Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking

Northwestern Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, is a well-known tourist destination, mostly because of its endangered mountain gorilla population. It covers about 160 square kilometres and was created in 1925, making it Africa’s oldest national park.

Volcanoes, also called Parc Nationals Des Volcans in French, is a popular location for Rwanda safaris that include gorilla trekking. These excursions give tourists a rare chance to witness mountain gorillas in their natural environment while also supporting conservation initiatives.

 

An essential component of the Virunga Mountain range is the park. Five of the eight peaks of the Virunga volcano are located there: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. Numerous wildlife species, including golden monkeys, more than 200 bird species, and other mammals, find a rich home in its verdant rainforests and bamboo forests.

Dian Fossey, an American primatologist, established the Karisoke Research Centre within the park’s limits in 1967, and her work is strongly associated with the park’s history. Fossey spent her entire life researching and defending mountain gorillas against habitat degradation and poaching. Her efforts helped to save these primates and brought their predicament to the attention of people all around the world.

 

The capital of Rwanda, Kigali, is only a two-hour drive away, making Volcanoes National Park easily accessible. The park has emerged as a top ecotourism destination, drawing tourists from all over the world who are keen to go gorilla trekking and partake in other activities like hiking and cultural excursions.

Volcanoes National Park is a special and essential location for Rwandan tourism and conservation because of its breathtaking scenery, abundant biodiversity, and historical significance.

 

Geography and Vegetation

The topography of Volcanoes National Park is marked by steep slopes and a variety of ecosystems, from heathlands and bamboo forests at higher elevations to lush rainforests. The park’s lush foliage and abundant wildlife are a result of the nutrient-rich volcanic soils in this region. Because of this, it is an essential home for many wildlife species, especially the endangered golden monkeys and mountain gorillas.

Volcanoes National Park’s altitudinal range causes significant variation in its vegetation. At lower elevations, lush rainforests predominate, while between 2,500 and 3,200 meters, bamboo forests take over. At elevations of 2,600 to 3,600 meters, the park’s Hagenia-Hypericum forests offer a distinct biological niche.

The terrain changes to Afro-alpine vegetation above 3,600 meters, which is home to unusual plant species like Senecio erici-rosenii and Lobelia wollastonii. A wide variety of animals is supported by this varied spectrum of plants. It helps explain why the park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Volcanoes National Park’s elevation and geographic position have an impact on its climate. Because of its tropical environment, the area receives a lot of rainfall all year round, which encourages the growth of its evergreen forests. Numerous wildlife species can thrive in the perfect climate created by the mix of high humidity and fertile volcanic soils. Numerous bird species and other creatures that live in this rich ecosystem have habitats because to this unique geology, which also supports the endangered mountain gorillas.

 

Wildlife

A centre for biodiversity, Volcanoes National Park is well-known for its abundant wildlife, especially the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is an important location for mountain gorilla conservation because it is home to about 30% of the remaining mountain gorilla population in the world. There are about 36 mammal species known to exist in Volcanoes National Park, according to records and scientific investigations.

The park is home to endangered golden monkeys, which are exclusive to the Virunga region, in addition to mountain gorillas. Black-fronted duikers, spotted hyenas, gigantic forest hogs, buffaloes, bush pigs, and forest elephants are some more noteworthy creatures. Although there are larger mammals, sightings are less often because to the rough terrain and extensive trees, which make them difficult to locate.

 

With more than 200 bird species identified, Volcanoes National Park offers equally rewarding birdwatching. Known for its high endemism, the park is located in the Albertine Rift region. The Rwenzori Turaco, attractive francolin, and several sunbirds, notably the Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, are among the species that birdwatchers can anticipate seeing.

The magnificent collared apalis, the Ruwenzori batis, and the regal sunbird are some noteworthy bird species. The park is a fascinating place for both novice and expert birdwatchers because of its many different habitats, which include tropical rainforests, bamboo forests, and montane ecosystems.

 

The park’s biological significance is greatly enhanced by the distinctive fusion of varied habitats and volcanic landscapes. A variety of plants and animals can be found in the unique habitats that are produced by the altitudinal gradient. The park is more appealing to wildlife enthusiasts because of its great biodiversity. It is essential to conservation initiatives aimed at preserving Africa’s threatened species and their environments.

 

Activities in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking

In Volcanoes National Park, gorilla trekking is without a doubt the most popular activity. The park is one of the greatest sites to see mountain gorillas because it is home to about 30% of the world’s population. There are ten habituated gorilla families, and groups of up to eight trekkers are permitted to visit one of them with a daily cap of 80 permits.

Early in the morning, a briefing is held at the park headquarters before Rwanda’s gorilla treks start. Groups of visitors are assigned to track particular gorilla families. Among the most well-known gorilla families in the park are the Agashya, Kwitonda, and Susa groups.

 

The gorilla trek can run anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are. It intensifies when you get to see these amazing animals in their natural environment for an hour.

Because permits for gorilla trekking cost $1,500 per person, it is an expensive activity. This charge promotes local community development and conservation initiatives. Because permits are limited and in high demand, visitors should reserve them well in advance.

 Trekkers must be in good physical shape because the terrain can be difficult, requiring them to hike up steep hills and through dense bamboo forests. Because of the park’s variable weather, it’s crucial to dress appropriately for the gorilla treks. This includes carrying rain gear, sturdy hiking boots, and long-sleeved shirts and pants.
The benefits of spending an hour seeing these primates in their natural habitat are incalculable, despite the physical demands.

 Is it time to begin organising your Rwandan gorilla adventure?

Get your Rwanda gorilla permit from Africa Reveal Safaris right now to begin organising your ideal trip to the hazy Virunga Mountains! or pick from one of these pre-packaged safaris that are customizable.

Volcanoes National Park is surely one great park to explore within this land of a thousand hills. All the activities in the park can be undertaken during a short tour or as part of a tailor made trip in Rwanda.[/vc_column_text]

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Golden monkey hiking in Volcanoes is a less demanding version of gorilla trekking that entails following these energetic primates through the bush. Golden monkeys are a sight to behold as they jump and frolic through the bamboo forests. They are distinguished by their vivid golden fur and vivacious social activities.

A subspecies of the Sykes monkey, the golden monkey is native to the Virunga region, which includes portions of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is distinguished by its vivid orange fur. Volcanoes National Park is home to two habituated armies of golden monkeys, the biggest of which is situated close to Mount Sabyinyo and numbers between 80 and 100.

These monkeys are reasonably easy to track and watch because they mostly live in the bamboo woods near the foot of the volcanoes.

At around 7:00 AM, the hiking experience usually starts with a briefing at the park headquarters. After that, knowledgeable park rangers split up the visitors into smaller groups and provide them with guidance.

Because the monkeys move about a lot in pursuit of food, the walk can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on their position. After finding them, hikers can watch the monkeys for an hour while they eat, play, and swing through the trees. This contact offers a rare chance to take pictures and observe their social behaviours up close.

In Volcanoes, participation requires a Golden Monkey trekking permit, which costs $100 per person. Golden monkey trekking is an inclusive sport that is appropriate for families, unlike gorilla trekking, which has an age restriction.

 

Hiking in Volcanoes

In Rwanda and the surrounding area, Volcanoes National Park has some of the most excellent and easily accessible volcano trekking routes. Of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountain range, five are located within the park: Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhavura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. Among these, Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke are the most visited treks.

 Mount Bisoke Hike: At 3,711 meters, Mount Bisoke boasts a breathtaking crater lake at the top. Depending on personal fitness levels and the number of breaks, the climb usually takes 5 to 7 hours round trip. Since the trail is rated as moderately difficult, anyone in good physical condition can hike it; prior hiking experience is not necessary. Experienced rangers lead hikers and offer safety precautions as well as information about the area flora and animals. The walk provides stunning views of the untamed terrain of the area, which includes volcanic peaks and verdant woodlands.

 Mount Karisimbi Hike: The more difficult Mount Karisimbi trek typically takes two days to accomplish, forcing hikers to stay overnight at a high elevation. As the highest mountain in the Virunga Massif at 4,507 meters, this trip needs good physical condition and endurance. Hikers may enjoy the park’s vast biodiversity as the walk travels through a variety of ecosystems, such as bamboo forests and Afro-Montane vegetation. Trekkers are rewarded with sweeping views of the stunning Twin Lakes below and the other volcanoes in the range when they reach the peak.

Dian Fossey Trail: One of the most poignant hikes is to the burial of Dian Fossey, a trailblazer in the field of mountain gorilla research and conservation who devoted her life to the cause. In addition to honouring her legacy, the hike to her resting site, which is close to her former study camp at Karisoke, teaches tourists about her important contributions to wildlife conservation. Usually lasting one to three hours, the walk offers breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanic scenery as well as opportunities to see a variety of species, such as birds and monkeys.

Due to the unpredictable weather and challenging terrain, hikers should be ready for their treks in Volcanoes National Park. Bring enough water and food, rain clothing, and sturdy hiking footwear. Hikes must be accompanied for safety and navigation; knowledgeable park rangers lead groups and provide information about the plants and animals seen on the paths.

 

Cultural Experiences

Numerous immersive cultural experiences in Rwanda’s rich heritage and customs are available at Volcanoes National Park. Among the most highly regarded cultural excursions are:

Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village: One of Volcanoes National Park’s most prominent cultural attractions is the settlement, also called the Gorilla Guardians settlement. Through storytelling, participatory workshops, and traditional music and dance performances, visitors to Iby’Iwacu get a taste of the native way of life. They can take part in traditional cuisine, make banana beer, and even experience a day in the life of a native by doing subsistence farming. A rare opportunity to learn about Rwandan history and culture, including insights into past royal rituals, is also provided by the cultural village.

 Batwa Pygmy Community Experience:

Visiting the Batwa village, the native inhabitants of the forest encircling Volcanoes National Park, is another important cultural experience. The ancient gathering habits of the Batwa have given way to a variety of revenue-generating pursuits, including the creation of crafts and pottery. Hands-on activities for visitors include learning about local crafts and preparing traditional cuisine. The visitor’s experience is enhanced by this engagement, which also helps the Batwa maintain their culture while adjusting to contemporary living standards.

 

Annual Kwita Izina Festival: Every year, just outside Volcanoes National Park, a unique cultural event called Kwita Izina—also called the Gorilla Naming Ceremony—takes place. The birth of infant mountain gorillas is celebrated during this ceremony. It is based on a centuries-old custom in Rwanda where people name their children in front of close relatives. Since its official start in 2005, Kwita Izina has grown to be a major event for cultural heritage and conservation, emphasising the value of preserving these threatened species. Conservationists, scientists, and dignitaries get together to name the baby gorillas from the previous year at the ceremony. In addition to paying tribute to the gorillas, the event celebrates the arduous efforts of local people, rangers, and conservationists who strive to save these threatened animals.

 Guided community walks also offer a genuine window into local villages’ everyday lives. Tourists can watch and take part in local customs and practices by visiting local houses, schools, and markets during these walks. By interacting with local farmers and craftspeople, tourists can gain a better understanding of Rwandan culture and build relationships with locals.

 

Historical Significance of Volcanoes National Park

Much of the historical significance of Volcanoes National Park can be attributed to the efforts of Dian Fossey, a courageous American primatologist who spent eighteen years researching and protecting mountain gorillas. Fossey founded the Karisoke Research Centre in 1967, situated between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke, where she carried out pioneering studies on the ecology and behaviour of gorillas. Poaching and habitat loss threatened these rare creatures, and her actions played a crucial role in drawing attention to their predicament on a global scale. The foundation for sustainable wildlife tourism in the area was established by Fossey’s pioneering gorilla habituation techniques, which let tourists witness Africa’s gorillas in their native environment.

Fossey faced difficulties in her conservation efforts. She was notorious for her controversial methods, which included direct confrontations and the use of “active conservation” measures, and she encountered strong criticism from poachers. Using her personal resources, she provided park rangers with the tools and training they needed to effectively battle poaching. Sadly, she was murdered in December 1985—a crime that has never been solved—cutting short her life. Fossey was buried at Karisoke, with her pet gorilla Digit and other gorillas who fell victim to poachers. Since then, people who want to pay tribute to her legacy have made her burial a destination.

In addition to bringing attention to the predicament of mountain gorillas worldwide, Fossey’s unwavering commitment to conservation helped to establish sustainable tourism that benefits the gorillas as well as the local residents. Generations of Volcanoes National Park visitors and conservationists have been inspired by her legacy.

 

Accessibility: How to get to the park

The capital city of Kigali provides easy access to Volcanoes National Park. It takes two hours to drive from Kigali to the park, which is 110 km distant. Both Kigali and Gisenyi have well-maintained tarmac roads that lead to Musanze (previously Ruhengeri), the park’s main entrance.

Kigali to Musanze: It usually takes two to three hours to drive there from Kigali. There are shuttles and other public transportation choices along the route that link Kigali, Gisenyi, and Musanze. Nevertheless, there is no direct public transport between Musanze and Kinigi, the park headquarters. For the last three kilometres or so from Kinigi to the park office, motorbike taxis are available.

Into the Park: Since public transportation is not offered, visitors must have their own means of transportation after they arrive at the park headquarters in order to reach the numerous entry points within the park. Because of the steep and rugged local roads that go into the forest, it is best to rent a car, ideally a 4WD high-clearance jeep.

Operational Hours: The park’s main office is open everyday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., during which time guests can finish the required paperwork and make reservations for activities like golden monkey and gorilla trekking. For gorilla trekking, it is advised to arrive at least fifteen minutes early in order to allow for faster processing.

All park entrances offer the opportunity to hire porters for people who want help. These porters can assist in navigating challenging sections of the trails and are members of the Porters Association.

 

Gorilla Trekking Trips in Rwanda

Are you prepared for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the wilderness? Make your Rwanda gorilla permit reservation with Africa Reveal Safaris right now to begin organising your remarkable African adventure through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park!

 Best Time To Visit Volcanoes

Depending on the things you choose to do, especially gorilla trekking, the ideal time to visit Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park will vary. During the dry seasons, which are June through mid-September and December through February, hiking is most enjoyable. The trails are less muddy and simpler to traverse during these times because there is less rainfall.
In volcanoes, daytime temperatures normally fall between 25°C and 27°C (77°F and 81°F). At night, temperatures can dip to 13.5°C to 15°C (56°F to 59°F).

Gorilla trekking is best done in the dry season because of the better path conditions, but it can also be rewarding to visit in the wet seasons, which are March to May and October to November.

Activities can continue because the rain is usually sporadic and falls in brief spurts.

Because many species are drawn to the flowering plants, the wet season is a great time to observe birds and offers lush, green surroundings. Furthermore, gorillas may remain at lower elevations during the rainy season in pursuit of food, which makes tracking them easier even in the face of difficult route conditions.

Are you prepared to go on the once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park? To reserve your gorilla permit and begin organising your ideal primate safari, get in touch with Africa Reveal Safaris right now!

 

Book Your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Are you prepared for an unforgettable trip to Volcanoes National Park in Africa? A reputable safari company in Rwanda, Africa Reveal Safaris specialises in creating gorilla trekking excursions and cultural experiences that range from affordable to luxurious, allowing you to fully enjoy the delights of this amazing place.

From the moment you arrive in Kigali, we handle every aspect. After picking you up at the airport, our knowledgeable guides will take you in luxury to the centre of Volcanoes National Park. You’ll stay in some of Rwanda’s most famous forest lodges here, such the opulent Bisate Lodge with breathtaking views of the volcano or the small Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, which is tucked away in bamboo forests.

In addition to gorilla trekking, we will lead you through the verdant jungles, guaranteeing a secure and remarkable experience with these kind giants. Make lifelong memories and feel the excitement of seeing these endangered mountain gorillas in their natural environment. We also provide a variety of additional activities, such as hiking volcanoes, tracking golden monkeys, and engaging in cultural exchanges with local people.

We may even expand your trip to other fascinating Rwandan locations if you’re in the mood for even more adventure. Explore the hazy depths of Nyungwe Forest, which is home to primates like chimpanzees, or go on a traditional safari in Akagera National Park, which is the only savannah park in Rwanda and is home to the famous Big Five.

Let Africa Reveal Safaris take care of the planning so you can concentrate on making lifelong experiences.

Begin organising your journey by looking through our Rwanda gorilla safari options right now!

 

Top Tour Packages in Volcanoes National Park

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• 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari

8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari starts from Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park that’s well known for mountain climbing Gorillas, Mgahinga National park that’s at the border of Uganda and Rwanda and well known for Golden Monkeys, and Volcanoes national park that is located in the northwestern part of Rwanda covering 16o kilometers of the rain forests. Learn More

• 14 Days Rwanda Safari Tour

14 Days Rwanda Safari Tour specifically includes the most important and well-known national parks of Rwanda: Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Lake Kivu. Learn More

• 14 Days Rwanda Wildlife safari

14 Days Rwanda Wildlife safari, explore the beauty of Rwanda in nature, Gorillas, chimpanzees, and wildlife adventure. Experience the beauty of hanging out with rare earthly creatures and amazing people of historical Rwanda. After the dark days of the Rwanda Genocide in 1994, a lot of things changed back to normal. All national parks were renowned and it’s amongst the beautiful places one wouldn’t miss to consider for a vacation. Learn More

• 8 Days Rwanda Primates Safari

This 8 Days Rwanda Primates Safari Tour specifically includes the most important and well known Forested national parks of Rwanda: Nyungwe Forest National Park and Volcanoes National Park. Learn More