Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Located in Northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s great wildlife destinations mostly known for its high number of mountain gorillas in the Virunga Conservation area. Volcanoes National Park covers an area of about 160 square kilometers and is home to five of the eight volcanoes which are Gahinga , Sabinyo, Karisimbi, Muhabura and Bisoke.
The park is located only 2 hours drive from Kigali and the biggest attraction in Volcanoes National Park is gorilla trekking that happens all year round. The park also hosts the unique golden monkeys that are also trekked all year round.
Brief History About Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
In 1929, volcanoes National Park was expanded so as to include some parts of Rwanda and Belgian Congo hence named as Albert National Park and was under the management of the Belgian Colonial Authorities. In the 1960’s when Rwanda and Congo gained Independence, the park was divided between the two countries and at that time the park was almost half of its original size.
In 1967, Dian Fossey the American primatologist who had been doing research on mountain gorillas established her research base between the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes that was yet to be known as Karisoke Research centre. She continued to push the campaign about conservation of mountain gorillas and mobilized resources to fight against poaching. Dian Fossey was murdered in 1985 and was buried at the research center right next to her favorite gorilla that was called Digit. Visiting the grave of Dian Fossey can be part of your safari as well. Contact us.
The park continued to face a lot of challenges from poachers but in 2005, in a bid to boost conservation and increase gorilla tours in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda introduced an annual ceremony called “Kwita Iziina” to name the baby gorillas which has brought great results in the population growth of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Popular Safaris to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
2 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
5 Days Rwanda Gorillas & Culture
7 Days Gorillas, Dian Fossey & Golden monkeys
6 Days Rwanda Gorillas & Chimpanzee Safari
Activities to do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The most prime activity in Volcanoes National Park is gorilla trekking. The Rwanda gorilla permit is sold at $1500 per person through Rwanda Development Board which guarantees a traveler one hour in the presence of mountain gorillas. Visitors go through a briefing at the park headquarters and then hike through the dense forests with the help of an experienced guide that helps you get closer to the gorilla’s habitats. The maximum number of trekkers per group is 8 and once you are close to the mountain gorillas you have an hour with them to capture pictures, videos and watch them. Being close to these mountain gorillas is an experience like no other and is truly unforgettable. At Encounter Africa Safaris we help you book your gorilla permit and plan your safari all through.
Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Golden monkeys are a unique endangered species with a number of beautiful color complexions i.e. black, gray and a beautiful shade of orange-gold hence being called golden monkeys. The golden monkey permit is sold at $100 through the Rwanda Development Board which guarantees you time with the golden monkeys. Visitors undergo orientation and later hike through the forest in search of golden monkeys in their natural habitat. Watching the golden monkeys play around and jump from one bamboo tree to another is truly a great experience and one that you should encounter.
Hiking Adventure
For adventure lovers, hiking is a perfect way to explore more of Volcanoes National Park. Hiking the peak of Mount Bisoke which stands at a height of 3711 meters offers an incredible encounter and amazing view of its crater lake at the top and the surrounding Virunga Landscape.
For more adventurous seekers, hiking Mount Karisimbi which is known to be the hardest to hike is a great opportunity as well. Standing at a height of 4507 meters, it presents hikers with a tough challenge but offers them a stunning view of the stretch across the region. Hiking both Mountains provides an opportunity to indulge in the beauty of Volcanoes National Park from the dense rainforests, bamboo forests and various wildlife species.
Visit to Dian Fossey’s Grave and the Karisoke Research Centre
Hiking to the Dian Fossey Research Center is a great way to pay tribute to Dian Fossey the great primatologist and also get to learn more about conservation. Dian Fossey’s work is largely responsible for the continued conservation and survival of the mountain gorillas.
Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Experience
Indulge into Rwandan culture as you not only interact with the local people but take part in their daily activities. Learn more about their traditions, dances, lifestyle and generally their ways of living. This is a great experience to get to understand the region beyond just wildlife.
Explore the Musanze Caves
These ancient tunnels were utilized to store food supplies for Rwanda’s rulers during the time of conflict. Today, they are a great attraction to visit while exploring Volcanoes National Park. The cave’s ceilings are covered up with bats whose eyes lighten up when you direct a flashlight toward them. Exploring these caves is a great journey down memory lane.
Visiting the Twin Lakes Burera and Ruhondo.
The best way to unwind after carrying out an activity like gorilla trekking is by visiting the unique twin lakes Burera and Ruhondo. Enjoy a boat cruise on these beautiful waters offering amazing views of bird life and the hilly landscape with waterfalls. Exploring these lakes provides an opportunity to interact with the locals and learn more about their rich heritage and culture.
Bird Watching in Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park has over 200 bird species which makes it a great birding destination. Expect to see a variety of bird species especially the Albertine Rift endemics. Bird species include Archers Robin, Black Cuckoo, African Green Broadbill among others.
What is the Best time to visit Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?
The ideal time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry season which is between December to early March and June to September. Rwanda has good weather throughout the year but the dry season is the most preferred.
This season is best for those interested in gorilla and golden monkey trekking since there is a minimal chance of rain during the trek and the terrain is easier to hike.
What to pack for your Safari in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Here is a list of items to carry with you on your safari to Volcanoes National Park;
- Hiking shoes: The Virunga mountains can be a bit challenging therefore it is best to have good and comfortable hiking shoes for your hiking experiences and trekking experiences.
- Insect Repellant: Volcanoes national park harbors a variety of insects like mosquitoes whose bites can be a bit irritating and can cause disease. Therefore it is good to carry an insect repellant to avoid such uncomfortable circumstances.
- Binoculars: With birding as one of the most rewarding activities in Volcanoes National Park, having binoculars makes it easier to see a variety of bird species in the park.
- Pain Killers: Hiking can be a bit exhausting leading to sore muscles and joint pains therefore it is good for one to carry painkillers to help relieve yourself from pain and tension after the hiking experience.
- Hiking clothes: Ensure to pack the perfect comfortable attire for your safari. During gorilla trekking, it is advisable to wear long sleeved shirts and long trousers to avoid being scratched by branches or bitten by insects directly.
- Sunscreen: It is also important to carry your sunscreen to protect yourself from direct sunlight heat and especially for those with sensitive skin.
Is Volcanoes National Park safe to visit?
Volcanoes National Park is considered safe because of the high numbers of travelers that come in every year. During mountain gorilla treks, trained guides and travelers always lead the tourists through the park. Government and park rangers strive hard to maintain safety in the park, conserve the gorillas and their habitat.
How to get to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
By Road: Volcanoes National Park is only a few hours from Kigali the capital city of Rwanda and is mostly reached by road transport. After arrival at Kigali International Airport, you travel through Kigali in a 4*4 vehicle and it is a 2-3 hours drive to Volcanoes National Park. Get in touch with us to organize the best transportation means to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda.
By Air: For more comfortable and quick means from Kigali, you can charter a flight from Kigali to Musanze town which is about 25 minutes flight however you will need road means to connect to your lodge and as well to move to the park headquarters for briefing before your gorilla your trekking experience.
Rules and Regulations to follow while on Safari in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
It is important to follow rules and regulations while on your safari. Here are some of the rules and regulations to follow while on safari in Volcanoes National Park;
- Do not smoke. Volcanoes National Park is a primate sanctuary harboring mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and other primates hence why smoking is not allowed. Mountain gorillas share over 98% DNA with humans making them more vulnerable to picking respiratory diseases from humans. Smoking also causes fire therefore it is important to safeguard the park since there are designated smoking areas.
- Do not litter. Ensure to keep the park as clean as you found it. If you have any trash, kindly carry it back to the points of disposal allocated in the park. This is also important to ensure conservation for future generations.
- Do not make noise while in the park. It is very important to keep your voice as low as possible while in the park. Even during gorilla trekking, it is important to keep voices low because when you make noise the gorillas may get scared and irritated and may end up charging at you.
- Do not collect anything from the park. You should not go around collecting anything, for example volcanic stones, or plucking leaves. Make sure that the ecosystem is not distorted in any way during your safari.
It is also important to follow guidelines after meeting with wildlife, for example, the mountain gorillas. Here are some rules to follow while doing gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park;
- Visitors are required to maintain a distance of 7m from the gorillas
- Try not to make movements that might frighten the mountain gorillas
- The maximum number of trekkers allowed per group is 8.
- Spitting while in the park or in the presence of gorillas is highly
- If you have a contagious illness like a cough please do not visit the gorillas. In case you feel a need to cough while with the gorillas, ensure to cover your mouth.
- Do not eat or drink in the presence of the mountain gorillas
- In case a gorilla charges at you, stay still, look away from it and follow your guide’s instructions
- Visiting time for the mountain gorillas is only limited to 1 hour.
Where to stay while on safari in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
There are a variety of accommodations in Volcanoes National Park that cater to every travelers’ preference ranging from luxury, mid-range and budget-friendly. Below are some of the lodges;
Luxury Accommodation: One& Only Gorilla Nest Lodge, Wilderness Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, The Bishop’s House among others .
Mid-range Accommodation: Volcanoes Botique Hotel, Amakoro Songa Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Davinci Gorilla Lodge, Lebambou Gorilla Lodge, Tiloreza Eco Lodge among others.
Budget- Friendly Accommodation: La Locanda, Villa Gorilla, Kinigi Guest House, Garden Place Hotel, Hotel Muhabura, La Palme Hotel, Faraja Hotel among others.
Why use Encounter Africa Safaris to organize your safari to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Encounter Africa Safaris has a great team that takes care of all your requests and inquiries. We are highly recommended for trip advisor and safari bookings. Our website is one of the best and reliable to help you start preparing for your safari as we have the best and updated information that you can rely on. Get in touch with us today.
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