The Parc National des Volcans is a beautiful area of National Park in the north of Rwanda. It is a mountainous landscape comprised of a section of the spectacular Virunga Volcanoes which lie between Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are nine volcanoes (six extinct and three live) with the highest peak of Karisimbi towering at an altitude of over 4500 metres.
The area is famous as one of the last natural refuges for Mountain Gorillas and many of the World’s remaining individuals are found here within seven habituated family groups.
The Park is also renowned as the setting for the work of the late primatologist Dian Fossey. In the late 1960s Dr Fossey set up Karisoke – a research centre to observe and study Mountain Gorillas. Intense study over thousands of hours enabled her to be trusted and accepted by the gorillas, which at that time numbered just 250. Her book “Gorillas in the Mist”, which was the basis for the 1988 movie of the same title, documented her work and tireless campaigning against poaching and habitat destruction. She continued this crusade in conservation until her mysterious death in 1985.
The dense vegetation and slopes of this mountainous rainforest provide a challenging trek, but it is deemed less strenuous here than in the steeper landscape of other parks.
Lodges near Park National des Volcans:
Bisate Lodge: Unique architecture and ambiance. Offers just 6 rooms, which is perfect for discerning guests looking for a private, tranquil holiday with personalized services. Bisate allows easy access to the base camp of the many trails that wind through the reserve thanks to its location at Kinigi, the park’s headquarters……….read more
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge: Charming stone cottages set on Mt. Sabinyo’s slopes just 15 minutes from the Park National des Volcans gate make this mid-range lodge a great choice for a gorilla trek……read more
Virunga Lodge: Set on a hill top with spectacular 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains and lowlands, this luxury eco-friendly lodge is a great choice for a gorilla tracking safari……read more
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge: A high-end luxurious lodge set in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes just 3km from the main gate of the Park National des Volcans……read more
Singita Kwitonda Lodge: A beautiful and completely luxurious base to explore the beautiful hills of Rwanda from, and for sure your every need will be catered for in this lovely new opening. After landing in Kigali, the lodge is a 3 and a half hour drive through the smouldering Rwandan hills filled with rich culture and beautiful views ……read more
