Getting to Volcanoes National Park by Car
Volcanoes National Park is located in Musanze, about 2 hours north of Kigali by car. The road is well-paved and scenic, passing through the rolling hills that give Rwanda its "Land of a Thousand Hills" nickname. You can drive yourself or hire a car with a driver for the journey.
Best Vehicle for the Trip
The road from Kigali to Musanze is paved and a regular SUV like a Toyota RAV4 handles it comfortably. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding area — the Twin Lakes, rural villages, or continue to Gisenyi — a 4×4 is recommended for the unpaved side roads. A Land Cruiser Prado is the ideal all-rounder for this trip.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
The most important thing to book before your trip is the gorilla trekking permit. Key details:
- Cost: $1,500 per person (as of 2026)
- Duration: 1 hour with the gorilla family, plus hiking time (1–6 hours depending on the group's location)
- Availability: Limited to 96 permits per day. Book 3–6 months in advance during peak season.
- Booking: Through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or an authorized tour operator.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Kigali to Musanze
Pick up your rental car in Kigali and drive to Musanze (2 hours). Check in at your lodge, prepare your gear for the next morning, and enjoy dinner. Go to bed early — gorilla trekking starts at dawn.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
Report to Volcanoes National Park headquarters by 7 AM for the briefing. Your group is assigned a gorilla family, and the trek begins. After the trek, celebrate with lunch in Musanze. In the afternoon, consider a golden monkey trek or visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund museum.
Day 3: Explore and Return
Visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, or drive to Gisenyi for a relaxing afternoon on Lake Kivu. Return to Kigali in the evening and drop off your car.
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirt (protect against nettles and insects)
- Rain jacket — the forest is often misty and wet
- Garden gloves for gripping vegetation on steep trails
- Water bottle and energy snacks
- Camera (no flash photography allowed with gorillas)
Tips for a Great Experience
- Stay at a lodge close to the park to minimize your morning drive.
- Request a porter at the trailhead — they carry your bag and help on steep sections for a small tip.
- Maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas and never touch them.
- If you feel unwell (cold, flu), inform the rangers — you may need to reschedule to protect the gorillas from human diseases.
Final Thoughts
A gorilla trekking road trip in Rwanda is straightforward to plan and absolutely worth the effort. Rent a reliable car, book your permit early, pack the right gear, and prepare yourself for one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on Earth.
