Rwanda: Into the world of mountain gorillas at Volcanoes National Park

Right in the middle of Africa, surrounded by lush rainforest and ancient volcanoes, is the incredible Volcanoes National Park, home to the Critically Endangered mountain gorillas. It is estimated that approximately 1,063 mountain gorillas are now left in the wild.

Rwanda is a country of breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, a perfect haven for wildlife enthusiasts. But this is not your usual national park. The Volcanoes National Park is a sanctuary for the critically endangered mountain gorillas. This is one of the very few places on earth where one can still find this species.


When in Volcanoes National Park, you are surrounded by the Virunga Mountains, a chain of volcanic peaks that are almost always shrouded in mist. The mountain range is one of the most lush landscapes one will come across. There are guided gorilla hikes that one can be a part of.



The primary attraction here at the Volcanoes National Park is undoubtedly the adventure of a lifetime – the gorilla trekking adventure. Simply knowing that the forest is home to a significant population of the world's remaining mountain gorilla, is pretty overwhelming and daunting too. Daunting because, the mountain gorilla is a massive and a very powerful wild animal that has been known to protect its territory fiercely. But in the company of experienced guides and rangers, and by following rules, one can experience this truly unique wildlife opportunity.


The national park is a great chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.


The trek takes visitors through some of the most dense forests in the world and also terrains that will test your strength, agility and will power.

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It is interesting to note that Volcanoes National Park played a pivotal role in the life and work of Dian Fossey, the world’s most renowned primatologist and advocate for gorilla conservation. The story of Volcanoes National Park, the gorillas, the conservationists and the social and political turmoils of the region has been beautifully portrayed in the 2014 British documentary film Virunga.


For those interested, the Karisoke Research Center, founded by Fossey, is a must-visit research centre located within the national park. The centre serves as a research hub and also educates visitors about the lives of the mountain gorillas.

Also Read: Meet the Maasai: One of Africa's most famous tribes
Apart from the majestic mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also a safe home for a number of endangered and endemic species.


If you want to understand species conservation and sustainable tourism better, you need to make time to visit Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.