Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda's flagship conservation area, covering 160 square kilometers of bamboo forest and volcanic slopes in the Virunga Mountains. Made famous by primatologist Dian Fossey and the film "Gorillas in the Mist," the park protects approximately one-third of the world's remaining mountain gorillas with 12 habituated family groups available for trekking - making it one of the most accessible gorilla destinations globally.

The park encompasses five of the eight Virunga volcanoes - Karisimbi (4,507m), Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo - creating dramatic mountainous landscapes. Beyond gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is the only location where visitors can trek to see endangered golden monkeys, with approximately 4,000 individuals inhabiting the park's bamboo forests. The park also supports diverse wildlife including forest elephants, buffalo, spotted hyenas, and over 200 bird species.

Rwanda's well-organized gorilla trekking infrastructure provides world-class experiences with expert guides, trackers, and strict conservation protocols ensuring both visitor safety and gorilla protection. Visitors can also hike to Dian Fossey's grave and research center, trek volcanic peaks, or explore mystical cave systems. Whether spending a magical hour with mountain gorillas, tracking golden monkeys through bamboo, or summiting volcanic peaks with panoramic vistas, Volcanoes delivers Rwanda's most iconic wilderness experiences.

Highlights

• 12 habituated mountain gorilla families
• Dian Fossey research center and grave
• Golden monkey trekking
• Five volcanic peaks
• World-class conservation infrastructure

Things to Do

• Gorilla trekking
• Golden monkey tracking
• Dian Fossey hike
• Volcano climbing
• Bird watching
• Community cultural visits

June to September and December to February for best trekking conditions; year-round availability