How Big is Volcanoes National Park ?
Overview
Volcanoes National Park is a 160 km² (62 sq. mi) forested area in the Virunga Mountains that shares borders with Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Volcanoes National Park is little in comparison to other protected areas in Rwanda that contain five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. The most visited tourist destination in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park, which is situated in the country's extreme northwest. It protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range, which is home to a variety of montane ecosystems, such as open grasslands, bamboo and evergreen forests, and golden monkeys, as well as the endangered mountain gorilla.
Mountain gorillas are the park's primary attraction, and gorilla trekking is offered all year long. Because the high altitude is usually cold, it is advised that you pack a light sweater for the early morning and evening hours. The northern Rwandan city of Kigali is within two hours' drive from the park.
Volcanoes National Park: Families of Gorillas
Volcanoes National Park is home to several gorilla families, some of which have been habituated for gorilla tourism and others for scientific reasons. Before beginning this incredible journey, you must get a gorilla permit from your tour operator that covers specific dates in order to track gorillas. Each guerrilla troop is led by a silverback and is named according to different circumstances.
A group of gorillas from Hirwa
originated from a number of pre-existing gorilla families, including Group 13, Susa, and Sabyinyo. Munyinya the silverback left Susa with two females, but as they traveled, they gathered others and eventually formed a group.
Amahoro, which means "peaceful," is a gorilla group led by the calm Ubumwe. You must eventually make your way into the group's area via a tough hike because they reside largely uphill, but the climb is typically rewarding.
A group of gorillas from Sabyinyo
This named after one of the volcanoes, Mount Sabyinyo, and is captained by Guhonda. This family is exceptional even though there aren't as many members overall. If this group is accessible, you should request it if you're sick of tracking long distances because it's the closest to the park headquarters.
Kwitonda Gorillas in a Group
is led by Silverback Kwitonda and is referred to as the "humble one." This troop of gorillas migrated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Rwanda "permanently." The excursion is moderately difficult because of its wide range in the upper slopes of Mount Muhabura.
Volcanoes National Park Activities
Trekking with gorillas
The most well-liked activity in Volcanoes National Park is gorilla trekking. The tracking is done once a day, with eight persons visiting a gorilla group. At 7 a.m., the tourists are expected to arrive at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices. where they will be split up among the several guerrilla organizations and given an orientation.
You follow your ranger guide and set out to locate these gentle giants when the briefing is done and you have been placed in a gorilla troop. Your stroll could last anywhere from a few minutes to six hours, depending on the location of the gang you are tracking. You will only have an hour to spend with the group once you are in their line of sight. Remember the advice in the briefing and try to follow it for the protection of both you and the gorillas; if you are not sure, ask your ranger guide.
Birdwatching safaris in Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park, one of Rwanda's three Important Birding Areas (IBAs), is home to the rare endemics of the Albertine Rift. Start your birdwatching day equipped with binoculars, a camera, and your bird guide so you can take pictures of some of the magnificent species in the Virunga. Your main emphasis for the day will be the endemics of the Albertine Rift; while you bird, enjoy the stunning scenery.
Golden Monkey Trekking Safaris in Volcanoes National Park
Golden monkey trekking is done in Volcanoes National Park once a day in the early morning, just like gorilla trekking. To get a briefing on how to interact and behave with these animals in the wild, you are expected to arrive at the pack headquarters as early as 7 am. You are divided into two groups if there are multiple of you. And go off on your adventure under the guidance of friendly and informed ranger guards. Before your briefing, have a nice cup of coffee and the traditional dances performed by a local group.
Mountain hiking in Volcanoes National Park
Bisoke Mountain Trekking
The breathtaking Crater Lake at the volcano's top makes hiking Mount Bisoke a delightful experience. The hike takes about six hours, including the two hours spent returning down. Some of the most experienced hikers, however, make the descent in three hours or less. As with all excursions, hikers meet at 7 am and receive a briefing. For a little fee, porters are available to help you with your bags. And you are highly encouraged to do so. This lets you enjoy the walk at your own pace and gives the porters a job.
Rwanda in East Africa is a stunning destination that never fails to wow visitors. See other places, such the Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is famous for its canopy tours and chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda. And for a safari in Rwanda, visit Akagera National Park to see a range of local fauna.