1. Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda, is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. It is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area and is known for its lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and diverse wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorillas.
The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. The Virunga Range extends across the border into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, making it one of the few places on Earth where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild.
Volcanoes National Park offers thrilling opportunities to track and observe the mountain gorillas, with permits available for visiting their habituated groups. This conservation effort has contributed greatly to the increase in the mountain gorilla population in recent years.
In addition to gorilla tracking, the park also offers other activities such as golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, and cultural village visits. The park’s scenic beauty and unique biodiversity make it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
2. The working hours of the Volcanoes National Park are generally from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the park authorities for the most up-to-date information. The phone number for Volcanoes National Park is + 250 252 502 763.
3. To visit Volcanoes National Park, you will need a permit, which can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or authorized tour operators. Gorilla trekking permits are limited and it is recommended to book in advance. The cost of a permit is currently $1,500 per person for a one-hour visit with the gorillas. Transportation to the park can be arranged through tour operators or self-drive options are available as well. The nearest major city to Volcanoes National Park is Kigali, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive away.
