Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda's volcanic highlands — home to roughly half the world's remaining mountain gorillas, trekked through bamboo forests at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes.
Destination
Type
Jun-Oct
Best Time
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Why Visit Volcanoes National Park
The top experiences that make Volcanoes National Park worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Volcanoes National Park
Everything you need to know before booking your Volcanoes National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is available year-round — permits are allocated daily.
June to September and December to February are the dry seasons — trails are less muddy, making the trek more comfortable. March to May and October to November bring rain — treks can be tough but the forest is lush and permits are easier to secure. Morning clouds often clear by midday. The park sits at 2,500-4,507m altitude so temperatures are cool to cold year-round.
What It Costs
Gorilla permit $1,500/person (non-negotiable, Rwanda's main revenue). Budget guesthouses in Musanze/Ruhengeri $30-80/night. Mid-range lodges $100-300/night. Luxury (Bisate, Singita Kwitonda) $1,000-3,500/night. Golden monkey trek $100/person. Dian Fossey hike $75/person.
Getting There
Volcanoes National Park headquarters at Kinigi is 2.5 hours (110km) from Kigali by road. The drive passes through stunning terraced hillsides. Kigali International Airport (KGL) has direct flights from Nairobi (1.5h), Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, Dubai, and Brussels. Alternatively, fly into Kamembe and drive 4 hours. Park HQ at Kinigi is where gorilla trekking briefings begin at 7am.
Destinations Near Volcanoes National Park
Combine Volcanoes National Park with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Volcanoes National Park
What is the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park?
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is available year-round — permits are allocated daily. **June to September** and **December to February** are the dry seasons — trails are less muddy, making the trek more comfortable. **March to May** and **October to November** bring rain — treks can be tough but the forest is lush and permits are easier to secure. Morning clouds often clear by midday. The park sits at 2,500-4,507m altitude so temperatures are cool to cold year-round.
How do I get to Volcanoes National Park?
Volcanoes National Park headquarters at Kinigi is 2.5 hours (110km) from Kigali by road. The drive passes through stunning terraced hillsides. Kigali International Airport (KGL) has direct flights from Nairobi (1.5h), Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, Dubai, and Brussels. Alternatively, fly into Kamembe and drive 4 hours. Park HQ at Kinigi is where gorilla trekking briefings begin at 7am.
What wildlife can I see in Volcanoes National Park?
Volcanoes National Park is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Mountain gorilla trekking — 1,000+ gorillas remain, Golden monkey tracking in bamboo forests, Dian Fossey's Karisoke research centre, Summit hike to Mount Bisoke crater lake, Cultural encounters with local communities, One of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Volcanoes National Park.
How much does a Volcanoes National Park safari cost?
Gorilla permit $1,500/person (non-negotiable, Rwanda's main revenue). Budget guesthouses in Musanze/Ruhengeri $30-80/night. Mid-range lodges $100-300/night. Luxury (Bisate, Singita Kwitonda) $1,000-3,500/night. Golden monkey trek $100/person. Dian Fossey hike $75/person.