Volcanoes National Park is one of the most well-known tourist destinations on the continent and is home to about 480 mountain gorillas. About two hours’ drive from Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, the park serves as a hub for experiencing some uniquely Rwandan experiences. Although seeing the mountain gorillas is frequently the top tourist attraction, the striking scenery also provides exciting hiking and opportunities to see the interesting golden monkeys. Over ten mountain gorilla groups can be found at Volcanoes National Park, which spans an area of roughly 160 km2 and is located along a deep rain forest that was once home to extinct volcanoes.
As a natural refuge for mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park was gazetted in 1925 and is encircled by the volcanic peaks of Mikeno, Karisimbi, and Visoke. The primary reason for this park’s fame is the work of renowned primatologist Dr. Dian Fossey, who established the Karisoke Research Centre there in 1967 between Visoke and Karisimbi. According to her memoirs, Gorillas in the Mist, Dian Fossey had fiercely opposed poachers her entire life before they assassinated her. As of right now, her graveyard at the research centre is a popular tourist destination.
Tourist Activities in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla Tracking
Gorillas live in the Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda, specifically on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains covered in bamboo. The Volcanoes National Park is home to ten distinct gorilla tribes. Organised gorilla trekking is made possible and safe by these habituated gorilla families who have been educated to tolerate human presence. Furthermore, since it’s safe, you may enjoy the incredible sensation of gazing into a silverback’s eyes or seeing these great animals go about their daily lives, tending to their young, feeding, and just being, without having to worry about being attacked or the gorillas hiding from you. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is truly magical throughout.
Bird Watching
The park is home to a diverse array of birds, many of which are indigenous to the Albertine Rift. Three species are listed as internationally threatened: Kivu Ground Thrush, African Green Broadbill, and Lagden’s Bush-shrike. Additionally, the location has documented 17 of the 25 species of the Albertine Rift Mountains Endemic Bird Area and 53 of the 74 species of the Afro tropical Highlands biome that are found in Rwanda.
Guided Nature Walk
Another fantastic option to experience the various sights that are located within and around the Volcanoes National Park is to go on a guided walk or go on a woodland walk. You will venture far into the forest with your ranger in your party, and you will have a great time looking for species such as tree species, local flora, and creatures that may catch your attention. In addition to gorillas, you should anticipate to witness a variety of other primates. The most fascinating of them are the golden monkeys, which will provide you with an entirely different experience than gorilla trekking.
Golden Monkey Tracking
One of the most remarkable tourism experiences, golden monkey tracking brings thousands of tourists to Volcanoes National Park each year from all over the world. Participants in this remarkable activity feel completely satisfied since they get the chance to walk and climb around this physically rejuvenating mountain and get up close and personal with these endangered and rare primates.
Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
A great experience is taking a walk to Dian Fossey’s graveyard, which has a small exhibition before you go gorilla tracking. In just thirty minutes, one can learn a great deal at this highly instructive place. It’s incredible to witness Dian Fossey’s legacy in the Research Centre and in the conservation of such magnificent creatures after a strenuous walk with a first-rate guide who shared insightful information about the life, demise, and achievements of Dian Fossey. The hike took many hours and included a variety of terrain, including some flat walking, some muddy sections, and at times, dense foliage, including stinging nettles.
Best time to visit Volcano National Park
Although gorilla tours are available year-round, certain seasons offer superior travel opportunities. The rainy season, which runs from April to May, means that it is continually rainy and damp on the ground. During the wet season, hiking in the woodlands can be quite difficult. June to September and December to February are the driest months to go gorilla trekking. These times of year are drier than the rest of the year, even though it can rain in these places of Rwanda at any time of the year.