Plan Your Trip to Visit Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

Plan Your Trip to Visit Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Plan Your Trip to Visit Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park — Are you dreaming of an unforgettable adventure to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat? Look no further than Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Known as Parc National des Volcans in French and Pariki y’Igihugu y’Ibirunga in Kinyarwanda, this iconic park is located in northeastern Rwanda near the charming town of Musanze. As one of the oldest and most significant national parks in Africa, Volcanoes National Park is a haven for endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and a rich variety of wildlife, including forest hogs, bushbucks, and over 200 bird species.

The park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s home to five majestic 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 mountain gorillas from threats like poaching and habitat loss. Today, it stands as a symbol of successful conservation efforts, with gorillas freely roaming between Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking is the highlight of any visit to Volcanoes National Park. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural environment, watching them feed, play, and interact with one another. The park has 10 habituated gorilla families, and only 8 visitors are allowed to trek each family per day, ensuring an intimate and sustainable experience.

Your adventure begins at 7:00 AM at the Kinigi park headquarters, where you’ll receive a briefing on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking. Although gorillas share 99% of their DNA with humans, they are still wild animals, and it’s essential to follow the guidelines provided by your guides. The trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once you find them, you’ll have one hour to observe and photograph these incredible creatures.

To participate in gorilla trekking, you’ll need a gorilla permit, which costs $1,500 per person for all nationalities. Permits can be booked through the Rwanda Development Board or a trusted tour operator like Excursia Adventures. We’ll help you secure your permit and tailor an affordable, memorable gorilla trekking tour.

Other Activities to Enjoy in Volcanoes National Park

While gorilla trekking is the main attraction, Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of other activities to enrich your visit:

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkeys are another rare and beautiful primate species found in the park. With two habituated communities, each consisting of around 80 members, golden monkey tracking is a unique and rewarding experience. The activity starts at 7:00 AM with a briefing, followed by a trek through the forest. Once you find the monkeys, you’ll have one hour to observe them. A golden monkey tracking permit costs $100 per person.

Visiting Dian Fossey’s Tomb

The Dian Fossey Tomb Hike is a must-do for history and nature enthusiasts. Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist and zoologist, dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas from extinction. Her work was immortalized in the film Gorillas in the Mist. The hike to her tomb, located at the Karisoke Research Center, takes about 1-2 hours and offers stunning views of the park. Along the way, you’ll learn about Fossey’s groundbreaking research and her legacy in gorilla conservation.

Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience: A Journey into Rwandan Heritage

African cultures are rich, unique, and deeply fascinating, and Rwanda’s Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is a must-visit for anyone starting their journey from the Cyanika border. This cultural experience offers a glimpse into the lives of the local people who once lived in the forest and even participated in poaching. Today, they’ve been relocated and organized into a vibrant community that shares their heritage with visitors.

Located in Nyabigoma, Kinigi, within the Musanze District of Rwanda’s Northern Province, the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village showcases traditional Rwandan lifestyles, activities, artifacts, dances, and ways of living. Visitors can participate in cultural performances, learn about traditional practices, and even try their hand at local crafts. It’s a heartwarming and educational experience that adds depth to your trip.

At Excursia Adventures, we often include cultural experiences in our itineraries to ensure you have a well-rounded and unforgettable adventure in Volcanoes National Park.

Bird Watching in Volcanoes National Park

For bird enthusiasts, Volcanoes National Park is a paradise. The park is home to over 300 bird species, including some rare and endemic ones. Some of the highlights include:

• Grauer’s Rush Warbler: A vulnerable species often found in the swamps.
• Rwenzori Turaco: A colorful bird native to the region.
• Archer’s Ground Robin: A rare sight for avid birders.
• Red-Faced Woodland Warbler: A small, lively bird with a distinctive call.
• Strange Weaver: Known for its unique nesting habits.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual enthusiast, our birding packages in Rwanda and Uganda come with professional guides who will help you spot and identify these incredible species. The lush forests and diverse habitats of Volcanoes National Park make it a prime destination for bird watching.

Where to Stay in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options. Here’s a breakdown:

Luxury Lodges

• Bisate Lodge: A luxurious retreat with stunning views of the volcanoes.
• Virunga Lodge: Known for its exceptional service and breathtaking location.
• Gorilla Nest Lodge: A favorite for its comfort and proximity to the park.

Mid-Range Lodges

• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge: A comfortable option with great amenities.
• Five Volcanoes Lodge: A blend of modern comforts and natural beauty.
• Le Bambou Mountain Gorilla Lodge: A cozy and affordable choice.

Budget Accommodations

• Kinigi Guesthouse: A simple and budget-friendly option.
• Hotel Muhavura: Basic but convenient for trekkers.
• Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge: Ideal for travelers on a budget.

Accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during the high season (June to September and December to February). We recommend booking your stay well in advance to secure your preferred lodge. Plus, you can often get discounts for longer stays!

Why Choose Excursia Adventures for Your Trip to Volcanoes National Park?

At Excursia Adventures, we’re passionate about creating unforgettable experiences in Rwanda. Whether you’re interested in gorilla trekking, bird watching, cultural tours, or golden monkey tracking, we offer discounted packages and tailor-made trips to suit your needs.

Our team is a mix of young, energetic professionals and experienced guides who are deeply committed to providing authentic and sustainable travel experiences. We’re proud to be highly rated and reviewed on TripAdvisor, where you can read about the experiences of other travelers who have explored Rwanda with us.

Book Your Adventure to Volcanoes National Park Today

Ready to explore the wonders of Volcanoes National Park? Contact Excursia Adventures today to plan your trip. From gorilla trekking and bird watching to cultural experiences and golden monkey tracking, we’ll help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Let us take care of the details while you focus on enjoying the adventure of a lifetime!