Welcome to Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is a protected area in northwestern Rwanda covering 160 km² of mountain rainforest and encompassing five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains. The park is world-renowned as a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas, offering one of the most profound wildlife experiences on Earth.
Established in 1925 as Africa's first national park, Volcanoes National Park has become synonymous with mountain gorilla conservation. The park's dramatic landscape of towering volcanoes, lush bamboo forests, and rich biodiversity creates an unforgettable setting for what many describe as a life-changing wildlife encounter.
Conservation Legacy
The park was the base for Dian Fossey's groundbreaking gorilla research from 1967 until her death in 1985. Her work, documented in "Gorillas in the Mist," brought international attention to gorilla conservation and saved the species from extinction.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience
Gorilla Family Encounters
Spend one hour observing mountain gorilla families in their natural habitat. Watch them feed, play, and interact just meters away from you.
Bamboo Forest Trekking
Hike through beautiful bamboo forests and dense vegetation with expert trackers leading you to gorilla families. Treks range from 1-8 hours.
Expert Guides & Trackers
Our certified guides have extensive knowledge of gorilla behavior and conservation. Porters available to assist with equipment.
Conservation Impact
Your visit directly supports gorilla conservation and local communities. Tourism has helped increase gorilla populations by 25%.
Park Activities & Experiences
Gorilla Trekking
The main attraction - hike to find and observe mountain gorilla families. Maximum 8 visitors per group, one hour with the gorillas. Physical fitness required.
Golden Monkey Tracking
Track the endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo forests. Easier trekking than gorillas, suitable for most fitness levels. One hour observation time.
Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
Hike to Karisoke Research Center and Dian Fossey's gravesite. Learn about her conservation work and legacy. Moderate 3-4 hour hike.
Volcano Climbing
Climb Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi. Bisoke offers a crater lake summit, while Karisimbi is Rwanda's highest peak (2-day climb).
Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village
Visit a traditional Rwandan village and experience local culture, dances, and traditions. Supports former poachers turned conservationists.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Permits include park entry, guide services, and gorilla tracking. Only 96 permits available daily. Book 6-12 months in advance for peak season.
Includes:
- Park entry fees
- Professional guide
- Armed ranger escort
- Gorilla tracking
Requirements:
- Minimum age: 15 years
- Good physical condition
- Valid passport required
- No illness symptoms
Best Time to Visit
June - September
Dry season with easiest trekking conditions. Clear skies, minimal rain, and best photography conditions.
December - February
Short dry season with good conditions. Cooler temperatures and lush green landscapes.
March - May
Rainy season with challenging trekking. Slippery trails but fewer tourists and lower prices.
Ready for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure?
Book your life-changing mountain gorilla experience with Rwanda's most trusted tour operator
Park Information
Location
Northern Province, Rwanda
Borders Uganda and DRC
Size
160 km² (62 sq mi)
Africa's first national park (1925)
Elevation
2,400 - 4,507 meters
Five Virunga volcanoes
Gorilla Population
~350 mountain gorillas
12 habituated families for tourism
Trekking Difficulty
Moderate to strenuous
1-8 hours hiking depending on family location
Group Size
Max 8 visitors per group
One hour with gorillas
Gorilla Trekking Packages Include
- Gorilla Trekking Permit ($1,500)
- Professional Guide & Trackers
- Park Entry Fees
- Luxury Lodge Accommodation
- All Meals & Drinking Water
- 4x4 Transportation
- Kigali Airport Transfers
Habituated Gorilla Families
Need Help Planning?
Our gorilla trekking experts are ready to help you create the perfect Volcanoes National Park adventure.
Volcanoes National Park Gallery
