Get to Volcanoes National Park by Air or Road
Volcanoes National Park is the top tourist destination in Rwanda. It attracts visitors from around the world with its rare and unique attraction — the endangered mountain gorillas that inhabit its dense forests and volcanic landscapes. These gorillas remain one of Rwanda’s greatest tourism draws. For those interested in gorilla trekking in Rwanda and wondering how to get to Volcanoes National Park, several transport options are available.
Located in the northern province of Rwanda in the Musanze District, Volcanoes National Park is the country’s premier primate park. It is well known for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, which are rare and endemic to the region. The park lies within the Virunga mountain range, home to five dormant volcanoes. It is also rich in birdlife, diverse mammals, and lush flora, making it a haven for nature lovers.
There are different ways to reach Volcanoes National Park. However, road travel is the most popular choice among visitors. While air travel is available, most travelers prefer the scenic and flexible journey by road.
How to Get to Volcanoes National Park by Road
Road travel is the most affordable and convenient way to reach Volcanoes National Park. If you’ve booked your gorilla safari with a tour operator, you will usually have a private vehicle and driver to take you from Kigali to Musanze. The journey covers about 105 kilometers, or 65 miles, and takes roughly two to two and a half hours, depending on stopovers along the way.
The drive is scenic and rewarding. You pass through rolling hills and beautiful landscapes that showcase Rwanda’s countryside. For budget travelers, public transportation offers a reliable alternative. Rwanda has a well-maintained road network. In addition, several bus and coaster services operate daily from Kigali’s Nyabugogo bus station to Musanze. The ride is smooth and gives travelers a glimpse of local life along the route.
How to Get to the Park by Air
The fastest way to reach Volcanoes National Park from Kigali is by air. Scheduled helicopter flights operate daily from Kigali International Airport to Musanze Airstrip. These flights, run by Akagera Aviation, take only 30 minutes. Furthermore, they offer breathtaking aerial views of Rwanda’s volcanic peaks and lush highlands, creating an unforgettable start to your safari.
Travel with Us
At Rwanda Eco Company and Safaris, we provide a range of private vehicles, including 4×4 safari cars, Jeeps, Land Cruisers, and RAV4s, to ensure a comfortable and smooth journey. For flexible travelers, we also offer self-drive and chauffeur-driven car hire services. Our experienced team guarantees a seamless transfer to Volcanoes National Park.
In addition, we can arrange helicopter transfers to Musanze for travelers who prefer to fly. Whether you plan to trek mountain gorillas, track golden monkeys, or hike Mount Bisoke and Mount Muhabura, your journey will be memorable. You can also visit the Dian Fossey tomb, explore Musanze Caves, or discover nearby villages for authentic cultural encounters. Whatever your plan, your Volcanoes safari will be both remarkable and rewarding.
