Volcanoes National Park is the Rwandan section of the great volcanic massif called the Virunga Mountains that straddles the borders of Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC. The massif covers a huge area of over 8,000km², encompassing six active and three extinct volcanoes. The most famous destination in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park has become synonymous with mountain gorilla tracking safaris and no visit to the country would be complete without visiting these majestic primates. The massif is home to around half of the world’s precious mountain gorillas; some 400 of them making Rwanda probably the best place in Africa for tracking safaris. Trek Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda with Go Self Drive Rwanda.
Volcanoes National Park - Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the most popular activity in the park; Go Self Drive Rwanda has made it easy for booking this activity. Rwanda’s famous mountain gorilla population is one of East Africa’s greatest tourist attractions as well as animal conservation success stories. There are 880 mountain gorillas left in the world, and half of that population resides in the Virunga Mountain range spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Seeing mountain gorillas in the wild is unforgettable, and planning a trip to Rwanda is easier than ever. Check out our tips and tricks to plan the trip of a lifetime and hike with endangered mountain gorillas.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden monkey trekking in Rwanda mostly takes place in the Volcanoes which is found in the Virunga Mountains and it has only one session per day which starts in the morning. The Golden monkeys are also known as ‘the Old world monkey’ and the only way to separate these primates from others is by their noses. Golden monkeys are also known to have unique characters and are a rare species that are endangered at the moment and they are currently found in the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda. They are easily recognized due to the yellow patches that can be seen all over their bodies. There is a unique character about the golden monkeys and that is most of the monkeys have their nostrils pointing to the sides but if you look closely at the golden monkeys, their nostrils face upwards.
Dian Fossey Tomb Trail
A hike to the graveyard of Dian Fossey, an American primatologist who sacrificed her life to save the mountain gorillas is worth doing. The Dian Fossey graveyard hike is a learning experience for travelers providing them with an in-depth understanding of the start of gorilla tourism in Rwanda and how an American primatologist sacrificed her life to save the rare mountain gorillas that were on the verge of extinction by then. Though it’s obvious that most travelers to volcanoes national park go for gorilla trekking, a hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb is a not miss on your Rwanda safari. A visit to the graveyard and the Karisoke research center is an appreciation of Dian Fossey’s heroism, great love for the mountain gorillas, and the tragedy of her death, which was a starting point for gorilla tourism in Rwanda.
Karisoke Research Center
Fossey’s mission to protect Rwanda’s mountain gorillas started in 1967 when she started her research and ended in 1985 when angry poachers assassinated her. When Dian Fossey made up her mind to die for gorillas, established a research Centre “Karisoke research Centre” between the two volcanoes on Mount Visoke and Karisimbi. Before her death, Dian Fossey extracted a journal in which she emphasized, “When you realize the value of all life, you dwell less on what is past and concentrate more on the preservation of future”. She started a Dian Fossey gorilla fund project, which has continued to help in the conservation of mountain gorillas and promoting gorilla tourism in volcanoes national park. History tells that the campaign by Dian Fossey against poaching generated hatred and negative attitudes by poachers who revised all means to assassinate her.
What’s like a Safari in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
A safari in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a unique and exciting experience, as it offers visitors the opportunity to see some of the world’s last surviving mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
The park is located in the Virunga Mountains, a range of volcanic mountains that straddle the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is home to over 100 mountain gorillas, which are one of the park’s main attractions.
During a safari in Volcanoes National Park, visitors typically set out early in the morning in small groups with trained guides and trackers, who have extensive knowledge of the gorillas’ habits and movements. The trek to find the gorillas can take several hours, as the gorillas move around the forested slopes of the mountains.
Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed to spend up to one hour with them, observing their behavior and interactions with one another. This is a truly unforgettable experience, as the gorillas are remarkably intelligent and social animals, and watching them in their natural habitat is a thrilling and humbling experience.
In addition to gorilla safaris, the park also offers other wildlife viewing opportunities, including golden monkeys, forest elephants, and a variety of bird species. The park also has several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the stunning volcanic landscape and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Planning Your Trip with Go Self Drive Rwanda
To fully enjoy your visit to Volcanoes National Park, consider renting a car with Go Self Drive Rwanda. We offer a range of rental options, from budget-friendly vehicles to luxurious 4x4s. Our self-drive options give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Our Car Rental Services Include:
- Affordable Rates: Enjoy competitive prices with excellent value. See our rates.
- Diverse Fleet: Choose from a variety of vehicles to suit your needs, whether it’s a rugged 4×4 for off-road adventures or a comfortable sedan for city driving. View our fleet.
- Easy Booking: Book online with ease and have your vehicle ready upon arrival. Book your car.
Travel Tips for Volcanoes National Park
- Best Time to Visit: The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are ideal for trekking and hiking. Read more about the best times to visit.
- What to Pack: Bring suitable hiking gear, rain jackets, and layers for varying weather conditions. Get packing tips.
- Local Regulations: Ensure you have the necessary permits for gorilla trekking and follow local guidelines to protect the wildlife. Learn about permits.
Explore More with Go Self Drive Rwanda
While Volcanoes National Park is a highlight, Rwanda offers many other attractions that you can explore with Go Self Drive Rwanda.
- Nyungwe National Park: Known for its rich biodiversity and chimpanzee trekking. Discover Nyungwe.
- Akagera National Park: Perfect for a classic safari experience, offering game drives and stunning landscapes. Explore Akagera.
- Lake Kivu: Relax by the shores of this beautiful lake or engage in water activities. Plan a trip to Lake Kivu.
- Kigali Genocide Memorial Site: A profound place to understand Rwanda’s history and resilience. Visit the Memorial.
Why Choose Go Self Drive Rwanda?
With Go Self Drive Rwanda, you get more than just a car rental; you get a partner in your adventure. Our commitment to excellent service and customer satisfaction ensures that your journey through Rwanda will be unforgettable.
- Customer Support: Our team is available to assist you with any queries or support you may need. Contact us.
- Guided Tours: We offer a range of guided tours and safaris to enhance your experience. Explore our tours.
- Travel Advice: Get expert tips and advice to make the most of your trip. Read our travel tips.
Conclusion
Volcanoes National Park is a destination like no other, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes. With Go Self Drive Rwanda, you can explore this amazing park and other Rwandan wonders with ease and comfort. Plan your adventure today and make the most of your Rwandan journey!
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