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Volcanoes National Park
(Rwanda)
Volcanoes National Park is situated in the Virunga Mountains in northwest Rwanda. The park protects the slopes of this magnificent mountain range and its several ecosystems, which include evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.
An exhilarating trek through the cultivated foothills of the Virungas offers stirring views in all directions. These mountains, among the highest in Africa, are home to the rare mountain gorilla. Gorilla trekking is the park's primary attraction, but the region is home to a diverse range of wildlife aside from the gorillas, including buffalo, hyena, duika and the rare golden monkey. Elephants are occasionally seen and there are around 180 recorded bird species.
The bustling market town of Ruhengeri has a memorable setting at the base of the Virungas. On the outskirts of town, the natural bridge at Musanze, a solidified lava flow, is a fascinating relic of the volcanic activity that shaped this scenic area. Also within easy day tripping distance of Ruhengeri are the seldom visited but lovely Lakes Burera, Ruhondo and Karago.
In and around the Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking and golden monkey visits are the most popular activities. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed each day. There are also tours of the nearby lakes and caves.
You may also wish to climb the Bisoke or Karisimbi Volcanoes.
Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
Gorilla Nest is situated in Kinigi at the base of the Virunga Mountains.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is situated in the foothills of the Virunga’s, a chain of 15,000ft volcanoes stretching through Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Virunga Lodge is the latest addition to Volcanoes’ eco-lodges, and lies set on a stunning hillside with breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes.
Other regions in Rwanda
Set at a relatively low altitude on the border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park could scarcely be more different in mood to the breezy cultivated hills that characterise much of Rwanda.
Located at Rwanda’s geographical heart, the rapidly growing city of Kigali is not only the national capital, but also the country’s most important business centre and main port of entry.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the best places in the world to see a range of different primate species.
Rwanda's lakes offer visitors glimpses into ancient African lifestyles. Here, fishermen still fish in dugout canoes unchanged in design for centuries, while the local populace can be seen working, or sitting on the shores in colourful local dress, smoking traditional wooden pipes.
Volcanoes National Park is situated in the Virunga Mountains in northwest Rwanda and ideal for gorilla trekking.
Example itineraries in Volcanoes National Park
See the gorillas in Rwanda inlcuding flights from the UK. This is a great small group, short break itinerary. The Parc National des Volcans, where habituated groups of Gorillas are situated, is only a few hours’ drive from Kigali; this allows you more time in the park and less time travelling. This is a small group itinerary but it can also be arranged as a tailor-made.
