Discover the Virunga Mountains and Volcanoes National Park

Begin your journey by witnessing the majestic Virunga Mountains—five immense, ancient volcanoes now lushly blanketed by dense rainforest. This captivating landscape is home to Volcanoes National Park, where rare golden monkeys, towering massifs, bamboo forests, pristine mountain lakes, and, most famously, the enigmatic mountain gorillas await.

A Dynamic National Safari Park

Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s most unique safari experiences. Trekking for mountain gorillas offers an unforgettable encounter, especially the heart-stopping moment when you come face-to-face with a powerful silverback, surrounded by his family, including playful young gorillas. This is an experience of a lifetime.

Mountain Gorillas: A Rare Opportunity

The Virunga area is home to over 600 of the world’s 1,000 mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park hosts 12 distinct gorilla families, each led by a silverback and including several females and young. On a guided trek, you’ll have up to an hour to observe their social interactions, capture photos, and create lifelong memories.

Golden Monkey Treks and More Wildlife

Beyond gorillas, the park offers the chance to trek for the elusive golden monkeys. You can spend time with these shy but curious primates, who dart from tree to tree as they observe you in return. Other wildlife sightings include the black-fronted duiker, buffalo, spotted hyena, and bushbuck, along with over 200 species of colorful birds.

Dian Fossey’s Legacy

The park gained fame through Dian Fossey, the pioneering zoologist who established her gorilla research center here. Fossey’s conservation work helped save the mountain gorillas from extinction. Her legacy continues with the annual “Kwita Izina” gorilla naming ceremony, a traditional Rwandan event where baby gorillas are named and celebrated.

Key Facts about Volcanoes National Park

Size: 160 sq. km (62 sq. mi), featuring 5 of the 8 Virunga volcanoes.

Climate: Cool and misty due to high elevation (up to 4,572 m/15,000 ft); daytime temperatures can drop to 16°C (61°F).

Location: Northwestern Rwanda, approximately a 2-hour drive from Kigali.

Operating Hours: Open from 6 am to 4 pm.

Best Time to Visit: Dry season, June through September.

Access: By road; book with Ak African Tours and Safaris from Kigali.

Experiences & Activities

Gorilla Trekking

Embark on a rare and exclusive trek to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In small guided groups, traverse bamboo forests and hillsides to spend a remarkable hour observing these gentle giants. Remember to bring sturdy footwear and rain gear for this incredible highlight of an African safari.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Encounter the rare and playful golden monkeys in a unique small-group excursion. With two resident troops totaling around 80 monkeys, you’ll witness their vibrant personalities and acrobatic displays.

Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony

This annual ceremony celebrates new gorilla births, with music, dancing, and local traditions. Join a tour to witness this special event and learn more about the conservation efforts that protect the gorilla population.

Cultural Tour of Ibyiwacu Village

Experience the rich culture of the local community at Ibyiwacu Village. Engage with residents, enjoy traditional dances, songs, and stories, and get a firsthand look at daily life in this welcoming village.

Climb Bisoke Volcano

Tackle a challenging climb up Bisoke Volcano to reach a breathtaking crater lake. The trek begins in bamboo forests and ascends through bushland to deliver stunning views.

Lakes and Caves Exploration

Don’t miss the mystical Musanze Caves, steeped in history and local folklore. Nearby lakes offer tranquil landscapes and scenic beauty.

Discover Volcanoes National Park with Ak African Tours and Safaris

Dian Fossey once described Volcanoes National Park as being “so high up that you shiver more than you sweat.” Let us guide you through the magic of this high-altitude paradise with personalized tours departing from Kigali, lasting from 2 to 7 days.

Ready to experience Rwanda’s natural wonders? Click here to view our Rwanda tours and start planning your unforgettable journey.