Experience The Rich Culture Of Volcano National Park In Rwanda

(copitek). Submitted on Thu, 2 Sep 2010

Volcano national park in Rwanda rests in the northwestern part of Rwanda just on the border of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While there is a tremendous amount to see and experience, the park is most well know for the mountain gorilla. In addition, it is home to numerous volcanoes that are worth making a trip to see while on vacation.



The park was first found in 1925 as a small area bounded by Karisimbi, Visoke and Mikeno. The primary intentions of the park were to protect gorillas from poachers. It became the first National Park in Africa to be created, which brings with it a great deal of history that must be seen.

Many recognize the park based off of the famous American naturalist Dian Fossey, who took her conducted her research on gorillas here. She arrived in 1967 and set up the Karisoke Research Centre, which is another site-seeing destination you must take in. She is widely credited for saving the gorillas from extinction. Following her horrific murder by unknown assailants in 1985, her life was portrayed in the film Gorillas in the Mist.

There is a great deal of wildlife to view when visiting Volcano national park. Outside of the mountain gorilla you will also find golden monkeys, black-fronted duiker, buffalo and bushbuck. There have been sites of elephants in the park, but they are actually quite rare today. And as for birds, there are 178 recorded bird species to enjoy.

Tourism in the park has picked up greatly over the years thanks to the beautiful views and tremendous options available to offer. Gorilla visits are atop the list with four habituated groups open to tourists giving you the opportunity to spend an hour with the gorillas.

Climbing Karisimbi volcano is another extremely popular activity as it provides a thrill unlike anything else you will ever experience. The two day trek with overnight camping at an altitude of 3,800 m is just not something you get to do frequently. You can also climb Bisoke volcano in one day if you would prefer not to stay the night.

There are some magnificent lakes and caves scattered throughout the park that are deserving of attention. And because of the extraordinary story and everything Dian Fossey has done for the gorillas and the country as a whole, many pay tribute to Fossey by visiting her tomb.

Volcano national park in Rwanda offers tourists an incredible adventure full of sites, animals, and rich history. From the lakes to the volcanoes to the remarkable mountain gorillas, there is no question it will be a trip unlike any other.


 

About the Author

Would you like to hear more about Hakuna Matata Tours? Kennedy Nari invites you to visit his Rwanda Tours web site for everything you need to research and plan a uniquely memorable trip. We offer the highest quality experience and support package to help guarantee an enjoyable African tour. Visit Our Website here: http://site.rwanda-travel-tours.com/

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