Volcanoes National Park: Rwanda’s Mountain Gorilla Kingdom
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most iconic wilderness, a mystical landscape of volcanic peaks, dense bamboo forests, and silverback gorillas that roam through misty slopes. Located in the country’s northwest, this park is part of the wider Virunga Massif, one of the last strongholds of the endangered mountain gorilla. For many travellers, it is the defining reason to visit Rwanda, a place where wildlife encounters feel spiritual and profoundly intimate.
The Park is dominated by five soaring volcanoes; Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo with their green flanks rising dramatically into the clouds. Between them lie valleys filled with bamboo, hagenia forests, and thick beds of wildflowers. It is a terrain unlike anywhere else in East Africa, ancient and alive, shaped by fire and softened by time.
Wildlife & Conservation
Volcanoes National Park is globally renowned for its mountain gorillas. Several habituated families live on the slopes, each with its own complex social structure led by powerful silverbacks. Gorilla trekking is highly regulated and expertly guided, ensuring both unforgettable encounters and the continued protection of this critically important species.
Beyond gorillas, the park shelters golden monkeys; playful, bright-eyed primates found only in this region as well as forest elephants, buffalo, black-fronted duikers, and over 200 bird species. It’s also the birthplace of modern gorilla conservation, thanks to the legacy of Dian Fossey and ongoing efforts by Rwandan conservation teams.
Popular experiences to look forward to in Volcanoes National Park
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
The park’s signature experience and one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on Earth. Treks vary in length and difficulty, but each leads to an hour in the presence of a wild gorilla family watching young ones tumble, mothers feed, and silverbacks command their groups with quiet strength.
Golden Monkey Tracking
These rare, fast-moving monkeys add a lighter, playful touch to the forest experience.
Their bright colouring and energetic behaviour make them a delight to photograph.
Volcano Hiking
For travellers seeking more adventure, the volcanoes offer rewarding hikes. Mount Bisoke’s crater lake provides stunning views, while Karisimbi, the highest in Rwanda is a two-day challenge for seasoned trekkers.
Dian Fossey Hike
While at the Park, you have an opportunity to follow the very trail once walked by Dian Fossey, the legendary primatologist who dedicated her life to protecting the mountain gorillas. The hike begins with a short drive from Kinigi to the foothills of Mount Bisoke, where a forested path leads you deep into the mist, past giant Hagenia trees, volcanic slopes, and the sounds of the wild that shaped Fossey’s work.
Her grave rests here alongside Digit and other gorillas she cared for, creating a powerful, emotional moment that connects you directly to her legacy.
This experience is not just a hike. It’s a pilgrimage; a chance to understand the roots of modern gorilla conservation and to walk through a chapter of history that changed the fate of an entire species. Perfect for travellers seeking meaning, nature, and a story worth carrying home.
Best time to visit
Volcanoes National Park is excellent year-round. The drier months of June to September and December to February offer the easiest trekking conditions. During the wetter seasons, the forest is lush and atmospheric, with beautiful mist and vibrant vegetation. Temperatures are cool due to the altitude, so warm layers are recommended even in the dry season.
Getting There
The park is just a two and a half hour drive from Kigali, making it ideal for short luxury escapes as well as longer multi-park journeys. Most travellers stay in lodges around the town of Musanze or in exclusive forest-edge retreats overlooking the volcanoes.