Volcanoes National Park,

Located in northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is a stunning region of the Virunga Mountains, part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that extends into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park spans about 160 square kilometers and is famous for its population of critically endangered mountain gorillas. This is the place where renowned primatologist Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking research on gorilla behavior, immortalized in the movie Gorillas in the Mist. Besides gorillas, the park is home to other primates, numerous bird species, and five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Range: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

Key Highlights:

1. Gorilla Trekking

• Description: The most famous activity in Volcanoes National Park is mountain gorilla trekking, which offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come face-to-face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
• Significance:
  • Endangered Species: The mountain gorilla is critically endangered, with fewer than 1,100 left in the world. Trekking provides a unique chance to observe them while contributing to conservation efforts.
  • Close Encounters: The trekking experience allows visitors to spend up to one hour with a gorilla family, watching them interact, feed, and play.

2. Golden Monkey Trekking

• Description: In addition to gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to the golden monkey, an endangered species known for its bright orange fur and lively behavior.
• Significance:
  • Rare Sighting: These monkeys are found in the bamboo forests of the park, and trekking to see them is a rewarding experience for wildlife lovers.
  • Unique Behavior: Golden monkeys are highly active and entertaining to watch as they jump between bamboo shoots.

3. Hiking the Volcanoes

• Description: The park features five volcanoes that offer challenging and rewarding hikes, including the highest peak, Mount Karisimbi (4,507 meters), and Mount Bisoke, known for its crater lake.
• Significance:
  • Mount Karisimbi: A two-day hike that leads to the summit, offering stunning views over Rwanda and the surrounding countries.
  • Mount Bisoke: A more accessible one-day hike, with a scenic reward in the form of a beautiful crater lake at the top.

4. Dian Fossey Tomb and Research Center

• Description: This hike takes visitors to the Dian Fossey grave and her former research station at Karisoke, where she spent 18 years studying and protecting the mountain gorillas.
• Significance:
  • Conservation Legacy: Fossey’s work played a pivotal role in saving mountain gorillas from extinction. Visiting her grave is a tribute to her life’s work.
  • Cultural and Historical Importance: Learn about the history of gorilla conservation and Fossey’s influence in shaping global awareness of the species.

5. Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village

• Description: Located near the park, this cultural village offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Rwandan culture, including dance performances, traditional medicine practices, and local cuisine.
• Significance:
  • Community Engagement: The village provides employment opportunities for locals and allows tourists to learn about the lives of the people who share the land with the mountain gorillas.
  • Cultural Enrichment: Experience traditional Rwandan life through interaction with locals, learning about their history, customs, and daily life.