Established
1925
Size
160 km²
Elevation
2,400–4,507 m
Ecosystem
Montane Rainforest, Bamboo, Alpine
Best Time
June – September, December – February
Entry Fee
$1,500 per gorilla permit
About Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is the crown jewel of Rwanda and one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations on Earth — home to approximately half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. The park encompasses the Rwandan portion of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of eight volcanic peaks draped in dense montane rainforest and bamboo. Made famous by primatologist Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to gorilla conservation here, the park offers the life-changing experience of sitting just meters from a silverback gorilla family in their misty mountain habitat. Rwanda has transformed gorilla tourism into one of Africa's greatest conservation success stories, with gorilla numbers increasing from 480 in 2010 to over 1,000 today.
What Makes It Special
Half the world's mountain gorillas
Dian Fossey research site
Virunga volcanic peaks
Golden monkey tracking
98% gorilla sighting success rate
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
JunJulAugSep
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
DecJanFeb
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
MarAprMayOctNov
Where to Stay
Bisate Lodge
Ultra-LuxuryWilderness Safaris eco-lodge with six forest villas in an amphitheater of volcanic peaks.
From $1,800/night / night
One&Only Gorilla's Nest
Ultra-LuxuryLuxury resort on the edge of the park with 21 lodge rooms and a world-class spa.
From $1,500/night / night
Kinigi Guest House
BudgetClean, comfortable guesthouse near the park headquarters, ideal for budget gorilla trekkers.
From $80/night / night
Safari Packages
3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek
Life-changing one-hour encounter with a mountain gorilla family in the misty Virungas
5-Day Rwanda Gorilla & Golden Monkey
Double primate experience plus volcano hiking and Dian Fossey memorial