Top Activities to Do in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most famous tourist destination, celebrated worldwide for its unique wildlife and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. The park spans 160 km² along the slopes of five majestic volcanoes Karisimbi, Bisoke, Gahinga, Muhavura, and Sabyinyo which are home to mountain gorillas and a variety of other wildlife. The rich vegetation and diverse ecosystems provide ideal habitats for gorillas, golden monkeys, and many bird species. To make the most of your visit, careful planning and scheduling are essential.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The highlight of any visit to Volcanoes National Park is undoubtedly gorilla trekking. This extraordinary experience allows visitors to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. To participate, you must obtain a gorilla trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board.

There are 13 habituated gorilla families in Rwanda, but only eight permits per family are issued each day to minimize human impact. During the 1980s, mountain gorillas were on the brink of extinction due to poaching, habitat loss, and human conflict, leaving only about 250 individuals worldwide.

American primatologist Dian Fossey dedicated her life to protecting these gorillas. She pioneered gorilla habituation in Karisoke, Rwanda, laying the foundation for modern gorilla trekking. Visitors can enjoy a two-day gorilla trekking safari, starting with an early morning hike to locate the gorillas, followed by an unforgettable hour observing these magnificent creatures in the wild.

Bird Watching

Volcanoes National Park is a paradise for bird lovers. Its forested slopes are home to over 90 bird species, including 13 that are endemic to the region. The park is part of the Albertine Rift, and its steep volcanic hills provide habitats for species such as the Rwenzori Turaco, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Arche’s Robin-Chat, and several Francolin species. Birding in Volcanoes National Park offers an immersive experience for both novice and experienced birdwatchers.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Another exciting wildlife activity is golden monkey trekking. These rare primates (Cercopithecus mitis kandti) are smaller than gorillas but larger than most other monkey species. They have striking golden-brown fur and are extremely active, moving constantly through the bamboo forests of the Virunga region.

Though they tolerate human presence to some extent, golden monkeys remain wild and unpredictable. Along the trek, visitors often spot other primates, including blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Golden monkey permits are priced at $100 per person per hike, providing a more affordable but equally thrilling wildlife encounter.

Mountain Hiking

Volcanoes National Park also offers challenging and scenic mountain hikes. Each of the five volcanoes presents unique trails and stunning panoramic views over the forest canopy and neighboring volcanoes.

The slopes of these mountains feature diverse vegetation zones, such as:

• Neoboutania Zone (2,400–2,500 meters)
• Arundinaria Bamboo Zone (2,500–3,200 meters)
• Hagenia-Hypericum Zone (3,200–3,600 meters)

These trails sometimes lead to areas frequented by mountain gorillas, and hikers can enjoy sightings of various primates and bird species along the way. A guided hike provides both an adventure and an opportunity to learn about the park’s unique ecosystems.

Kigali City Tour

While Kigali is not part of Volcanoes National Park, a brief city tour is a worthwhile addition to any Rwandan safari. Kigali offers insight into Rwanda’s history, culture, and resilience. Key sites include:

• Gisozi Genocide Memorial
• Kigali Genocide Memorial
• Famille Church Memorials

These sites honor the victims of the 1994 genocide and provide a sobering yet important perspective on Rwanda’s history.

Dian Fossey’s Grave

A visit to Dian Fossey’s burial site within Volcanoes National Park is a poignant experience. Fossey devoted her life to the conservation of mountain gorillas, facing hostility from locals and poachers along the way. Her work led to the establishment of gorilla conservation programs, which continue to protect Rwanda’s gorillas today. Visiting her grave is both a tribute to her efforts and a reminder of the ongoing need to protect these endangered primates.

Cost of Gorilla and Golden Monkey Permits

• Gorilla trekking permit: $1,500 per person per trek
• Golden monkey trekking permit: $100 per person per trek

Permit limits are strictly enforced to protect the delicate habitats and ensure that gorillas remain undisturbed.

What to Pack for Volcanoes National Park

To enjoy your safari safely and comfortably, consider bringing:

• Binoculars for wildlife and bird watching
• Rain protection (jackets or ponchos)
• Camera without a flash for gorilla encounters
• Gloves to protect hands from nettles
• Lightweight waterproof bag for personal items
• Warm clothing for early morning hikes
• Durable trekking boots for slippery volcanic terrain
• Energy snacks for long hikes

Accommodation Options

Volcanoes National Park offers a range of accommodation, from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget options. Some popular choices include:

• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
• Virunga Volcanoes Lodge
• Le Bambou Gorilla Village
• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Kinigi Guest House

Best Time to Visit

Although the park is humid year-round, the drier months from June to September and December to mid-January are ideal for gorilla trekking. Trails are less slippery, and the forest vegetation is easier to navigate.

How to Reach Volcanoes National Park

The park is accessible primarily by road from Kigali. The drive to Musanze, the park’s gateway town, takes approximately three hours. Chartered flights and helicopter services are also available for those seeking a quicker and more scenic route.