A Trip to Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park

A Trip to Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park

Are you planning a memorable trip to Rwanda that includes both Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park? If you’re interested in experiencing the thrill of seeing the Big Five and engaging in primate tours, you’re in for an adventure! The journey from Akagera to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, covering about 213 kilometers. This exciting combined trip offers a wealth of adventure and fun.

The roads leading to the parks are generally well-maintained, with a few rough patches toward the end. To ensure your comfort during the drive, we use 4×4 vehicles for all-inclusive packages. Remember to secure your permits for park activities or pay the entrance fees upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park.

Discover Volcanoes National Park

Known locally as “Pariki Yigihugu yibirungu” and “Parc Des Volcans,” Volcanoes National Park is located in the northeastern town of Musanze, Rwanda. It’s one of the oldest and most significant national parks in both Rwanda and East Africa. The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, as well as a variety of birds, monkeys, trees, and unique cultural experiences.

Part of the Virunga Conservation Area, Volcanoes National Park is home to five extinct volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Bisoke. Managed by the Rwanda Development Board, the park was established to protect the mountain gorillas, which were threatened by poaching and habitat loss. Its proximity to Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park and DR Congo’s Virunga National Park facilitates cross-border conservation efforts for these magnificent creatures.

Activities on Your Rwanda Trip

Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

To fully enjoy the gorilla trekking experience, you’ll need to spend at least one night in Volcanoes National Park, ideally arriving a day ahead of your trek from Akagera. Gorilla trekking is a year-round activity, allowing you to visit habituated mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. During the trek, you’ll observe their behaviors as they feed, rest, and interact.

There are ten habituated gorilla families available for trekking, with a limit of eight visitors per family each day. The chance of seeing the mountain gorillas is an impressive 99%, thanks to the expertise of trackers, guides, and park rangers. Trekking typically starts at 7:00 AM with a briefing on guidelines for interacting with the gorillas, emphasizing the need to respect their wild nature. Depending on their location, the trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.

To participate in gorilla trekking, you must obtain a Rwanda gorilla permit, which costs USD 1,500 for all nationalities. This permit allows you one hour of viewing and photography with the gorillas. Booking a gorilla trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Trek Africa Expeditions can help you secure and tailor your tour for affordability and lasting memories.

Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Golden monkey tracking is another fantastic activity to enjoy while visiting Volcanoes National Park from Akagera. This experience involves visiting two habituated golden monkey communities, each with around 80 members. Unlike gorilla trekking, there is no limit on the number of visitors for this activity.

Golden monkey tracking permits cost USD 100 and can be obtained from the Rwanda Development Board. The activity begins at 7:00 AM with a briefing by park wardens, followed by guided treks into the forest. Depending on the monkeys’ location, you may walk for 30 minutes to an hour. Once you locate the golden monkeys, you’ll be allowed to observe them for one hour before returning.

Visiting the Dian Fossey Tomb and Hike

A visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb is one of the most iconic activities for visitors to Volcanoes National Park. This hike, which takes about an hour from the Karisoke Research Camp, leads you to the resting place of the renowned primatologist and zoologist Dian Fossey. Fossey dedicated her life to protecting the endangered mountain gorillas and raising awareness about their plight. Tragically, she was murdered by alleged poachers, and her memorial was established in the park where she is buried. Fossey gained fame for her work featured in the film Gorillas in the Mist, and this hike celebrates her passion for gorillas and conservation. The trail, which reaches an altitude of 2,500 to 3,000 meters, offers an inspiring journey through the park, culminating at the tomb of a true conservation hero.

Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich and unique cultures of Africa with the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience, located in Volcanoes National Park. The local community, once residing in the forest and involved in poaching, was relocated and organized into the Iby’Iwacu village in Nyabigoma, Kinigi, within Musanze District. Our tailored trips provide an incredible opportunity to engage with the Iby’Iwacu people, where you’ll discover their heritage, traditional practices, and daily activities. Visitors can enjoy local dances, explore artifacts, and gain insight into the lifestyles of the community, making this cultural encounter a memorable highlight of your visit.

Bird Watching

For bird enthusiasts, Volcanoes National Park offers a paradise of avian diversity. Home to over 300 bird species, the park provides excellent opportunities for bird watching. You might spot vulnerable species like the Grauer’s Rush Warbler, often found in the swamps, as well as the Rwenzori Turaco, Archer’s Ground Robin, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Rwenzori Double-collared Sunbird. Our birding packages are designed for both beginners and seasoned birders, guided by professional birding experts who will help you identify various species and enrich your experience.

Where to Stay in Volcanoes National Park

Choosing the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable safari in Volcanoes National Park. There are numerous options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious lodges. For a high-end experience, consider Bisate Lodge, Gorilla Nest, or Virunga Lodge. Mid-range options include Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge, and Le Bamboo Mountain Gorilla Lodge. Budget travelers can opt for Kinigi Guesthouse, Hotel Muhavura, or Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge. To ensure you secure your preferred lodging, especially during the peak season, it’s advisable to book in advance. Additionally, staying multiple nights may qualify you for discounts.

Why Book Your Rwanda Trip with Us?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in creating amazing experiences in Volcanoes National Park and throughout Rwanda. With years of expertise, we offer discounted packages tailored to your interests, including gorilla trekking, bird watching, cultural experiences, and golden monkey tracking. Our team, comprised of energetic and passionate staff led by experienced professionals, is dedicated to delivering authentic and memorable adventures. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable trip to Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park!