Volcanoes National Park, also known as Parc National des Volcans (PNV), is a must-visit destination located in Rwanda’s Northern Province, near the village of Musanze. Established in 1925, it’s one of Africa’s oldest national parks, created primarily to conserve the endangered mountain gorillas.
Beyond gorillas, the park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including buffaloes, forest elephants, primates like golden monkeys, and numerous bird species. But the park’s true highlight is its breathtaking scenery, dominated by the majestic Virunga volcanoes.
Top 5 Activities in Volcanoes National Park:
- Gorilla Trekking: Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience by trekking through the lush rainforest in search of habituated gorilla families. Spend an hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat, learning about their behavior, and capturing unforgettable moments.
Note: Permits for gorilla trekking are mandatory and cost $1500 per person. They can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board or reputable tour operators.
- Volcano Climbing: Challenge yourself by scaling one of the five Virunga mountains within the park: Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhavura. Each offers varying levels of difficulty and stunning panoramic views.
- Mount Karisimbi: The highest peak (4,507 meters) requires a strenuous 2-day trek with an overnight stay at 3,700 meters. Prepare to witness breathtaking views of other volcanoes, forests, and nearby lakes.
- Mount Bisoke: This 3,711-meter mountain offers a challenging 6-hour hike, rewarding you with a spectacular crater lake at the summit.
- Mount Muhavura: Shared with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, this 4,127-meter peak provides scenic vistas of the landscape, including the twin lakes Burera and Ruhondo. Expect a 6-8 hour trek to reach the summit crater lake.
- Mount Gahinga: This 3,474-meter volcano is ideal for less experienced hikers due to its shorter climb. Enjoy sightings of primates, birds, and vegetation along the way, culminating in views of a swampy caldera at the top.
- Mount Sabyinyo: Hike this 3,645-meter mountain from either Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. The unique tripoint summit allows you to stand in three countries simultaneously: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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Dian Fossey Hike: Embark on a historical and educational hike to the research center established by Dian Fossey, a primatologist dedicated to studying and protecting mountain gorillas. The 3-hour trek offers stunning views of the park’s flora and fauna while leading you to her grave and the final resting places of gorillas she cared for.
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Community Tour: Immerse yourself in the local Rwandan culture by visiting the Iby’iwacu cultural village. Learn about the traditional way of life, visit the king’s house, witness captivating dance performances like the Entore, and indulge in local cuisine and beverages. You can also participate in workshops to learn how to craft traditional items like baskets and mats.
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Wildlife Viewing: Embark on a guided game drive or nature walk to explore the diverse ecosystems within the park. Look out for various wildlife species, including buffaloes, elephants, golden monkeys, and a variety of birdlife.
Best Time to Visit: While Volcanoes National Park is accessible year-round, the dry season (June-September & December-February) offers the most favorable conditions. During this time, the park’s roads and gorilla trekking trails are less muddy and easier to navigate.
Getting to the Park: Volcanoes National Park is located in northern Rwanda and is accessible by road. Fly into Kigali International Airport and then connect to the park, approximately a 2-hour drive away. Public transportation is not recommended, and private transportation is advised.
Plan Your Unforgettable Adventure:
Volcanoes National Park offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife encounters, and rich cultural experiences. Start planning your Rwandan adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime!