Volcanoes National Park is located in the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda, boarders Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This national park is a renowned sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas. The Park is best known for its role in mountain gorilla conservation. It is home to several habituated gorilla families, and gives opportunity for the gorilla tracking adventures to tourists.
In addition to gorilla tracking, Volcanoes National Park offers the chance to track the rare golden monkeys.
These primates inhabit the bamboo forests of the park.Visitors can explore the park through a hiking and trekking trails. These trails offer opportunities for hikes of different durations and interests, from short nature walks to more strenuous hikes to the summits of volcanoes. Volcanoes National Park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers.
Cultural Experiences: The Park provides opportunities to engage with the local communities, including cultural visits to nearby villages, traditional dance performances, and interactions with the local people known as the Batwa.
The Dian Fossey’s Research Center:
The famous American primatologist Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking research on mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains. Visitors can pay their respects to her memory by visiting the Dian Fossey Karisoke Research Center, which is located near the park.
Volcanoes National Park is actively involved in the conservation of gorillas and other wildlife species. It plays a crucial role in the preservation of biodiversity in the region and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area.
The Best Time To Visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your trip. Rwanda, including Volcanoes National Park, has a relatively stable climate year-round due to its location near the equator. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
Gorilla Trekking: If your primary goal is to go gorilla trekking, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically falls in Rwanda during the following months:
June to September: This is the long dry season, and it’s considered the peak tourist season. The weather is generally dry and cool, making hiking more comfortable. Gorilla tracking permits may be in higher demand during this time, so it’s advisable to book well in advance.
Golden Monkey Tracking: Similar to gorilla trekking, if you want to track golden monkeys, it’s best to visit during the dry season when the weather is more predictable.
Scenic Landscapes: If you’re interested in capturing stunning landscapes and clear views of the volcanic peaks, the dry season is ideal. The lush green vegetation during this time enhances the beauty of the volcanic terrain.
Birdwatching: Birdwatching is excellent year-round in Volcanoes National Park, but if you’re particularly interested in birding, consider visiting during the wet season (March to May and October to November) when many migratory birds are present.
Hiking: Hiking and trekking are possible year-round, but trails may be muddier during the wet season. If you prefer drier conditions for hiking, the dry season is a better choice.
The peak Tourist Season:
From June to September tends to be busier, and gorilla trekking permits may be more challenging to obtain. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or the wet season.
Rainy Season (Wet Season): While the wet season (March to May and October to November) brings regular rainfall, it can be a good time to visit if you’re interested in lush, green landscapes, birdwatching, and fewer crowds. However, be prepared for occasional rain during your activities.Gorilla Trekking is the primary attraction in Volcanoes National Park is gorilla trekking. To engage in this activity, you’ll need a permit, and the trek itself usually takes a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla group you’re tracking. Therefore, plan at least one full day for gorilla trekking.
Golden Monkey Tracking: If you’re interested in golden monkey tracking, you can typically add this activity to your itinerary on a separate day.
Hiking and Other Activities: The park offers various hiking trails, such as the Dian Fossey Tomb Hike and hikes to the summits of volcanoes like Mount Bisoke. These hikes can vary in duration, from a few hours to a full day. Depending on your interests and fitness level, you may want to allocate additional days for hiking and exploring the park’s scenic landscapes.
Cultural Visits: Some visitors opt for cultural experiences in nearby villages, which can be added to your itinerary. These visits can be half-day or full-day excursions, depending on the activities and interactions you choose. Plan your next adventure with us for unforgettable holidays in Africa
www.trionsafaris.com
