Understand

Immerse yourself in the heart of Central Africa, where the air is so crisp that you shiver more than you sweat. Here, rising majestically to a height of almost 15,000 feet, stand the great old volcanoes of the Virungas. Covered in a dense cloak of rich, emerald rainforest, these volcanoes guard a sanctuary teeming with life. Welcome to the Parc des Volcans, located in the far northwest of Rwanda. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of this mountain range, home to the elusive mountain gorillas and a tapestry of diverse ecosystems. Embark on an exhilarating gorilla trekking adventure, carefully guided through the park to search for these magnificent creatures. With twelve habituated gorilla families waiting to be encountered, don't miss the opportunity to meet these remarkable beings. While gorilla trekking is the main highlight, the park offers a plethora of other thrilling activities such as climbing the Virunga Volcanoes, tracking golden monkeys, and bird watching. And if you're lucky, you may even witness the annual gorilla naming ceremony, locally known as Kwita Izina. Brace yourself for an extraordinary journey through the Parc des Volcans, where every step is filled with wonder and awe.

Get in

If you're planning a visit to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, here's some important information:

Park Headquarters

The Park's Headquarters is located in Kinigi. This is where you will meet your guide and start your activity.

Entering the Park

To enter Volcanoes National Park, you must have a guide and a permit. You cannot enter alone. Permits can be obtained in advance or on the day of your activity. If you choose to get them on the day, make sure to arrive at the HQ by 7am and bring your passport or a copy of it. Payment can be made in US dollars, Rwandan francs, or Visa.

Transportation

From Kinigi, the road to HQ is paved and can be traveled by any means of transportation, including bodas. However, once you have your permit and guide, you will need to transfer yourself to the trailhead of your chosen activity. Keep in mind that the roads from HQ to the start of certain hikes, like the Dian Fosses trek or Summit/Crater Trail of Bisoke, are rocky and in poor condition. There may be an opportunity to hitch a ride with others doing the same activity, but there is no guarantee of space.

From Ruhengeri, the same transportation options apply. However, the distance to HQ is greater. Matatus are available from Ruhengeri to Kinigi, but you would need to take a boda from Kinigi to HQ. Private cars for a return trip cost around $60-80. Ruhengeri is well connected to other cities in Rwanda and also to the border of Uganda via Cyanika.

Get in

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans (PNV)) is an incredible destination located in a small town called Musanze, just 12km from Kinigi. The park is easily accessible by public transport from Gisenyi, Kigali, or the airport. The journey to the park takes only 2 hours, allowing visitors to go gorilla tracking on the same day and return to Kigali for a comfortable overnight stay. However, please note that there is no public transport available from Musanze to the park headquarters at Kinigi. To learn more about Volcanoes National Park and plan your visit, you can visit the official website: http://www.volcanoesnationalparkrwanda.com

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Isombe - Isombe is a traditional Rwandan dish made of mashed cassava (a starchy root vegetable) mixed with fermented beans called muri. The mixture is often flavored with ground peanuts, palm oil, and vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and onions. This hearty, non-spicy dish is typically eaten with hands, and sometimes accompanied by grilled or roasted meat.

Injera - Injera is a type of sourdough flatbread that serves as a staple food in Rwandan cuisine. It is made from teff flour (a tiny, gluten-free grain) and water, which are fermented together to create a unique, slightly tangy flavor. The batter is poured into a large, circular sheet and baked on a clay griddle until it forms a spongy, porous texture. Injera is often used as a utensil for scooping up other dishes, like stews and curries.

Muraho - Muraho is a popular Rwandan beer brewed from sorghum or millet, depending on the region. The grains are -ground and mixed with water, then allowed to ferment for several days. Once ready, the beer is traditionally served from large ceramic jars called gourds. With an average alcohol content of around 5%, this refreshing beverage is a favorite at social gatherings and celebrations.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing