The Dian Fossey Trek in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, which is in the country’s north and is well-known for its golden monkeys and mountain gorilla trekking adventures, is one of Rwanda’s oldest protection zones. The park is well-known for Dian Fossey, who made significant contributions to conservation efforts, in addition to these two attractions. Nevertheless, she became enemies with rangers who stole from the forest since she was defending the gorillas, which is why she was killed in cold blood and her cause of death is still unknown. The national park is one of the most well-liked locations to see the Gorilla species, Gorilla beringei, a subspecies of the eastern gorilla.

A significant figure in Rwandan history, Dian Fossey is renowned for her outstanding work with mountain gorillas in the country of a thousand hills. She began studying these animals in 1963 and spent over eighteen years there; some of her best work was included in the film Gorillas in the Mist. Her efforts raised awareness of the need to protect mountain gorillas and their vulnerability, and the American primatologist was buried at the Karisimbi Research Centre, close to the gorilla she loved the most.

The Rwandan government and numerous private organisations have made the trek possible as a way to honour the deceased. Before beginning the trek, participants must gather at the park headquarters for an early morning briefing from rangers. Although there is no guarantee of seeing gorillas, it is highly likely that you will see a variety of plant and tree species. You will need to get a permit in order to participate in the hike.

Other park activities include gorilla trekking, which is a tribute to American primatologist Dian Fossey, who lost her life defending the gorillas she loved the most. Gorillas are a subspecies of the eastern gorilla, Gorilla beringei, and they live within the forested areas of the conservation area without being captivated. It is important to purchase gorilla trekking permits prior to the tracking time. Visit the Iby’wacu community, a group of Rwandan citizens who are said to have been poachers who later learnt to appreciate tourism. They will show you through the tribe’s cultural heritage. Volcanoes National Park is a popular birding spot in Rwanda, with over 160 birds present, some of which are endemic to the area.

When visiting the Volcanoes National Park, it is highly recommended to go golden monkey tracking. These fast and incredibly beautiful creatures are part of the critically endangered species of the Virunga volcanic region, and they live alongside mountain gorillas in the bamboo forest. If you plan to take pictures of them, you will need to prepare your cameras beforehand because they move quickly. You can visit the park any time of year.

The Volcanoes National Park can be reached by road or air; helicopter tours take 25 minutes. Accommodations are available near the park’s boundaries; examples of accommodations include the Bisate Gorilla Lodge and the Singita Kwitonda Lodge. The park is roughly 2 kilometres from Kigali City.