Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda, is home to the famous mountain gorillas and a variety of unique flora and fauna. Here’s an overview:

Key Features:

1. Home to 10 habituated mountain gorilla groups
2. 5 volcanoes: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo
3. Unique vegetation: bamboo, montane forest, and alpine vegetation
4. Diverse wildlife: golden monkeys, elephants, buffaloes, and 200+ bird species

Activities:

1. Gorilla trekking (permits required)
2. Golden monkey tracking
3. Hiking and climbing (volcanoes and scenic trails)
4. Birdwatching
5. Guided nature walks
6. Visiting the Dian Fossey Grave and Karisoke Research Center

Gorilla Trekking:

1. Permits: $1,500 per person (supporting conservation efforts)
2. Groups: 8 visitors per group, accompanied by experienced guides
3. Duration: 1-2 hours with gorillas, 4-6 hours total trekking time

Accommodations:

1. Luxury: Virunga Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, One & Only Gorillas Nest Lodge, Singita Lodge and Bisate Lodge
2. Mid-range: The Bishops House, Virunga Inn Resort & Spa, Fiev Volcnoes Boutique Hotel, Amakoro Songa Lodge.

Getting There:

1. 120 km from Kigali (2-3 hours drive)
2. Bordering Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park
3. By helicopter is is only 30 minutes flight to Musanze airstrip from Kigali Interntaional Airport.

Best Time to Visit:

1. Dry season (June-September): easier trekking
2. Wet season (March-May): lush vegetation, fewer tourists

Interesting Facts about Volcanoes National Park:

1. Volcanoes National Park is one of only two places in the world where mountain gorillas can be tracked.
2. The park’s unique geography supports a wide range of flora and fauna.
3. Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking research on mountain gorillas was conducted in this park.

Tips while planning to visit Volcanoes National Park:

1. Book gorilla permits and accommodations well in advance.
2. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layers for changing weather.
3. Respect park rules and guidelines for gorilla trekking.
4. Support local communities through responsible tourism practices.

Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique wildlife of Volcanoes National Park with us today for a seamless experience!