Rwanda to Augment Volcanoes National Park
The definitive plan for the extension of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is under progress. In response to the growing population of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes Park, the Rwandan government, in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board, plans to buy an additional 10,000 hectares to expand the area of Volcanoes National Park. The most recent gorilla census indicates that Volcanoes National Park is home to approximately 600 mountain gorillas, a rather high population for the area. This quantity is certainly substantial considering the limited 160 square kilometers of territory encompassed by the park. The mountain gorilla population has consistently risen from 380 in 2003 to 480 in 2010, and subsequently to 600 in 2016. The rising population of mountain gorillas is consequently a significant factor for expansion. The restricted territory for the growing population of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park has resulted in peculiar behaviors among the primates, including aggression, collisions, and infanticide, among other unusual actions. Conflicts for sustenance and territory frequently occur among gorilla families due to constrained land availability.
Furthermore, mountain gorillas are vibrant creatures that inhabit familial groups. To date, 21 gorilla families have been habituated at Volcanoes National Park. The gregarious nature of gorillas necessitates ample territory for play and interaction. Each family occupies a region led by a silverback.
Furthermore, it has been determined that the limited expanse of Volcanoes National Park is detrimental to the juvenile gorillas. Mountain gorillas predominantly inhabit high-altitude regions characterized by cold climates, which are unsuitable for lowland gorillas. This has resulted in the mortality of numerous newborn gorillas, impeding gorilla trekking safaris in the region. Due to extreme cold in high-altitude regions, most gorillas migrate to lower-altitude locations, which are outside the designated parkland. This exposes endangered gorillas, particularly infants, to mistreatment by local populations, hence necessitating park extension.
Mountain gorilla families residing in densely populated regions traverse one other’s territories in pursuit of sustenance and resources. This results in conflicts between gorilla families, causing fatalities and injuries among certain members.
Area of land to be acquired
The Rwanda Development Board aims to acquire 10,000 hectares of land. A buffer zone of 6000 hectares will be established, while an additional 4000 hectares will be incorporated into the existing Volcanoes National Park, thereby enhancing the gorilla habitat. Both local communities will concurrently utilize the buffer zone land and the park, which serves as a no man’s land, allowing gorillas to travel freely without hindrance from local inhabitants.
Strategies for neighboring towns next to the park
The Rwanda Development Board intends to relocate more than 3,600 residents near Volcanoes National Park. Individuals will be relocated to new regions distant from the park boundaries under Rwanda’s free housing initiative. The government will continue to deliver all necessary services in these village models, including educational institutions, healthcare facilities, infrastructure, water supply, and electricity, among others.
Concerning Volcanoes National Park
The Park is situated in the northwestern region of Rwanda and is the country’s premier tourism destination, attracting the biggest number of travelers on Rwandan safaris. The bamboo forest hosts the largest population of gorillas in the Virunga massif relative to the adjacent Mgahinga Park in Uganda and Virunga Park in Congo. Volcanoes National Park is home to endangered gorillas, golden monkeys, forest elephants, colobus monkeys, and several bird species.
Premier travel experiences in Volcanoes National Park
Visitors to Volcanoes National Park are guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Gorilla Trek Africa presents a compilation of premier attractions and activities in Volcanoes Park to guarantee an unforgettable wildlife safari in Rwanda. These comprise:
Trekking with Gorillas
Gorilla safaris in RwandaVolcanoes National Park, home to approximately 600 mountain gorillas, is the premier destination for gorilla trekking in Africa. The gorillas in this park have been habituated into 21 families to facilitate trekking and allocation. Rwanda provides luxury gorilla tours with permits priced at $1500, rendering it special and worthy of exploration. Individuals who have previously walked gorillas in Rwanda affirm that the $1500 is indeed a worthwhile investment. The gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park include Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Hirwa, Susa A, Kwitonda, Umubano, Agashya, Karisimbi, Ugenda, Bwengye, and Titus, among others. Each gorilla family is visited by eight individuals, who are permitted to spend one hour with the gorillas.
Volcanic Ascent
Volcanoes National Park serves as a hub for volcanic ascents in Rwanda. Embark on a walk to the peak of Mt. Karisimbi, the tallest volcano in the Virunga Conservation Area, which rises to 4,507 meters above sea level. Our two-day Mt. Karisimbi hiking tour is the premier package to ascend this renowned volcano. The slopes of Mt. Karisimbi harbor the endangered gorillas, which one may encounter on a favorable day. The alternative hiking expedition is the ascent of Mt. Bisoke, also conducted in Volcanoes National Park. This may be completed in a single day, making it ideal for those with limited time. Gorilla Trek Africa assists in organizing hiking tours in Rwanda and securing permits at reduced prices.
Trekking for Golden Monkeys
Gorilla safari in Rwanda
at addition to mountain gorillas, embark on a journey to observe the endangered golden monkeys at Volcanoes National Park. A fusion of gorillas and golden monkeys constitutes an unforgettable lifetime primate encounter. Remarkably, the permit to hike golden monkeys is quite inexpensive at $100, making it accessible for budget vacationers. Two populations of golden monkeys have been acclimatized for trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Musanze Caves
Ensure you explore the lovely Musanze caverns during your excursion to Volcanoes National Park. The 2-kilometer-long cave harbors countless bats that are observed hanging from its walls. Experience a subterranean stroll in the cave utilizing lighted torches and a walking stick. You enter and exit the cave at various spots. The Musanze cave served as a refuge for individuals during the 1994 genocide between the Hutu and Tutsi tribes, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Twin Lakes Rwanda Gorilla SafariWhile in Volcanoes National Park, explore the renowned twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera for an unforgettable boat excursion with picturesque vistas of the Virunga Volcanoes and lush vegetation. You will navigate alongside local individuals engaged in fishing at the lakes and others linked to their agricultural endeavors. The lake shores host several avian species, creating an optimal environment for birdwatching.
The expansion of Volcanoes National Park is crucial for the sustainable gorilla safaris in the Land of a Thousand Hills. Embark on a journey with us to experience the wonders of VNP.
