Volcanoes National Park is among the four national parks in Rwanda, located in the Northwestern region. It covers an area of 160 square kilometers and known for its amazing population of mountain gorillas that are protected within. Out of eight volcanoes in the Virunga region, this park comprises five of them including; Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and the Sabyinyo which borders three countries - the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Rwanda.
Volcanoes National Park is believed to be the oldest protected area formed in 1925 together with Congo’s Virunga national park. It is located in Musanze, formerly Ruhengeri district. The park also harbors endangered golden monkeys that offer the best adventure which attracts most visitors among all the primates.
Volcanoes National Park is where the popular American primatologist, Dian Fossey did her research about gorillas from and used to camp before she died. She was buried at her camp, presently Karisoke research center and visitors to this park cannot miss out on a hike to explore the late Dian Fossey’s tomb.
However, other interesting and amazing attractions are found in this beautiful park-like birds, which are over 170 bird species, trees that date to over a thousand years and colorful butterflies and flowers. These attractions can provide you with incredible activities to add on gorilla trekking which is the main activity done in this park.
In addition, since this forest harbors several bird species, birding can be your other best option to discover the best bird's melodies, watching them flying up in the trees with their beautiful colors that will make your walk more joyous.
A nature walk can be done as well as during birding where different animals are spotted for example the vervet monkeys, colobus monkeys, squirrel, the big forest elephants, warthog and many more.
Visiting the community is the best experience and this can be done even after gorilla trekking where you will experience the local dance music and drama of Kinyarwanda. Storytelling from the elders about the origin of Kinyarwanda (Rwanda people) is also heard. Still, in the community, you can opt to visit a local traditional healer who uses local herbs to treat and heal people.
Many other activities can be done in this park, including the twin lakes exploration, visiting the Ibyiwacu cultural village and many more. There are very many exciting things we would like to share with you about this park but it's only that we can't comprise everything, therefore, travel with us and explore beyond this.
As you plan for your safari to volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is aware to carry your binoculars all to view the far objects, a camera to enjoy while taking photos and recording videos, rain gears such as raincoats, umbrellas, the backpack to protect and carry your luggage plus the energy-giving snacks for example biscuits and cookies.
Rwanda has two seasons; the rainy season and the dry season. It mostly depends on one's choice and when travel. The dry season normally starts from late December to March and from July to September. For the rainy season, it's October to early December and the park activities are discounted plus the rates for lodges give it a chance for budget travelers to gain a chance. Therefore, there is no best time to travel to volcanoes unless you have your trekking permit.
We organize special and amazing safaris to Volcanoes National Park, contact and book with us today for the best gorilla experience and more in Rwanda’s popular National Park.
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