☰Volcanoes National Park

The main reason visitors come to Musanze is to trek to mountain gorilla families in this park, which protects the Rwandan slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. Permits are expensive — and worth it. Treks start from park headquarters at Kinigi, about 12km from Musanze, and typically last two to six hours depending on where the gorillas have moved overnight. Groups are limited to eight people per gorilla family, and you spend one hour with them once found. The experience is extraordinary: the gorillas are habituated but entirely free, and the contrast between their calm and the effort of the trek stays with you. Book your permit well in advance through the Rwanda Development Board.