Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park Travel Guide

Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most famous protected area and one of the world’s best places to see mountain gorillas. It sits in the Virunga Mountains in the north of the country and protects thick rainforest, bamboo zones, crater lakes, and volcanic slopes. The park is also known for Dian Fossey’s gorilla conservation work, golden monkey trekking, and several volcano hikes.

This is the park most visitors travel to when they want a short but memorable wildlife experience in Rwanda. Treks start early in the morning from Kinigi, the main park headquarters, and most travelers stay in lodges around Musanze town.

What You Will Experience

Wildlife encounters are the main reason to visit. Gorilla trekking is controlled and highly organized, and groups are limited to eight visitors per gorilla family. Rangers track the gorillas every day, so you have a guaranteed chance of seeing them once you reach their location.

Besides gorillas, the park is home to golden monkeys that live in large playful groups. You may also see buffalo, forest elephants, duikers, bushpigs, and various birds, although most of these are harder to spot due to the thick vegetation.

The scenery is striking. The Virunga range creates dramatic views of steep volcanoes, bamboo forests, and high altitude swamps. Treks often involve moving through muddy slopes, open clearings, and misty forest.

Activities are varied. Most travelers do gorilla trekking once or twice, but others add golden monkeys, the Dian Fossey hike to Karisoke, or the more demanding climb to the crater lake on Mount Bisoke.

Gorilla Trekking explained

Gorilla trekking is the most popular experience in Rwanda. Treks start with a briefing at 7AM, followed by allocation into groups based on fitness and preference. Some gorilla families are close to the park edge, while others require long hikes.

You spend one hour with the gorillas once you reach them. The experience is calm, respectful, and closely monitored by guides. The gorillas are habituated, meaning they are used to humans but still wild.

Permits in Rwanda cost 1500 USD per person, and they must be booked in advance due to limited availability. High season dates often sell out months earlier.

Weather and Climate

The park is cool because of its elevation. Expect daytime temperatures around 15°C and much colder evenings. Rain is common at any time of year, although June to August is drier. Trails get muddy and slippery even during the dry months, so waterproof gear and proper hiking boots are needed. More info on Volcanoes NP weather

Best Time to Visit

The best months are June to August and December to February. These periods have less rain, which makes trekking easier. Gorilla sightings are excellent year round because the animals do not migrate. More info on best time to visit Volcanoes NP

How to Get There

The park is located about two and a half hours from Kigali by road. Roads are paved and safe to travel on. Most travelers arrive the day before their trek and spend the night at a lodge in or near Musanze. More info on getting to Volcanoes NP

Accommodation Options Near the Park

Accommodation is outside the park boundary. Options range from luxury lodges to midrange hotels and simple guesthouses. High end properties like Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, and One and Only Gorilla's Nest sit closer to the park. Midrange choices are in Musanze town, which is about twenty to thirty minutes from the Kinigi headquarters.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden monkey trekking is lighter and shorter compared to gorilla trekking. The monkeys move in large groups and are easy to find. The trek usually takes two to three hours in total. This activity is good for families and anyone who wants an additional experience without the intensity of a full gorilla trek.

Hiking and Other Activities

Visitors can climb Mount Bisoke to see the crater lake, visit Dian Fossey’s former research station at Karisoke, or trek Mount Muhabura for a more challenging experience. Each hike requires decent fitness and starts early in the morning.

Safety and Regulations

Volcanoes National Park is safe for tourists. All treks are guided, and armed rangers accompany groups for protection. Visitors must follow the rules, which include keeping distance from the gorillas, no flash photography, and not trekking when sick, as gorillas can catch human diseases. More information on Volcanoes NP safety

Our Expert Recommendation

Permits must be purchased in advance, especially in high season. Warm layers, rain jackets, gloves, and sturdy boots are essential. Porters are available and recommended, as they help carry bags and assist on slippery terrain. Treks can last anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family.