Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is a magical destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Located in the Virunga Mountains, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorillas.
With its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and thrilling adventure activities, Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. In this article, we will take a closer look at the park and everything it has to offer.
Discover Rwanda Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is a conservation area in northwest Rwanda that covers 160 square kilometers. It was established in 1925 and is one of the oldest national parks in Africa.
The park is famous for its mountain gorillas, which are among the world’s most endangered species. Besides the gorillas, Rwanda Volcanoes National Park has a lot more to offer, including:
Volcano hiking: The park is home to five volcanoes, and hiking to the top of any of them is a thrilling experience. The most popular hike is to the summit of Mount Bisoke, which takes about six hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Golden monkey tracking: Rwanda is one of the few places in the world where you can see golden monkeys. These unique primates are found in the bamboo forests of the park and are a must-see for any wildlife enthusiast.
Cultural experiences: Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is home to the Batwa people, who are the original forest dwellers. Visitors can learn about their unique culture and way of life through various cultural activities, such as traditional dances and storytelling.
Meet the Mountain Gorillas
One of the main attractions of Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park has ten habituated gorilla families that visitors can visit.
- A gorilla trekking permit is required, and visitors are allowed to spend one hour with the gorillas once they are found. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is worth every penny. Some facts about mountain gorillas are:
- Mountain gorillas are the largest primates on earth.
- They are critically endangered, with only about 1000 left in the world.
- Rwanda is home to about a third of the world’s mountain gorilla population.
Plan Your Visit to Rwanda Volcanoes National Park
If you are planning a visit to Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, here are some things you need to know:
Gorilla trekking permits: You need to book a gorilla trekking permit in advance, as they are in high demand. Permits cost $1500 per person and allow you to spend one hour with the gorillas.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is from June to September and December to February, which is the dry season. However, the park is open all year round.
Accommodation: There are various accommodation options in and around the park, from budget campsites to luxury lodges.
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