What Other National Parks Are Close to Volcanoes National Park?

What Other National Parks Are Close to Volcanoes National Park? Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a world-renowned destination, particularly famous for its gorilla trekking experiences. Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, this park is one of the top places to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. However, Rwanda is home to other equally remarkable national parks that are easily accessible from Volcanoes National Park. If you’re planning to visit Volcanoes National Park, you may be wondering: What other national parks are close to Volcanoes National Park? In this article, we’ll explore some of the nearby parks that offer amazing wildlife experiences, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights, making them perfect additions to your Rwandan adventure.

Nyungwe Forest National Park: A Haven for Biodiversity

Located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is approximately a 4-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park. This extensive rainforest is one of the oldest and largest tropical forests in Africa, home to an incredible array of wildlife and plant species. Nyungwe is a biodiversity hotspot, and its dense canopies shelter a variety of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.

The park is also famous for its Canopy Walkway, an exhilarating experience that takes you 50 meters above the forest floor, offering spectacular views of the forest and its wildlife. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, Nyungwe is an excellent destination, with over 300 bird species, many of which are endemic to the region. The park offers a perfect contrast to the volcanic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, with its lush greenery and dense, mist-covered trees.

Visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park is ideal for those who want to experience Rwanda’s natural beauty in a different setting. Beyond wildlife trekking, you can also explore the park’s trails, which take you through beautiful forests, waterfalls, and unique ecosystems.

Akagera National Park: Rwanda’s Savannah Adventure

For a completely different experience, Akagera National Park is another park worth considering. Located in the eastern part of Rwanda, about a 5-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park, Akagera is Rwanda’s premier savannah park. Unlike Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe, Akagera is known for its wide-open plains, wetlands, and dense forests, which are home to a variety of big game and bird species.

Akagera National Park is often compared to the famous savannah parks of East Africa, such as the Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara in Kenya. The park is home to the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros. In addition to these iconic species, Akagera is home to zebras, giraffes, hippos, and over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

A visit to Akagera provides the opportunity to enjoy traditional game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and even fishing experiences. If you are interested in seeing Rwanda’s wildlife diversity beyond the mountain gorillas and forest animals, a visit to Akagera is a must.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park: An Emerging Ecotourism Gem

Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a smaller park located in the western part of Rwanda, around a 2.5-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park. Although not as widely known as Volcanoes or Nyungwe, Gishwati-Mukura is a hidden gem that offers unique experiences. This park is one of Rwanda’s newest conservation areas and is dedicated to restoring the Gishwati Forest, which was once home to a variety of wildlife but had been severely impacted by deforestation and human activity.

Today, Gishwati-Mukura is home to several species of primates, including chimpanzees and golden monkeys, as well as various bird species. The park is also known for its incredible landscapes, with rolling hills, mist-covered forests, and waterfalls. For travelers interested in exploring Rwanda’s efforts in reforestation and conservation, Gishwati-Mukura is a fascinating destination.

Visitors can enjoy trekking through the forests to spot primates, including golden monkeys and chimpanzees. The park also offers cultural experiences with local communities, providing insight into Rwanda’s conservation efforts and the role that local people play in protecting these beautiful ecosystems.

Volcanoes National Park’s Neighbor: Virunga National Park (Congo)

Just across the border from Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is another outstanding park worth visiting. Located a short drive from Volcanoes National Park, Virunga is one of Africa’s oldest and most famous national parks. It is part of the same Virunga Conservation Area that includes Volcanoes National Park, and it is known for its mountain gorillas as well as its diverse ecosystems ranging from volcanoes and savannahs to wetlands.

Virunga National Park offers similar wildlife experiences to Volcanoes National Park, such as gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking. However, it also provides the opportunity to explore unique landscapes and encounter rare species like the okapi (a forest giraffe) and Congo’s eastern lowland gorillas. Virunga is a haven for adventure travelers who seek off-the-beaten-path experiences in a relatively less visited park compared to its Rwandan counterpart.

A visit to Virunga National Park requires more logistical planning due to security considerations, and travelers must have the proper permits and be part of an organized tour group. However, for the seasoned traveler, a trip to Virunga can be an incredible extension to a Volcanoes National Park adventure.

The Cultural Experience of Visiting Rwanda’s National Parks

In addition to the diverse wildlife, Rwanda’s national parks offer rich cultural experiences that enhance any visit. One of the most remarkable ways to engage with local culture is by visiting the Batwa Pygmies, an indigenous group that once lived in the forests of Volcanoes National Park. Today, they offer cultural tours where visitors can learn about their traditional ways of life, including their music, dance, and hunting techniques.

By adding a cultural element to your visit to Volcanoes National Park and its nearby parks, you gain a deeper understanding of the connection between the land and the people. Whether you visit Batwa villages near Volcanoes National Park or engage with the communities around Akagera or Nyungwe, the cultural experience will provide invaluable insights into Rwanda’s history and heritage.

Additionally, Rwanda has a rich history of resilience, which can be explored through the Genocide Memorials scattered across the country. These memorials, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, serve as a poignant reminder of Rwanda’s past and the importance of unity and peace in the country’s future.

Conclusion: Exploring the Wonders Around Volcanoes National Park

While Volcanoes National Park is undoubtedly one of Rwanda’s most famous destinations, the surrounding national parks provide a wealth of opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and cultural explorers. From the dense rainforests of Nyungwe Forest National Park to the savannah plains of Akagera National Park and the primate-filled landscapes of Gishwati-Mukura, there are plenty of options for extending your journey.

For those looking for even more adventure, a visit to Virunga National Park across the border in the Democratic Republic of the Congo offers a unique opportunity to experience the same gorilla trekking experience in a different setting. Whether you’re looking for big game safaris, cultural experiences, or scenic hikes, Rwanda’s national parks are diverse and ready to offer something for everyone.

By planning visits to these nearby parks, you can experience the full range of Rwanda’s natural and cultural beauty, making your trip to Volcanoes National Park even more enriching and unforgettable.