Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a stunning natural wonder that spans over 160 km2 of rainforest and is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains. These include Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. The park is situated in northwestern Rwanda, and it shares its borders with the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. This park is renowned for being home to the rare mountain gorilla and the golden monkey, which are fascinating creatures to observe in their natural habitat. Moreover, Volcanoes National Park is known for being the base for the late Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist, who dedicated her life to the study and preservation of gorillas. The park has a rich history that dates back to 1925 when it was gazetted as a small area intended to protect the gorillas from poachers. It was also the first national park to be created in Africa. Over the years, the borders of the park have been extended to encompass more land in Rwanda and the Belgian Congo, eventually forming the Albert National Park. The park has experienced some challenges, including being a battlefield during the Rwandan Civil War, which led to the abandonment of the park headquarters and a temporary halt to all tourist activities. However, the area was later deemed safe, and activities resumed in 1999. One of the most remarkable features of Volcanoes National Park is its diverse flora and fauna. The vegetation within the park varies considerably due to the large altitudinal range, with the lower montane forest mainly lost to agriculture. Other vegetation includes bamboo forests, Hagenia-Hypericum forests, Lobelia wollastonii, grasslands, meadows, marshes, swamps, and small lakes. The park is also home to a diverse range of animals, including the rare mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, black-fronted duikers, African buffaloes, spotted hyenas, and harnessed bushbucks. Moreover, bird lovers will be thrilled to find that there are 178 recorded bird species, with at least 13 species and 16 subspecies endemic to the Virunga and Rwenzori Mountains. In conclusion, Volcanoes National Park is a natural gem that is well worth visiting when in Rwanda. It offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse vegetation, experience different landscapes, and observe rare and fascinating wildlife. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.