Rwanda’s tourism sector is booming, with revenue reaching $620 million in 2023 – a significant 36% increase from the previous year. At the heart of this growth is gorilla tourism.
At the heart of this success is the popularity of gorilla tourism, drawing visitors to Rwanda’s renowned Volcanoes National Park, the exclusive home of the magnificent Mountain Gorillas.
Nestled within the stunning Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park serves as a haven for these endangered creatures, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat.
The park takes its name from the dormant volcanoes that form the Virunga Massif, including the towering Karisimbi, the picturesque Bisoke with its emerald crater lake, and the majestic peaks of Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura.
Located in Rwanda’s Northern province, the park spans 16,000 hectares, with plans underway to expand to 3,720 hectares in the future. With only approximately 1,000 Mountain Gorillas remaining in the wild, the conservation efforts at Volcanoes National Park are crucial for their survival.
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to mountain gorillas, which are one of the country’s most famous attractions.
There are twelve gorilla families living in the Volcanoes National Park, all of which are fully habituated.
The families are known as Susa, Igisha, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Kwitonda, Umubano, Hirwa, Bwenge, Ugyenda, and Muhoza.
Volcanoes National Park is not only renowned for its Mountain Gorillas but also for the diverse wildlife that inhabits it, including golden monkeys, Spotted Hyenas, buffaloes, and elephants, as well as a variety of bird species.
Gorilla tourism has not only made a significant impact on Rwanda’s economic development but has also played a vital role in supporting conservation initiatives.
Aside from the unforgettable gorilla experiences, visitors to Volcanoes National Park can partake in various activities, such as hiking Mount Bisoke, exploring the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the local communities.
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and a chance to witness the incredible Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat, a visit to Volcanoes National Park is guaranteed to be an unforgettable and enriching experience. Explore the beauty and biodiversity of Rwanda’s most famous attraction and create lasting memories in this captivating destination.
Discover the Majestic Mountain Gorillas at Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
