Where is Volcanoes National park located
Volcanoes National Park, also known as Parc National des Volcans, is located in the northwest region of Rwanda. It serves as a protective area for the steep slopes of the Virunga Mountain Range. It holds the distinction of being the most ancient national park in Africa and serves as the habitat for over 50% of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas. The park derives its name from the series of inactive volcanoes forming the Virunga Massif. It served as the headquarters for the famed primatologist Dian Fossey and later became the setting for the film “Gorillas in the Mist,” which depicted Fossey’s life. The park is widely regarded as one of the premier sites for gorilla trekking on a global scale.
Where is volcanoes national park based exactly
The Volcanoes National Park is conveniently located about 80 kilometers away from Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. Situated on the Rwandan side of the Virungas, this park spans an area of 62 square miles (160 square kilometers) and is covered in lush rainforest. The Virungas are a vast mountain range that stretches over Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and form a part of the Albertine Rift Mountains. The park includes five out of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, including Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. Additionally, it serves as the habitat for approximately half of the global population of mountain gorillas.
What to see in volcanoes national park
The park has regions with significantly varying altitudes, resulting in a wide range of scenery. With variations in height, the vegetation transitions from woods and bamboo thickets to marshes and grasslands. Because of its varied ecology, you will encounter a wide range of creatures.
Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its rich biographical diversity, but the primary draw for visitors is the presence of endangered mountain gorillas. Another notable feature is the golden monkey, a subspecies of the Sykes monkey, that is found exclusively in the Virunga highlands. These monkeys reside in bamboo forests located at altitudes below 3000m. Additional creatures found in the area are the elusive forest elephant, the black-fronted duiker, and the bushbuck. The park harbors over 180 avian species, including endemic species like the Rwenzori double-collared sunbird.
Top experiences to enjoy at Volcanoes National Park
The main purpose behind the visitation of this remarkable area by numerous individuals is the activity of gorilla trekking, and this is justified by its popularity. Volcanoes National Park houses approximately 400 of these splendid creatures, and there are between 10 and 12 acclimated groups that reside on the hilly slopes. An expedition to encounter them in person is a transformative encounter.
The forest is abundant with numerous extraordinary creatures, such as the elusive golden monkey, and offers exceptional opportunities for bird watching. One can enhance their vacation to the park by embarking on a thrilling journey to the burial site of the esteemed American primatologist, Dian Fossey, which is located amidst the stunning volcanic peaks of Bisoke and Karisimbi. Additionally, there are opportunities to participate in guided walks, mountain biking, and cultural events.
Best period to visit the Volcanoes National Park is during the arid months from December to February, as well as from June to mid-September, when gorilla trekking is at its peak. This season offers excellent opportunities for observing gorillas and other wildlife.
While March to May, as well as October and November, are typically regarded as the rainy months, it is worth noting that there are sometimes periods of consecutive days with little rainfall. During this season, the woodlands are teeming with verdant foliage, and the emergence of fresh vegetation entices a profusion of bird species. Currently, birdwatchers and eager photographers are experiencing a highly favorable period.