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Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Hiking & Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Climb active volcanic slopes and ridges. Trails lead up Mount Bisoke to a hidden crater lake or up the steep paths of Mount Karisimbi.

Right Now (Jul)
Peak Season
The absolute best time to go.
12-Month Calendar
PeakGoodOkaySkip
Best months at a glance
January
Good
February
Okay
March
Okay
May
Okay
June
Good
July
Peak
August
Peak
September
Peak
October
Good
November
Okay
Conditions

Weather & Conditions

Showing viable months only — Apr, Dec are off-season for this activity.

MonthHigh / LowRain DaysConditions
Jan56.5° / 44.1°F11Good
Feb57.3° / 45°F13Okay
Mar57.2° / 45.8°F14Okay
May55.6° / 45.8°F12Okay
Jun54.5° / 44.6°F8Good
Jul55.3° / 44°F4Peak
Aug56.9° / 45.1°F6Peak
Sep56.6° / 45.9°F12Peak
Oct56.5° / 45.8°F13Good
Nov55.8° / 45.5°F15Okay
Locations

Where to Go

Airport
Kigali Airport (KGL)

Main international runway connecting Rwanda to global hubs.

Visitor Hub
Kinigi Park Headquarters

The starting point for all trekking permits and guide allocations.

Natural Feature
Mount Karisimbi Peak

The highest volcano in the Virunga chain, rising to 14,787 feet.

Natural Feature
Mount Bisoke Crater

An active volcano featuring a spectacular deep crater lake at its summit.

Cultural Center
Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

A world-class conservation and science research facility open to the public.

Practical Intel

Know Before You Go

01
Gorilla permits are strictly timed

Gorilla tracking permits cost $1,500 per person and are valid for a single, specific calendar day. They are non-transferable and must be secured 9 to 12 months in advance alongside lodge vouchers.

02
Pack certified trail spats or gaiters

The volcanic clay trails are continuously damp and thick with ground mud. Wear high, water-resistant trail spats or gaiters over your boots and trousers to prevent mud, nettles, and ants from entering.

03
Hire a local porter at headquarters

Even if you are fit, hiring a local porter ($20) at Kinigi headquarters supports the local community and is highly recommended. Porters carry backpacks and provide physical balance support on steep, slick clay slopes.

Where to Stay

Wildist-vetted hotels for Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda coming soon.

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