Volcanoes National Park is a national park and biosphere reserve in northern Rwanda, best known for mountain gorilla tracking. It also offers golden monkey tracking, nature walks, the Bisoke hike and the hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb, each booked as a separate permit.
The trade-off for families is the age rules. Gorilla tracking and the two longer hikes are for teenagers only, golden monkey tracking opens a little younger, and the nature walk is the one activity open to primary-school children. A family with mixed ages may end up splitting up for the day, or choosing the walk everyone can join.
Gorilla days start early with a briefing at the park offices in Kinigi, which is reached from Musanze. Bring water and a small snack, but nothing is eaten or drunk near the gorillas. Porters will carry a daypack for a small charge, and gumboots, raincoats and gloves can be hired at park headquarters because the ground can be muddy; the park does not publish prices for either.
Family FAQ
How much does Volcanoes National Park cost?
Foreign visitors: gorilla tracking USD 1,500; golden monkeys USD 100; nature walk USD 55; Bisoke or Dian Fossey's Tomb hike USD 75.
What are the opening hours of Volcanoes National Park?
Gorilla trekkers report for briefing at the RDB offices in Kinigi at 7:00 AM on trek day.
Can you bring your own food to Volcanoes National Park?
Bring a water bottle and a small snack; no eating or drinking near the gorillas.