How to Get to Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla Trekking
Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda is one of the most sought-after wildlife destinations on the planet. Home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, it draws thousands of trekkers every year who come to spend a rare, permit-limited hour in the presence of these magnificent primates. But before you can lace up your boots and head into the forest, you have to get there — and depending on where you are starting from, the journey deserves as much planning as the trek itself. Here is everything you need to know about getting to Volcanoes National Park.
Starting Point: Kigali
Almost every visitor to Volcanoes National Park begins their journey in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. Kigali International Airport (KGL) is well connected to major African hubs including Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, Entebbe, and Dar es Salaam, as well as direct flights from several European cities. Rwanda’s national carrier, RwandAir, operates a growing network of regional and long-haul routes, and airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Brussels Airlines also serve Kigali.
Once you land in Kigali, the park is approximately 110 kilometres (about 68 miles) to the northwest. The drive takes between two and three hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The route passes through rolling green hills, tea plantations, and the town of Musanze (formerly known as Ruhengeri), which sits at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes and serves as the main gateway town to the park.
Option 1: Private Vehicle or Hired Car with Driver
For most gorilla trekkers, hiring a private car and driver in Rwanda is the most comfortable and convenient option. This is especially popular among visitors who have booked a safari package, as many tour operators in Kigali include road transfers in their programmes.
The benefits are significant: you depart at your own schedule, can stop for photos along the way, and arrive at your lodge or the park headquarters rested and ready. Costs vary depending on the vehicle type and operator, but expect to pay between USD 80 and USD 150 for a one-way transfer in a 4WD vehicle. Most lodges around Musanze can also arrange transfers directly.
If you are driving yourself, the road from Kigali to Musanze (RN2) is paved and generally in good condition. A standard saloon car is sufficient, although a 4WD gives you more flexibility if you plan to explore the area further or if you are staying at a more remote property.
Option 2: Public Bus (Matatu or Express Coach)
Travelling to Musanze by public transport is entirely feasible and very affordable. Regular minibus taxis (matatus) depart from Nyabugogo Bus Terminal in Kigali throughout the day from early morning until late afternoon. The journey takes roughly two to three hours and costs around RWF 1,500 to 2,500 (approximately USD 1.50 to 2.50).
For a slightly more comfortable experience, companies such as Volcano Express and Virunga Express operate scheduled coach services between Kigali and Musanze. These buses are air-conditioned, run on time, and offer a more relaxed ride than the minibuses. Tickets cost a little more but are still very budget-friendly.
From Musanze town, you will need to arrange onward transport to the park headquarters at Kinigi, which is a further 12 kilometres away. Motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis) are widely available in Musanze and can cover this stretch in about 20 minutes. Alternatively, your lodge may offer a shuttle, or you can hire a local taxi.
Option 3: Helicopter Charter
For those with the budget and the desire for a dramatic arrival, helicopter charters are available from Kigali to the Virunga region. Several operators, including Akagera Aviation, offer private charter flights that cut the travel time to under an hour and deliver breathtaking aerial views of Rwanda’s thousand hills and the volcanic peaks of the Virungas.
This option is popular with high-end safari travellers staying at luxury lodges such as One&Only Gorilla’s Nest or Singita Kwitonda Lodge. Charter costs vary significantly based on group size and aircraft, but transfers typically start from around USD 500 to USD 1,000 per person each way. Your lodge or tour operator can arrange bookings.
Arriving from Uganda or the Democratic Republic of Congo
Volcanoes National Park sits at the meeting point of three countries — Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC — and some travellers combine gorilla trekking in multiple parks across the region.
If you are crossing from Uganda, the Cyanika border post is the most direct entry point for Volcanoes National Park, located just a few kilometres from Kinigi. The crossing is manageable and relatively straightforward for tourists with the correct visas. From the Ugandan town of Kisoro, the drive to the border takes about 20 minutes. Rwanda offers visa-on-arrival for most nationalities, and East African Community members can enter visa-free.
Crossing from the DRC is possible via Gisenyi/Rubavu on the Congolese border, though the political situation in eastern DRC can affect safety and accessibility. Always check current travel advisories before planning a cross-border itinerary from the DRC.
Getting Around Once You Arrive
The main base for gorilla trekking is the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) headquarters at Kinigi, where all trekkers must check in before 7:00 AM on the morning of their trek. Most lodges in the area are clustered within a 15 to 30 minute drive of Kinigi and will arrange morning transfers as part of your stay.
The park itself is not accessible by public transport, and independent visitors without their own vehicle should make prior arrangements for morning transfers with their lodge or a local operator. Arriving late to the briefing is not permitted, so plan to stay close to the park the night before your trek.
Practical Tips for the Journey
Leave Kigali the day before your trek. Arriving in Musanze on the eve of your gorilla trek is strongly advisable. Morning traffic in Kigali can be unpredictable, and road delays could cause you to miss the 7:00 AM check-in — and forfeit a permit that can cost USD 1,500.
Book transport in advance during peak season. June through September and December through January are the busiest months. Confirm your transfers well ahead of time.
Carry local currency. While Kigali is card-friendly, smaller towns and local transport operators often operate on cash. Keep Rwandan francs handy for bus fares, moto-taxis, and small purchases in Musanze.
Pack for the altitude. Musanze sits at around 1,850 metres above sea level, and the trekking zone rises considerably higher. Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket regardless of the season.
Getting to Volcanoes National Park is a journey in itself — through one of Africa’s most beautifully terraced landscapes, past volcanic peaks wreathed in cloud, and into one of the continent’s most remarkable wild places. With a little planning, the road from Kigali to the gorillas is smooth, scenic, and every bit as memorable as the destination.
To book a rental car and driver for self drive or driver-guided safari to Volcanos national park, simply contact us now by emailing to info@rentadriverrwanda.com or call us now on +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.
