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Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda, Africa

Volcanoes National Park is a majestic national park in Rwanda, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and as a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas. Home to eight volcanic mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek through lush forests, witness incredible biodiversity, and engage with vibrant local culture. Its unique attractions include gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and stunning volcanic peaks that provide panoramic views. Ideal for adventure and wildlife enthusiasts alike, it's an unforgettable destination.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Kigali

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Volcanoes National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking

Encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their habitat.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

8 hrs

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

Observe playful golden monkeys in the wild.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

3. Hike Mount Bisoke

Climb an active volcano with stunning views.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

6 hrs

4. Visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Learn about conservation efforts for gorillas.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Explore the Musanze Caves

Discover unique volcanic caves formed centuries ago.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Bird Watching

Spot diverse bird species in lush landscapes.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

7. Cultural Village Visit

Experience Rwandan culture and local traditions.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

8. Nature Walks

Enjoy scenic trails through the national park.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

9. Volcanoes Trekking

Trek to the summit of stunning volcanoes.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

5 hrs

10. Photography Tour

Capture breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

11. Visit Lake Kivu

Relax by the scenic shores of Lake Kivu.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

12. Rwanda Genocide Memorials

Learn about Rwanda's history at memorial sites.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

13. Local Market Tour

Explore local markets for authentic Rwandan crafts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Rwanda Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Kinyarwanda

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Brochettes

Grilled meat skewers, popular snack. (National dish)

Ugali

VE

Starchy maize porridge, staple food.

Isombe

VE

Cassava leaves cooked with groundnuts.

Matoke

VE

Steamed green bananas, often served with sauce.

Ibihaza

VE

Pumpkin pieces, often cooked or mashed.

Phrases to learn

English

Kinyarwanda

Hello

Muraho

(Moo-rah-ho)

Yes/No

Yego / Oya

(Yeh-go / Oh-yah)

Thank you

Urakoze

(Oo-rah-koh-zeh)

Excuse me

Mbabarira

(M-bah-bah-ree-rah)

How much?

Angahe?

(Ahn-gah-heh)