Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Established in 1925 and the oldest park in the whole continent of Africa formarly part opf the Virunga massifs , the park covers an area of 160 square kilometers and is home to five of the eight volcanoes that make up the Virunga Mountains. Here, visitors have the unique opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, hike through the lush forest, and learn about the fascinating geology of the area.
History and Background
The Virunga Mountains are a range of volcanic mountains that run along the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The range is home to a number of active and inactive volcanoes, including Mount Nyiragongo, which erupted in 2021.
Volcanoes National Park was established in 1925 as a small forest reserve to protect the habitat of the mountain gorillas that live in the area. At the time, there were only a few hundred mountain gorillas left in the world, and their population was rapidly declining due to poaching and habitat loss. In the 1960s, conservation efforts in the park were stepped up, and today, the mountain gorilla population has stabilized at around 1,000 individuals.
In addition to the mountain gorillas, the park is also home to a number of other species, including golden monkeys, bushbucks, and a variety of bird species. The park is also known for its beautiful scenery, including the dense forest, the Virunga Mountains, and the stunning views of nearby Lake Kivu.
Things to Do in Volcanoes National Park
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
The main attraction of Volcanoes National Park is mountain gorilla trekking. Visitors can book a permit to trek with an experienced guide to see one of the 10 habituated gorilla families that live in the park. The trek can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family, and visitors are allowed one hour with the gorillas once they are found.
The trek itself is an adventure, as visitors hike through the dense forest and up steep hills to reach the gorillas. Along the way, visitors may also encounter other wildlife, such as golden monkeys and a variety of bird species.
Golden Monkey Trekking
In addition to the gorillas, visitors to the park can also trek to see the golden monkeys that live in the area. The golden monkeys are an endangered species, and there are only a few thousand left in the world. Visitors can book a permit to trek with a guide to see the monkeys, which are known for their bright orange fur and playful demeanor.
Visting Dian Fossey tomb
For visitors who want to explore the park on foot, there are a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the park’s scenery. One popular trail is the Dian Fossey Tomb Trail, which leads to the site where the famous primatologist and gorilla conservationist Dian Fossey is buried. Along the way, visitors can learn about Fossey’s work and see the remains of the research center where she lived and worked.
Dian Fossey was an American primatologist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas in Rwanda. She is best known for her book “Gorillas in the Mist” and for her advocacy work for gorilla conservation.
Tragically, Fossey was murdered in her cabin at the Karisoke Research Center in 1985. Her tomb is located near the research center, and it has become a destination for those who want to pay their respects to her and her work.
Visiting Dian Fossey’s tomb can be a poignant experience, as it provides an opportunity to reflect on her contributions to gorilla conservation and the sacrifices she made for her cause. It can also serve as a reminder of the ongoing need to protect these endangered animals and their habitats.
Musanze caves
Musanze Caves, also known as the “Caves of Musanze”, are a series of natural caves located in the northern province of Rwanda, near the town of Musanze. These caves are believed to be formed around 65 million years ago and were created by lava flows from nearby volcanoes.
The Musanze Caves are a popular tourist attraction in Rwanda and offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore an underground world of tunnels and chambers. The caves are home to a variety of bat species and other wildlife, and visitors can see stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations.
Guided tours of the Musanze Caves are available and typically take about two hours. Visitors are provided with helmets and flashlights for the tour, which involves some climbing and crawling through narrow passages.
In addition to their natural beauty and geological significance, the Musanze Caves have a cultural and historical significance as well. During Rwanda’s colonial period, the caves were used as a shelter by locals fleeing from Belgian soldiers. The caves were also used by the Rwanda Patriotic Front during the country’s civil war in the 1990s.
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Hiking
Another popular trail is the Bisoke Crater Lake Hike, which takes visitors to the top of Mount Bisoke, one of the park’s five volcanoes. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding area and leads to a beautiful crater lake at the top.
Visiting the twin lakes
Visiting the twin lakes in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and canoeing can be a unique and rewarding experience. Here’s some information on these activities:
- Twin Lakes: The twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo are located in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains in Volcanoes National Park. The lakes are surrounded by beautiful scenery and are home to a variety of birdlife. Visitors can take a guided hike along the shores of the lakes, or simply relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.
- Canoeing: Canoeing on Lake Burera or Ruhondo is a popular activity in the area. Canoes can be rented from local communities, and visitors can paddle along the shoreline, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. The calm waters of the lakes make it a great activity for beginners and families.
When visiting the twin lakes and canoeing, it’s important to respect the local culture and wildlife. Visitors should also be aware of safety precautions, such as wearing a lifejacket and staying within designated areas. Hiring a local guide is recommended to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.Top of FormBottom of Form
Cultural Tours
For visitors interested in learning more about the local culture, there are a number of cultural tours available in the nearby villages. These tours allow visitors to meet local people and learn about their traditions, such as basket weaving and traditional dancing.
Accommodation
There are a number of lodges and hotels near Volcanoes National Park that offer comfortable accommodation for visitors. Some of the most popular lodges include One and only gorilla nest lodge , Bisate lodge , Singita lodge , Virunga inn and spa, Five volcanoes lodge, mountain gorilla view lodge, Le bamboo lodfe, Ingagi lodge , Davinci among the many.
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