Volcanoes National Park Holidays

Extraordinary up-close encounters with mountain gorillas and golden monkeys are worth the trip to Volcanoes National Park alone. Trekking around forested peaks is another reason to visit, and that’s just the start. Cruise on the twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera. Pass beautiful waterfalls and colourful birds nesting on the slopes and disembark on tiny islands to discover local tribes with distinct ways of life.

Go underground in the Musanze caves to learn the science and legends of the caverns where Kinyarwanda kings were once crowned. Step into the Iby’iwacu cultural centre at Gorilla Guardians Village to try traditional crafts and see lively cultural displays. Or, pay tribute to the primatologist who put Rwanda on the travel map at the Tomb of Dian Fossey in the Gorilla Cemetery at Karisoke Research Station.

Trekking through the misty jungle to catch a glimpse of mountain gorillas is the number one reason to visit Volcanoes National Park and the most popular reason for holidays in Rwanda. Since Gorillas in the Mist told Dian Fossey’s incredible story, wildlife lovers have flocked to see these magnificent creatures. Join a one-day tour for a unique chance to observe gorillas in the wild or stay longer and track golden monkeys too.

Growing to become the Volcanoes National Park’s second most popular citizens, these endangered primates swing through bamboo forests at the base of the mountains offering rewarding encounters at lower altitudes. Guided journeys with included permits are the best way to see both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys on an unforgettable animal adventure.

Aside from its primate populations, Volcanoes National Park is a stunning place to explore. Three extinct volcanoes covered with jungle, meadows, and wetlands offer a range of trails and some of the best views in Rwanda. Climb Mount Karisimbi, Africa’s fifth-highest peak for incredible vistas over Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Lake Edward to the snowy summits of the Rwenzori Mountains.

For a more gentle alternative, scale Mount Bisoke to discover the hidden lake shrouded within its crown. Looking for a challenge? Conquering the steep slopes of Mount Muhabura in a one-day hike can be a test for even experienced climbers, but the chance to see monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, and more, plus amazing scenery and an incredible sense of achievement, is a worthwhile reward for your effort.

Depending on your planned activities, Volcanoes National Park can be enjoyed all year round. The dryer periods of June to September and December to February are often preferred as trekking is easier and more pleasant during this time. October, November, and March to May see higher rainfall.

While this can seem off-putting at first, the mountain vegetation takes on a refreshed beauty during this time and mountain gorillas are attracted to the lower slopes making them easier to reach. Temperatures are consistent most of the year with daytime maximums of around 25°C and nights cooling to approximately 15°C. Gorilla permits are more readily available in the wetter months when visitor numbers are lower.