Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, situated within the Virunga volcanic region shared between Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo, is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and captivating landscapes. This park spans an expanse of evergreen bamboo forests, interspersed with grasslands, swamps, and heath in different areas, creating a diverse habitat that supports a variety of wildlife.

Mountain Gorillas: Pride of Volcanoes National Park

One of the park’s most iconic attractions is its population of endangered mountain gorillas. These majestic creatures draw visitors from around the world for the incredible opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking is the primary activity, available throughout the year. Due to the park’s altitude, temperatures can be cool, particularly in the early mornings and evenings, making it advisable to bring a light sweater. Conveniently located just two hours from Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali, the park offers easy accessibility for travelers.

Legacy of Dian Fossey

Dian Fossey’s legacy looms large over Volcanoes National Park. Her pioneering research and dedicated conservation efforts, centered at the Karisoke Research Center within the park, spanned 18 years. Through her work, Fossey not only studied mountain gorillas but also laid the groundwork for their conservation. Her story was immortalized in the film “Gorillas in the Mist,” which highlighted the challenges and triumphs of protecting these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.

 Gorilla Groups in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is home to several distinct gorilla families, each with its own unique dynamics and history:

• – Amahoro Group: Led by Ubumwe, the Amahoro Group resides uphill, requiring a moderately challenging trek to reach them. The effort is rewarded with serene encounters in their natural habitat.
• – Hirwa Group: Formed from a combination of different gorilla families, including Group 13, Susa, and Sabyinyo, the Hirwa Group is led by Munyinya. This group exemplifies the dynamic nature of gorilla society as new bonds are formed and alliances shift.
• – Sabyinyo Group: Named after Mount Sabyinyo, this group is characterized by its smaller size and proximity to the park headquarters, making it an accessible option for visitors who prefer shorter treks.
• – Kwitonda Group: Led by the silverback Kwitonda, which means “humble one” in Kinyarwanda, this group migrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo, settling permanently in Rwanda. Trekking to Kwitonda Group can be moderately difficult due to their territory on the upper slopes of Mount Muhabura.

Wildlife Diversity

Beyond gorillas, Volcanoes National Park hosts a wide array of wildlife species. Visitors have the chance to encounter forest elephants, buffaloes, bush pigs, giant forest hogs, duikers, spotted hyenas, bushbucks, and various primates, adding depth to the safari experience.

Birding in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 200 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics. Birdwatchers can spot rare species such as the Rwenzorituraco, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, and handsome francolin, offering a unique birding experience amidst the lush landscapes of the Virunga region.

Activities in Volcanoes National Park

The park offers a plethora of activities catering to different interests:

• – Gorilla Trekking: This is the premier activity, allowing visitors to track habituated gorilla families. Each day, a limited number of permits are issued, ensuring minimal disturbance to the gorillas and their environment.
• – Golden Monkey Trekking: Trekking to see the playful golden monkeys, unique to the Virunga region, provides an engaging wildlife experience in bamboo forests.
• – Volcano Climbing: Hiking Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi rewards hikers with breathtaking views and opportunities to spot wildlife and rare bird species along the way.
• – Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture by visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where former poachers now showcase traditional lifestyles, music, dance, and crafts.

Conservation and Access

Conservation efforts are at the heart of Volcanoes National Park’s management. Strict guidelines ensure sustainable tourism practices, including limited daily permits for gorilla trekking and regulated visitor behavior to minimize impact on the environment and wildlife. The park is easily accessible from Kigali, with a scenic two-hour drive, and also accessible from the Uganda border at Cyanika in Kisoro. Helicopter services by Akagera Aviation provide an alternative means of transport for those seeking convenience and spectacular aerial views.

Accommodations

Accommodations near Volcanoes National Park cater to diverse preferences and budgets:

• – Luxury Lodges: Such as Bisate Lodge and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge offer unparalleled comfort amidst natural beauty.
• – Mid-range Options: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge and Kinigi Guesthouse provide comfortable lodging closer to the park headquarters.
• – Budget-friendly Choices: Options like Muhabura Hotel and Garden Place Hotel offer affordable stays while ensuring proximity to park activities.

Safari packages at Volcanoes National Park

Kamere Tours offers comprehensive packages for exploring Volcanoes National Park, providing expert-guided experiences for gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, volcano climbing, bird watching, cultural tours, and more. Their commitment to sustainable tourism aligns with conservation goals, ensuring memorable and responsible visits to this extraordinary destination.