Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park lies in the far northwest of Rwanda and protects the steep slopes of the Virunga mountain range. It is home to the endangered mountain gorilla, and to a mosaic of montane ecosystems — evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.

The park takes in a chain of dormant volcanoes: Karisimbi, the highest at 4,507 m; Bisoke, with its crater lake; and Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura along the border.

Tracking a gorilla family through the rainforest is what most people come for, but the park also holds around 200 bird species and the rare golden monkey. Within its boundaries are Buhanga Eco-Park, an ancient forest at the centre of Rwandan folklore, and the Musanze caves, formed 62 million years ago by the last volcanic eruption.

Hiking, canoeing, mountain biking and village visits fill the days around a trek. Bring sturdy clothing and solid walking shoes; gaiters and a light waterproof jacket earn their place when the mountain turns wet, which it does.