Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, in Musanze District (formerly Ruhengeri), the park covers about 160 km² (62 sq mi). Established in 1925, it’s Africa’s oldest national park, initially created to safeguard mountain gorillas from poaching. We didn’t see the Gorillas here, but rather the Golden Monkeys.
The park protects rare species like mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and over 200 bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics.
Golden Monkey Tracking is a lighter, shorter trek than the Gorillas, to watch playful golden monkeys in bamboo groves. The hike to the Golden Monkey’s was not difficult.
Dian Fossey is one of the most significant figures associated with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Her work there transformed global understanding and conservation of mountain gorillas.
- Founded the Karisoke Research Center between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke (hence “Karisoke”) in Volcanoes National Park.
- Lived among and studied gorilla groups for nearly two decades, pioneering close observational research.
- Advocated strongly against poaching and habitat destruction, which made her both admired and controversial.
We stayed at the Mountain Gorilla Lodge and like many hotels here, we were greeted by song and dance.
Wendy and Raquel got into the spirit and danced.