Parc National de Volcans or Volcanoes National park was first gazetted in 1925. Decades later, this park assumed international recognition when, in 1967, Diana Fossey an American naturalist arrive and set up the Karisoke Research Centre. Diana’s research and exposure to the plight of the endangered gorillas decorate her legacy over three decades since her demise. Diana’s life is portrayed in the Movie, “Gorillas in the Mist”!

With 8 ancient volcanoes shared by Uganda, DR Congo, and Rwanda, the park is endowed with a vast altitudinal range thus vegetation varies considerably! There is a lower montane forest and between 2500 to 3200m, bamboo forest occupies the section of the park. Lobelia, meadows, marshes, swamps, and small lakes cover the land at heights of between 3600 – 4500m.

The fauna is rich and incredibly popular with the Great Gentle Apes; the Mountain Gorillas. In addition, golden monkeys, black-fronted duikers, buffaloes, spotted hyenas, and bushbuck are residents of the park. Avid bird watchers have a total of 178 recorded bird species to look out for; 13 bird species and 16 subspecies are endemic to the Great Albertine Rift Biodiversity area that also covers the Virunga Conservation area.

The capital of Rwanda’s Conservation, Parc National des Volcans is situated about 2hrs from Kigali (the Capital of Rwanda). Gorilla tracking, Golden Monkey Tracking, Volcano Hikes, and the Hike to Diana Fossey’s Grave (the Iconic scientist buried in the park) are the major tourist activities.

Upon Confirmation, kindly provide the following information:

1. Full Name as it is in the passport
2. Passport Number
3. Date of Birth
4. Passport Number.

Notes on Gorilla Tracking:

Please note that gorilla tracking is a strenuous activity and one should be physically fit to enjoy this tour. Minimum tracking age is 15 years. Anyone with signs of communicable diseases will NOT be allowed to track.

While possession of a gorilla permit is a guarantee of trekking and sighting the gorillas, the quality of the gorilla trekking cannot be guaranteed. Maximum time allowed with the gorillas will NOT exceed ONE hour.

We strongly recommend the following: Rain poncho (lightweight), long-sleeved shirt, waterproof trousers, sturdy hiking boots, leather gardening -type gloves, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications must be brought by yourselves from your home town. Still Cameras and Video Cameras are allowed, but bring their respective accessories.