The park is situated in the Virunga Mountains, along the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which includes other national parks across the three countries. Volcanoes National Park, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga range: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.
The most famous inhabitants of Volcanoes National Park are the mountain gorillas. It is one of the last places in the world where you can see these critically endangered animals in their natural habitat.
In addition to gorillas, the park is home to a variety of other wildlife, including golden monkeys, bushbucks, elephants, and diverse bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Attractions and activities in volcano National Park
Gorilla Trekking: This is the park’s main attraction. Guided treks lead you into the mountains to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Golden Monkey Trekking: Besides gorillas, the park is home to the endangered golden monkeys. Trekking to see them can be just as rewarding, as they are playful and often active.
Volcanic Peaks: The park features several volcanic mountains, including Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, and Mount Sabyinyo. Hiking to the summits offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore diverse ecosystems.
Birdwatching: The park is rich in birdlife, with many species recorded, including several endemic birds. Birdwatching can be particularly rewarding along the forest trails.
Cultural Experiences: Engage with local communities near the park, such as the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, where you can learn about Rwandan culture, traditional music, dance, and crafts.
Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: Visit the site of the former Karisoke Research Center, established by the famous primatologist Dian Fossey. Learn about her research and conservation work in the area.
Scenic Views: The park’s high-altitude terrain boasts stunning landscapes, including lush bamboo forests and beautiful views of the Virunga Massif mountains perfect for photography.
How to Access Volcano National Park
International Airport: The main gateway to Rwanda is Kigali International Airport (KGL), which is about a 2–3-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park.
Domestic Flights: visitors can decide to take domestic flight from Kigali international airport to Volcano National Park
By Car: The roads are generally in good condition, and tour companies do offer safaris to Volcano National Park by road in safari vehicles. Many tour operators in Rwanda offer packages that include transportation, accommodation, and guided tours of the park.
Park Entry and Regulations
Entrance Fee: You will need to pay an entry fee to access Volcanoes National Park. Fees may vary based on activities (e.g., gorilla trekking permits) and visitor categories (foreigners, Rwandans, etc.).
Permits for Gorilla Trekking: If you plan to go gorilla trekking, you must purchase a permit in advance. These permits can sell out quickly, so it’s best to book as early as possible.
What to Bring
Comfortable hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
A camera is a must, but switch off flash photography, especially when with gorillas.
Check any health advisories before your visit, including vaccinations or malaria prophylaxis.
Follow all park regulations and guidelines to ensure your safety and that of the wildlife.
Some of accommodations around volcano National Park
Singita kwitonda lodge
The lodge is located next to Volcanoes National Park, home to Mountain gorillas, the lodge is named after a legendary silverback gorilla. The lodge is a perfect place to base when going for Mountain gorilla Tracking. They have 8 suites very spacious with a private heated Plunge pool, fire places, wellness treatment area. Since the lodge is strategically located facing the magical park, there is a beautiful view right from your room.
The lodge was built using local materials that means sustainability is considered here. The elements include woven ceiling and hand-fired terracotta brick work. On site there is a nursery and vegetation garden providing fresh foods. After gorilla Tracking or any other activity, you will feel at home at Kwitonda. Enjoy the hot fresh food prepared by experienced chefs and wonderful staff.
Adding on the materials used to build the lodge, the buildings have been crafted using rock, river stone, handmade ceramic tiles and oven-red clay bricks made by local people around. This makes the lodge blend well to the land scape and culture. The interiors have been built in handcrafted materials other features include, woven panels, handmade tiles and clay pots. The lodge is very luxurious.
At Kwitonda, you will have a view of important volcanoes in the park like Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and muhabura. Due to its location, at night mountain gorillas and elephants sometimes come around the lodge. The bamboo, ferns, giant lobelias and forest trees provide a natural backdrop that over time will engulf the buildings and reclaim them back into the forest.
The lodge also have beautiful living spaces, which forms lounges, dining areas, an outdoor fire pit, kitchen and not forgetting wine for visitors.
Amenities:
Private outdoor heated plunge pools, In-room massage treatments, Central fireplaces in suites and the main lodge., The on-site Akarabo Nursery and garden, Wine cellar and tastings, A dedicated Gear Room, Singita Boutique & Gallery store, Conservation Room, Complimentary WIFI throughout the lodge, Electricity/power available: 220V. Converters are also available and hairdryers are supplied in each suite
Activities at Kwitonda
Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey Trekking, birding, Hiking & Walking, Akarabo Nursery, Farm-to-Table Garden, Wellness, Yoga, Cycling, Village Tours, Wine Experience, Conservation Room, The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Singita Community Culinary School, Boutique & Gallery, Lodge Information and etc.
Children’s activities offered:
Board games, cooking interactions, Stargazing, Activity booklets with a variety of games, quizzes and games, Arts & crafts, Movies, Swimming, Birding, Cycling, Akarabo Nursery and garden tour and etc.
Rwanda Luxury Safaris 