Volcanoes for photographers

Volcanoes is one of the best choices for photographers.

Suitability: ★★★★★

Volcanoes National Park protects Rwanda's side of the dormant Virunga volcanoes, with evergreen and bamboo forest, grassland and heath. It is a leading mountain gorilla destination, with permits booked through the Rwanda Development Board.

Why Volcanoes for photographers?

• Chances to photograph mountain gorillas, buffalo and birdlife.
• The best light is in the first hour after sunrise and the last before sunset.

What awaits you in Volcanoes

• Mountain gorilla trekking in the Virunga range
• Golden monkey tracking
• Hikes on Bisoke and Karisimbi (4,507 m)
• Dian Fossey's research site and grave
• Musanze Caves and village experiences

Wildlife you may encounter: mountain gorillas, buffalo and birdlife.

Suggested time on the ground: 2 to 3 days. In far north-western Rwanda near Musanze town, about 2-3 hours by road from Kigali.

Activities that fit

gorilla trekking and birdwatching.

When to go

The best period overall is June to August and December to February.

Main dry season; trails are easier and permit demand is high.

Other destinations for photographers

• Okavango Delta Botswana
• Masai Mara Kenya
• Merzouga Morocco
• Mana Pools Zimbabwe
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Tarangire Tanzania

Full Volcanoes guideBest safaris for photographers

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: Visit Rwanda (RDB) - Volcanoes National Park · Climates to Travel - Rwanda (Ruhengeri/Musanze normals)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.