Park & nature

Virunga Mountains

Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

The Virunga Mountains are a dramatic chain of eight volcanoes spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This region is best known as the primary habitat for the endangered mountain gorilla, making it a premier destination for gorilla trekking. Visitors can hike through lush bamboo forests and volcanic slopes to observe gorilla families in the wild. The park also offers opportunities to climb active volcanoes like Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi, with stunning crater lakes and panoramic views. The experience is both physically demanding and deeply rewarding, offering a rare encounter with one of our closest primate relatives.

Don't miss

  • Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, where you can spend an hour with a habituated gorilla family.
  • Hiking Mount Bisoke to its crater lake, a challenging but scenic climb through diverse vegetation.
  • Visiting the Dian Fossey Tomb and research site, honoring the primatologist who dedicated her life to gorilla conservation.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Virunga Mountains

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

More attractions in Musanze

Planning your trip to Musanze? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Musanze itinerary.