Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park: Rwanda's Gorilla Highlands
Volcanoes National Park is where Rwanda’s gorilla story began. Its bamboo-covered slopes rise to five of the eight Virunga volcanoes, and this is where Dian Fossey studied mountain gorillas for almost two decades. Today, the park protects around a third of the world’s mountain gorillas.
It is also the most convenient gorilla destination in Africa. The park headquarters at Kinigi is only around two to three hours by road from Kigali International Airport, so you can land in the morning and be in the mountains by lunchtime.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Each morning, trekkers gather at Kinigi for a briefing and are assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families. Groups are limited to eight people. Treks range from about an hour to most of the day, depending on the family, and you then spend one hour with the gorillas. A Rwanda gorilla permit costs US$1,500 per person for foreign non-residents, set by the Rwanda Development Board. Trekkers must be at least 15.
Golden Monkeys, Volcano Hikes and Dian Fossey’s Grave
Golden monkey tracking is a fun, gentler add-on that takes place in the bamboo zone. For a full-day challenge, hike Mount Bisoke to its crater lake, or Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest peak. Many visitors also hike to the Karisoke research site and Dian Fossey’s grave, where she is buried beside her beloved gorillas.
Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park
The long dry season from June to September and the short dry season from December to February bring easier trails. However, gorillas can be trekked all year, and the green seasons are quieter.
Rwanda or Uganda for Gorillas?
Rwanda offers easy access and polished lodges, while Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga permits cost about half as much. Many travellers start in Kigali and cross into Uganda; read our gorilla trekking guide to compare.
Plan Your Volcanoes National Park Safari
See our 3-day Rwanda gorilla trekking safari, the 5-day gorillas and golden monkeys safari or the complete 10-day classic Rwanda safari, or contact us.
Volcanoes National Park FAQs
How far is Volcanoes National Park from Kigali?
About 2 to 3 hours by road, which makes day trips and short safaris easy.
How much is a gorilla permit in Rwanda?
US$1,500 per person for foreign non-residents. We confirm current rates and availability when you book.
In addition to gorilla trekking, visitors can engage in several other activities including hiking the volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains, such as Mount Karisimbi, which provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and neighboring countries. The park’s diverse ecosystems also support golden monkeys, and specialized treks are available to observe these vibrant primates as well. Aside from wildlife encounters, Volcanoes National Park offers various trekking opportunities for those interested in exploring its unique volcanic terrain.
The Dian Fossey Tomb Trek allows visitors to pay homage to the pioneering conservationist by visiting her gravesite and the nearby research center where she conducted her groundbreaking work. The park’s natural beauty is further showcased through its scenic hikes and nature walks, which offer stunning views of the volcanic peaks and the surrounding mist-covered valleys. Birdwatchers will find the park a haven for observing a range of species, including the elusive Rwenzori turaco. With a focus on conservation and sustainable tourism, Volcanoes National Park provides a deeply enriching experience that combines adventure, education, and a commitment to preserving its remarkable wildlife.
What Our Guests Say
Traford Safaris holds a 5.0-star rating on Google. Here is what recent travellers wrote:
“From the airport pickup to the accommodation and activities, everything was well organised. Our guide, Mbabazi was excellent.”
Hosea Thomas Perez, 10-day Rwanda safari · Google review ★★★★★
“Had the most rewarding 15 day Uganda Rwanda Safari. My itinerary matched everything I needed and wanted. Gorilla trekking was the highlight of the trip.”
Celine Rohas, Uganda and Rwanda safari · Google review ★★★★★
Why Travel with Traford Safaris
- Licensed and local: a Kampala-based company registered with the Uganda Tourism Board, planning safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
- Our own vehicles: we own and maintain our fleet of custom 4×4 Land Cruisers, with pop-up roofs, charging ports and Wi-Fi.
- Permits handled for you: we book gorilla and chimpanzee permits directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Rwanda Development Board, and confirm them before your trip.
- Private and flexible: every safari is private and tailor-made, and itineraries can start on any day that suits you.
- Three travel styles: Signature (luxury), Classic (mid-range) and Adventurer (budget), so the same itinerary can fit different budgets.
- One planner from start to finish: our reservations team, led by senior safari consultant Agaba Sheeba, stays in touch before and during your trip.
Where to Stay near Volcanoes National Park
Every Traford safari comes in three styles: Signature (luxury), Classic (mid-range) and Adventurer (budget). These are the lodges we recommend most often; final choices depend on your dates and availability.
- Signature: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
- Classic: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge and Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.
- Adventurer: comfortable guesthouses in Kinigi and Musanze town.
