Discover Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park on an Epic African Safari

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable African safari adventure. As part of the Virunga Massif spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the park encompasses 160 sq km of lush rainforest and is home to five breathtaking volcanoes.

This unique landscape provides a dramatic backdrop for a thrilling African safari experience. Trek through bamboo forests in search of endangered mountain gorillas, one of Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacles. Get up close to these gentle giants in their natural habitat as expert guides lead you on the mountain gorilla-tracking safari of a lifetime.

The park also hosts golden monkeys, buffalo, spotted hyenas, elephants, and over 200 bird species for an abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities. Embark on guided nature walks and treks to observe these incredible animals thriving amid the picturesque volcanoes and valleys.

After an exhilarating day spotting wildlife, unwind at a comfortable safari lodge nestled in the lush forests. Wake to the exotic songs of tropical birds as you prepare for another memorable day on an African safari in Rwanda’s renowned Volcanoes National Park.

With its diverse ecosystems, unique wildlife encounters, and breathtaking scenery, Volcanoes National Park promises an unparalleled African safari adventure. Discover this natural wonderland and make memories to last a lifetime.

ARTICLE SUMMARY

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda: An African Safari Destination. Home of the Endangered Mountain Gorillas

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is a stunning natural wonder located in the northwestern region of Rwanda. Covering an area of 160 square kilometers, the park is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, including Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. Visitors to the park can expect to be greeted by lush rainforests, bamboo forests, and a variety of wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorilla.

The park is named after the chain of dormant volcanoes that make up the Virunga Massif, with Karisimbi being the highest at 4,507 meters. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 200 species of birds, golden monkeys, and forest elephants. In addition to the natural beauty of the park, visitors can participate in hiking and trekking activities, with the most popular attraction being the chance to see the mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat.

Volcanoes is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich history, the park offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Key Takeaways

• Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains.
• Visitors to the park can see a variety of wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorilla.
• The park offers hiking and trekking opportunities, as well as the chance to see the mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat.

Location of Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

The magnificent Park is located in northwestern Rwanda, in the Northern Province, in the districts of Musanze and Gisenyi. The park shares borders with Mgaahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park covers an area of 160 square kilometers (62 square miles) of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

It is situated approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. Visitors can easily access the park by public transport from Gisenyi or Kigali, or from the airport. The park’s headquarters are located in Kinigi, a small village in the Musanze district, which is the main entrance to the park.

As for the altitude, the park ranges from 2400 meters to 4507 meters, with the highest peak being Mount Karisimbi. The park’s location on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains means that it has a varied topography, with steep slopes, deep valleys, and high peaks. The park’s location also means that it experiences a temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F) throughout the year.

Location in the heart of Africa, it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered mountain gorilla, which is the park’s main attraction. The park is also home to other primates, such as golden monkeys, as well as a variety of bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco, the crowned hornbill, and the black-headed waxbill.

History of Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda has a rich history that dates back to 1925 when it was first established as a national park by the Belgian colonial government. At that time, it was known as Albert National Park or Parc National Albert, and it was one of the largest national parks in Africa.

The park’s name was changed to Volcanoes National Park in 1960, following Rwanda’s independence from Belgium. The park is located in northwestern Rwanda, and it is part of the larger Virunga Massif, which spans across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

It became a battlefield during the Rwandan Civil War in the early 1990s, with the park headquarters being attacked in 1992. As a result, the research center was abandoned, and all tourist activities, including visiting the gorillas, were stopped. They did not resume again until 1999 when the area was deemed safe and under control.

In 1990, the Volcanoes National Park was the best-organized and most popular gorilla sanctuary in Africa, and gorilla tourism was probably Rwanda’s leading earner of tourist revenue. However, it was evacuated in April 1994 because of the genocide that took place in Rwanda. The park reopened to tourism in June 1993, but it was forced to close again due to the genocide.

Today, the park is a popular tourist destination and is home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. The park’s main attraction is gorilla trekking, where visitors can go on guided tours to see the gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is also home to other wildlife, including golden monkeys, elephants, and various bird species.

Flora and Fauna

Volcanoes National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The park covers 160 km² of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

The park’s vegetation is characterized by a range of habitats, including bamboo forests, rainforests, and alpine meadows. Some of the notable flora that can be seen include the rainforests, which can be seen between 2400 and 2500 meters, bamboo forests, arudinaria, and the alphia 25000 to 32000 meters, where you will get to access the gorillas and the golden monkeys that cover 30% of the total park. From 2600 meters to 3600 meters, visitors can see the Hagenia-Hypericum forest, which is home to a variety of bird species.

Different faunal species are encountered in Volcanoes National Park include mountain gorillas, spotted hyenas, golden monkeys, buffaloes, bushbucks, black-fronted duikers, and more than 180 bird species. The park is famous for its mountain gorillas, which inhabit the Volcanoes National Park within the Virunga Massif, a spectacular range of volcanoes straddling the borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Visitors can take guided gorilla trekking tours to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

In addition to gorillas, visitors can also see other primates, including the endangered golden monkey, which is endemic to the Virunga Mountains. The park is also home to various bird species, including the Rwenzori Turaco, the Rwenzori Batis, and the Handsome Francolin. Visitors can also spot a variety of small mammals, including rodents, shrews, and bats, as well as reptiles such as chameleons and snakes.

For nature lovers, the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to see some of the world’s rarest and most endangered species in their natural habitat.

Mountain Gorillas

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is home to over 300 mountain gorillas, which are the park’s most famous inhabitants. These great apes are the true stars of the Virunga Mountains and have made the park famous around the world.

Gorilla trekking is the ultimate wildlife experience that you cannot miss within the park. Tourists interested in seeing gorillas should plan their gorilla trekking safaris ahead of time with a licensed tour operator. The permits are limited and expensive, but the experience is worth every penny.

Approximately 1000 mountain gorillas are living on planet Earth, with half of them living in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. The rest are found in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Mountain gorillas are critically endangered, and the population has been declining for decades due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. The conservation efforts by the Rwandan government and international organizations have helped to stabilize the population and increase their numbers in recent years.

Visitors are required to follow strict rules during gorilla trekking to minimize the risk of disease transmission and disturbance to the gorillas. These rules include maintaining a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas, not eating or drinking in the presence of the gorillas, and not using flash photography.

Without a doubt mountain gorillas are a vital part of Volcanoes National Park Rwanda’s ecosystem and a must-see for any visitor to the park. The conservation efforts have helped to protect these magnificent animals, and gorilla trekking is an unforgettable experience that should be on every nature lover’s bucket list.

Volcanic Mountains

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains. These majestic mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop to the park’s lush rainforests and diverse ecosystems. Each of the five volcanoes in the park offers unique opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Mount Karisimbi

Karisimbi is the highest volcano in the Virunga Mountains, standing at an impressive 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) tall. It is a challenging climb, but the reward is worth the effort. At the summit, hikers are treated to stunning panoramic views of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mount Bisoke

Bisoke is one of the most popular volcanoes in the park, with its easily accessible trail and beautiful crater lake at the summit. The volcano stands at 3,711 meters (12,175 feet) tall and offers a moderate climb. The trek to the top takes about six hours round trip, and hikers are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Muhabura

Muhabura is the third-highest volcano in the park, standing at 4,127 meters (13,540 feet) tall. It is known for its distinctive cone shape and offers a challenging climb for experienced hikers. The trek to the summit takes about eight hours round trip and offers breathtaking views of the park’s rainforests and the surrounding countryside.

Mount Gahinga

Gahinga is the smallest volcano in the park, standing at just 3,474 meters (11,398 feet) tall. It is an easy climb, and the trek to the summit takes about four hours round trip. The volcano is known for its lush vegetation and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Mount Sabyinyo

Sabyinyo is the oldest volcano in the park, standing at 3,634 meters (11,923 feet) tall. It is known for its distinctive shape, with three distinct peaks that form a jagged ridge. The trek to the summit takes about eight hours round trip and offers stunning views of the park’s rainforests and the surrounding countryside.

For visitors, the volcanic mountains of Volcanoes National Park offer a unique and unforgettable experience for hikers and adventurers. With their stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, they are a must-see destination for anyone visiting Rwanda.

Hiking and Trekking

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a popular destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The park is home to five volcanoes, each offering a unique hiking experience. Visitors can explore the slopes of Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabinyo, Mount Bisoke, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Muhavura.

Hikers and trekkers can choose from a range of trails, depending on their fitness level and experience. The trails vary in length and difficulty, with some taking several days to complete. Some of the most popular trails include the Bisoke Crater Lake Hike, the Mount Karisimbi Hike, and the Mount Sabinyo Hike.

Bisoke Crater Lake Hike is a relatively easy hike that takes approximately six hours to complete. The trail takes hikers through bamboo forests and up to the summit of Mount Bisoke, where they can enjoy stunning views of the crater lake.

The Mount Karisimbi Hike is a challenging multi-day trek that takes hikers up to the summit of the highest volcano in the park. The trek takes two days to complete and requires hikers to camp overnight at an altitude of over 3,700 meters.

Mount Sabinyo Hike is a shorter but more challenging hike that takes hikers up to the summit of Mount Sabinyo. The trail involves steep climbs, ladders, and ropes, and requires a good level of fitness.

Hikers and trekkers in Volcanoes National Park are required to have a permit, which can be obtained from the park headquarters in Musanze. The park also offers guided hikes and treks, which are recommended for those who are new to hiking or unfamiliar with the park’s trails.

This is one must-visit destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. With its stunning scenery, diverse trails, and experienced guides, the park offers a unique and unforgettable hiking experience.

Conservation Efforts

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is home to several endangered species, including the mountain gorillas. As such, conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the park’s wildlife and their habitats.

The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) is one of the organizations that has been actively involved in conservation efforts in the park. AWF has been working with the Rwandan government to restore the park and ensure that it remains a safe haven for wildlife. The organization has been involved in various projects, including reforestation, community engagement, and infrastructure development. In 2016, the park generated $16.4 million from park entry fees, which supported employment, community engagement and empowerment, livelihood development, social services, and infrastructure development [1].

Visitors to the park are allocated to a group on the day of the hike. Strict rules have been set up for visitors to avoid spreading diseases that could wipe out most of the gorilla population. Gorilla tourism has actually saved the mountain gorillas in the Virunga forest up to now [4].

Volcanoes National Park is also a leading model for ecotourism and the conservation of mountain gorillas in Rwanda. The protected area, located in the Virunga massifs, is famous for harboring over 350 mountain gorillas, which have bounced back from the risk of extinction [5].

In addition to AWF, other organizations, including the African Conservation Foundation, have been involved in conservation efforts in the park. These organizations have been working closely with local communities to ensure that they understand the importance of conservation and how it can benefit them. By engaging local communities in conservation efforts, these organizations have been able to reduce human-wildlife conflict and promote sustainable development in the region [3].

Conservation efforts in Volcanoes National Park have been successful in protecting the park’s wildlife and their habitats. With continued support from various organizations and local communities, the park is expected to remain a safe haven for endangered species for years to come.

[1] https://www.awf.org/blog/volcanoes-national-park-success-story-rwandas-communities-and-conservation [3] https://africanconservation.org/conservation-projects/rwanda/ [4] https://www.volcanoesnationalpark.org/conservation/ [5] https://www.volcanoesnationalparkrwanda.com/ecotourism-and-conservation-in-rwanda/

African Safari Travel Information

Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, from mid-December to early February and from June to September. During these months, the trails are less muddy, and the gorilla sightings are more frequent. However, this also means that the park is more crowded, and the prices are higher.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to Volcanoes National Park is by flying into Kigali International Airport, which is the main gateway to Rwanda. From Kigali, you can either drive or take a helicopter to the park. The drive takes around two and a half hours, and the helicopter ride takes around 30 minutes.

Accommodation

There are several accommodation options available near Volcanoes National Park, ranging from budget to luxury. The most popular options are lodges and campsites, which offer a unique experience of being close to nature. Some of the best lodges include Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, and Virunga Lodge. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.

In summary, the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, and the easiest way to get there is by flying into Kigali International Airport. There are several accommodation options available, including lodges and campsites, but it is recommended to book in advance.

Rules and Regulations

Visitors to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and the park’s wildlife. Failure to follow these rules may result in fines or even expulsion from the park.

One of the most important rules is to avoid littering in the park. This is to avoid accidents like primates choking on the litter, which can hinder the sustainability goals for the park. Visitors are also required to keep the park clean by disposing of their trash in designated areas.

Another important rule is to follow proper trail etiquette. Visitors are required to stay on designated trails to avoid trampling on vegetation and disturbing wildlife. Visitors are also required to remain quiet while in the park to avoid disturbing the animals.

When participating in gorilla trekking, visitors must keep a 7m (21ft) distance from Mountain Gorillas. This will help to keep the Gorillas relaxed and minimize disease infections. Visitors are also required to stay tight in their group while near Gorillas, as this helps to keep them calm.

Tourists should also be aware that taking cuttings, seeds, and roots of plants is illegal in the park. This is to ensure that plants are left to flourish in their natural environment. Visitors are required to strictly follow the rules and regulations governing their trek to ensure the safety of themselves and the park’s wildlife.

Visitors to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda should be aware of the rules and regulations governing their visit. By following these rules, visitors can help to ensure the safety of both themselves and the park’s wildlife, as well as contribute to the sustainability goals of the park.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Volcanoes National Park Rwanda most known for?

Volcanoes National Park is most known for being the home to the endangered mountain gorillas. It is one of the few places in the world where visitors can embark on a gorilla trekking expedition and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

What animals are in the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

Apart from the mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to other primates such as the golden monkeys and the black-and-white colobus monkeys. Other animals in the park include forest elephants, buffaloes, and various species of birds.

What is there to do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

Aside from gorilla trekking, visitors can also go on guided nature walks, bird-watching tours, and cultural tours to nearby communities. The park also offers the opportunity to hike to the summits of the various volcanoes in the park.

How much is the entrance fee for Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda?

The entrance fee for Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is $1,500 per person per trek. This fee includes a permit to trek the mountain gorillas, as well as a guide and park ranger to lead the trek.

What are some of the lodges available in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

Several lodges are available in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda that cater to different budgets. Some of the popular lodges include Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, and Virunga Lodge.

How many volcanoes are in the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

There are five volcanoes in the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda that make up the Virunga mountain range. These volcanoes are Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabinyo, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Gahinga.