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Volcanoes National Park is perhaps Rwanda’s most famous safari destination. This Park offers an abundance of activities including gorilla trekking that captivate primate enthusiasts, nature lovers, adventure seekers, and bird lovers alike.

This phenomenal bamboo forest-dominated Park lies in the heart of East-Central Africa within the Virunga Mountain ranges, the chain of Volcano Mountains that spread across 3 African countries- Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Location and size of Volcanoes National Park

Located in Northwestern Rwanda (in the Ruhengeri region), Volcanoes National Park is perhaps best known for its role in hosting over 35% of the World’s population of endangered mountain gorillas. Easily accessible from Kigali, 2 to 3 hours’ drive, it borders Virunga National Park in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in south-western Uganda.

Volcanoes National Park’s diverse vegetation- rain forest, thickets, swamps, marshes, meadows, alpine forests, and grasslands provide a wide array of animals. This Protected Area has its borders spread up to 16000 hectares, forming part of the sprawling Virunga Conservation Area that spans 43300 hectares. Boasting varying altitudinal ranges, Volcanoes National Park lies between 2400 and 4507 meters above sea level.

Attractions in Volcanoes National Park Musanze

Whether you are drawn by the chance to get up close and personal with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, experience the thrill of a golden monkey tracking tour, hike to the Dian Fossey gravesite, watch the plethora of bird species, or simply soak in the jaw-dropping landscapes, Volcanoes National Park (Parc National Des Volcans) Rwanda offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Mountain gorillas are the main attraction in Volcanoes National Park. There are currently 35% of the World’s 1000 Mountain gorillas living in the bamboo forest in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. As of March 2025, there are 12 habituated gorilla families in this Park, hence 96 gorilla permits are issued each day by the Rwanda Development Board.

Other animals in Volcanoes National Park include black fronted duikers, bush bucks, forest buffaloes, black and white Colobus monkeys, forest elephants, golden monkeys, bush pigs, giant forest hogs, spotted hyenas, and more.

Bird species

For bird enthusiasts, Volcanoes National Park is a Paradise providing a chance to see 200 bird species including various Albertine rift endemics. Whether you’re an experienced ornithologist or a casual bird lover, the diversity of species here is breathtaking, with species ranging from the stunning handsome francolin to African marsh harriers.

Other species include Archer’s ground robin, Collared Apalis, dusky crimson wing, red-faced woodland warblers, long-crested eagle, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, Rwenzori batis, Grauer’s rush warblers, Rwenzori Turacos, paradise flycatchers, and more.

Virunga Volcanoes

In addition to wildlife and birds, Volcanoes National Park is home to 5 breathtaking Virunga Volcanoes including Mount Karisimbi (4507m), Mount Bisoke (3711 meters), Sabyinyo (3,634 meters), Mount Gahinga (3474 meters) and Mount Muhabura (4127 meters).  

Tourism Activities to do in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking

Gorilla trekking is perhaps the most iconic spectacle of Volcanoes National Park. Guided walks through the 160-square-kilometer Protected Area provide the opportunity to meet one of the 12 habituated gorilla families. Each of these gorilla families is visited by maximum of 8 visitors, hence a maximum of 96 permits are issued each day. Witnessing these Giant Apes begins with briefing at Kinigi Area to take visitors through the guidelines for gorilla trekking, climaxed with a one-hour of photography and watching Giant Apes go through their daily routines.

Gorilla treks in Volcanoes National Park last anywhere between two and six hours, and this includes one hour of watching and taking photos of Giant Apes as they go about their daily routines. You need to be 15 years of age and possess a valid gorilla permit (sold at USD 1500 per person) to enjoy this adventure.

Golden monkey tracking

Another activity that you might consider in Volcanoes National Park is golden monkey tracking. Imagine the thrill of meeting the frisky golden-brown-colored primates in the wild and get immersed into their incredible behavior. Golden monkey trek can last for 2-4 hours and this usually includes one hour of watching and taking photos of golden monkeys in the wild. Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park requires a permit which costs USD 100 per person per day.

Birding

With over 200 bird species, Volcanoes National Park is a haven for bird watchers. Birding tours lead avian lovers to archer’s ground robin, Rwenzori batis, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, handsome francolins, paradise flycatchers, long-crested eagle, the red-faced woodland, African marsh harriers, and more.

Volcano climbing

Volcano climbing in Volcanoes National Park is world famous for its breathtaking vistas, lush forest surroundings, Crater-filled summits, wetlands, and others. Climbing trails range from 8 hours (Mount Bisoke which requires about 6 hours ascending and 2 hours to descend to the briefing point) to 2 days (Mount Karisimbi towering to 4507 meters above sea level).

Musanze cave exploration

Although Cave exploration isn’t done within the Park’s boundaries, its unmissable during your visit to Volcanoes National Park. Featuring a 2-kilometer long walkway, Musanze caves have stair-like trails that lead visitors deep into the interior. Guided walks through these historic Caves can be done during primate safaris in the region.

Dian Fossey tomb hike

For experienced and first-time hikers, the Dian Fossey trail offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure complete with breathtaking vistas and exceptional wildlife sights.  The two to three-hour trek to Dian Fossey’s tomb site provides an insight into Dian Fossey’s conservation and reservation journey in the Virunga Region.

Cultural encounters

There’s no better way to get a glimpse into real Rwandan life than by visiting one of the surrounding rural communities. A trip to Gorilla Guardians Village (formerly Iby ‘Iwacu village) makes it possible for visitors to interact with residents while in their community, get entertained by their traditional dances and music performances, and more.

Best time to visit Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

The Volcanoes National Park’s weather is a critical factor to consider when planning your safari. This Park experiences two major seasons- dry and wet, and each season provides its unique characteristics, impacting everything from safari logistics to trekking experiences.

The dry season, spanning from June to September and December to February, is often favored by trekkers. It provides easier access to the forest trails and more predictable weather. On the other hand, the wet season (March to May and October to November) brings heavy rains that transform the landscape, impacting accessibility during outdoor activities.

However, don’t dismiss the wet season completely. The verdant vegetation provides an outstanding perspective of the forest, allowing bird watching. Birders might find this season particularly rewarding, as the rich vegetation attracts a plethora of avian species, including migratory ones. Nonetheless, packing waterproof gear is important to ensure comfort.

Where to stay

Before you hop on a Plane headed for Rwanda, let’s get your accommodation sorted. Many accommodation options are catering to guests visiting Volcanoes National Park, but to save you the time and effort of researching all of them, we’ve made a little list of our favorites ranging from really affordable to quite a retreat.

You can choose between One and Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, Virunga Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Amakoro Songa Lodge, the Bishop’s House, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Lodge, Tiloreza Eco Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse, Muhabura Hotel, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Solution Lodge, and more.

Getting to Volcanoes National Park

By far the best way to get to Volcanoes National Park is to rent a car and drive, from Kigali Airport or any other part of the country. A drive from Kigali is only 3 hours.

You can also take a 30-minute helicopter flight to Volcanoes National Park.