Volcanoes National Park

The best place in the world to trek with mountain gorillas, arguably the most exciting experience in this magical continent.

Overview

Nestled within the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is a testament to Rwanda’s dedication to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism. Covering approximately 160 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, offering visitors the rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Beyond gorilla trekking, the park is home to golden monkeys, bushbuck, buffalo, and over 200 bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s diverse landscapes include bamboo forests, open grasslands, and five extinct volcanoes, providing a stunning backdrop for various activities such as guided hikes to Dian Fossey’s research site and climbs up Mount Bisoke to its scenic crater lake. Eco-luxury accommodations like Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Wilderness Bisate Lodge offer guests immersive experiences that blend comfort with conservation, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement.

Best Time to Visit

Volcanoes National Park welcomes visitors year-round, each season offering unique experiences. The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, provide clearer trails and are often preferred for gorilla trekking. However, Rwanda’s tropical climate means rain can occur at any time, contributing to the park’s lush environment.

The wetter months, from March to May and October to November, bring vibrant greenery and fewer tourists, offering a more secluded experience. Trails may be more challenging during these periods, but the misty atmosphere adds a mystical quality to the treks. Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on personal preferences regarding weather conditions and crowd sizes.

Jan

Excellent

Feb

Excellent

Mar

Good

Apr

Mixed

May

Mixed

Jun

Excellent

Jul

Excellent

Aug

Excellent

Sep

Excellent

Oct

Good

Nov

Good

Dec

Excellent

Known For

Volcanoes National Park is best known for its exceptional mountain gorilla trekking experiences, allowing visitors to engage closely with these gentle giants. The park’s commitment to conservation is exemplified by initiatives like the reforestation projects undertaken by Singita and Wilderness, aiming to restore natural habitats and support local communities.

See all Properties in Volcanoes National Park

Will's Favourite

Singita Kwitonda

Singita Kwitonda is quiet, refined, and deeply connected to the landscape it sits within. Just moments from Volcanoes National Park, it offers seamless access to Rwanda’s mountain gorillas—without compromising on comfort, privacy or design. This is gorilla trekking at its most luxurious.

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Will's Favourite

Singita Kataza House

Kataza House offers an exclusive-use retreat with unparalleled privacy. This four-bedroom villa features two heated plunge pools, indoor and outdoor fireplaces and a cinema room. Those looking for privacy, luxury and gorillas, this is it.

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Will's Favourite

Wilderness Bisate

Nestled on the edge of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, offers an intimate and luxurious base for mountain gorilla trekking. With panoramic views of the Virunga volcanoes, the lodge combines elegant comfort with a deep commitment to conservation and community engagement.

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Will's Favourite

Sabyinyo Lodge

Sitting high on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, Sabyinyo boasts wide views across the valleys and up towards the Virunga volcanoes. With private cottages, fireplaces and quiet gardens, it’s a calm and elegant base for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

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Wildlife

Great Apes

Great apes include orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos. They are known for their intelligence, social structures, and complex behaviors. Great apes share a significant amount of DNA with humans, making them vital for understanding our own evolution. Unfortunately, many great ape species are endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these remarkable animals.

Gallery

Discover the stunning vistas and rich wildlife showcased in our gallery. Each photograph narrates a tale of exploration and the raw beauty of the safari.

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Ideal Pairing

“While there are options in Rwanda the better ones are often over the southern border with Tanzania. I’d suggest heading down in to the Serengeti where, depending on the time of year you can either follow the migration or go in search of rock climbing big cats.”

Experience Volcanoes National Park today

Begin your safari today. Will replies to all enquiries within 24 hours and tailors each itinerary according to your specific interests

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