Luxury Safaris in Volcanoes National Park made for you
Start PlanningThe 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.
Experiences picked by our Rwanda safari specialists
Trek with mountain gorillas and golden monkeys
Follow expert naturalist guides through bamboo forest in search of mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, spending time observing these remarkable primates in their natural habitat.
Marvel at the park's twin crater lakes
Visit the twin crater lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo, taking in sweeping views across the water towards the surrounding hills and Virunga volcanoes.
Spot bushbuck and hyena
Explore the park’s forests and open grasslands while looking out for bushbuck, spotted hyena and a rich variety of birdlife along the way.
Luxury Volcanoes National Park safari lodges
There are many incredible places to stay in Volcanoes National Park. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:
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
Get inspired with our example trips featuring Volcanoes National Park and then get in touch to plan your own adventure
10-Day Trip
Best of Rwanda's National Parks
10-Day Trip
Best of Rwanda's National Parks
8-Day Trip
Complete Safari and Gorilla Adventure in Rwanda
8-Day Trip
Complete Safari and Gorilla Adventure in Rwanda
10-Day Trip
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and a Maasai Mara Safari
10-Day Trip
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and a Maasai Mara Safari
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.
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.
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.
When to visit Volcanoes National Park
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
Plan your trip to Volcanoes National Park
Whatever you want from your adventure in Volcanoes National Park, our team of safari experts are ready to help.
Don't take our word for it
Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.
