Volcanoes National Park (Parc Nationals Des Volcans)

Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most celebrated wildlife destination, popularly known worldwide for its population of the endangered mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park is the primary destination of Rwanda Safaris and a must visit during your Rwanda Safari holiday Tour/Rwanda Primate Tour. Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, spanning an area of about 160 km2 (62 sq mi) of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Area (Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo). This National Park borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.

This iconic Rwanda safari Park is known for offering travelers an unforgettable journey as they explore the lush rainforests, mist-shrouded mountains, and rich cultural during Rwanda safari tours. Visitors from all over the world each year round visit Volcanoes National Park for an opportunity to encounter last remaining population of mountain gorillas in their native habitat. Volcanoes national park, PNV is also one of Rwanda’s conservation epicenters, where many non-profit organizations base their operations. Visitors can pay homage to the legendary scientist and gorilla advocate Dian Fossey with a hike to her tomb or a visit to the Dian Fosse Gorilla Fund that continues her legacy of research and advocacy to this day. Near the park, the bustling and vibrant markets of Musanze are a place to immerse yourself into everyday Rwandan culture. Go deep into the earth with Musanze’s caves – one of the area’s newest attractions.

Establishment & History of Volcanoes National Park 

Volcanoes National Park was established in 1925, as a small area bounded by Karisimbi, Bisoke and Mikeno, with intention of protecting the remaining gorillas population from poachers. In 1929, the borders of the park were extended further into Rwanda and into the Belgian Congo, to form the Albert National Park, an area of 8,090 km2 (3,120 sq mi). In 1958, 700 ha (2.7 sq mi) of the park were cleared for a human settlement reducing its size, and a further reduction was done between 1969 and 1973 to create space for farming, especially to grow pyrethrum.

Dian Fossey, the American naturalist Dian Fossey arrived Volcanoes National Park in 1967 to carry out her research on the gorillas. She and set up the Karisoke Research Centre between Karisimbi and Visoke.  She is highly credited for her efforts to protect the gorillas and bringing their plight to the attention of the international community. She was murdered by unknown assailants at her home in 1985, a crime often attributed to the poachers she had spent her life fighting against. Today this National Park is home to about 10 habituated gorilla families that can be visited each day.

Beyond its primate attractions, Volcanoes National Park offers breathtaking scenic landscapes that showcase Rwanda’s natural beauty. Towering volcanic peaks, deep valleys, and emerald forests create dramatic views that inspire both photographers and nature lovers.

Activities in Volcanoes National Park

  • Primate Tracking & Hiking
  • Musanze Caves
  • Buhanga EcoPark
  • Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
  • Tracking the endangered mountain gorillas on the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes is a magical experience. Hike through mountain forests to experience these gentle creatures or make your way through airy bamboo forests to find the charming Golden Monkey.

Also available is the ‘Dian Fossey Tomb Trail’ – a beautiful yet challenging hike to 3,000 meters up the slopes of Mount Bisoke or a hike to the beautiful Ngezi Crater Lake at the top.

Permit costs per person:

  • Mountain Gorillas: $1,500
  • Dian Fossey Hike: $75
  • Golden Monkey Tracking: $100
  • Crater Lake Hike: $75

Permits should be booked 3 to 6 months in advance, especially during Rwanda’s high season of June – September.