VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK

Volcanoes National Park, also known as Parc National des Volcans (PNV), is a protected area located in the Virunga Mountains in northwestern Rwanda, along the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This national park is renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes and its role as a sanctuary for the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Here are some key features and information about Volcanoes National Park:

  • Mountain Gorilla Conservation: The Park is best known for its role in mountain gorilla conservation. It is home to several habituated gorilla families, and visitors have the opportunity to go on gorilla tracking treks to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
  • Golden Monkey Tracking: In addition to gorilla tracking, Volcanoes National Park offers the chance to track the rare and endemic golden monkeys. These playful primates inhabit the bamboo forests of the park.
  • Scenic Volcanic Landscapes: The Park is characterized by a chain of volcanoes, including some of the highest peaks in Africa. The dramatic scenery includes lush green slopes, bamboo forests, and rugged volcanic terrain.
  • Hiking and Trekking: Visitors can explore the park through a network of hiking and trekking trails. These trails vary in difficulty and offer opportunities for hikes of different durations and interests, from short nature walks to more strenuous hikes to the summits of volcanoes.
  • Birdwatching: Volcanoes National Park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for colorful and unique birds like the Rwenzori turaco and the blue-headed sunbird.
  • Cultural Experiences: The Park provides opportunities to engage with the local communities, including cultural visits to nearby villages, traditional dance performances, and interactions with the local people known as the Batwa.
  • Dian Fossey’s Karisoke Research Center: The famous American primatologist Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking research on mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains. Visitors can pay their respects to her memory by visiting the Dian Fossey Karisoke Research Center, which is located near the park.
  • Conservation Efforts: Volcanoes National Park is actively involved in the conservation of gorillas and other wildlife species. It plays a crucial role in the preservation of biodiversity in the region and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area.
  • Accommodation: The Park offers a range of accommodations, including lodges and camps, for visitors who want to stay overnight. These options cater to different budgets and preferences.

Best time to visit Volcano National Park.

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your trip. Rwanda, including Volcanoes National Park, has a relatively stable climate year-round due to its location near the equator. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

  • Gorilla Trekking: If your primary goal is to go gorilla trekking, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically falls in Rwanda during the following months:
  • June to September: This is the long dry season, and it’s considered the peak tourist season. The weather is generally dry and cool, making hiking more comfortable. Gorilla tracking permits may be in higher demand during this time, so it’s advisable to book well in advance.
  • Golden Monkey Tracking: Similar to gorilla trekking, if you want to track golden monkeys, it’s best to visit during the dry season when the weather is more predictable.
  • Scenic Landscapes: If you’re interested in capturing stunning landscapes and clear views of the volcanic peaks, the dry season is ideal. The lush green vegetation during this time enhances the beauty of the volcanic terrain.
  • Birdwatching: Birdwatching is excellent year-round in Volcanoes National Park, but if you’re particularly interested in birding, consider visiting during the wet season (March to May and October to November) when many migratory birds are present.
  • Photography: The Park’s scenery is photogenic year-round, but the combination of lush landscapes during the wet season and clear skies during the dry season can provide unique photographic opportunities.
  • Hiking: Hiking and trekking are possible year-round, but trails may be muddier during the wet season. If you prefer drier conditions for hiking, the dry season is a better choice.
  • Crowds and Availability: The peak tourist season from June to September tends to be busier, and gorilla trekking permits may be more challenging to obtain. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or the wet season.
  • Rainy Season (Wet Season): While the wet season (March to May and October to November) brings regular rainfall, it can be a good time to visit if you’re interested in lush, green landscapes, birdwatching, and fewer crowds. However, be prepared for occasional rain during your activities.

 

 

How many days do I need to do a tour in Volcano National Park?

 

The number of days you should spend on a tour in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda depends on your interests, the activities you want to participate in, and the depth of your exploration. Here are some general guidelines to help you plan your visit:

  • Gorilla Trekking: The primary attraction in Volcanoes National Park is gorilla trekking. To engage in this activity, you’ll need a permit, and the trek itself usually takes a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla group you’re tracking. Therefore, plan at least one full day for gorilla trekking.
  • Golden Monkey Tracking: If you’re interested in golden monkey tracking, you can typically add this activity to your itinerary on a separate day. Golden monkey treks are shorter than gorilla treks, typically lasting around 1 to 3 hours.
  • Hiking and Other Activities: The park offers various hiking trails, such as the Dian Fossey Tomb Hike and hikes to the summits of volcanoes like Mount Bisoke. These hikes can vary in duration, from a few hours to a full day. Depending on your interests and fitness level, you may want to allocate additional days for hiking and exploring the park’s scenic landscapes.
  • Cultural Visits: Some visitors opt for cultural experiences in nearby villages, which can be added to your itinerary. These visits can be half-day or full-day excursions, depending on the activities and interactions you choose.

Considering the above factors, a typical itinerary for a tour in Volcanoes National Park might look like this:

Day 1: Arrival and settle into your chosen accommodation.

Day 2: Gorilla trekking (a full day).

Day 3: Rest and enjoy your lodge’s facilities or explore the nearby area.

Day 4: Golden monkey tracking or another activity (morning or afternoon).

Day 5: Hiking or additional activities, or departure.

Book a Customized Tour Now.

This is a basic itinerary, and you can adjust it to your preferences. Some visitors opt for a shorter trip, while others may stay longer to explore the park in greater depth, undertake multiple treks, or include additional activities like birdwatching or visiting the Dian Fossey Tomb.

Keep in mind that gorilla trekking permits are limited in number and often need to be booked well in advance, so it’s essential to plan and secure permits as early as possible to ensure your preferred dates.

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Accommodations in Volcano National Park

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. These lodges and camps provide comfortable places to stay while you explore the park and enjoy activities like gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and hiking. Here are some of the accommodations available in Volcanoes National Park:

  1. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge: This high-end lodge is known for its luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the Virunga Mountains. It offers spacious cottages with en-suite bathrooms, fireplaces, and private verandas. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is known for its warm hospitality and excellent service.
  2. Virunga Lodge: Virunga Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes. The lodge features comfortable cottages with en-suite bathrooms, private terraces, and fireplaces. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals and various activities.
  3. Bisate Lodge: Situated within a reforested natural amphitheater, Bisate Lodge offers luxurious accommodations in beautiful villas. Each villa has a large en-suite bathroom and a cozy living area. The lodge emphasizes sustainability and offers stunning views of the Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes.
  4. Gorilla Mountain View Lodge: This mid-range lodge provides comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms and beautiful views of the volcanoes. It’s conveniently located for gorilla trekking, making it a popular choice among visitors.
  5. Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge offers budget-friendly accommodations near the park’s headquarters. The lodge provides comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local and international dishes, and easy access to the park for gorilla trekking.
  6. Kinigi Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in Kinigi, close to the park entrance. It offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms. Kinigi Guesthouse is an affordable option for visitors interested in gorilla trekking.
  7. Muhabura Hotel: Muhabura Hotel is located in the nearby town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), offering budget-friendly accommodations for travelers exploring Volcanoes National Park. The hotel provides simple rooms and a restaurant.
  8. Amakoro Songa Lodge: This lodge offers cozy accommodations in the nearby village of Kinigi. It has comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Amakoro Songa Lodge is known for its friendly staff and convenient location for gorilla trekking.

 

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