Discover 16 Great Tours & Things To Do In Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda stands out as a top destination for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to experience the wild heart of Africa. Known worldwide for mountain gorilla trekking, the park offers more than just close encounters with these gentle giants.

The park’s dramatic volcanic landscapes also make it an ideal setting for crater lake hikes and mountain climbs, while nearby parks like Nyungwe and Akagera expand your options for primates and Big 5 safaris.

We particularly love how tours like the From Kigali: Bisoke Summit Trek, Crater Lake 1 Day Safari combine active adventure with stunning scenery, making them perfect for those craving a challenging yet rewarding experience.

For those planning a trip, this list covers everything from short day tours for a quick wildlife fix to multi-day safaris that include gorilla trekking, chimp tracking, and safaris in Akagera. Whether you prefer hiking volcanoes, tracking mountain gorillas, or spotting Big 5 animals, there’s something here for every type of traveler.

1. From Kigali: Bisoke Summit Trek, Crater Lake 1 Day Safari

Taking the top spot, this full-day volcano trek offers a rewarding climb to the summit of Mount Bisoke, famed for its stunning crater lake. You’ll trek through lush forests, often spotting primates and birdlife along the way.

The highlight is reaching the rim of the crater, where the pristine lake offers a perfect photo op. Known as a favorite for hikers, this tour is ideal if you want a manageable day trip packed with scenery and wildlife.

The guide shares insights into the volcanic terrain and local flora, making the climb both educational and exhilarating.

At $250 per person, it’s good value for a full day of active adventure. Expect a physically engaging hike with breathtaking views that make every step worth it.

Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers short on time but seeking an unforgettable volcano experience with the bonus of a stunning crater lake.

2. From Kigali: 8-Day Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari

This comprehensive 8-day wildlife safari is for travelers wanting an all-in-one adventure. It combines game drives in Akagera National Park to see the Big 5 and big cats, with gorilla and golden monkey treks in Volcanoes, and chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest.

For $5,679, you get full board accommodation and a knowledgeable guide who brings the parks to life with stories and insights. This tour is a great choice if you want a deep dive into Rwanda’s wildlife diversity.

The boat cruise on Lake Ihema provides a relaxing break, and the visit to Nyungwe’s canopy walk adds a fun aerial perspective. While it’s a significant investment, the variety of experiences makes it worthwhile.

Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a rich, multi-park experience, combining primates and big game with comfortable logistics.

3. Golden Monkey Trekking with lunch

For those after a day of primate watching, this Golden Monkey Trek is a relaxed, scenic experience. The tour includes a guided trek to see the playful golden monkeys in their natural habitat, located in Volcanoes National Park.

The drive from Kigali offers beautiful views of the Rwandan countryside, and the trek itself is short and easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels. At $320, it offers good value, especially since the service includes a professional guide and hassle-free transfers.

The golden monkeys are striking with their bright orange coats, and watching them leap and play is a highlight. This tour is perfect if you want a lighter, more accessible wildlife experience with a touch of adventure.

Bottom line: A charming, easy trek that delivers delightful encounters with Rwanda’s iconic primates.

4. Rwanda: 7-Day Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5, and Big Cats Tour

This 7-day safari is a longer, more immersive exploration of Rwanda’s wildlife treasures. It combines gorilla and chimpanzee tracking with safari drives in Akagera, offering an impressive chance to see Big 5 animals and big cats. The tour also includes a canopy walk and boat trip, enriching your experience of the diverse ecosystems.

For $5,109, this full-board package is geared toward travelers who want a well-rounded wildlife adventure with expert guides sharing their knowledge.

The variety of habitats—rainforest, savannah, lakes—means you’ll have many chances for memorable sightings. Reviews note the professional guides and eye-opening encounters.

Bottom line: Best for those who want an all-encompassing wildlife experience, combining primates, big game, and scenic boat safaris.

5. 1 Day hiking (Bisoke volcano)

This one-day volcano hike takes you to the summit of Mount Bisoke, offering panoramic views of the volcanic chain. The hike is demanding but rewarding, with diverse vegetation and volcanic terrain. The tour includes transport from Kigali, making logistics simple.

At $580 per person, it’s more expensive than the half-day trek, reflecting the full day’s effort and the guided support. The climb offers a taste of Rwanda’s rugged landscape and a chance to see biodiversity along the way.

It’s best suited for those with a decent fitness level who want to challenge themselves and enjoy expansive views of the area.

Bottom line: A great choice for active travelers wanting a full day of challenging hiking with spectacular scenery.

6. 1 Day gorilla trekking safari tour, volcanoes national park

This single-day gorilla trek offers an intense but manageable wildlife experience. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see mountain gorillas up close. The tour takes you deep into the rugged terrain of Volcanoes National Park, with a guided hike to encounter these gentle giants.

You’ll spend an hour with the gorillas, a deeply moving experience. The tour costs $380, making it a compelling option for a quick yet authentic gorilla experience.

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the close-up encounters. Expect to hike through bamboo zones and steep slopes, so good shoes and some stamina help.

Bottom line: Compact, impactful gorilla trekking for those who want a taste of Rwanda’s most famous wildlife.

7. 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari and Golden Monkey Trek

This 3-day safari balances gorilla trekking with golden monkey encounters, plus an immersive rainforest experience. You’ll get close to mountain gorillas, enjoy a golden monkey trek, and explore Rwanda’s volcanic landscape. The trip offers a mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights, making it suitable for travelers who want a multi-day adventure without rushing.

Though the exact price isn’t provided, it’s priced at $2,500 per person, which reflects the quality of guides and accommodations. Travelers mention the thrill of seeing gorillas and the playful nature of the golden monkeys.

Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife lovers wanting a compact, multi-species experience over three days.

8. 3 Days Gorilla trekking in the volcanoes national park

This tour provides an immersive gorilla trekking experience over three days. You’ll trek through the bamboo zones, visit the Dian Fossey Museum, and see the endangered mountain gorillas. With a focus on longer trekking, it’s ideal for those eager for multiple encounters. The price is $1,100 per person, offering good value for the depth of experience.

Reviews note the safety and professionalism of park guides, as well as the chance to see different gorilla families. However, expect some rugged terrain and steep climbs; fitness enhances the experience.

Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting more than one gorilla trek, with a focus on education and deeper wildlife interaction.

9. Day tour Gorilla Trekking with Lunch

This day trip is perfect for those with tight schedules. It includes guided gorilla trekking, a lunch break, and a scenic drive from Kigali. At $450, it offers a straightforward way to see gorillas without overnight logistics. Many reviewers mention the ease of transfer and the informative guide.

The trek itself involves navigating dense forests and steep slopes, so a reasonable fitness level helps. It’s best suited for first-time visitors or those on a layover.

Bottom line: Hassle-free, single-day invitation to one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences.

10. From Kigali: 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

This two-day safari offers an overnight experience near Volcanoes. It combines city sightseeing in Kigali, including the Genocide Memorial, with gorilla trekking the next day. The $640 price includes accommodation and guides. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a mix of cultural and wildlife experiences with less rush.

Reviews highlight the comfort of the lodge and the well-organized logistics. Expect some early mornings and hiking, but also time to explore local markets and learn about Rwandan culture.

Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a bit of both city and jungle, with a relaxed pace and cultural insights.

11. From Kigali, Rwanda: Guided gorilla trekking experience

This guided day trip is an efficient way to tick gorilla trekking off your bucket list. The tour includes a scenic drive and a briefing before your trek. At $400, it offers good value for the experience of walking through misty forests and encountering the gorillas. The guide shares detailed insights into gorilla behavior, making the encounter more meaningful.

As with most treks, expect some steep and rugged terrain, but the payoff is the chance to see these majestic animals in the wild. It’s perfect if you want a manageable but authentic experience.

Bottom line: Well-organized, informative, ideal for first-timers seeking a memorable gorilla experience.

12. Gorilla Trekking Day Tour with Lunch

This tour offers a full-day gorilla trek, including lunch at a local restaurant. For $380, it’s a budget-friendly option that makes the most of limited time. The trek itself involves navigating the dense forest to see endangered mountain gorillas and learn about conservation efforts. Many reviews praise the professional guides and the close encounters with gorillas.

The tour’s straightforward logistics make it accessible for first-timers or those with only a day to spare. Expect some physical effort, but the experience of sharing space with these incredible creatures makes it worthwhile.

Bottom line: Practical, affordable, and packed with wildlife encounters for a one-day adventure.

13. Kigali: 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari and City Tour

This two-day combination tour blends cultural exploration of Kigali with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes. The first day involves city sightseeing, visiting the Genocide Memorial and local markets, while the second offers an unforgettable gorilla encounter. Priced at $490, it’s a good choice for travelers interested in both urban culture and wildlife.

The reviews highlight the informative city tour and the smooth logistics of the gorilla trek. It’s best suited for those who want to mix leisure and adventure without rushing.

Bottom line: Great for culturally curious travelers who also want to see Rwanda’s most famous wildlife.

14. Kigali: Ellen DeGeneres Campus and Gorilla Guardian Village

This educational day trip focuses on conservation and community projects. You’ll visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and the Gorilla Guardian Village to learn about gorilla conservation efforts.

For $380, it’s perfect for those interested in learning about how Rwanda protects its gorillas and supporting local communities. The campus visit is inspiring, and the village offers authentic cultural insights.

Reviews mention the passionate guides and thought-provoking exhibits. This tour suits eco-conscious travelers or those with a keen interest in wildlife conservation.

Bottom line: Insightful, educational, and meaningful, ideal for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of gorilla conservation.

15. Kigali: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

This premium gorilla trekking tour is for those seeking the ultimate experience. It costs $3,580 and guarantees a close-up view of a gorilla family. The trek involves navigating forested slopes, often with steep climbs, but the reward is witnessing powerful silverbacks and playful young gorillas. Guides with extensive experience help you understand gorilla behavior and conservation.

Many reviews emphasize that this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with an emphasis on personalized service and intimate encounters.

Bottom line: For serious wildlife aficionados willing to invest, this offers the most profound gorilla experience in Rwanda.

16. Mount Bisoke Hike in Volcanoes National Park

Completing our list, this Mount Bisoke hike offers an active day for hikers interested in seeing volcanic landscapes up close. The trek takes you through diverse vegetation zones, culminating in panoramic views from the crater rim. The cost of $350 includes transportation and guide services.

The hike is moderate to strenuous, suitable for those in good shape. It’s a fantastic way to experience Rwanda’s volcanic geology and biodiversity firsthand.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for adventurous travelers wanting a full day of hiking with rewarding scenic views.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Volcanoes National Park

When selecting your tour, consider your fitness level, time available, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but eager for a close-up gorilla encounter, the Day tour Gorilla Trekking with Lunch offers a quick yet authentic experience. For those who want an extended wildlife immersion, the 8-day safari covers a broad spectrum of parks and species.

Budget travelers might prefer the Gorilla Trekking Day Tour, while adventure seekers will enjoy the Mount Bisoke Hike. Booking early is advisable, especially for gorilla permits, which are limited.

Final Thoughts

From intense mountain hikes to intimate wildlife encounters, Volcanoes National Park Rwanda offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking to get close to mountain gorillas, options like the Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes are unbeatable.

For adventure lovers, the Bisoke Summit Trek provides a rewarding volcano climb. And for those interested in conservation and community, the Gorilla Guardian Village adds a meaningful dimension.

No matter your interests, booking early and choosing a tour suited to your fitness and time will ensure your Rwanda trip is truly memorable. The opportunity to see these incredible creatures and landscapes is rare—don’t delay.