Volcanoes National Park

Background Information

“In the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat,” wrote the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey, “are great, old volcanoes towering up almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rainforest – the Virungas”. Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, the Parc des Volcans protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range – home of the rare mountain gorilla – and the rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.

An exhilarating trek through the cultivated foothills of the Virungas offers stirring views in all directions. Then, abruptly, the trail enters the national park, immersing trekkers in the mysterious intimacy of the rainforest, alive with the calls of colourful birds and chattering of the rare golden monkey, and littered with fresh spoor of the mountains’ elusive populations of buffalo and elephant. Through gaps in the forest canopy, the magnificent peaks are glimpsed, easily accessible and among the highest in Africa, beckoning an ascent.

The bustling market town of Ruhengeri has a memorable setting at the base of the Virungas. On the outskirts of town, the natural bridge at Musanze – a solidified lava flow – is a fascinating relic of the volcanic activity that shaped this scenic area. Also within easy day tripping distance of Ruhengeri are the seldom visited but lovely Lakes Burera, Ruhondo and Karago. Ruhengeri offers a good selection of reasonably priced small hotels and guest houses, including the newly renovated hotel Gorilla’s Nest. Visitors could also base themselves in Gisenyi or Kigali and – with an early start – head to the Parc des Volcans and Ruhengeri as a day trip.

By Road: Volcanoes National Park is located in a small village called Musanze previously well-known as Ruhengeri, which is very accessible by public transport from Gisenyi or Kigali or from the airport. The drive to Volcanoes national park is 2 hrs and hence one can do gorilla tracking on the same day and drive back to Kigali after the trek.

You will be required to arrive at the headquarters of ORTPN in Kinigi, at the park entrance, by 7:00 am, therefore, if you hope to trek gorillas for one day, you have to wake up very early for your journey so that you are on time. However, there isn’t any public transport from Musanze to the headquarters of the park at Kinigi.

Most of the common activities at Volcanoes National Park include the following: Gorilla trekking, Hiking Karisimbi volcano (3,800 m), One day Mount Bisoke volcano hike, Visiting Dian Fossey Memoratorium, Visiting the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda experiences a cool, tropical highland climate due to its location in the Virunga Mountains, with elevations ranging from 2,400 to over 4,500 meters (7,900 to 14,760 feet). The park is known for its dense montane forests and is home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

Key climatic features:

• Rainfall: The park receives significant rainfall, especially during the rainy seasons. The long rainy season is from March to May, while the short rainy season is from October to December. Rain can be heavy, but it often clears up quickly, leaving misty conditions.

• Temperature: Average temperatures range from 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F), with cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, especially in the mornings and evenings. The higher elevations can experience temperatures close to freezing at night.

• Dry Season: The drier months are generally from June to September and January to February. However, the park can still receive occasional rain due to its altitude and proximity to the equator.