Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations and the premier place in Rwanda to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is named after the chain of dormant volcanoes that form the Virunga Mountains, including Mount Karisimbi (4,507m – the highest), Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

Covering an area of approximately 160 square kilometers, the park is located in north-western Rwanda and is renowned for its rich biodiversity. In addition to mountain gorillas, the park is home to golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and a wide variety of bird species. Volcanoes National Park truly serves as the gateway to Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Activities in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park offers a range of unforgettable activities, making it a must-visit destination for adventure lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is the park’s most popular activity and one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in the world. Visitors can trek to one of the park’s 10 habituated mountain gorilla families, including Susa, Karisimbi, Amahoro, Umubano, Agashya, Kwitonda, Hirwa, Bwenge, Sabinyo, and Ugyenda.

Trekking can take 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location, and visitors are allowed 60 minutes in the presence of the gorillas. Treks begin daily at 7:00 a.m. from the park headquarters in Kinigi, where guests are briefed and assigned to groups of up to eight people per gorilla family.

• Gorilla trekking permit: USD 1,500 per person

• Minimum age: 15 years

• Best time for trekking: June to September (dry season)

Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden monkey trekking is another exciting primate experience that can complement a gorilla trekking safari. Volcanoes National Park is home to two habituated golden monkey troops, the largest found near Mount Sabyinyo.

Golden monkey trekking also starts at 7:00 a.m., meaning it cannot be done on the same day as gorilla trekking.

• Permit cost: USD 100 per person

• Experience: Lively encounters with playful and photogenic primates

Hiking and Volcano Climbing

For visitors interested in hiking and scenic exploration, Volcanoes National Park offers rewarding mountain climbs, particularly to Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi.

Mount Bisoke Hike

Mount Bisoke is popular for its stunning crater lake at the summit. The hike takes 6–8 hours round trip, including descent. Hikes start from Kinigi with ranger briefings, and porters are available at an extra cost.

• Permit cost: USD 75 per person

• Difficulty: Moderate

More challenging climbs include Mount Karisimbi, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo, recommended for physically fit hikers.

Dian Fossey Tomb Hike

The Dian Fossey Tomb Hike takes visitors to the burial site of the legendary primatologist who dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas. The hike also includes a visit to the Karisoke Research Center, where Fossey conducted her research.

Musanze Cave Tour

The Musanze Caves, located near the park entrance, offer a fascinating underground experience. The caves stretch over 2 kilometers and are home to large bat colonies.

• Permit cost: USD 50 per person

• Duration: 2–3 hours

• Equipment provided: Helmets, boots, gloves, and headlamps

This activity provides insight into Rwanda’s geological history and culture.

Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park can be visited year-round, but the dry seasons offer the best trekking conditions.

• Best months: June–August, December–February

• Temperatures: 25–27°C during the day, 13–15°C at night

The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) have fewer visitors, lush landscapes, and discounted lodge rates. During these months, gorillas often stay closer to lower slopes, making treks shorter despite muddy conditions.

Visitors are advised to carry warm clothing, as mornings and evenings in the mountains can be cold.

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is approximately 105 km northwest of Kigali, with headquarters at Kinigi.

By Road

• Travel time: 2–3 hours

• Paved and scenic roads through Rwanda’s rolling hills

• Travel via private 4WD vehicle (recommended) or public buses to Musanze, followed by a taxi or boda-boda to Kinigi

By Air

• Helicopter transfers from Kigali International Airport to Musanze Airstrip (about 30 minutes)

• Operated by Akagera Aviation, offering breathtaking aerial views