Volcanoes National Park sits on Rwanda’s stretch of the Virunga volcano range, five dormant and active peaks straddling the border with Uganda and DR Congo. A trip built entirely around this one park, without extending to Lake Kivu or Nyungwe, keeps every day focused on the volcanoes themselves — gorillas, golden monkeys, and the option of a genuine mountain hike.
Day 1: Kigali to Musanze
The drive to Musanze with an evening briefing.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
The core trekking day.
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking
A shorter trek to golden monkey troops.
Day 4: Mount Karisimbi Climb, Day One
The tallest of the Virunga volcanoes at 4,507 metres, climbed over two days with an overnight camp partway up.
Day 5: Mount Karisimbi Summit and Descent
A pre-dawn push to the crater rim summit, followed by the full descent back to Musanze.
Day 6: Return to Kigali
The drive back for your onward flight.
What to Budget
Gorilla permit, golden monkey permit, the two-day Karisimbi climbing permit and camping fee, five nights of lodging.