Reaching Volcanoes National Park Rwanda safaris. To reach Volcanoes National Park from Kigali by road, you will cover a distance of approximately 116 kilometers. The journey typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions and road quality. The route passes through the bustling city of Kigali before winding its way through the picturesque Rwandan countryside. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see local villages, rolling hills, and lush greenery that Rwanda is known for.
For travelers who prefer air transport, the distance between Kigali International Airport and the nearest airstrip to Volcanoes National Park (one of the best places to see gorillas in Africa) in Ruhengeri is significantly shorter. The flight usually takes around 30-40 minutes, providing a quick and convenient way to reach your destination. From the airstrip, you can arrange for ground transportation to take you to the park entrance or your accommodation, which is just a short distance away.
Both road and air transport options offer unique experiences and opportunities to explore Rwanda's diverse landscapes. Whether you choose a joyful and scenic road trip or take a quick flight, the journey to one of the best places to see gorillas in Africa promises to be an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning views, wildlife encounters, and the chance to witness the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, near the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is situated in the Virunga Mountains, a chain of volcanoes that straddle the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC. The geographical coordinates of Volcanoes National Park are approximately 1.5000° S latitude and 29.5000° E longitude. This stunning location is renowned for its lush forests, diverse wildlife, and most notably, as the home of the endangered mountain gorillas.
In terms of distance, Volcanoes National Park is approximately 7,500 kilometers away from the United States and around 6,000 kilometers from Europe. Travelers from the United States can reach Rwanda by flying into Kigali International Airport, the country's main gateway. From there, it is a scenic drive or a short domestic flight to the park. Visitors from Europe can also fly into Kigali or explore various connecting flight options to reach Rwanda and ultimately Volcanoes National Park.
Despite its remote location, Volcanoes National Park attracts visitors from around the world who are eager to experience its natural beauty and encounter the magnificent mountain gorillas. The park's unique position in the heart of the Virunga Mountains offers a rare opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Whether traveling from the United States, Europe, or elsewhere, the journey to Volcanoes National Park is well worth the distance for an unforgettable wildlife experience in Rwanda's breathtaking landscapes.
Physical characteristics of Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park, a tropical rainforest, experiences varying temperatures with warmer conditions in the lowlands and cooler climates in the highlands, where temperatures decrease as altitude rises. The park sees warm days that transition to cooler evenings, typical of its African counterparts, with distinct wet and dry seasons, the latter being the prime time for tourism and ideal for gorilla trekking year-round.
The park's diverse ecosystems thrive across 4 vegetation zones, from bamboo forests at lower altitudes to afro-alpine at higher elevations, each supporting a variety of wildlife species, including mountain gorillas that frequent the bamboo forests during the rainy season when bamboo shoots sprout, providing ample food for these majestic creatures. Additionally, the lake region surrounding Lake Bulera and Ruhondo offers breathtaking scenery, though access can be challenging on muddy roads during the rainy season.
Accommodation options at Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation options at one of the best places to see gorillas in Africa cater to a range of preferences and budgets, ensuring that visitors can find a comfortable and convenient place to stay during their gorilla trekking adventure. From luxury lodges to cozy guesthouses, there are various choices available to suit different tastes and requirements. Many of the accommodations are situated in close proximity to the park entrance, offering easy access to the gorilla trekking starting points and other attractions in the area.
Luxury lodges in Volcanoes National Park provide a high-end experience with spacious rooms, gourmet dining, and top-notch amenities. These lodges often offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and provide a luxurious retreat after a day of trekking. Guests can relax in elegant surroundings, enjoy personalized service, and savor delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Some lodges also offer spa facilities, wellness treatments, and cultural experiences to enhance the overall stay.
For travelers seeking a more budget-friendly option, there are also mid-range and budget accommodations available near Volcanoes National Park. These may include guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, or campsites that provide comfortable and affordable lodging options. While the amenities may be simpler compared to luxury lodges, these accommodations offer a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making them ideal for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the park without breaking the bank. Additionally, staying at these properties can provide a more intimate and authentic experience, allowing guests to connect with the local community and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings of Volcanoes National Park.
Examples include, Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge, One&Only Gorilla's Nest, Amakoro Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge and Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge among others.
These lodges offer a range of accommodations, from luxury to mid-range, providing guests with comfortable and convenient stays during their safaris in Volcanoes National Park.
List of the best itineraries for gorillas and wildlife safaris Rwanda
Book gorillas and wildlife safaris at Volcanoes National Park with Dav Safaris
As a local tour operator based in East Africa, Dav Safaris is proud to offer the best gorillas and wildlife safaris in Rwanda. For any inquiries, detailed itineraries or reservations contact us via email at info@davsafaris.com and davsafaris@gmail.com. For personalized assistance, kindly reach out via phone call or WhatsApp to +256701412430 and +256757795781.