Discovering the Wonders of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda: Located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is one of the most beautiful areas that one would love to visit because of the stunning features of the park. Being home to mountain gorillas and other animals such as the golden monkeys, this park allows you to climb the volcanoes, visit the dense tropical forests, and capture the beauty of the stunning scenery of the park. In this guide, I will explore more about Volcanoes National Park to help you know its features, things to do and see, and information that will make your visit worthwhile.
A Brief Overview of Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park or Parc National des Volcans is in the Virunga Mountains which are an extension of volcanoes over Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC. It was gazetted in 1925 as Africa’s first national park and occupies an area of about 160 square kilometers and is famous for its mountain gorilla conservation. The park’s landscape is dominated by five volcanoes: These include; Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo which are different in their treks and views.
The Majestic Mountain Gorillas
Gorilla trekking is perhaps one of the most popular and famous activities that tourists would love to do in Volcanoes National Park. It is also a habitat to the endangered mountain gorillas hence the best place to see these apes in their natural habitat.
Gorilla Trekking: An Unforgettable Adventure
It entails a process of walking and climbing the mountainous area to get to the gorillas. When located, visitors are allowed to stay with the gorillas for one hour and in this time viewers are allowed to watch the gorillas eat, play and sleep.
– Gorilla Groups: Some of the gorilla groups that can be easily trekked in the park are habituated and each has its own characteristics. Some of the renowned groups include Susa, Amahoro, and Hirwa.
– Permit Requirements: One has to obtain a gorilla trekking permit in order to go and see the gorillas. The price as of 2024 is $1,500 per person. They are limited and one has to book for them before the intended time of travel especially in the busy season.
Discovering the Wonders of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda: What to Expect During the Trek
It is quite a tough activity sometimes, but being face to face with the big apes is something that one cannot explain in words.
– Duration and Difficulty: Treks normally take between 1 and 6 hours based on the location of the gorilla group that one is to visit. While walking, one may encounter some steep and muddy paths, therefore, one needs some level of fitness.
– Guides and Rangers: The treks are accompanied by experienced guides and rangers who give brief information about the gorillas and the park. They also protect the visitors as well as the gorillas from any form of harm.
Beyond Gorillas: Other Wildlife and Activities
However, besides mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park has other wildlife and things to do that depict the region’s ecosystem.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Another species of primate that can be found in the park includes the golden monkeys. These are cheeky and bright monkeys living in the bamboo groves at the feet of the volcanoes.
– Trekking Experience: In the same way as the gorilla trekking, the golden monkey trekking entails the movement through the bush in search of the golden monkeys. This trek is comparatively easier and one gets an opportunity to witness these unique primates closely.
Volcano Hiking and Climbing
The Virunga Mountains are ideal for hiking and mountaineering thus suitable for beginners and professional mountaineers.
– Mount Karisimbi: The highest of the three, Mount Karisimbi, is the second highest of the virunga range with a height of 4507 meters. The trek to the summit takes about two days and is very rewarding with beautiful views at the summit.
– Mount Bisoke: This volcano which has a beautiful crater lake is a popular day trekking destination. The hiking to the top of the mountain which is 3,711 meters is not easy but worth it, one is able to see other volcanoes and the surrounding vegetation.
Nature Walks and Birdwatching
The park is beautiful with more than two hundred species of birds; thus, it makes a great spot for birding. There are also nature trails for tourists so that they may get an opportunity to witness the natural beauty of the park.
– Musanze Caves: These ancient lava caves are an interesting geological feature with a system of tunnels created by lava. Further, guided tours are available to make people familiar with the natural history of the area.
Cultural Experiences and Community Engagement
It is also possible to interact with the local people and get to know more about the culture and ways of life of the Rwandan people, especially in the communities around the Volcanoes National Park.
Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
The Iby’iwacu Cultural Village which is near the park presents the tourists with a Murundi (Rwandan) lifestyle. There are also cultural presentations such as dancing and singing, as well as craft and cooking presentations.
– Cultural Interaction: Activities that the visitors can do include; archery, traditional medicine, and basket weaving; thus, the visitor will get to understand the culture of the local people.
Visiting the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is involved in the protection of gorillas and their environment. Tourists can get information on the research made by Dian Fossey and the current protection measures being taken to save these creatures.
– Karisoke Research Center: The center which was initiated by Fossey has educational tours and displays on gorilla preservation and the difficulty that faces the species.
Practical Information for Visiting Volcanoes National Park
Best Time to Visit
The most favorable season to travel to Volcanoes National Park is in the dry seasons, these are the months of June to September and December to February. These are the months when there is comparatively better weather to go for trekking as there is less rainfall and the paths are not too foggy.
Accommodation Options
There are quite a number of hotels and other forms of accommodation around the park from the very expensive to the very cheap.
– Luxury Lodges: To get the royal touch, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge and Bisate Lodge are some of the best with luxurious services and beautiful sights.
– Mid-Range and Budget Options: There are also many moderate to cheap accommodation facilities one of which includes Mountain Gorilla View Lodge and Kinigi Guest House whereby you get to spend the nights at reasonable prices.
Discovering the Wonders of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda: Conclusion
It is one destination that will give you the best of scenic viewing, wildlife encounters, and cultural experience all within one park. From the view of the mountain gorillas to the ascent of the volcanic cones, this park is a great chance to get a fascinating and unforgettable experience of exploring the national treasures of Rwanda. For the wildlife lover, the nature lover or the cultural tourist, Volcanoes National Park is a place to visit. This is not only an example of the great and magnificent sceneries of Rwanda but also a symbol of hope for conservation all over the world.
