Tarec Gorilla Safaris

"There are experiences that reshape the way a person sees the world."

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda is the place where the mountain gorilla experience is possible, and it is, without question, one of the most profound wildlife encounters available anywhere on the planet. The park protects the Rwandan portion of the Virunga Massif — a chain of eight dramatic volcanoes straddling the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Today, decades of conservation effort have seen the mountain gorilla population recover to over 1,000 individuals, the only great ape species whose numbers are currently increasing. Volcanoes National Park is home to approximately a dozen habituated gorilla families and is widely considered the premier gorilla trekking destination in the world.

Explore Volcanoes Park Plan Your Safari

160 Square Kilometres

12 Habituated Gorilla Families

4,507m Mount Karisimbi Summit

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla Trekking & Activities

The premier gorilla trekking destination in the world

Mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking is the centrepiece of every visit to Volcanoes National Park and arguably the most sought-after wildlife experience in Africa. Permits are limited to eight visitors per gorilla family per day, and each group spends exactly one hour with the gorillas — a regulation designed to minimise stress to the animals. The trek itself varies from one to five hours depending on where the gorillas have moved, but every step through this ancient forest is charged with anticipation.

The moment of encounter — the first sight of black fur, the deep, resonant chest-beat of a silverback, the wide curious eyes of a juvenile — is invariably described as life-changing by those who experience it. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is widely considered the most accessible and luxurious gorilla experience in Africa.

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund's Karisoke Research Centre, established in 1967, is accessible on a guided hike from Kinigi. The route passes through the bamboo zone and into the Hagenia forest to the site of Fossey's original camp and her grave — a deeply moving pilgrimage for anyone who has been inspired by her story.

More to Explore in Volcanoes Park

Golden Monkey Tracking

These brilliantly coloured, acrobatic primates — endemic to the Virunga Massif — move through the bamboo forest in energetic, chattering troops and offer a deeply charming primate encounter.

Endemic Species Bamboo Forest Photography

Volcano Hiking

Guided ascents of Bisoke (to a stunning crater lake), Karisimbi (a two-day overnight climb to 4,507 metres), and Muhabura offer extraordinary views across the Virunga range and the Rift Valley.

Bisoke Crater Lake Karisimbi Summit 3 Countries Views

Dian Fossey Hike

A guided hike to the Karisoke Research Centre — the site of Dian Fossey's original camp and her grave — through bamboo and Hagenia forest.

Karisoke Dian Fossey Grave Conservation History

Cultural Experiences

Guided visits to traditional Intore dancers, local healers, and Iby'iwacu cultural villages providing meaningful insight into Rwandan communities living alongside the park.

Intore Dancers Iby'iwacu Village Local Healers

Book Your Gorilla Trek View 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari

Where to Stay

Safari Lodges & Camps in Volcanoes Park

From world-class luxury to comfortable mid-range — accommodation for every traveller

Bisate Lodge

One of the finest lodges in Africa. Six extraordinary forest villas constructed from volcanic stone and reclaimed timber, with soaring conical ceilings inspired by traditional Rwandan royal palaces.

Luxury Volcanic Bowl Setting Community-Integrated

One&Only Gorilla's Nest

The closest lodge to the gorilla trekking briefing point. Sixteen stone-and-thatch cottages are warm, refined, and deeply comfortable — an ideal retreat after trekking.

Closest to Briefing Luxury Community Partnership

Virunga Lodge

Occupying a ridge-top position above the twin volcanic lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Eight tented cottages face the volcanoes and lakes simultaneously.

Lake Views Conservation Focus Sundowner Spot

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

A community-owned property — all revenues flow directly to the Sabyinyo Community Livelihoods Association. Ten stone cottage suites with magnificent volcano views.

Community-Owned Volcano Views Mid-Range Luxury

Plan Your Stay View 10-Day Rwanda Safari

Plan Your Visit

Getting There & Practicalities

Rwanda's premier gorilla trekking destination — accessible, luxurious, and unforgettable

Volcanoes National Park is located in northwestern Rwanda, approximately 2.5 hours from Kigali International Airport by road. The park entrance is at Kinigi, the hub for all gorilla trekking and other activities.

Gorilla permits cost $1,500 per person for international visitors, with a small discount available for African residents. Permits are strictly limited and should be booked months in advance, particularly during the peak seasons. Learn more in our Rwanda gorilla permit guide.

The best time to visit is during the dry seasons — June to September and December to February — when trekking conditions are most comfortable. However, the park can be visited year-round, and the rainy seasons offer lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

Combine Volcanoes Park with Akagera for the Big Five, Nyungwe for chimpanzee tracking, and Kigali for city tours. Browse our Rwanda safari packages for more inspiration.

Email: info@tarecgorillasafaris.com
Phone: +1 (602) 727-3006

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