventurers can try their hand at climbing Mount Karisimbi, the highest of the Virunga volcanoes at 4,507 meters. The cost is about $400 for a two-day trip with camping overnight and spectacular views of the park and crater lakes. The altitude and terrain to conquer make it great for adding some mountain hiking to Rwanda safaris.

4. Mount Bisoke Hike in Volcanoes National Park

Mount Bisoke is the park’s most popular day hike, and for good reason. In 5 to 7 hours round-trip, you climb through bamboo forest as you keep an eye out for golden monkeys all the way to a stunning crater lake at the summit.

It’s steep in places, so you will feel it, but you don’t need to be a technical climber. Bring good boots, rain gear, and layers. A permit is around $75, and you go with a guide.

5. Dian Fossey Tomb Hike in Volcanoes National Park

This Dian Fossey tomb hike is more about the story than the summit. The trail takes you between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi to the old Karisoke Research Centre, where Dian Fossey began her gorilla work in 1967.

It’s a 2 to 3-hour walk through the forest to a small, modest cemetery where she is buried alongside some of the gorillas she protected. She was killed in 1985, but her work changed everything — cutting down poaching and laying the foundation for the conservation that still protects the mountain gorillas today. Much of that work now continues through the Ellen DeGeneres Campus nearby.

6. Lake Ngezi Hike in Volcanoes Park

The Lake Ngezi route is a nice addition to the Mount Bisoke walk for summit crater lake panoramas. This picturesque parkway across park zones reveals volcanic wonders and possible wildlife in its natural habitat. Those interested in this hike generally contact their tour operator to arrange it for them.

7. Golden Monkey Trekking to See Golden Monkeys

The second most popular activity after gorilla trekking is the golden monkey trekking, which entails tracking the brightly coloured endangered golden monkeys in bamboo forests. The golden monkey is beautiful orange-gold in body and lives in vast family groupings, so habituated troops give interesting views with permits for $100. It’s easier than gorilla expeditions, and it complements Rwandan safaris that are primate-focused.

8. Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Tours and Community Walks

Near park headquarters, the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (also called the Gorilla Guardians Village) provides excellent cultural experiences, including dances, workshops and insights into the local culture. Community visits are enhanced with trips with performances and learning about Rwandan customs.

9. Attending Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremonies

Kwita Izina is Rwanda’s annual gorilla-naming ritual, a colourful celebration of conservation. Held annually in Musanze, it combines music, dancing and community celebrations during which newly born gorillas are named in the presence of rangers, conservationists and visitors. It’s a powerful approach to get a sense of how essential gorilla protection is to Rwanda’s identity.

10. Visiting The Twin Lakes Burera and Ruhondo

Just outside Musanze, Lakes Burera and Ruhondo are suitable for a quiet retreat. These twin volcanic lakes are nestled in rolling mountains. You can take a boat tour or walk through local communities or climb along the shorelines for large, open views. Relaxing and gorgeous & a nice change from hiking.

11. Exploring Buhanga Eco Park

Buhanga Eco Park is a sacred woodland just outside Musanze, formerly the site of Rwandan kings’ coronations. Today it is a quiet area with tall old growth trees, short nature pathways and great birdwatching. If you’re visiting Volcanoes National Park, it’s well worth adding for its mix of history, culture and nature.

12. Batwa Cultural Experiences in Volcanoes National Park

A visit to the Batwa community is a true cultural experience. The Batwa were the first forest dwellers of the Virungas, and throughout this trip they share their customs firsthand – from how they cook and create to stories and songs handed down through generations. It’s a good and courteous approach to engage with the life that’s around the park.

13. Exploring The Musanze Caves

The Musanze Caves are a remarkable network of lava tunnels created by previous volcanic eruptions. A guided walk will show you magnificent rock formations, enormous chambers, colonies of bats, and you will learn about the history of caves as shelter. It’s an interesting diversion from the park.

14. Guided Hiking Trails and Nature Walks

Volcanoes National Park is more than gorilla treks. A network of guided trails and nature walks takes you through bamboo forests, crater lakes, and the lower slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. It’s a slower way to explore – perfect for observing birds, lesser species and enjoying the mountain beauty without the intensity of a summit trek.

15. Engaging In Gorilla Conservation Initiatives in Volcanoes National Park

Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus, formerly the Karisoke Research Centre, and discover the continued conservation and research of gorillas and the benefits to local communities.

Note that in 1967 Dian Fossey arrived at Volcanoes National Park and set up the Karisoke Research Centre.

The Ellen DeGeneres Campus celebrates the legacy of Dian Fossey, who is acknowledged to have invented new ways to make mountain gorillas comfortable with humans by emulating their sounds.

Additional Information to Consider When Exploring Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

Popular Tourist Attractions Seen in Volcanoes National Park During Safari Activities

• Mountain Gorillas: Over one third of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas live in Volcanoes National Park. On the lower slopes, you can observe them feeding on bamboo, and it is an unbelievable encounter.
• Bird Species: The park is a birdwatcher’s dream with over 200 bird species, including some regional endemics.
• Virunga Volcanoes: Karisimbi and Bisoke’s spectacular summits make for tough but rewarding hikes, with panoramic views over Rwanda and beyond.
• Dian Fossey Tomb: Visit the tomb and former research centre of Dian Fossey, who helped save the gorillas.
• Golden Monkeys and Other Primates: Large, vibrant troops of native golden monkeys live in the park’s bamboo woods.
• Other Wildlife: Apart from monkeys, the forest is home to forest elephants, buffaloes, duikers and a variety of smaller species.
• Gorilla Guardians Village: Meet ex-poachers now protecting the forest. They tell their culture, their customs, and personal experiences of how their lives have altered because of conservation.
• Twin Lakes — Burera and Ruhondo: Two beautiful crater lakes set in the highlands. Take a boat out, walk the shoreline, and just take in the wide, peaceful views.
• Buhanga Eco Park: Once a sacred forest for Rwanda’s kings, it’s now a calm, quiet place with easy hiking trails, old-growth trees, and plenty of birds.
• Musanze Caves: An extensive system of lava caves created by previous eruptions. A guided walk takes you into dark caverns, rock formations and the history of the area.
• Hiking Trails: From gentle bamboo forest walks to tougher climbs into alpine meadows, there’s a trail for every level.
• The Ellen DeGeneres Campus: A modern research and education centre dedicated to gorilla conservation — well worth a visit to see the work happening behind the scenes.

Rules and Regulations to Follow When Visiting Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

The park takes protection seriously, so a few rules are strictly followed:

• You must be 15 or older to trek gorillas
• Be at Kinigi headquarters by 7:30 AM for briefing
• If you are sick, you cannot trek — gorillas are very susceptible to human illness
• Stay at least 7 meters away from the gorillas
• You have a maximum of one hour with the gorilla family
• No flash photography, no eating, drinking, or smoking near the gorillas
• Always follow your guide’s instructions and don’t litter
• Wear sturdy hiking clothes and consider hiring a porter to help on the steep sections

Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda for Safari Excursions

The best time for gorilla tracking, golden monkey tracking, and hiking is the dry season, June to September, and again from December to February. Trails are drier, less slippery, and wildlife is easier to find.

You can visit in the rainy seasons too, i.e., March to May and October to November. Paths are muddier, and hikes are tougher, but the forest is incredibly lush and green, and there are far fewer visitors. The park is open year-round, but if you want the most comfortable conditions, plan for the dry months.

World-Class Volcanoes National Park Accommodation to Stay at During Rwanda Safari Excursions

There are no hotels inside the boundaries of Volcanoes National Park to protect the natural environment. Instead, guests stay in nearby Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), a short drive from the park’s headquarters. Rwanda safaris can be customized to meet every taste and budget, from affordable guesthouses and motels to comfortable mid-range lodges and high-end luxury accommodations. These are:

Luxury Lodges near Volcanoes National Park

• Bisate Lodge
• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
• Singita Kwitonda Lodge
• One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
• Virunga Lodge

Midrange near Volcanoes National Park

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
• Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Budget near Volcanoes National Park

• Kinigi Guesthouse
• Muhabura Hotel
• La Palme Hotel
• Virunga Hotel

Costs To Incur When Exploring Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Getting To Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is located in northern Rwanda, approximately 105 km from Kigali, the capital city. Therefore, travelers coming to Rwanda to explore Volcanoes National Park often land at Kigali International Airport and drive 2-3 hours to Musanze/Kinigi, where the park is found. Visitors can also opt for private transfers by tour operators or chartered flights arranged by Akagera Aviation to Volcanoes National Park. It is worth noting that public transport to Volcanoes National Park is available but less convenient.

Rwandan Safari Packing List for Volcanoes National Park Tours

When planning a trip to Volcanoes NP, visitors should bring the following essentials.

• Sturdy hiking boots/Sturdy shoes
• Long trousers and sleeves
• Rain gear (Rain jacket and poncho)
• Gloves and gaiters
• Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent
• A Camera (no flash), binoculars
• Energy snacks and a water bottle
• Daypack
• Warm layers for cool mornings/evenings

Please note that besides the above items, visitors are advised to hire local guides for hikes and walks.

Reputable Rwanda Tour Operators Offering Volcanoes National Park Tours

1. Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
2. Wild Gorilla Safaris
3. Gorilla Safari Rwanda
4. Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
5. Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
6. Africa Safaris Tours
7. Gorilla Safaris and Tours

Examples Of the Best Rwandan Safari Packages for Volcanoes National Park

• 1-3 Day Gorilla Trek from Kigali
• 4 Days Gorillas & Golden Monkeys
• 4 Days Gorillas & Dian Fossey
• Combined with the Lake Kivu boat cruise or the Nyungwe chimpanzees

Other Rwanda National Parks and Tourist Spots to Combine with Volcanoes National Park Safari Tours

Akagera National Park

Akagera is the only savanna haven in Rwanda where tourists interested in the Big Five African animals can engage in the Big Five safaris and boat cruises to see them firsthand.

Lake Kivu, Rwanda

This waterscape shared by Rwanda and the DR Congo offers tranquil boat trips/rides and beach escapes in western Rwanda to tourists on safaris to Rwanda.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is one of the popular safari parks in Rwanda, famed for having about 13 primates and notable birds like the Kivu ground Thrush in its jungle, and offers opportunities for chimp tracking and canopy walks in ancient rainforests.

Gishwati Mukura National Park

This is a rising primate and birding destination in Rwanda that was recently opened in 2015.

Kigali City

Rwanda’s Capital city, Kigali, is popular for being a gateway to most safaris in Rwanda and home to the famous Genocide memorial centers, vibrant markets, and vibrant culture, all of which are worth seeing during safaris.

OTHER AFRICAN NATIONS

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)
• Virunga National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Salonga National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Masai Mara (Kenya)
• Serengeti (Tanzania)
• Kibira NP (Burundi)

Commonly Asked Questions About Tourist Activities at Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

1. What Is There to Do in Volcanoes National Park? | What Should I Do at Volcanoes National Park?

Prime options feature gorilla trekking (the most popular activity in Volcanoes National Park), golden monkey tracking, volcano hikes, Dian Fossey tomb visits, bird watching, cultural village tours, or community walks that allow tourists to engage with local Rwandans and learn more about their daily lives, etc.

2. How Long Do You Need at Volcanoes National Park?

Plan 3-5 days for gorilla trekking plus hikes or monkeys for an immersive Rwanda holiday.

3. How To Spend One Day at Volcano National Park?

Center on gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking, a popular activity second only to gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, followed by a cultural visit or excursion at Lake Ruhondo or Burera.

4. What Do People Do for Fun in Rwanda?

Rwanda has Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, Akagera, etc. People love gorilla safaris, trekking, cultural immersions, and sitting by the lake in safari parks.

5. What Is the Most Visited National Park in Rwanda?

Most of the visitors select Volcanoes National Park as a popular site for gorilla trekking on Rwanda vacations.

6. Is Volcanoes National Park Worth Seeing?

Absolutely, any time of year is a great opportunity to visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda with its plethora of species and natural beauty.

7. How Much Time to Spend At Volcanoes National Park?

Tourists are strongly advised to spend at least 2-4 days in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda for thorough exploration and engagement in most of the tourism activities.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers lasting Rwandan safaris, including endangered mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, tough hikes, and cultural richness in the Virunga highlands. This important place aids conservation and provides a variety of adventures. Book permits and dry-season dates well in advance for the best Thousand Hills experience.

Join in the fun tourist activities of Rwanda and experience the most unique moments today at Volcanoes National Park!