Home of the Majestic Mountain Gorillas

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is Rwanda’s premier wildlife destination and one of the most iconic conservation areas in Africa. Located in the northwest of Rwanda, the park is part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area, which spans across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Location and Landscape

Volcanoes National Park covers approximately 160 km² of lush montane rainforest and is dominated by five of the eight Virunga volcanoes:

Mount Karisimbi (4,507m) – the highest

Mount Bisoke (3,711m) – known for its crater lake

Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo

The terrain is a dramatic mix of bamboo forests, alpine meadows, crater lakes, and volcano slopes, providing habitats for rare and endangered species.

Wildlife & Primates

Volcanoes National Park is world-renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei). These gorillas live in habituated family groups that visitors can trek to observe in the wild — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In addition to gorillas, the park is also home to:

Golden monkeys (only found in the Virunga Mountains)

Forest elephants

Buffaloes

Bushbuck

Over 200 species of birds, many endemic to the Albertine Rift

Top Activities in Volcanoes National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking

• • • The main attraction — permits are limited to protect the gorillas

    • Treks range from 1 to 6 hours depending on the family group

    • You’ll spend 1 hour with the gorillas once found, in small guided groups

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

• • • Easier and shorter trek than gorilla trekking

    • Great for families and those wanting a unique primate experience

3. Hiking & Volcano Climbs

• • • Mount Bisoke Crater Lake Hike (1-day hike)

    • Mount Karisimbi 2-day overnight hike – highest peak in Rwanda

    • Trails provide incredible views and chances to see endemic flora and fauna

4. Dian Fossey Tomb Hike

• • • A hike to the gravesite of famed primatologist Dian Fossey, whose work helped save the mountain gorillas

    • Includes a visit to the ruins of her research station, Karisoke

5. Cultural Encounters

• • • Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan life, music, dance, and cuisine

    • Community-led tourism helps support conservation efforts