Safaris to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda – The Home of the Mountain Gorillas

Nestled in the misty highlands of northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is one of Africa’s most iconic and soul-stirring safari destinations. It’s a place of dramatic scenery — towering volcanoes shrouded in clouds, emerald bamboo forests, and ancient mountain slopes that echo with the calls of gorillas.

A safari to Volcanoes National Park isn’t just a wildlife experience — it’s a journey into one of the most emotional encounters on Earth: standing face to face with the endangered mountain gorilla in its natural habitat. Yet, the park offers much more than gorilla trekking — from golden monkey tracking and volcano hikes to cultural experiences and conservation adventures, Volcanoes is the beating heart of Rwanda’s eco-tourism story.

About Volcanoes National Park

Located about 2.5 hours’ drive from Kigali, Volcanoes National Park covers approximately 160 square kilometers and forms part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area, which stretches into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is dominated by a chain of five magnificent volcanoes — Karisimbi, Bisoke, Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura — whose slopes shelter lush montane forests and diverse wildlife.

First established in 1925, it is Africa’s oldest national park and one of the last sanctuaries of the mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei), made famous by the pioneering research of Dr. Dian Fossey.

Top Safari Experiences in Volcanoes National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking – The Heart of the Volcanoes Safari

The highlight of any visit to Volcanoes National Park is mountain gorilla trekking, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that allows you to spend an unforgettable hour with a family of gorillas. Guided by experienced rangers and trackers, you’ll hike through bamboo forests and misty slopes, following fresh trails and calls until you reach them — families led by massive silverbacks, surrounded by mothers, juveniles, and playful infants.

There are 12 habituated gorilla groups open to visitors, including Susa, Amahoro, Sabyinyo, Agashya, Kwitonda, and Umubano, among others. Each trek varies in difficulty depending on the gorillas’ location, lasting between 1 to 5 hours.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 1,500 per person per trek

• Foreign Residents: USD 500 per person

• East African Citizens: USD 200 per person

The fee includes park entry, guides, and one hour of magical interaction with the gorillas — an experience that many travelers describe as life-changing.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking:
June to September and December to February (dry seasons for easier trekking).

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

Another unique primate experience in Volcanoes National Park is golden monkey tracking. These playful, rare monkeys are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and known for their bright orange-gold fur and lively behavior.

Treks are shorter and easier than gorilla trekking, making them ideal for all travelers. Watching these agile monkeys leap between bamboo branches is both entertaining and unforgettable.

Permit Cost:
USD 100 per person per trek

3. Hike to Dian Fossey’s Tomb and Karisoke Research Center

Follow in the footsteps of conservation legend Dr. Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas. A guided hike leads you through scenic forest trails to her former research site between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi, where you can visit her grave alongside that of her beloved gorilla, Digit.

This experience is both moving and educational, offering insight into Rwanda’s conservation journey and the challenges of gorilla protection.

Duration: About 3–4 hours round trip.
Permit Cost: USD 75 per person.

4. Volcano Hiking Adventures

For adventurous travelers, Volcanoes National Park offers several rewarding mountain hikes with breathtaking views of the Virunga range.

• Mount Bisoke (3,711 m): A one-day hike to a stunning crater lake at the summit.

• Mount Karisimbi (4,507 m): The highest volcano in the Virunga chain; a challenging two-day trek with overnight camping.

• Mount Muhabura & Gahinga: Easier climbs that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Each climb reveals the park’s unique ecosystems, from bamboo forests to afro-alpine zones dotted with giant lobelias.

Permit Costs:

• Mount Bisoke Hike: USD 75 per person

• Mount Karisimbi Hike: USD 400 per person (2 days)

5. Cultural and Community Experiences

Rwanda’s soul is best felt through its people. Near Volcanoes National Park, you can visit local communities that have embraced tourism as a tool for empowerment and cultural preservation.

• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians Village): Experience traditional Rwandan life, from Intore dance performances to banana beer brewing and storytelling with former poachers turned conservationists.

• Musanze Caves Tour: Explore ancient lava tunnels once used by Rwandan kings for ceremonies.

• Local Market Visits: Meet artisans, sample Rwandan coffee, and learn about daily life in Musanze town.

These experiences add depth and human warmth to your wildlife safari.

Safari Packages to Volcanoes National Park

1. 2-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Includes: Gorilla permit, transfers from Kigali, accommodation, meals, and park fees.
Price Range: USD 2,000–2,800 per person

2. 3-Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari

Includes: Gorilla and golden monkey permits, full-board accommodation, and private transport.
Price Range: USD 2,800–3,500 per person

3. 5-Day Primates & Volcanoes Adventure

Combine gorilla trekking with Dian Fossey hike, golden monkey tracking, and community visits.
Price Range: USD 3,500–4,800 per person

4. Luxury Volcanoes Experience (Fly-In)

Stay in exclusive lodges like Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. Enjoy private transfers, fine dining, and personalized service.
Price Range: USD 6,000–9,000 per person (3–4 days)

Where to Stay in Volcanoes National Park

Luxury Lodges:

• Bisate Lodge (Wilderness Safaris)

• One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

• Virunga Lodge (Volcanoes Safaris)

Mid-Range Lodges:

• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

• Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Budget Options:

• Kinigi Guesthouse

• La Locanda

All lodges are located within easy reach of park headquarters in Kinigi, offering comfort, great food, and stunning views of the volcanoes.

How to Get There

• By Road: About 2.5–3 hours drive from Kigali via Musanze (Ruhengeri). The route is scenic, passing through rolling hills, villages, and tea plantations.

• By Helicopter: Akagera Aviation offers flights from Kigali to Musanze or directly to nearby lodges for luxury travelers.

Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park

The park is open year-round, but the dry seasons are ideal for trekking and photography:

• June to September

• December to February

The wet seasons (March–May and October–November) bring lush vegetation and fewer crowds, though trails may be muddy.

Why Visit Volcanoes National Park

A safari to Volcanoes National Park is more than a holiday — it’s a spiritual experience. The quiet connection with mountain gorillas, the majesty of the volcanoes, and the resilience of Rwanda’s people come together to create something truly transformative.

Here, conservation and culture coexist in harmony, and every trek helps protect one of the planet’s most precious creatures.