The misty emerald sanctuary of the rare mountain gorilla
Tucked into the far north-west corner of the country, Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is one of the few remaining havens of the mountain gorilla, with its landscape’s gentler slopes and more open bush allowing for some of the most effortless tracking and observation of these animals than other parks.
Home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga mountains massif and with hills richly blanketed with rainforest, bamboo forests as well as open grassland, swamps, marshes and small lakes – this is also a prolific sanctuary for the likes of the golden monkey, bushbuck, spotted hyena and prolific birdlife. There are 10 habituated gorilla groups in Rwanda, all within this national park.
You may also have heard of this park thanks to the famous American primatologist Dian Fossey who based most of her research here, founding a centre to bring worldwide attention to the gorillas’ endangered status and possible extinction by poachers (made later into the film “Gorillas in the Mist”).
All our guided treks to track gorillas and golden monkeys are led by expert naturalist guides and always in a conscientious way for minimal impact on the lives and habitat of these creatures. There is a maximum of eight tracking permits per day allowed in the park.
Highlights
Track gorillas and golden monkeys with expert naturalist guides
Visit the twin crater lakes Bulera and Ruhondo
Spot prolific wildlife including bushbuck, spotted hyena and prolific birdlife
Luxury accommodation in Volcanoes National Park
Why book with Jacada?

Safari expertise
Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.

Unforgettable guides
We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.

Positive impact
By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.
Trip inspiration
Where to go

Akagera National Park
A true survivor, Akagera National Park was near the brink of disappearing but is now a thriving safari destination. A massive protected wetland area where you can safari in jeeps or on boats looking for the big five.
Discover more
Kigali
A buzzing city hub that’s going from strength to strength. Sombre monuments of Rwanda’s past are scattered across Kigali, a testament to the nation’s commitment to peace and reconciliation.
Discover more
Nyungwe National Park
In the pristine forests of Nyungwe Forest National Park, on a canopy walkway, come face to face with chimpanzees, Mangabeys, Angolan colobus monkeys plus countless other animals and birds.
Discover moreMeet your Africa team
When to visit
All year round. Please bear in mind that the altitude of the park can range from 2,500m-3,000m (8,200-9,800ft), so a good level of fitness is required for tracking.

Rainy season
March - May

Gorilla trekking
December - February and June. - September

National parks
June - September
Rwanda travel guides
Plan your trip to Volcanoes National Park
Whatever you want from your adventure in Volcanoes National Park, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.


Plan with peace of mind
When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.
If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.