Established in 1925, Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s oldest conservation areas. It was created to protect the endangered mountain gorillas. Today, the park covers over 160 square kilometres and is part of the larger Virunga Massif, which extends across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Volcanoes National Park is primarily famous for its mountain gorillas. Uganda and Rwanda house almost half of the world’s remaining gorilla population. Visitors have the unique opportunity to trek through the dense rain forest and meet these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. This experience is profoundly moving and contributes to the conservation efforts that have seen the gorilla population steadily increase over the past decade.
Beyond gorilla trekking, the park has other attractions, from golden monkeys and colorful bird species to exotic plants and ancient caves. The region is also rich in history and culture, as it was once home to the renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, whose research played a pivotal role in gorilla conservation.
Volcanoes National Park offers a unique and unforgettable journey. This 3-day itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your visit, ensuring you experience the park’s highlights while immersing yourself in Rwanda’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Day 1: Arrival, Orientation, and the Musanze Caves
Morning: Arrival in Musanze and Check-in at Your Lodge
Begin your Rwandan adventure by arriving in Musanze, the bustling gateway town to Volcanoes National Park. This scenic town is about two hours from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, along a well-maintained road offering stunning countryside views and rolling hills. For convenience, booking a morning flight into Kigali and arranging a private transfer to Musanze is advisable. Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen lodge. Options range from luxurious eco-lodges with breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes to budget-friendly guesthouses that offer comfortable accommodations.
Take some time to relax after your journey. Enjoy lunch at your lodge, where you can savour the rich flavours of traditional Rwandan cuisine or opt for international dishes. Most lodges provide serene settings surrounded by nature, allowing you to unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Afternoon: Guided Tour of the Musanze Caves
In the afternoon, set off to explore the Musanze Caves, a fascinating network of underground tunnels formed over centuries by volcanic activity. Stretching for over two kilometres, these caves offer an intriguing glimpse into Rwanda’s geological history. Your guided tour will take you through the expansive chambers and winding passages, where you can observe striking stalactites and stalagmites formed by mineral-rich water dripping over time. The caves are also steeped in local history, having been used as a refuge by ancient Rwandan warriors during conflict.
Your guide will share captivating stories about the caves’ role in the community, from sheltering early settlers to serving as a hideout during various historical events. This experience immerses you in Rwanda’s natural history and provides a cultural touch point as you explore the region.
Evening: Relaxation and Dinner at Your Lodge
After a day of travel and exploration, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening. Many lodges offer stunning sunset views over the Virunga mountains, where you can sip on a refreshing drink while watching the sun dip behind the peaks. Dinner will typically feature a variety of local and international dishes prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
As night falls, settle into the cosy ambience of your lodge, perhaps by a crackling fire. Rest well; the next day promises an early start and a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the famed mountain gorillas.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience
Early Morning: Preparation for Gorilla Trekking
Your second day begins early with a hearty breakfast at your lodge to fuel up for the exciting day ahead. By 7:00 AM, you’ll go to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters in Kinigi, where park rangers will brief you on what to expect during the gorilla trek. Sturdy hiking boots, long pants, and a waterproof jacket are essential, as the trek involves navigating through dense vegetation and uneven terrain.
The trekking groups are limited to a few visitors to ensure minimal disturbance to the gorillas and to maintain a sustainable tourism model. Each group is accompanied by an experienced guide and trackers who are well-versed in the habits and behaviors of the gorilla families.
Morning: Gorilla Trekking in the Heart of the Forest
Setting off from the park headquarters, you’ll embark on a journey through the rain forest, ascending into the Virunga Mountains in search of one of the park’s habituated gorilla families. The trek can range from one to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. The terrain varies from bamboo thickets to dense, leafy forests, making it both challenging and exhilarating.
As you hike, look for other wildlife, such as golden monkeys, forest elephants, and various bird species. The guides are knowledgeable about the park’s flora and fauna and will enrich your trek with fascinating information about the ecosystem.
Upon encountering a gorilla family, the experience is nothing short of magical. You are allowed to spend one hour in the presence of these gentle giants, observing their behaviours, interactions, and even playfulness. Seeing a silverback gorilla weighing up to 180 kg is awe-inspiring, while the young are curious and often playful. This hour passes quickly but profoundly impacts most visitors, as it offers a rare glimpse into the lives of one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
Afternoon: Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for a Cultural Experience
After returning from the trek, you will likely experience exhilaration and exhaustion. Head back to your lodge to freshen up and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local customs and culture by visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, which is located just outside the park. This community-based tourism initiative provides valuable insight into Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage.
Here, you can engage with the locals, learn about traditional Rwandan customs, witness drumming and dance performances, and even try your hand at skills like spear-throwing or preparing traditional dishes. The village showcases Rwanda’s transformation journey, as many of its members are former poachers who have now dedicated themselves to conservation efforts.
Evening: Leisure Time at Your Lodge
As the day winds down, return to your lodge to unwind. Take some time to reflect on your once-in-a-lifetime experience with the mountain gorillas. Relax by the fireplace or enjoy a leisurely dinner under the stars. Some lodges offer optional evening activities, such as guided nature walks or storytelling sessions where you can learn more about the local culture and folklore.
Day 3: Hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb or Golden Monkey Trekking
Your final day in Volcanoes National Park is dedicated to exploring other extraordinary experiences. You can choose between two activities offering unique appeal: a hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb and research centre or trekking to see the elusive golden monkeys.
Option 1: Trek to Dian Fossey’s Tomb and Research Center
For those interested in conservation history, start the day with a journey to Karisoke Research Center, established by the legendary primatologist Dian Fossey. The hike begins early, following a trail that leads through the dense forest and steep slopes of Mount Bisoke. This challenging trek takes approximately 3 to 4 hours round trip and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Along the way, your guide will share stories of Dian Fossey’s efforts to protect the mountain gorillas, her battles against poaching, and her dedication to conservation. The hike culminates at Fossey’s tomb, where she rests beside her beloved gorillas. It’s a sobering and inspirational experience, perfect for travellers who want to pay homage to her legacy.
The trek offers insight into the history of gorilla conservation and provides opportunities to spot various wildlife and unique plant species along the trail. After returning from the hike, you can enjoy lunch at your lodge and take some time to rest before your afternoon plans.
Option 2: Golden Monkey Trekking in the Bamboo Forest
Opt for golden monkey trekking if you prefer a less strenuous yet equally rewarding experience. These rare and playful primates are endemic to the Virunga mountains and are known for their striking golden fur and agile acrobatics. The trek begins at the park headquarters, similar to the gorilla trekking experience. Still, it is generally less demanding and involves navigating the lush bamboo forests that the monkeys favor.
Guides will lead you to a troop of golden monkeys, where you can spend up to one hour observing their playful interactions as they leap between trees, munch on bamboo shoots, and socialise. This experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the lively energy of these charismatic creatures.
Afternoon: Relaxation or Visit to Local Markets
After completing your chosen morning activity, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you can relax or explore Musanze town. For those interested in a deeper dive into Rwandan culture, consider visiting one of the vibrant local markets, where you can shop for handmade crafts, traditional fabrics, and fresh produce. Engaging with the locals offers a glimpse into daily life in Rwanda, providing a perfect ending to your adventure.
Evening: Departure or Extended Stay Recommendations
If you plan to depart, your lodge can arrange a transfer to Kigali International Airport, which is about a two-hour drive away. However, if you have more time, consider extending your stay to explore other parts of Rwanda. Options include a visit to Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking or a relaxing retreat by the shores of Lake Kivu.