Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area, which spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is home to five of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga range, including Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

This protected area is not only rich in wildlife but also a symbol of Rwanda’s conservation success. The park offers exciting outdoor activities, close encounters with rare species, and unforgettable views of misty volcanoes and thick rainforest.

Volcanoes National Park is located in the Ruhengeri (Musanze) district of northern Rwanda, about a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Its proximity to Kigali makes it one of the most accessible places to see mountain gorillas in the wild.

The park shares borders with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the DRC.

Here are some top activities you can do in Volcanoes National Park:

• Gorilla Trekking: The park is one of the few places in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Treks vary in difficulty and duration but are always unforgettable.
• Golden Monkey Trekking: A lighter alternative to gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking offers a chance to see these rare, playful primates in the bamboo forest.
• Volcano Hikes: Climb Mount Bisoke to see its crater lake or tackle the more challenging Mount Karisimbi, the highest volcano in the Virunga range.
• Visit Dian Fossey’s Tomb: Hike to the former research camp of the legendary primatologist and pay tribute to her conservation legacy.
• Cultural Visits: Engage with local Rwandan communities through village visits, traditional dances, and crafts.
• Nature Walks: Explore the lower slopes of the volcanoes with scenic nature walks and spot birds, forest buffaloes, and bushbucks.
• Caving: Visit the Musanze Caves, formed by volcanic eruptions, with impressive rock formations and a unique underground ecosystem.

Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, with its misty bamboo forests and volcanic slopes providing refuge to a range of rare and iconic species. The park is most famous for being one of the last remaining habitats of the endangered mountain gorilla, but it is also home to other unique mammals, birds, and smaller creatures that thrive in its lush ecosystem.

Primates

• Mountain Gorillas: The park hosts around one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. These gentle giants live in family groups and are the main attraction for visitors.
• Golden Monkeys: Rare and playful, these endangered monkeys are easily spotted in the bamboo zones of the park.
• Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys
• L’Hoest’s Monkeys
• Olive Baboons
• Blue Monkeys

Mammals

While the dense forest makes sightings rare, Volcanoes National Park is also home to:

• Forest Elephants (smaller and more elusive than savannah elephants)
• Buffaloes
• Bushbucks
• Duikers (small forest antelopes)
• Spotted Hyenas
• Giant Forest Hogs

Birdlife

Volcanoes National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting over 200 bird species, including 13 Albertine Rift endemics. Some notable species include:

• Ruwenzori Turaco
• Grauer’s Rush Warbler
• Handsome Francolin
• Dusky Crimsonwing
• Strange Weaver
• Ruwenzori Double-collared Sunbird

Whether you’re on a gorilla trek or simply exploring the forest trails, Volcanoes National Park offers a rare chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic and endangered wildlife in their natural highland habitat.

There are a range of accommodation options around Volcanoes National Park, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses:

Luxury:

• Bisate Lodge: Eco-luxury lodge with jaw-dropping volcano views and organic design.
• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge: Community-owned luxury with spacious cottages and beautiful gardens.
• One&Only Gorilla’s Nest: An exclusive high-end retreat immersed in nature.

Mid-Range:

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge: Popular option with spacious rooms and traditional design.
• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel: Comfortable and stylish, located near the park entrance.

Budget:

• La Locanda: Cozy, affordable option with good meals and warm hospitality.
• Fatima Hotel Musanze: Budget-friendly hotel in the nearby town of Musanze with easy park access.