When it comes to gorilla tracking in Africa, Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” stands out as a top destination. Rwanda’s gorilla tracking is one of the most popular activities that attract tourists to the country. Although Rwanda boasts other safari parks like Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking and Akagera National Park for wildlife viewing, it also has numerous genocide memorials that provide a deep insight into the history of the Rwandan genocide.
Unlike Uganda and DR Congo, Rwanda has just one national park dedicated to gorilla conservation, and that is Volcanoes National Park, situated to the north of the Rwandan capital, Kigali.
Volcanoes National Park is the sanctuary of the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Covering an area of 160 sq km, it is home to 11 mountain gorilla families available for tourism throughout the year.
This is the primary attraction for most travelers to Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to 10 habituated gorilla families open for trekking. Volcanoes Park is part of Rwanda’s share of the great Virunga Massif, bordering Virunga National Park in Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. To see mountain gorillas in Rwanda, travelers are required to purchase gorilla permits, each costing $1500 for an hour’s interaction. All permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board.
Golden monkey trekking is another highly popular activity in Volcanoes National Park, attracting thousands of travelers. Golden monkeys are unique creatures that every visitor should not miss encountering on their Rwanda safari. These monkeys can only be found in Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. Fortunately, golden monkey trekking is relatively affordable, costing $100, compared to gorilla trekking.
Beyond wildlife, Volcanoes National Park is home to three extinct volcanoes. Travelers to this park have the added advantage of hiking to the summit of any volcano, which rewards them with spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, Kigali city, Virunga volcanoes, and local communities. Mount Karisimbi is the most popular volcano to hike, and the experience is well worth the effort.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Musanze caves on your Rwanda safari to Volcanoes National Park. Experienced guides lead you through these caves while sharing the mysteries, history, and fascinating facts about Rwanda.
Additional activities in Volcanoes National Park include cultural tours, especially to Iby’wacu Cultural Village, bird watching, and visits to the twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo, among others.
For more detailed information about the best places to go gorilla tracking in Rwanda and to secure your Rwanda gorilla permits, please contact Trek Africa Expeditions. We are here to provide you with all the information and assistance you need for your unforgettable adventure in Volcanoes National Park.