Parc National des Volcans
The Virunga Conservation Area, around the upper slopes of the dramatic Virunga volcanoes, comprises three contiguous national parks, Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Parc National des Volcans in Rwanda, and Parc des Virungas, commonly called Djomba, in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, the Parc des Volcans protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range , home of the rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland and of course the extraordinary mountain gorilla.
About 350 mountain gorillas make their home in these afro-montane forests. The rainforests of the Virunga Volcanoes are the last refuge of the Mountain Gorilla. The lush slopes of the volcanoes provide an appropriately dramatic natural setting for what is perhaps the most poignant and thrilling wildlife experience to be had anywhere - to see the Mountain Gorilla in its natural habitat. Roughly half of the world's wild population of Mountain Gorillas are resident on the Rwandan slopes of the Virungas.
You can climb a volcano, go birding, visit the emerald waters of Lake Mutanda or just take in one of the most breathtaking landscapes of Africa. Volcanoes Mount Gahinga Rest Camp is located just outside Mgahinga. In Parc National des Volcans on the Rwandan side, where Dian Fossey worked, there are five habituated gorilla families and it is arguably the best place to see the mountain gorillas. An exhilarating trek through the cultivated foothills of the Virungas offers stirring views in all directions.
There is a selection of accommodation available within the vicinity of the park itself, on a clear day the views across to the volcanoes and surrounding area is spectacular from Gorilla's Nest Lodge. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is situated on the edge of the Parc National des Volcans in North Western Rwanda, with fabulous views towards the Parc National des Volcans. Lastly, Virunga Lodge is set on a stunning hillside with breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes and Lakes Ruhondo and Bulera.