Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is one of Rwanda’s most important wildlife destinations and a major stop for visitors travelling to the country in search of mountain gorillas. Located in northern Rwanda near Musanze, the park forms part of the Virunga Mountains, a volcanic landscape shared by Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The forested slopes and high-altitude environment create a remarkable setting for wildlife and outdoor exploration.

Gorilla Trekking and Primate Experiences

For many visitors, the main reason to come to Volcanoes National Park is mountain gorilla trekking. The experience with Samton Safaris, involves hiking through the forest with guides and trackers in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once the group is located, visitors can observe the gorillas in their natural environment while following the instructions and conservation guidelines provided by the guides. The length and difficulty of the trek can vary because gorilla families move through the forest. Sightings are therefore not guaranteed and depend on animal movements, weather and trail conditions. The park is also home to golden monkeys, making it an important destination for visitors interested in primates beyond gorillas. Golden monkey tracking takes visitors through the forest and bamboo vegetation in search of these active and distinctive primates. The monkeys can move quickly through the trees, making the experience both engaging and challenging for photographers.

Volcano Hiking, Dian Fossey and Other Attractions

Volcanoes National Park offers more than primate experiences. Visitors can explore the volcanic landscape through hikes on mountains such as Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi, while the Dian Fossey Tomb provides an opportunity to learn about the conservation history of mountain gorillas and the work of American primatologist Dian Fossey. The surrounding area also provides opportunities to discover Rwanda beyond the forest, where viisitors can explore the Musanze Caves, enjoy views of the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, experience birdwatching and discover cultural experiences in nearby communities. The park’s wildlife includes mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, buffaloes, spotted hyenas, bushbuck and black-fronted duikers, while its forests support a variety of bird species.


With Samton Safaris, Volcanoes National Park can be included in a wider Rwanda itinerary combining gorilla trekking with destinations such as Kigali, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu. This allows visitors to experience Rwanda’s combination of primates, wildlife, forests, mountains, culture and scenic landscapes in one journey.