The land of a thousand hills has been brought to the forefront of the world’s must-visit destinations courtesy of its partnership with European football giants such as Arsenal Football Club in Britain, PSG in France, and Bayern Munich in Germany. Notable sports personalities including but not limited to Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, and Mesut Ozil among several other notable entertainment and sports personalities have furthered the “Visit Rwanda campaign”.
Rwanda has marketed itself as a must-visit African holiday destination with gorilla treks as their flagship activity. But Rwanda has more to offer beyond gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Here are the top five activities to do in Volcanoes National Park besides gorilla trekking.
Golden Monkey Tracking
Mountain gorillas are very popular partly because they are an endangered species. However is not only the mountain gorillas that are endangered species, even golden monkeys are equally endangered. This rare species of monkeys can only be found in the Virunga conservation area. With the guidance of experienced trackers, you’ll have the opportunity to observe these elusive creatures up close, witnessing their social interactions and agile acrobatics amidst the verdant canopy.
Golden monkey tracking remains one of the bonus activities for people who visit Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking. Instead of simply visiting for one day, you can stay behind for an extra day to encounter the golden monkeys.
Hiking Mount Bisoke
For those seeking a challenge and a reward like no other, the ascent of Mount Bisoke beckons. This towering volcano offers a formidable yet exhilarating hiking experience, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of the dormant volcanoes. As you traverse rugged terrain and dense vegetation, each step brings you closer to the summit, where panoramic views of Volcanoes National Park and the surrounding landscapes unfold before your eyes.
With the Rwanda guerilla warfare history trapped in the bushes, Volcanoes national park hikes will take you through the guerilla warfare days of Paul Kagame who used the same national park as his base during the last Rwanda civil war.
Dian Fossey Grave Site
In the heart of the park lies a solemn tribute to a conservation pioneer whose legacy continues to inspire generations. At the Dian Fossey Grave Site, visitors pay homage to the legendary primatologist whose unwavering dedication to the study and protection of mountain gorillas left an indelible mark on the world. Here, amidst the tranquil beauty of the forest, you’ll learn about Fossey’s groundbreaking research, her tireless advocacy for gorilla conservation, and the ongoing efforts to safeguard these remarkable creatures for future generations.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond the realm of wildlife, Volcanoes National Park offers a gateway to the vibrant culture of Rwanda that has been preserved for generations. Though most of the population has transitioned into a sub-modern lifestyle, Rwanda has also preserved a few communities to ensure that their history is not lost in the ever-changing society.
Expect some traditional music and dance performances immersed in Rwanda’s heritage.
Bird Watching
For enthusiasts of avian wonders, Volcanoes National Park is a paradise waiting to be explored. With over 200 bird species calling this biodiverse ecosystem home, birdwatching enthusiasts are treated to a symphony of colors, melodies, and fleeting glimpses of rare and endemic species. From the majestic African olive pigeon, every sighting is a reminder of the park’s status as a haven for birdlife.
You can spice up your visit to Volcanoes National Park beyond gorilla trekking with the above five activities without necessarily breaking the bank. It is important to note that all these activities are cost-friendly unlike gorilla trekking which costs $1500 per permit.
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