Visit Volcano National Park Rwanda?
How do you plan your visit to Volcano National Park Rwanda?
When planning a visit to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda you may have to consider the following;
- Visa, Visa fees and customs requirements: How do you apply for a Rwanda tourist Visa and what are the customs requirements?
A Rwanda tourist visa is obtained on arrival at only 50 USD for 90 days and can be paid using a Visa card.
One unique aspect of Rwandan customs is the complete prohibition of bringing plastic bags into the nation is now strictly implemented, and it is uncommon for suitcases to be checked. Other than that, Rwandan customs are somewhat friendly
Activities: What activities can I do at Volcanoes National Park besides gorilla trekking?
Volcanoes National Park, in addition to gorilla trekking, has a diverse wildlife population. The park’s various ecosystems sustain a broad diversity of flora and fauna, making it a refuge for nature aficionados. The dense bamboo woods, montane forests, and alpine meadows provide a unique environment for a diverse range of birds, animals, and plants. This natural richness adds to the park’s attractiveness, making it more than just a gorilla sanctuary, but also a retreat for visitors looking to discover and appreciate nature’s charms. Volcanoes National Park is culturally significant, as it is profoundly entwined with Rwandan history and legacy. The park is not simply a natural wonder, but also a reservoir for cultural traditions. The Batwa, the region’s indigenous people, have lived there for millennia, and their presence adds to the park’s cultural diversity. Visitors can interact with the Batwa community, learning about their cultures, traditional practices, and the symbiotic relationship they have with the natural environment. In summary, activities one can do at the Volcanoes National Park in addition to gorilla trekking include;
- Golden monkey tracking
- Dian Fossey Memorial Hike
- Bisoke Crater Lake Hike
- Dian Fossey Ellen DeGenerous
- Gahinga Hike
- Karisimbi Hike
- Buhanga Eco-park
- Buhanga Eco-park (1-day picnic including camping)
- Nature walk
- Mt Sabinyo Volcano Climbing
- Hiking on a chain of Volcanoes
Costs: What are the costs of activities at Volcanoes National Park? What is the cost of a gorilla permit for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
- Costs; What are the costs of the activities at Volcanoes National Park? What is the cost of a gorilla permit for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
- Costs; What are the costs of the activities at Volcanoes National Park? What is the cost of a gorilla permit for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
Activity | Rwanda citizens (RwF) | Foreign residents in Rwanda (USD) | East African citizens (USD) | East African residents (USD) | African Citizens(USD) | African Residents(USD) | Foreigner(USD) |
Gorilla trekking |
| 200 | 200 | 200 | 500 | 500 | 1500 |
Golden monkey tracking | 40,000 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
Diana Fossey Memorial Hike |
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| 75 |
Mt. Bisoke Crater Lake Hike |
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| 75 |
Mt. Gahinga Hike |
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| 75 |
Mt. Karisimbi Hike |
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| 700 |
Buhanga Eco-park |
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Buhanga Eco-park (1-day picnic including camping) |
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Nature walk |
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Mt Sabinyo Volcano Climbing |
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Hiking on a chain of volcanoes |
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Ibywacu cultural village |
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Twin lakes (Burera and Ruhondo) |
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Note: Karisimbi Hiking includes a permit, camping equipment, food, and water. It is a two-day activity.
What free things to do in Volcanoes National Park?
There are no free activities in the Volcano National Park. All activities are at a cost.
Accommodation: Where to stay when visiting Volcanoes National Park
Luxury
- Bisate lodge
- Wilderness
- Gorilla nest
- Kwitonda Lodge
Mid-range
- Virunga Inn
- Five volcanoes
- Engagi Park view
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Budget
- Le bamboo
- La palme lodge
- Classic resort
- Amicus
Camping
The camping sites include the Kinigi guest house at 20$ per night for clients with rooftop tents and ground tents at 10 USD without camping gear. Camping gear at USD 30 (including a camping tent, cooking gas, utensils, sleeping bags, mattresses, pillows, table, chairs, lamps, water containers and car fridge).
Best Time: When is the best time to go for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
Dry seasons The long dry season (mid-May to September) and the short dry season (mid-December to mid-March) see a decrease in rainfall. The Kwita Izina ritual is when baby gorillas are named, which is usually in September. The protracted rains Travel is still feasible even if the period from mid-March to mid-May is frequently rainy.
Must I book in advance for gorilla trekking in the volcanoes?
The easiest way to avoid disappointment when gorilla permits run out is to book and purchase your permit ahead of time. 6 to 12 months is advised, particularly during high seasons (June to October and December to February). The permit fee funds conservation, research, and community development projects.
What is unique about Volcano National Park?
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda displays the mighty force of volcanoes and their capacity to sculpt and transform the landscape. Volcanoes National Park is special. Five of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Mountains, including the well-known Mount Karisimbi, are located within the park, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a sanctuary for both animals and outdoor lovers. The breathtaking volcanic scenery of Volcanoes National Park is among its most notable features. The park’s dramatic and stunning background is produced by these lofty peaks, which include the well-known Mount Karisimbi. Mist-covered and encircled by verdant vegetation, the sight of these magnificent volcanoes is a sight that captivates the mind and inspires awe and amazement. The park is proof of its outstanding beauty and biodiversity. Tucked deep in the Virunga Mountain range, this park is a diamond in Rwanda’s conservation crown and is well-known for its unique features that set it apart on the global stage. What truly sets Volcanoes National Park apart, however, is its critical role in preserving the endangered mountain gorillas. Thanks to the pioneering work of primatologist Dian Fossey, whose studies of mountain gorillas in the 1960s brought attention to the species, the park gained international recognition. Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places on Earth where visitors can undertake gorilla trekking these days, offering a rare and close-up encounter with these incredible creatures.
How long does gorilla trekking take?
The length of the trip and the degree of difficulty vary, depending on where the gorilla family is gathering on the day of your visit. The briefing starts at 7:00 am at Kinigi Park headquarters, where you are split up according to the trekking group you are with. Based on their age and degree of physical fitness, the trekkers are split up into groups. The average end times for an easy or shorter trek are 11 a.m., 1 p.m. for a medium walk and 5 p.m. for a strenuous hike. Once you have met the gorillas, you are permitted to spend no more than an hour with them.
Trekking often involves elevations of 2000 meters above sea level. For this reason, Rwandan gorillas are mountain gorillas rather than lowland gorillas. A team of trackers keeps tabs on the gorillas’ whereabouts every day. Therefore, there is an almost 100% chance of being sighted. Rwanda cannot afford tourists to complain after spending USD 1500 on a trek, so if you are extremely unlucky and do not see any gorillas, you are permitted to go again (for free) the following day.
How fit do I need to be to do gorilla trekking in the volcanoes?
Gorilla trekking often requires a strenuous, several-hour journey, so you should be reasonably fit to handle it. Additionally, it is frequently muddy and slick, so you should be quite sure-footed. We recommend trekkers to employ porters to carry their loads. Additionally, one can be carried during their trek if they are not fit. While being carried requires USD 300, a porter charges USD 15 for each passenger. You truly feel the benefit in addition to getting much-needed work. While most visitors find the walk difficult enough without a bag on their backs, these guys and gals are eager to help with your backpacks.
Is Volcano National Park safe for gorilla trekking?
Even though crime and corruption are relatively low in both Rwanda and Uganda, Rwanda is better run. Botswana is the second-safest country in Africa, after Rwanda. However, the security situation is different in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the country has been plagued by civil conflict and, more recently, monkey pox for decades. All countries have issued travel warnings to the Virunga National Park because of the presence of armed groups, even though it is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following the May 2018 kidnapping and eventual release of two British tourists, their driver, and their guide, Congolese authorities decided to ban gorilla trekking in the Virunga National Park. This was not an isolated incident, as six other park members were killed in the month before the kidnapping. Congo has resumed gorilla monitoring, although it is still far riskier than in Rwanda or Uganda.
What is the age limit for gorilla trekking in Volcano National Park?
Gorilla trekking in the volcanoes is allowed for visitors 15 years and above. The upper age limit is not there but the physical fitness is a must.
What is the packing list for gorilla trekking in Volcano National Park? What should I carry while going for gorilla trekking?
Do you want to guarantee the success of a gorilla trekking safari? Make sure you have everything you need by following our useful Gorilla Trekking Packing List;
Waterproof Trekkers’ shoes or hiking boots, water-resistant lightweight apparel suitable for the weather, blouses, pants, and shirts with long sleeves, gloves, a rain jacket, a camera, and accessories, repellent for insects, a first aid kit, drinking water in bottles along with energy drinks, food, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, Gorilla trekking Permit Other essentials are toiletries, a trekking stick (available at park headquarters on the day of the briefing), socks, a pair of binoculars, a valid passport to show at park reception, visas, a waterproof daypack, and headlamps.
What shoes should I wear for gorilla trekking?
- Shoes: Hiking in Volcanoes National Park to observe gorillas requires climbing steep slopes and through jungles, so sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots or shoes are essential. They ought to be costly and give your ankle the most possible support when you walk. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential because your gorilla-viewing adventure will likely take you into the forest, up steep slopes, and maybe on muddy terrain. Compared to typical savanna-protected areas, the ecosystem of Volcanoes Park is very different. You should not include sneakers on your packing list for the Volcanoes N/Park safari unless you plan to wear them around the resort.
What clothes should I wear for gorilla trekking?
- Clothing: Your gorilla trekking experience will be flawless and hassle-free if you dress appropriately. Appropriate attire is one of the essential items on your packing list for gorilla trekking. Waterproof pants, jackets, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, long socks, and long pants are the most popular outfits. All of these will shield you from the sun, insects, ants, and sharp tree branches. To keep ants and other insects from coming inside and accessing your body, we also suggest that you attach your pants to your boots. A pair of shorts and pyjamas for the chilly evenings are additional clothing options for lounging at the resort. To prevent overheating and to facilitate mobility, choose materials that are breathable and quick to dry. A hat with a wide brim can shield you from the rain or sun. Wearing light gloves will shield your hands from thorny plants and scratches.
- What Other essential items should one carry for gorilla trekking?
A small daypack is essential for carrying your essentials when walking. Choose one with comfortable straps and enough space for your necessities. You will need two to three litres of water with you on the hike to stay hydrated. for whatever snacks you might eat Light, high-energy snacks that will keep you going include fruit, nuts, and energy bars.
- What kind of camera should I carry for gorilla trekking? Are we allowed to take photos while doing gorilla trekking?
You must have a camera or phone. Even though flash photography is prohibited near the gorillas, it is essential to document this magical event. Both a high-quality phone camera and a camera with a zoom lens will function. Remember to bring extra batteries or a portable charger. binoculars. Your experience of seeing wildlife can be improved with a pair of binoculars, particularly when observing far-off birds or other creatures.
- Health and Safety Items
Should I carry any medications? Do I need to carry any insect repellents for gorilla trekking?
When trekking in the woods, prioritize your health and safety. Here’s what you should pack: Insect repellent. Insects thrive in the forests, thus a high-quality repellent is vital for avoiding bites and infections. Sunscreen: Even in the forest, the sun can be fierce, so bring a high-SPF sunscreen to avoid sunburn. First aid kit: Include common medical items such as bandages, pain relievers, antiseptics, and any personal prescriptions. Also, bring a couple of motion sickness medicines in case the hike becomes difficult. Antimalarial medication: Before you travel, consult your doctor about recommended malaria immunizations and treatments. Hand sanitizer: Keep hand sanitizer on hand for hygiene purposes, especially if water is not readily available.
- Location: Where is Volcano National Park located?
Rwanda’s northwest is home to Volcanoes National Park. Five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains—Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo—are located within its 160 km (62 square miles) of rainforest. Kigali International Airport is 120 kilometres away from Volcanoes National Park, and it takes about 2 hours and thirty minutes to drive from Kigali, the speed limit is 60 kilometres per hour and one has to strictly oblige.
- Directions: How do I get from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park?
From Kigali airport is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, you Head north to Kinigi Village, turn right at the Y-intersection with the two gorilla statues, and drive another five to seven minutes to reach the Volcano NP headquarters, hikers and trekkers check in at seven in the morning. To get to the trailhead, you must drive your car or a tour operator/agency vehicle for 15 to 20 minutes after turning in your passport and permit at National Park headquarters. There are periods when this path is entirely paved and when it is dusty.