Volcanoes National Park Website

About Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, East Africa, is a significant habitat for the endangered mountain gorillas. Known locally as Parc National des Volcans and Pariki y’Igihugu y’Ibirunga, the park is part of the Virunga volcanic region, extending into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This park, located in Rwanda’s Northwestern Province, is the oldest national park in Africa and plays a crucial role in preserving one-third of the mountain gorilla’s habitat.

The park’s diverse ecosystem, characterized by a rugged terrain and rain-forest, supports a variety of wildlife, including bushbucks, duikers, colobus monkeys, hyenas, giant forest hogs, elephants, and buffaloes.

Gorilla trekking is a popular activity, with visitors having the opportunity to observe several gorilla families, such as the Susa A, Susa B (Karisimbi group), Titus family, Sabyinyo family, Agashya group, Amakoro group, Umubano group, Kwitonda group, Hirwa group, Ugenda group, and Bwenge group.

These families are habituated to human presence, making the trekking experience safe and enriching.

Tourists visiting the park can also engage in other activities like mountain hiking, visiting the Musanze caves, golden monkey trekking, cultural activities in local villages, birding, and nature walks.

The park offers a range of accommodations, including Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, and One and Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge.

The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February, although trekking is possible year-round. Children under 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla trekking.

The cost of a gorilla trekking ranges from $1,730 to $1,900 USD per person per trek.

The Virunga Mountains, consisting of eight volcanoes, are a prominent feature of the park.

These volcanoes, which straddle the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, include Mount Nyiragongo, Mount Nyamuragira, Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Mikeno, and Mount Karisimbi.

Among these, Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira are active, while the others are dormant or extinct.

Mount Karisimbi, the highest of the Virunga volcanoes, offers breathtaking views and a challenging climb.

Mountain climbing safaris in the Virunga region are popular, offering spectacular scenery and the chance to observe diverse wildlife, including chimpanzees and golden monkeys.

Tourists are advised to contact experienced tour operators to plan their safaris, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

To trek gorillas in Rwanda, obtaining a gorilla permit is essential. The permit costs $1,500 USD for international visitors, $200 for East African citizens (discounted rate), and $500 for foreign residents in Rwanda and Africa (discounted rate).

Booking in advance through the Rwanda Development Board or a tour operator is recommended due to the high demand and limited availability of permits.

Each day, 96 gorilla permits are issued for Volcanoes National Park, with each permit allowing a one-hour guided trek to observe the gorillas.

Strict rules and regulations are in place to protect the gorillas and ensure the safety of visitors.

These include maintaining a distance of at least 15 feet from the gorillas, avoiding direct eye contact, and following the instructions of the park rangers. Visitors should be in good physical condition and free from any transmissible diseases.

Trekking groups are limited to eight people to minimize the impact on the gorillas and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Rwanda also offers a range of other attractions, including Nyungwe National Park, known for its chimpanzee tracking and forest-specific wildlife, and Akagera National Park, which features the Big Five animals.

Visitors can combine gorilla trekking with these attractions, enhancing their overall experience in Rwanda.

Besides offering Rwanda gorilla tours in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, we also offer Rwanda safari tours, Uganda safaris, Congo gorilla tours, budget tours, luxury tours, wildlife safaris, honeymoons, birding safaris, camping safaris, family safaris, group safaris and Kigali to Bwindi tours.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Over the years, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, has been considered one of the most adventurous activities in Africa.

The park is home to the intriguing but endangered mountain gorillas, which are primarily found in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In Rwanda, the gorillas live in an area of about 16,000 hectares in the northwestern part of the country, comprising Afro-montane forests, bamboo forests, vast swamps, savanna grassland, and five volcanoes.

Activities Associated with Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking has attracted an incredibly large number of travelers and tourists to the park, providing ample opportunities to see the mountain gorillas.

Different activities associated with gorilla trekking include hiking through dense bamboo forests and steep mountain slopes in search of these primates.

Tourists also have the chance to do double gorilla trekking, which involves crossing the borders to Uganda to experience the best of these gorilla trekking opportunities.

Remarkably, some tourists even prefer triple gorilla trekking, which gives them a chance to visit Virunga National Park in Congo to see mountain and eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park of Congo.

Therefore, triple gorilla trekking involves visiting these three countries: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

How to Access a Rwanda Gorilla Permit

Get assistance from a tour operator or directly from the Rwanda Development Board.

Tourists should keep in mind that there are only 80 gorilla permits available each day since there are only 10 gorilla families available for trekking, and only eight people can visit a particular group within 24 hours.

Guidelines to Follow When Doing Gorilla Trekking

Tourists are given a number of instructions ahead of the beautiful day with gorillas, outlining the do’s and don’t s to ensure their safety.

Tourists are advised to carry sunglasses, cameras, hats or caps, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, umbrellas, and other necessary items.

Gorilla trekking is an incredible activity that gives you a chance to fall deeply in love with nature.

It also allows you to learn and adopt the friendly ways in which we as humans can live in harmony with other fellow humans, as observed in the lives of these primates.

Best Season to Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Note that the best season to go gorilla trekking is during the peak seasons, which include the months from June to September and December to March.

During these times, tour permits become scarce due to the influx of tourists.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The best time for this activity is during the dry season, from December to early March and June to September.

The long dry season, from December to March, can see temperatures reach up to 29 degrees Celsius on some days.

The dry season is also known as the peak season, which is most preferable for visiting Rwanda due to minimal rain and good hiking terrain in the rain-forest.

It is still necessary to pack accordingly even during the drier months, including waterproof clothing, as Rwanda’s equatorial climate is unpredictable, and it can rain any day at any time.

Since it is the peak season, demand is very high, and prices for accommodation, car hire, and gorilla permits can be higher, necessitating booking in advance, 3 to 6 months prior to travel.

However, some travelers, mostly those on a budget, prefer trekking during the wet season as hotels have low occupancy and offer discounted services.

There is also lower demand for gorilla permits, giving travelers a chance to see these gentle giants with less competition.

The price of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is USD 1500, and it remains the same during both the dry and wet seasons.

Your budget and preference determine your accommodation type, with options ranging from budget to luxury, all offering quality service.

The Dry Season or High/Peak Season

The peak season in Rwanda, which is the dry season, spans from June to September and is the best time to visit the mountain gorillas.

It is easier to get to the parks, and hiking trails are not muddy or slippery due to little or no rainfall.

Tourists wishing to trek mountain gorillas during this season should book their permits in advance due to high demand, requiring a 30% deposit of the total permit price.

The short dry season from December to February is also a great time to visit the endangered mountain gorillas.

The parks are less crowded during this period, and bird-watching is at its peak due to the presence of migratory birds.

The Rainy Season or Low Season

The low season in Rwanda is from April to May, the longest rainy season in the country.

During this time, there is a high chance of rain during your trek, which may spoil your encounter and experience.

You may not trek very far as gorillas tend to move to lower slopes of the mountains to avoid high temperatures.

The short rainy season from October to November is great for photography and bird-watching, as plants and vegetation are blooming.

Wildlife is abundant, with rain often falling at night and skies clearing by morning.

The Verdict

In conclusion, the dry season, commonly known as the peak season, is the best time for gorilla trekking.

Trails are neither muddy nor slippery due to minimal rain, allowing for easy movement while trekking mountain gorillas.

Popular Rwanda Gorilla Families in Volcanoes Park

Below are some of the habituated Rwanda gorilla groups and the best gorilla families to trek in Rwanda:

• Susa Gorilla Group (Susa A Family)
• Karisimbi Gorilla Group (Susa-B)
• Sabyinyo Gorilla Group
• Amahoro Gorilla Group
• Umubano Gorilla Group
• Agashya Gorilla Group
• Kwitonda Gorilla Group
• Hirwa Gorilla Group
• Bwenge Family Group
• Ugenda Gorilla Family

Popular Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park

Facts about Volcanoes National Park

See facts about Volcanoes National Park below:

• It covers 160 square kilometers and was established in the early 1920s as a wildlife conservation area.
• The reason for its name is that it is home to five major volcanoes: Karisimbi (4,507 m), Muhabura (4,127 m), Gahinga (3,474 m), Bisoke (3,711 m), and Sabyinyo (3,634 m). These volcanoes extend all the way to Uganda. When Dian Fossey set up her gorilla research station here in 1967, it gained significant publicity and became the most visited national park in Rwanda.
• The Karisoke Research Center, established by Dian Fossey, helped curb the rampant poaching that had become unmanageable. Fossey secured funding for the park and devoted the majority of it to the conservation and research of gorillas. As a result, the park became associated with Dian Fossey’s research work on the endangered gorillas.
• Volcanoes National Park is visited by thousands of tourists every year who come to enjoy the mountain scenery, lakes and rivers, lush green forests, mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
• There are four types of vegetation in the park: Hagenia/Hypericum vegetation at high altitudes, but not more than 3,300 m, Afro-Alpine vegetation at 4,000 m or higher, Sub-Alpine vegetation dominated by bamboo forests on lower slopes
• The variety of animals in Volcanoes National Park is vast, with mountain gorillas being the key attraction. The park is home to 30% of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, as well as golden monkeys, forest hogs, bush pigs, leopards, duikers, spotted hyenas, forest buffalo, and elephants.
• Bird watchers will be pleased to know that the park is home to over 200 recorded species of birds, the most popular of which are the Rwenzori turaco and the Francolins.
• Visiting Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, with gorilla trekking being the most popular. Other activities include visiting the graves of famous naturalists, trekking with golden monkeys, hiking in the mountains, visiting the cultural village of Iby’Iwacu, and taking tours of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, among others.

Top Things to See – Key Attractions

Key attractions and sights ion Volcanoes National Park include.

• Mountain Gorillas
• Golden Monkeys
• Birds
• Twin Lakes Ruhondo and Burera
• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (Now Called Gorilla Guardians Village)
• Tomb of Dian Fossey
• Mount Karisimbi Volcano
• Mount Bisoke
• Mount Muhabura

Top Things to Do – Key Activities

Here are some of the popular activities to do at Volcanoes National Park:

Location of PNV

It is located in the northwest of Rwanda in the small town of Musanze, formerly known as Ruhengeri.

The park borders Virunga National Park in the DRC and Mgahinga National Park in the southwest of Uganda.

Map of Volcanoes National Park

Distance Between Rwanda National Parks

Where to Stay – Accommodation Guide

WHERE TO STAY IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK – Below are some of the most popular budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation facilities in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda.

Top Luxury Lodges

Check out some of the luxury accommodations available at this spectacular park.

1. Bisate Lodge
2. Virunga Lodge
3. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
4. Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
5. Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Top Mid-range Lodges

These are some of the mid-range accommodations that you can stay in:

1. Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
2. Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel
3. Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
4. Garden Place Hotel
5. Garr Hotel
6. La Palme Hotel
7. Best View Hotel

Top Budget Lodges

Here is a list of the top budget lodges and hotels.

1. Muhabura Hotel
2. Kinigi Guest House
3. Villa Gorilla
4. Urugano Virunga Palace
5. La Palme Hotel – Musanze

Frequently Asked Questions about Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Here are 30 FAQs about Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda:

1. What is Volcanoes National Park? Volcanoes National Park, located in Rwanda’s Northwestern Province, is a protected area home to endangered mountain gorillas.
2. Where is Volcanoes National Park located? It is located in northwestern Rwanda, part of the Virunga volcanic region shared with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
3. Why is Volcanoes National Park famous? It is renowned for gorilla trekking and being a habitat for one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
4. What activities can I do in Volcanoes National Park? Gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, mountain hiking, visiting Musanze Caves, birding, and cultural village visits are popular activities.
5. How many gorilla families are there in Volcanoes National Park? The park hosts several habituated gorilla families, including the Susa A, Susa B, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Kwitonda, and Hirwa groups.
6. What wildlife can I see in Volcanoes National Park? Besides gorillas, you can see golden monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, bushbucks, duikers, and colobus monkeys.
7. What are the key features of the Virunga Mountains? The Virunga Mountains feature eight volcanoes, including Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Sabyinyo.
8. Is mountain hiking available in Volcanoes National Park? Yes, you can hike Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, and other volcanoes in the park.
9. What is the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park? The permit costs $1,500 for international tourists, $500 for foreign residents, and $200 for East African citizens.
10. How many permits are available for gorilla trekking daily? There are 96 permits issued each day for gorilla trekking in the park.
11. What is the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park? The best time is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February.
12. Can children participate in gorilla trekking? No, children under 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla trekking.
13. What are the accommodation options near Volcanoes National Park? Options include luxury lodges like Bisate Lodge and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, and mid-range lodges like Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge.
14. What are the rules for gorilla trekking? Visitors must maintain a 15-foot distance from gorillas, avoid direct eye contact, and follow the instructions of park rangers.
15. What are some other attractions near Volcanoes National Park? Other attractions include the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, and Dian Fossey’s tomb.
16. What kind of terrain is found in Volcanoes National Park? The park features rugged terrain with Afro-montane forests, bamboo forests, and volcanoes.
17. Are there golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park? Yes, golden monkey trekking is another popular activity in the park.
18. What should I wear for gorilla trekking? Wear long-sleeved shirts, trousers, hiking boots, a hat, and bring waterproof clothing due to unpredictable weather.
19. How physically demanding is gorilla trekking? Gorilla trekking can be physically challenging due to the steep and dense forest terrain.
20. Is there a best season for bird watching in Volcanoes National Park? The best bird-watching season is during the dry season from December to February when migratory birds are present.
21. What volcanoes can I hike in Volcanoes National Park? Popular volcanoes to hike include Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, and Mount Muhabura.
22. Can I combine gorilla trekking with visits to other national parks in Rwanda? Yes, many visitors combine trips to Volcanoes National Park with Nyungwe National Park and Akagera National Park.
23. What is the significance of Mount Karisimbi? Mount Karisimbi is the highest volcano in the Virunga range and offers breathtaking views for hikers.
24. How can I book a gorilla trekking permit? Permits can be booked through the Rwanda Development Board or a licensed tour operator.
25. Are there any safety precautions for gorilla trekking? Yes, visitors must avoid close contact, follow park rules, and be free from communicable diseases to protect gorillas.
26. What are the Musanze Caves? The Musanze Caves are a popular attraction near the park, offering insight into Rwanda’s volcanic history.
27. Is the gorilla trekking experience safe? Yes, it is safe, as all gorilla families are habituated to human presence and accompanied by trained guides and rangers.
28. What type of vegetation is found in Volcanoes National Park? The park features Afro-montane, bamboo, and sub-alpine vegetation.
29. What animals besides gorillas can I see in the park? You can see elephants, buffaloes, hyenas, duikers, bushbucks, and various primates like colobus monkeys.
30. What is the Virunga Conservation Area? The Virunga Conservation Area spans across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, protecting the habitat of mountain gorillas.