Why Volcanoes National Park Matters
Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda, is one of the country’s most famous natural attractions and is renowned for its spectacular volcanic landscapes and mountain gorillas. Established in 1925, it is one of Africa’s oldest national parks and forms part of the Virunga Massif, a chain of ancient volcanoes shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is home to five of the Virunga volcanoes; Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo and is covered by dense bamboo forests, montane vegetation, grasslands, and misty mountain slopes. Its most celebrated residents are the endangered mountain gorillas, which live in family groups within the forest. Visitors can take guided gorilla-tracking excursions, observe these remarkable primates in their natural habitat, and learn about their behavior and conservation. The park also supports golden monkeys, buffaloes, forest elephants, numerous bird species, and other wildlife.
