The Rwandan section of the Virunga Massif — a chain of ancient volcanoes cloaked in bamboo and rainforest, sanctuary to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas on the planet and a thriving population of golden monkeys.
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda's crown jewel and one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations on Earth. Nestled in the Virunga Massif — a chain of ancient volcanoes straddling Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo — this 160 square kilometre park protects some of the last remaining mountain gorillas on the planet, with an estimated population of just over 1,000 individuals worldwide. Encountering these magnificent primates in their natural habitat is a profoundly rare and life-changing privilege. The park was made famous by primatologist Dian Fossey, whose decades of research and conservation advocacy are documented in Gorillas in the Mist. Her grave lies within the park alongside the gorillas she dedicated her life to protecting, and her legacy continues through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, headquartered in Kigali. Trekking permits are priced at USD 1,500 per person — the revenue directly funds park management, anti-poaching operations, and community development programmes. The trek winds through bamboo forest, Hagenia woodland, and volcanic moorland, with treks ranging from 1 to 7 hours depending on where the gorilla family has settled for the day. The dry seasons of June–September and December–February offer the firmest trails and clearest skies, while the wetter months bring lush vegetation, fewer visitors, and a mistier, uniquely atmospheric forest — gorillas are present and trekked year-round.
Volcanoes at a Glance
Trek with expert rangers through misty forest to spend one magical hour with a habituated gorilla family, observing silverbacks, mothers, and infants in natural behaviour — the experience that defined Rwanda's modern tourism.
Follow rangers through bamboo forest to encounter troops of the endangered golden monkey, found nowhere else in the world outside the Virunga range — playful, photogenic, and utterly captivating.
Hike to Karisoke Research Centre and the grave of Dian Fossey, passing through the gorilla habitat she studied and fought to protect for nearly two decades — a pilgrimage for the conservation-minded traveller.
Experience traditional Rwandan culture with local community members through dance, archery, traditional medicine demonstrations, and storytelling — a meaningful connection to the people who share this landscape with the gorillas.
Visit the scenic twin volcanic lakes at the foot of the Virunga range for boat rides, birdwatching, and stunning reflections of the volcano chain — a beautiful addition to any Volcanoes itinerary.
If visiting in September, attend Rwanda's famous annual gorilla naming ceremony — a spectacular national celebration of conservation success where newly born gorilla infants receive their names.
Climb this active volcano to its summit — a demanding but rewarding day hike through montane forest and bamboo, with sweeping views over the Virunga chain and into the DRC on a clear day.
Tackle the tallest of the Virunga volcanoes — a serious high-altitude challenge for adventurous trekkers, rewarded with sunrise views above the clouds.
Explore the remarkable Musanze Caves near Musanze town — an easy, atmospheric half-day addition to a gorilla trekking itinerary.
Volcanoes National Park is approximately 2–3 hours by road from Kigali (110km). Most visitors are transferred by their tour operator from Kigali hotels to the park briefing point at 7:00am for the morning trek. The nearest town is Musanze (Ruhengeri), which has basic accommodation options. Still Wild Safaris arranges all transport and logistics for Kigali-based gorilla trekking departures.
Plan Your Journey
Our team handles all logistics — airport transfers, cross-border road trips, and charter flights. Reach out and we'll design the smoothest route to suit your itinerary.
ENQUIRE NOWLuxuryBisate Lodge
iconic volcanic bowl setting, active forest restoration project, plunge pools. Wilderness Safaris at their finest.
LuxuryOne&Only Gorilla's Nest
ultra-exclusive forest suites with direct park access and world-class service.
LuxurySingita Kwitonda Lodge
understated ultra-luxury in a forest setting, Singita's signature conservation-first style.
LuxurySabyinyo Silverback Lodge
stunning highland stone cottages, community trust ownership model, spectacular Virunga views.
LuxuryVirunga Lodge
dramatic ridge-top location with arguably the finest views of the volcanoes in Rwanda.
LuxurySambora Kinigi
intimate boutique luxury at the park entrance, warm Rwandan hospitality and volcano panoramas.
Mid-RangeBishop's House
charming historic guesthouse in Musanze with colonial character and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mid-RangeMountain Gorilla View Lodge
well-appointed lodge with panoramic Virunga views, reliable and popular with gorilla trekkers.
Mid-RangeLe Bambou Gorilla Lodge
comfortable, good value, convenient location near the park.
LuxuryBisate Lodge
iconic volcanic bowl setting, active forest restoration project, plunge pools. Wilderness Safaris at their finest.
LuxuryOne&Only Gorilla's Nest
ultra-exclusive forest suites with direct park access and world-class service.
LuxurySingita Kwitonda Lodge
understated ultra-luxury in a forest setting, Singita's signature conservation-first style.
LuxurySabyinyo Silverback Lodge
stunning highland stone cottages, community trust ownership model, spectacular Virunga views.
LuxuryVirunga Lodge
dramatic ridge-top location with arguably the finest views of the volcanoes in Rwanda.
LuxurySambora Kinigi
intimate boutique luxury at the park entrance, warm Rwandan hospitality and volcano panoramas.
Mid-RangeBishop's House
charming historic guesthouse in Musanze with colonial character and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mid-RangeMountain Gorilla View Lodge
well-appointed lodge with panoramic Virunga views, reliable and popular with gorilla trekkers.
Mid-RangeLe Bambou Gorilla Lodge
comfortable, good value, convenient location near the park.