Volcanoes National Park

Why Visit Volcanoes National Park?

Just a short two-hour drive from Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, you’ll find one of Africa’s most amazing places — Volcanoes National Park, also called Parc National des Volcans. It’s not just beautiful — it’s the oldest national park in all of Africa! The park is filled with stunning green hills and five huge volcanoes. Deep in its bamboo forests live rare golden monkeys and one of the world’s last groups of mountain gorillas. Seeing these gentle giants up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a top highlight for many people visiting Africa.

A gorilla trekking permit costs US$1500 per person, which covers park entry, expert guides, and armed rangers to keep everyone safe. Meeting a huge silverback gorilla face-to-face can be exciting and a little scary — especially if you’re used to watching animals from inside a car. But don’t worry. Gorillas may be big, but they are calm, gentle, and only eat plants. They are peaceful and safe to be around. Before the trek, park rangers will give you a safety talk. There are 10 gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park that people are allowed to visit. Some groups are close and easier to find, while others live high in the mountains and take about 3 to 4 hours of tough hiking through thick forest and muddy hills. You might climb all the way up to 3000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level! No matter which group you visit, it will be an unforgettable adventure.

You are only allowed to spend one hour with the gorillas, and you should stay at least 7 meters (21 feet) away. But sometimes, curious gorillas will come closer to you — which makes the moment even more magical! You can book your gorilla permit through the Rwanda Development Board in Kigali or with a Rwandan tour company. If you book a tour, everything will be arranged for you. If you’re traveling alone, you’ll need to book early to get a spot. This experience is truly like no other — walking through misty volcano forests and meeting mountain gorillas in the wild is something you’ll never forget.

Reasons To Visit Volcanoes National Park

Track mountain gorillas in their natural habitat

Nothing is more exciting than standing just a few meters away from a huge silverback gorilla in the forest! You’ll hear the bamboo cracking… then see a giant gorilla walk out of the trees. It’s a moment you’ll never forget. You might also see a baby gorilla rolling on the ground or watch a big gorilla family relaxing in the jungle. It feels magical. Gorilla tracking costs US$1500. Yes, that’s a lot – but it helps protect the gorillas. There are fewer than 1500 left in the world, and this money helps stop poachers and keep them safe. So you’re not just visiting – you’re helping too! If it’s too expensive, you can go to Uganda from Rwanda, where tracking is cheaper. Still, no matter where you go, meeting gorillas in the wild is one of the best things you’ll ever do.

Golden monkey tracking

While most people come to Volcanoes National Park to see mountain gorillas, there’s another rare and special animal you can visit — the golden monkey! These playful monkeys live high up in the trees and have gotten used to being around people, so you can watch them closely in the wild. Golden monkeys are a type of blue monkey, but you’ll know them by their bright golden fur and black arms and legs. They are beautiful, fast, and full of energy — jumping through the trees and swinging on branches. Watching them is more like seeing chimps than gorillas, and it’s a fun and exciting experience. Golden monkeys are endangered and can only be found in the Virunga Mountains. A tracking permit costs just US$100, and it’s easy to get one. If you’re already in the park for gorillas, golden monkey tracking is a great extra adventure to add!

Volcano Climbing

Even if you’re not here to see gorillas or golden monkeys, hiking in Volcanoes National Park is something you shouldn’t miss. With a bit of luck, you might even see gorillas by surprise on the trail! The park is home to five beautiful volcanoes, stretching across Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC. These volcanoes are not active and rise high into the sky, some over 4000 meters (13,000 feet) tall! The views are stunning and the air is fresh. There are hikes for everyone — from easy half-day walks to tough overnight adventures. The most popular hike is to the top of Mt Bisoke (3711m/12,175ft), where you’ll find a crater lake at the summit. It’s a challenging climb, but the reward is worth it! If you want an even bigger challenge, you can climb Mt Karisimbi (4507m/14,787ft), the tallest volcano in the park. You can also hike Mt Gahinga (3474m/11,398ft) and Mt Muhabura (4127m/13,540ft), which are often done together.

Dian Fossey Tomb Hike

Slightly easier is the pilgrimage up to see the grave of wildlife warrior Dian Fossey (author of Gorillas in the Mist) who in 1985 was tragically murdered in her pursuit to protect gorillas from poachers. She was buried alongside her beloved Digit, her favorite gorilla, who was killed by poachers in 1977.

Visit The Gorilla Guardian VILLAGE

Mountain gorillas are endangered, but there’s good news — their numbers are growing! This success is thanks in part to special projects like the Gorilla Guardians Village near Volcanoes National Park. The village started in 2004 with a big idea: give former gorilla poachers a better way to live. Instead of poaching gorillas, they became their protectors. The community helped turn the hunters into heroes. Now, visitors to the park can stop by the Gorilla Guardians Village to enjoy a fun and cultural experience. You’ll see traditional Rwandan dances, taste local food, watch crafts being made, and hear powerful stories from people who once hunted gorillas — but now help save them. You can even buy handmade souvenirs to support the community. It’s a heartwarming visit that shows how people and wildlife can live together in peace.

Volcanoes National Park Accommodation

If you’re wondering where to stay near Volcanoes National Park, there’s something for everyone. Red Rocks Rwanda is a fun and friendly place run by the local community — perfect for budget travelers who love art, culture, and meeting new people. If you’re after amazing views and a bit of pampering, Virunga Lodge offers eco-luxury at its finest. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge mixes comfort with culture and sits right next to the park — you’ll feel like you’re in a dream. And for those who want the best of the best, Bisate Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge with stunning views and a deep connection to nature.

Our Rwanda Safari Itineraries

Check out these sample Rwanda safari ideas to get inspired and start dreaming about your Rwanda adventure. Contact us today! The friendly team at Greenway Nature Tours Africa is ready to help you build an amazing trip to Volcanoes National Park.