Also known as Parc National des Volcano, the Volcanoes national park is situated in the northern province of Rwanda (Musanze), within the Virunga Conservation Area. This national park borders Congo’s world heritage site, Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The Volcanoes Park is known as the most accessible haven for the endangered mountain gorilla in Rwanda besides sheltering five of the renown 8 volcanic mountains of the Virunga Massif (Bisoke, Karisimbi, Muhabura, Sabyinyo and Gahinga).
The park was the base for the zoologist Dian Fossey decades ago but apparently holds a lot of Rwanda adventures including gorilla trekking and hiking safaris. If you’re planning a trip there, here are five unique places you might consider for a stopover:
- Kigali, Rwanda
Begin your journey in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. Not only does it offer a glimpse into the country’s culture and history, but it also provides an opportunity to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which is a sobering but important experience to understand Rwanda’s past. You can also explore local markets and enjoy Rwandan cuisine before heading for gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Before and after visiting Volcanoes national park, the activity you should not miss out before leaving Rwanda is the city tour. Taking a city tour in Kigali gives you a chance to go into the commercial life of Rwandese as you enjoy the incredible views of the green surroundings.
Kigali city is one of the cleanest and most organized cities in Africa with very strict rules especially concerning eco-city. Dumping garbage carelessly in the city is punishable by law which is a rare thing in most African cities.
To remind locals and visitors about where Rwanda is coming from, genocide memorials are in place as a representation of 100 days of ignorance in 1994. Some of the memorials include the Kigali genocide memorial, St Families church, and Gisozi Genocide Memorial. Some names of victims of the Rwanda genocide are scribed on the walls with horrific stories about what transpired.
- Lake Kivu
Situated along the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lake Kivu is a serene and picturesque destination. Stopover here to enjoy water activities such as kayaking, boat tours, or simply relax by the lake shores. It’s an ideal place to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the area before continuing your journey to the national park.
- Musanze Town (formerly Ruhengeri)
This town serves as a gateway to Volcanoes National Park and offers various attractions of its own. Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan culture and interact with local communities. You can also explore nearby caves, lakes, and waterfalls for a taste of Rwanda’s natural wonders.
- Virunga Mountains
The Virunga Mountains form a stunning backdrop to Volcanoes National Park and are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. While trekking to see gorillas is the main attraction, the Virunga Mountains offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for hiking and bird watching. Consider a stopover in this region to explore its beauty and perhaps catch a glimpse of the majestic primates.
- Dian Fossey’s Karisoke Research Center
For a unique and educational stopover, visit the Karisoke Research Center, founded by renowned primatologist Dian Fossey. Located in the Virunga Mountains, this research center is dedicated to the study and conservation of mountain gorillas. Learn about Fossey’s pioneering work and the ongoing efforts to protect these endangered creatures. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in wildlife conservation and primatology.