No. 19 25 Great National Parks 2026

Volcanoes National Park

Musanze, Rwanda

Mountain gorillas in the bamboo forests of the Virunga volcanoes.

Overview

Volcanoes National Park in north-western Rwanda protects part of the Virunga Mountains, home to endangered mountain gorillas.

Gorilla treks are in small groups with ranger guides and need a permit booked well in advance.

Best time to visit

June to September and December to February are drier, but treks run all year.

Highlights

  • 1

    Gorilla trekking

    A hike to spend an hour with a habituated gorilla family.

  • 2

    Golden monkeys

    Treks to see this rare primate in bamboo forest.

  • 3

    Dian Fossey's grave

    A hike to the former Karisoke research site.

  • 4

    Volcano hikes

    Climbs of Mount Bisoke and its crater lake.

Getting there

Musanze is about 2.5 hours' drive from Kigali International Airport.

Practical tips

Opening & tickets
Opening times, permits and any fees change, so check the official website before you go.
Time needed
Allow two to three days.

Official information: Visit Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.

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