Volcanoes National Park

The most famous destination in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park has become synonymous with mountain gorilla tracking safaris and no visit to the country would be complete without visiting these majestic primates. Named after a chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga massif, volcanoes national park covers 160 sq km in the northern province of Rwanda, 116 km (72miles) from Kigali. The park is a reservoir for the rich biodiversity and is one of the three destinations in the world where lucky visitors track the remaining families of mountain gorillas, widely portrayed as one of the marvelous wildlife encounters. The park has got as well habituated groups of the little, endangered and endemic golden monkeys; striking primates with bright orange-gold fur and playful nature, Dian Fossey tomb, the Musanze caves, Buhanga sacred forest, and various hiking trails. Volcanoes national park is one the country’s hotspot for birders, counting 178 bird species (13 endemics within this area). Volcanoes National Park also has a historic connection with gorilla conservation. It was the base for the ground-breaking work of primatologist Dian Fossey which started in the late 1960s and is evocatively portrayed in the book and film Gorillas in the Mist. Akagera National Park is divided into several zones, including the savannah plains, wetlands, and mountains. The savannah plains are home to large herds of herbivores, such as impalas, topis, and buffaloes, which are preyed upon by lions, leopards, and hyenas. The wetlands are home to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, including the shoebill stork, while the mountains are home to primates, such as baboons and colobus monkeys.

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Things to do and See (in Pictures)

THINGS TO DO AND SEE

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes

Encountering mountain gorillas is the most thrilling and enchanting tourism adventure in Volcanoes National Park. It offers an incredible opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. During the encounter, you can witness the gorillas playing, sulking, teasing, eating, and engaging in many other fascinating activities. Our affordable and well-planned gorilla tours guarantee a magical experience unlike any other in Africa.
To begin your gorilla trekking adventure, you will receive a briefing at the Park HQ early in the morning before being divided into groups of eight with a guide and trackers. Although gorilla trekking can be challenging, especially when some of the groups wander high up the mountainsides, the experience is always incredibly rewarding. For more information on gorilla trekking etiquette, tips, and the overall experience, consider looking into gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda.