Gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking and volcano climbing are the most famous safari activities in Volcanoes Park Rwanda however, this list continues.
Below is a detail of the best things to do in Volcanoes National Park:
1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda Volcanoes Park is praised as the best place for gorilla tracking adventures in East Africa.
Therefore, most tourists who visit Volcanoes National Park Rwanda are interested in gorilla trekking tours! This is so because it’s safer than Congo’s Virunga National Park and holds more habituated endangered Mountain gorilla families than Mgahinga. More still, Volcanoes Park is more easily accessible than Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable forest park.
About 12 gorilla groups are habituated for gorilla tracking safaris in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. You’re free to choose which gorilla family to visit!
These are the 12 habituated gorilla families in Rwanda Volcanoes Park:
- Karisimbi Gorilla family
- Hirwa Family
- Sabyinyo Gorilla Family
- Kwitonda Family
- Amahoro Gorilla Group
- Muhoza gorilla Family
- Susa Gorilla Group
- Igisha Group
- Agashya Gorilla Group
- Umubano Family
- Ugyenda Family
- Bwenge Group
Regardless of the Mountain gorilla group you visit, you’ll encounter these amazing largest primates on Earth- Mountain gorillas. You’ll learn about their behaviors which are almost similar to those of humans. This experience is memorable!
COST FOR GORILLA TREKKING PERMIT IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK RWANDA- HOW MUCH ARE GORILLA TREKKING PERMITS IN RWANDA?
Gorilla permits in Rwanda are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and here is its charge:
- Non-Residents: $1500
- Foreign Resident in Africa: $500
- Residents of East Africa: $200
We advise you to book your gorilla permit for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park in advance as these gorilla permits are limited. This fee covers park entrance fees.
BEST TIME TO SEE GORILLAS IN RWANDA- WHEN TO VISIT RWANDA GORILLAS IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK?
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is open all year round however, we recommend a dry season- June to August and December to February.
In dry months, trails for gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park are dry as less rainfall is received in the park.
GORILLA TREKKING RULES IN RWANDA VOLCANOES PARK
The rules for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park also cut across Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. They help to keep the lives of the endangered Mountain gorillas and visitors who track them.
You’ll be briefed by national park guides from Volcanoes National Park headquarters.
These are the guidelines for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park:
- Persons below 15 years are not allowed to go gorilla trekking
- You’re not allowed to track gorillas if you have contagious diseases
- It’s illegal to litter the park while tracking Mountain gorillas
- Maintain maximum silence along the gorilla trekking trail
- You’re not allowed to use flash photography in the presence of Mountain gorillas- it stresses them!
- Visitors are not allowed to touch the endangered Mountain gorillas
- Never feed Mountain gorillas
- Travelers are not allowed to smoke, eat, or drink in the presence of Mountain gorillas
- You’re limited to one hour with Mountain gorillas
- Keep always a 7m distance while in the presence of the endangered Mountain gorillas
- Follow always instructions of the national park guides while gorilla trekking.
2. Golden Monkey Trekking
Tracking Golden monkeys is the second most thrilling activity in Rwanda Volcanoes Park.
Just like Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, golden monkey trekking is also done once a day. It starts with a briefing from the park headquarters around 7 a.m. Rwanda Volcanoes Park holds 2 habituated Golden monkey families open for golden monkey treks.
Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes Park Rwanda takes about 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on the location of these magnificent creatures- the Golden monkeys.
Upon spotting the Golden monkeys, you’ll be allowed to spend 1 magical hour with them. You’ll enjoy watching them in bamboo forests wonderfully playing in bamboo forest, eating bamboo shoots, and learning about their amazing behaviors.
Get your camera ready to take photos as well as videos of these colorful monkeys.
3. Mountain Hiking Adventures
Out of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains- covering regions of Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo, Volcanoes National Park holds 5 of them. Thus, it’s a great site for hiking safaris in Rwanda.
Usually, volcano hikes are made before Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Popular volcano hiking adventures in Rwanda Volcanoes Park:
a. HIKING MOUNT BISOKE
Normally, most hikers opt to hike Mount Bisoke- 3,711m above sea level. Hiking this stunning volcano up to the top takes about 6 hours and 2 hours descending.
This hike takes you through different dense vegetation zones such as the thick rain forest, and bamboo forests, and you’ll enjoy the adventure of moving through fairly challenging slopes.
On reaching the summit, you’ll be amazed by the gorgeous views of the Bisoke Crater Lake.
Along the hiking trail, you’ll have attractive views of Lake Kivu and most of the Virunga Mountains.
b. HIKING MOUNT KARISIMBI
Mount Karisimbi- 4507m high is the highest point in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park.
This striking Rwanda volcano rises its name from “amasimbi” A Kinyarwanda dialect meaning “white sells”. The naming is due to due to its white snow-capped summit.
Mount Karisimbi hike is a fairly strenuous hike taking 2 days starting through Mount Bisoke trail. During the hike, you’ll encounter numerous lovely bird species, and enjoy the remarkable scenery of (active volcanoes) - Mount Nyiragongo, and Nyamurangira Volcano.
4. Dian Fossey Tomb Hike at Karisoke Research Centre
On your visit to Volcanoes National Park, never miss Dian Fossey's tomb hike at Karisoke Research Center. Dian Fossey was a great American primatologist who laid the foundation for Mountain gorilla conservation in East Africa- gorilla tourism.
She fought hard to stop poaching as well as the pet trade within the Virunga Mountains. Today, it’s because of her effort that Mountain gorillas thrive now. Unfortunately, Dian Fossey was found brutally murdered with a machete in her cabin in 1985. It’s alleged that this was done by poachers.
Dian Fossey hike takes you to Dian Fossey’s graveyard and gives you an insight into her effort in gorilla conservation.
On this 2-3 hours hike, expect to encounter several wildlife species and lovely dense vegetation. Also, you’ll see the grave of Digit- Fossey’s favorite friend as well as the graves of 20 Mountain gorillas- killed by either poachers or natural death.
Dian Fossey hike always includes a visit to her former Karisoke Research Centre.
5. Exploring Musanze Caves
Musanze Caves is one of the mysterious ancient underground caves formed in Rwanda believed to have formed due to volcanic eruption which formed an underground space- big enough that even humans can enter.
The Musanze Caves are about 2km long with thrilling walkways that take you to the interior.
For you to explore this great cave, you must have special torches as its inside is dark. In the past, Musanze cave used to be a home for Batwa people (Pygmies). Also, it acted as a hiding ground during the war.
Musanze cave tour is usually done after morning gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Tours to these underground caves were opened in 2013 by Rwanda Development Board.
6. Bird Watching in Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is one of the key destinations for Rwanda birding tours. It’s home to over 200 species of birds and about 17 are endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley region.
While bird watching, you’ll be accompanied by an expert local birding tour guide as well as a park ranger. Normally, the Mount Bisoke hiking trail offers the best birding experience.
On your birding tour in Rwanda Volcanoes Park, expect to spot:
• Rwenzori Turaco
• Red-faced woodland warbler
• Strange weaver
• Rwenzori double-collared sunbird
• Dusky Crimson Wing
• Bar-tailed Trogon
• Common stonechat
• Rwenzori Batis
• Red-faced Woodland Warbler
7. Exploring Iby’iwacu Cultural Village Around Volcanoes National Park
Found on the edge of Rwanda Volcanoes Park, Iby’iwacu Cultural Village is an indigenous community that has mobilized into a Gorilla Guardian Village. Majorly, it highlights visitors on the benefits of wildlife conservation as well as Mountain gorilla protection.
This cultural tour is usually done after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. It offers you a memorable opportunity to interact with local people.
Expect to enjoy exciting traditional songs, dance, and pastime games. If time allows, you can go ahead to learn how to prepare local food, and brew made from bananas.
Famous Activities to Do in Iby'iwacu Cultural Village
- COMMUNITY WALKS
Community walks are made with the company of a friendly local guide. You’ll go through different homesteads and this is the best way to explore the daily activities and lifestyle of different families.
- EXPLORING THE KING’S HURT
On this tour, you’ll meet the caretaker- a local guide with great knowledge about this area. He will explain to you all the symbols found here as well as share with you captivating stories about this place as well as the kings.
There is an opportunity for you to be enthroned as a King for a few minutes or hours. This adventure offers unforgettable memories
- TAKING PART IN TRADITIONAL DANCES AND MUSIC
In Rwanda, there are about 8 types of interesting traditional dances as well as music. On your cultural visit to this Gorilla Guardian Village, you can join a group of local women, men, and youth during the traditional dance session.
If possible, you can choose to learn some dancing styles or drumming, for example, the Agakenke drumming style.
- VISITING BATWA COMMUNITY
Batwa people or the Pygmies are endangered people who initially inhabited the dense forest of Volcanoes Park. However, these people “Forest people” were evicted from the forest to conserve wildlife- the endangered Mountain gorillas.
With a local guide, you can visit these indigenous people to learn much about their lives.
- ATTENDING BABY GORILLAS NAMING CEREMONY- THE RWANDA GORILLA NAMING CEREMONY
In 2005, RDB officially started the baby gorilla naming ceremony- Kwita Izina Ceremony. Since that time, all baby gorillas born in this country got a databank with bio records; names, gender, family, age, and family, etc.
The baby gorilla naming ceremony is an amazing annual cultural ceremony held in September to celebrate the birth of newborn baby gorillas. It aims to bring both local & and international awareness about the value of protecting Mountain gorillas.
Baby gorilla naming ceremony is attended by several visitors of high profile across the globe including celebrities and several amazing activities are held. Among these include Music, dance, drama, and storytelling.
Must Do Activities Outside Volcanoes National Park
- Game viewing in Akagera National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking & canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest Park
- Relaxation on Lake Kivu
- Kigali city tours
- Exploring the Twin Lakes
- Visiting Buhanga Eco Park- The Buhanga Eco Park is an ancient great sacred site that was used during the coronation rituals of the Rwanda Kings.
Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park- What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Volcanoes National Park?
All year round, you can go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda however, dry months- June to mid-September and December are ideal. At this time, the trails for Mountain gorilla trekking are drier since less rainfall is usually received in the park.
During wet months- March to May & late September to November rainfall can be expected in most hours of the day. Therefore, expect some rainfall inconveniences.
If interested in budget gorilla safaris in Rwanda, consider visiting in the low season (wet season) some lodges give out discounts to clients.
How to Get to Volcanoes National Park
Situated in northwestern Rwanda in Kisenyi Village, Rwanda Volcanoes Park is about a 2 to 3-hour drive from Kigali International Airport.
If coming from Uganda, you can access this park via Kyanika Boarder in Kisoro- which is about 30 30-minute drive.
Volcanoes park can only be accessed by vehicle! Avoid public means since they don’t leave on time.
Volcanoes National Park Accommodation, Places to Stay near Volcano National Park Where to Stay in Volcanoes Park National Park Africa?
There’s a range of accommodations around Volcanoes National Park and it suits every class of traveler. They include lodges, restaurants, hotels, and campsites categorized into budget, midrange, and luxury facilities.
Below are the best Volcanoes National Park Rwanda hotels:
A. Luxury Lodges in Rwanda Volcanoes Park
- Bisate Lodge
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
- Virunga Lodge
B. Midrange Lodges in Volcanoes Park Rwanda
- La Palme Hotel
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
- Garden Palace Hotel
- Eagle View Lodge
- Urugano Virunga Palace
- Fravan Eco Resort
C. Budget Accommodation in Volcanoes Park
- Hotel Muhabura
- Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
- Villa Gorilla Hotel
- Kinigi Guest House
- Kinigi Guesthouse and,
- Hotel Muhabura, etc.
Safari Packing List for Volcanoes National Park
While planning to go for your gorilla tracking safari in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, there are some items you must have on your pack list for a lovely adventure.
Safari pack list for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park:
- Insect repellents- Safeguards you from biting insects in the jungle
- A camera- should have a good storage space to cater for many photos
- Rain jacket- helpful in case rain finds you on the gorilla tracking trail
- Long trousers & long-sleeved shirts- safeguard your body from insect bites as well as cuts in the jungle
- Waterproof hiking boots- ideal on the gorilla trekking trail
- Sun protection gears- sunscreens, sunglasses, and a sunhat are so helpful in dry months
- Bottled water- to keep you hydrated on the gorilla trek
- Garden gloves- keep your hands safe while on the gorilla tracking trail
More FAQs About Rwanda Volcanoes Park
1. Where is the Volcanoes National Park?
This great park is situated in the far northwest of Rwanda within the beautiful peaks of the Virunga Mountain ranges which are shared by 3 countries; Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo- DR Congo.
Volcanoes Park is about 2 hours drive from Kigali International Airport.
2. What Is the History of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda?
Volcano National Park was gazetted in 1925 by the Belgian colonial authorities. The main intention was to protect the Mountain gorillas as well as other wildlife from poachers.
In 1967, Dian Fossey (a great primatologist) arrived in this park and set up the Karisoke Research Centre- found between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Since then, she spent her time in the park making great efforts to conserve gorillas.
Unfortunately in 1985, this great scientist was assassinated by unknown assassins. This crime is attributed to poachers she had spent her life struggling with!
3. What Is the Weather Like in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?
Rwanda Volcanoes Park experiences a tropical climate! Being a mountainous area, this park receives a steady stream of rainfall & mist. Being at a high altitude, its weather is usually wet and cold.
Temperatures in Volcanoes Park Rwanda don’t change very much throughout the year. Day temperatures are around 150C while at night, it can cool up to 70C.
4. What Is Unique About Volcanoes National Park Rwanda? | What is Volcanoes National Park Known For?
Rwanda Volcano National Park is famous for its Mountain gorillas. It’s one of the only 3 areas on Earth to spot Mountain gorillas. Other national parks include; Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo within Virunga National Park- Albert National Park.
In this Rwanda gorilla park, you can also enjoy golden monkey tracking, birding tours, and volcano hiking. We advise our clients to visit the Karisoke Research Center- a renowned research center for Dian Fossey.
5. Why Is Volcano National Park Closed?
Rwanda Volcanoes Park is open for gorilla trekking tours! Get in touch with your tour operator for more information.
We advise you to book your gorilla permit (gorilla permits) in advance, there limited in number.
6. Is It Worth Going to Volcano National Park?
Absolutely, Rwanda Volcano Park is worth visiting. It’s one of the few areas on Earth to enjoy gorilla trekking safari tours in East Africa. The other national parks for gorilla tracking safaris include Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga Parks as well as Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo- DR Congo.
Apart from Mountain gorilla expeditions in Volcanoes National Park, travelers can also undertake volcano climbing, birding, and exploring Karisoke Research Centre.
Karisoke Research Center was a station for Dian Fossey- a great American primatologist who was murdered in her conservation efforts to protect Mountain gorillas in this region.
7. Do You Need a Reservation for Volcanoes National Park?
True, you should book your gorilla permit if you intend to track Mountain gorillas in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park. These gorilla permits are limited especially during the peak season.
Most tourists book their gorilla permits through local tour operators in Rwanda.
8. How Long Does It Take to Explore Volcano National Park?
This time varies with the activities you wish to undertake in Volcanoes Park Rwanda. For instance, you can go for a 1 day gorilla trek in Rwanda Volcanoes Park. If interested in gorilla and volcano climbing (climbing Mount Bisoke), expect to spend at least 2 days.
Your tour operator will guide you!
9. What Is There to Do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the main activity for tourists. However, you can also enjoy golden monkey trekking, volcano climbing (Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi) as well as bird watching.
Most travelers don’t miss Dian Fossey hike and a visit to her Karisoke Research Center. Exciting cultural tours around this park are also a must not miss!
10. What Animals Live in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?
Gorillas and Golden monkeys are the famous animal species in Rwanda Volcanoes Park. On rare occasions, you can spot other wildlife species such as forest Elephants, Buffalos, Spotted Hyenas, Bushbucks, and Giant forest hogs as well as numerous birds.
11. What Are the Best Hikes in Volcanoes National Park?
In Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, the best hikes include gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, volcano hikes as well a hike to the tomb of Dian Fossey.
In short, most Rwanda safaris are incomplete without Volcanoes National Park. Volcanoes National Park offers one of the best gorilla trekking safaris in Africa as well as Golden monkey trekking expeditions which are among the most thrilling and rarest adventures in Africa.
Apart from gorilla trekking tours, this park is also a great destination for volcano hiking and birding tours. On your visit, you can go ahead and explore Karisoke Research Center- a famous gorilla research station set up under the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
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