The Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park Rwanda falls between June and September, during the long dry season. During these months, the trails are less muddy, making your gorilla trek more manageable and enjoyable. The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park coincides with relatively stable weather patterns, with temperatures hovering between 16°C to 22°C (60°F to 72°F), perfect for hiking through the forest.
Located in the mystical Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park stands as a testament to nature's grandeur and the home of the majestic mountain gorillas. As a seasoned wildlife guide with over a decade of experience leading tours through this remarkable sanctuary, I can confidently say that choosing the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park can make all the difference in your gorilla trekking adventure. "The moment you lock eyes with a silverback gorilla, time stands still," shared Jane Goodall during her visit to the park, and I couldn't agree more.
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Here are the Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park
The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park falls between June and September, during the long dry season. During these months, the trails are less muddy, making your gorilla trek more manageable and enjoyable. The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park coincides with relatively stable weather patterns, with temperatures hovering between 16°C to 22°C (60°F to 72°F), perfect for hiking through the forest.
December to February marks another excellent period to plan your visit, as the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park during these months offers clearer skies and minimal rainfall. The Park experiences average temperatures of 18°C (64°F) during this shorter dry season, though afternoon showers aren't uncommon.
During the rainy seasons (March to May and October to November), while still possible to visit, trekking becomes more challenging. The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park might not be during these months unless you're comfortable with muddy conditions and occasional heavy rainfall, which can make photography more challenging.
How to Get There to Volcanoes National Park
Kigali International Airport serves as the main gateway for visitors heading to Volcanoes National Park. Major airlines including Brussels Airlines, KLM, Qatar Airways, and RwandAir offer regular flights to Kigali. It's advisable to book flights arriving in Rwanda at dawn, around 5:00 AM, allowing for same-day transfer to the park.
From Kigali, the journey to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 2.5 hours by road through scenic landscapes and well-maintained highways. Professional tour operators like Dav Safaris can arrange comfortable transfers in modern 4x4 vehicles, ensuring you arrive refreshed and ready for your adventure.
What are the Things to Do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?
Beyond the famous mountain gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers an array of captivating activities. Golden monkey tracking provides an opportunity to observe these playful primates in their natural habitat, swinging through the bamboo forests with remarkable agility.
Hiking enthusiasts can embark on challenging volcano treks, with Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi offering different levels of difficulty. These hikes not only provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape but also offer unique insights into the park's volcanic ecology and diverse flora.
What to Bring for Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park
Proper preparation is crucial for a comfortable gorilla trekking experience. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and gardening gloves for gripping vegetation. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors are recommended to protect against nettles and insects.
Don't forget to pack a good quality camera with extra batteries, though flash photography is prohibited around the gorillas. A small daypack containing water, energy snacks, and any personal medications is also essential. Many lodges provide walking sticks, which can be invaluable on steep terrain.
How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Cost?
Mountain Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda are priced at $1,500 for foreign non-residents, making it a premium wildlife experience. Foreign residents can obtain permits for $500, while East African Community (EAC) citizens enjoy a special rate of $200.
This premium pricing reflects Rwanda's high-end tourism strategy and contributes significantly to conservation efforts. The cost includes park entrance fees, guide services, and one hour of observation time with a mountain gorilla family.
Are There Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park?
Yes, Volcanoes National Park is home to approximately 40% of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. These magnificent creatures thrive in the park's montane forest ecosystem, which provides ideal conditions for their survival.
The mountain gorilla population has seen remarkable growth thanks to intensive conservation efforts and the revenue generated from tourism. Regular monitoring by dedicated rangers ensures the gorillas' continued protection and well-being.
Which Country is Best for Gorilla Trekking?
Rwanda stands out as the premier destination for mountain gorilla trekking, particularly for luxury travelers and those with limited time. The country's excellent infrastructure, short transfer times from Kigali, and high success rates in gorilla sightings make it a top choice.
While Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo also offer mountain gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Virunga National Park & Kahuzi Beiga National Park respectively, Rwanda's combination of accessibility, safety, and superior facilities gives it a distinct advantage in many visitors.
Is Uganda Better Than Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?
While Uganda offers more affordable permits ($800), Rwanda provides a more premium and streamlined experience. Rwanda's sophisticated tourism infrastructure, shorter driving distances, and higher investment in conservation give it unique advantages.
However, both destinations offer authentic encounters with mountain gorillas. The choice often depends on individual preferences, budget considerations, and whether you're combining the trek with other regional attractions.
How Many Gorilla Families are in Volcanoes National Park?
Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 habituated gorilla families available for tourism: Susa, Igisha, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Ugenda, Umubano, Hirwa, Bwenge, Agashya, Kwitonda, Muhoza, and Kurira. Each family has its unique characteristics and history.
The Susa group, originally studied by Dian Fossey, is among the largest, while the Sabyinyo group, led by the impressive silverback Guhonda, is known for its accessibility.
How Safe is Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park maintains an excellent safety record. Experienced guides, trained in gorilla behavior and first aid, accompany all treks. Additionally, the gorillas are well-habituated to human presence.
Strict protocols, including maintaining a 7-meter distance from the gorillas and wearing masks during observation, ensure both visitor and gorilla safety. The park's security measures and professional staff contribute to a secure environment.
How Many Days Do You Need for Gorilla Trekking?
A minimum of 3 days is recommended for a complete gorilla trekking experience. This allows for travel time to and from Kigali, the trek itself, and a buffer day for unexpected weather or to explore other park attractions.
Many visitors choose to extend their stay to include golden monkey tracking or hiking adventures, making their experience more comprehensive and relaxed.
Where to Sleep, Eat and Drink Around Volcanoes National Park
The area surrounding Volcanoes National Park offers accommodation options for every budget and preference. Luxury lodges like Bisate Lodge and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge provide world-class amenities and stunning views of the volcanoes.
Mid-range and boutique properties such as Mountain Gorilla View Lodge offer comfortable stays with local charm. Many establishments feature restaurants serving both international cuisine and traditional Rwandan dishes, often using locally-sourced ingredients.
Read more about the best places to sleep around Volcanoes National Park here
Booking a Gorilla Tracking Tour to Volcanoes National Park with Dav Safaris
Dav Safaris specializes in creating memorable gorilla trekking experiences, handling all aspects of your journey from arrival to departure. Their experienced team can arrange permits, accommodation, transportation, and additional activities.
Working with a reputable tour operator ensures a smooth experience and provides access to local expertise and insights. Dav Safaris' comprehensive packages can be customized to match your preferences and schedule, making your dream of encountering mountain gorillas a reality.
Contact Dav Safaris today to begin planning your mountain gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park.