Volcanoes National Park
The Home of the Mountain Gorilla
About Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda's misty Virunga Mountains is the world's most celebrated gorilla trekking destination. A total of 12 habitutaed gorilla families are available for trekking, and the park is also home to golden monkeys, forest elephants, and over 180 bird species. East Africa Bridge Tours offers gorilla trekking permits, transfers from Kigali or Bujumbura, and customised multi-day Virunga itineraries that combine the gorillas with Akagera and Lake Kivu.
Best time to visit
Wildlife you may see
- Mountain gorillas
- Golden monkeys
- Forest elephants
- Cape buffalo
- Spotted hyena
- Black-fronted duiker
- 180+ bird species
- Rwenzori turaco
Activities in Volcanoes National Park
All activities are available as part of East Africa Bridge Tours packages or as add-ons.
Gorilla Trekking
Spend one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family — a life-changing experience with groups of 2–8 visitors per trek.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Track playful golden monkeys through the lower bamboo zone — a more affordable and equally rewarding primate encounter.
Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
A 3–4 hour guided hike to the research camp and tomb of conservationist Dian Fossey, author of ''Gorillas in the Mist''.
Volcano Summit Hike
Guided ascents of Mt Bisoke (3,711 m) for crater lake views, or the full summit of Mt Karisimbi (4,507 m) on a 2-day trek.
Getting to Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes NP headquarters (Kinigi) is 115 km north of Kigali — approximately 2.5 hours by road. East Africa Bridge Tours includes transfers from your Kigali hotel with early morning departures for permit briefings at 07:00.
East Africa Bridge Tours packages visiting Volcanoes National Park
- 3 days3-Day Akagera Big Five SafariRwanda
- 11 days11-Day Five Countries of the East African Community from EntebbeUganda · Rwanda · Congo (DRC) · Burundi · Tanzania
- 3 days3-Day Bwindi Gorillas from Kigali (Uganda)Rwanda · Uganda
- 3 days3-Day Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National ParkRwanda
- 4 days4-Day Nyungwe Rainforest & Chimp TrekRwanda
Volcanoes National Park — Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I get a gorilla permit for Volcanoes NP?
- Permits are issued by Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and must be booked through a licensed operator like East Africa Bridge Tours. They cost USD 1,500 per person and include the park entry and guided trek. East Africa Bridge Tours handles all permit bookings.
- How difficult is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP?
- Treks vary from 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family assigned. The terrain is steep and muddy. Good fitness is required but it is not technical mountaineering. Walking sticks are provided at the trailhead.
- What is the age limit for gorilla trekking?
- Visitors must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda.
- What's the best time of year to trek gorillas in Rwanda?
- June–September (long dry season) and December–February (short dry season) offer the easiest trekking conditions and clearest photography weather. The wet season (March–May, October–November) is also viable with appropriate waterproof gear.
- Can I combine Volcanoes NP gorilla trekking with a trip to Burundi?
- Yes — East Africa Bridge Tours specialises in combined Rwanda-Burundi itineraries. A typical 5-day circuit includes gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP and then a road transfer south to Bujumbura for Lake Tanganyika and cultural experiences.
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