Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. Rwanda’s premier tourist destination, stretching approximately 160 kilometers and protecting Rwanda’s section of the Virunga Mountains. Located in a region with at least six extinct and three active volcanoes that span the borders of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the park is home to more than half of the world’s remaining population of endangered mountain gorillas.

This ecologically rich and scenic park is renowned for its striking landscape—characterized by steep, isolated volcanic mountains with altitudes ranging from 2,400 to 4,507 meters. These peaks are connected by fertile saddles formed by solidified lava flows, creating one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Africa.

The tallest peaks include Mount Karisimbi on the DRC border, and Mounts Mgahinga and Muhavura on the Ugandan side. These mountains form the western edge of the park. The most popular activity in Volcanoes National Park is gorilla trekking. Other notable activities include golden monkey tracking, hiking to Dian Fossey’s former camp and grave at Karisoke, and an overnight hike to the summit of Mount Karisimbi.

Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is home to several gorilla families. Some are habituated for tourism, others for research, and some remain unhabituated. Gorilla trekking requires a permit, which must be obtained in advance through a registered tour operator like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris. Each gorilla family is led by a dominant silverback, and new groups often form when young silverbacks break away with females.

• Amahoro Group – Meaning “peace,” this group is led by a calm silverback named Ubumwe. Reaching them often involves a steep hike, but it is highly rewarding.

• Susa (A) Group – Studied by Dian Fossey, this group has 41 members and includes rare twin gorillas named Byishimo and Impano. Trekking to this group is challenging due to its location in the high mountains.

• Hirwa Group – Formed by silverback Munyinya after leaving the Susa group with two females, eventually gathering others to form Hirwa.

• Sabyinyo Group – Led by silverback Guhonda, this group lives closest to the park headquarters and is ideal for those looking for a less strenuous trek.

• Kwitonda Group – Named after its humble leader, Kwitonda, this group migrated from the DRC and settled in Rwanda. The trek to see them is moderately difficult.

• Group 13 / Agashya Group – Originally named for its 13 members during habituation, this group has since grown to over 25 and is now led by silverback Agashya.

• Umubano Group – Led by silverback Charles, this group broke away from the Amahoro group. “Umubano” means “living together.”

• Karisimbi (Susa B) Group – A breakaway group from the original Susa (A) group, it lives on the upper slopes of Mount Karisimbi and is best suited for experienced hikers.

• Titus Group – Named after the silverback Titus, who was born during Dian Fossey’s time at Karisoke.

• Bwenge Group – Led by silverback Bwenge, who formed the group by gathering females from other families. “Bwenge” translates to “wisdom.”

• Ugenda Group – Known for roaming frequently in the Karisimbi region. This group may require significant hiking effort to track.

Activities in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is the park’s most sought-after activity. Rwanda is considered one of the best places in Africa to observe mountain gorillas. The park spans 16,000 hectares and includes diverse habitats such as bamboo and afro-montane forests, savanna grasslands, and swamps.

Besides mountain gorillas, the park is home to animals like spotted hyenas, elephants, buffaloes, bushbucks, duikers, and golden monkeys. Gorilla trekking typically starts at 7:30 AM with a briefing, followed by a guided hike at 8:00 AM to locate a habituated gorilla group. Less strenuous treks are available for visitors who prefer shorter distances.

Gorilla encounters offer an unforgettable experience. You may witness playful young gorillas and curious adults. It’s essential to remain calm, follow your guide’s instructions, and avoid sudden movements. Trekking duration varies from one to six hours depending on the gorillas’ location.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking offers a unique opportunity to observe these colorful and lively primates. The golden monkeys are only found in the Virunga Mountains, and two habituated troops reside in Volcanoes National Park. The larger group, with 80–100 members, is found near Mount Sabyinyo.

Tracking begins at 7:00 AM with a briefing at the Kinigi Park Headquarters. Golden monkeys are usually located within an hour and are easy to find due to their feeding habits. Visitors can observe them feeding, jumping between bamboo trees, and interacting with one another. Unlike gorilla trekking, photography with flash is allowed.

Birdwatching

Volcanoes National Park is an excellent birding destination, with habitats ranging from afro-alpine forests to moorlands. The park is home to 17 Albertine Rift endemic species and 53 Afrotropical Highland biome species.

Key birds include the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Kivu Ground Thrush, Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird, and Lagden’s Bush Shrike. Birding excursions usually take place on lower-altitude trails with a chance to see both endemic and migratory species.

Dian Fossey Tomb Hike

This hike offers insight into Dian Fossey’s legacy and her contribution to gorilla conservation. The trail leads to her former research camp and grave at Karisoke, where she was buried next to Digit, her beloved gorilla companion. The hike lasts 1 to 2 hours and may include sightings of wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species.

Mount Bisoke Hike

Mount Bisoke is known for its beautiful crater lake at the summit. The hike takes approximately six hours round-trip, with an early morning start. Porters are available for hire, and the trails are guided by knowledgeable rangers.

Mount Karisimbi Hike

At 4,507 meters, Mount Karisimbi is the highest of the Virunga volcanoes and the fifth tallest mountain in Africa. The two-day trek begins from Bisoke and offers chances to see birds, primates, and scenic views. The summit is often white with sleet or hail, inspiring the name “Karisimbi,” derived from amasimbi, meaning “white shell” in Kinyarwanda.

Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Visit

This community-based tourism project was established by Edwin Sabuhoro, a former park warden, to help former poachers transition into conservation. A visit to the village supports local livelihoods and offers cultural experiences, including traditional dance, storytelling, and an opportunity to be crowned “king” or “queen” for the day.

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park

The park is about 105 kilometers from Kigali International Airport and can be reached by a 2-hour road transfer. Both private and public transportation options are available. Private taxis can be hired for approximately $50.

Accommodation Near Volcanoes National Park

There are accommodation options to suit all budgets near the park, primarily in Kinigi and Musanze. These range from luxury lodges to budget guesthouses. Notable options include:

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Kwitonda Lodge, Virunga Lodge, One & Only Gorilla Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

• Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

• Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse, Hotel Muhabura, Garden Place Hotel

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris can assist in booking your accommodation and planning your complete gorilla trekking safari experience in Rwanda.