Queen Elizabeth National Park

About Queen Elizabeth National Park

Rwanda is home to Volcanoes National Park, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas and breathtaking volcanic scenery. Located in the northwestern region near Musanze, the park is part of the larger Virunga Mountains, a chain of volcanoes shared with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Covering about 160 square kilometers, the park features lush rainforests, bamboo zones, and mist-covered slopes that create a perfect habitat for rare wildlife. Volcanoes National Park is globally known for gorilla trekking, offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural environment. The park also gained international recognition through the conservation work of Dian Fossey, whose efforts played a major role in protecting these primates. Just about 100 km from Kigali, it is easily accessible for short yet unforgettable safaris.

Why visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking

Experience close encounters with endangered mountain gorillas in the wild.

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

Observe rare and playful golden monkeys in the bamboo forests.

3. Dramatic Volcano Landscapes

Explore scenic views of volcanic peaks like Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke.

4. Dian Fossey Experience

Visit the legacy sites linked to gorilla conservation history.

5. Rich Biodiversity

Home to forest elephants, buffaloes, and over 200 bird species.

6. Hiking & Adventure

Climb volcanic mountains and explore forest trails.

7. Cultural Encounters

Interact with local communities and experience traditional Rwandan culture.

8. Easy Accessibility

A short drive from Kigali makes it perfect for quick safaris.

9. Unique Ecosystems

From dense rainforest to afro-alpine vegetation zones.

10. Conservation Excellence

A leading model for successful wildlife conservation in Africa.

Best Time to Go

• June – September & December – February: Best for trekking with dry conditions and clear views.
• March – May & October – November: Rainy seasons with lush scenery and fewer tourists.