Participating in a forest guided nature walk is an amazing way for tourists to discover some of the hidden attractions like the primate species, bird species, tree species, and butterfly species surviving within the Volcanoes National Park. Nature walks in Volcanoes National Park are done by expert tour guides and armed park rangers who will help you as you walk deep into the jungles of Volcanoes National Park to spend some quality time looking for unique species that may be of interest to travelers, such as the tree species, vegetation types, and wildlife species that call Volcanoes jungle home. During your nature walks, you can easily see several primate species other than mountain gorillas.
In contrast to gorilla trekking, which requires visitors to hike up to higher altitudes and takes more time, hiking to see the golden monkeys involves encountering primates that live in the lower parts of Volcanoes National Park, which are primarily composed of bamboo forest. Grayish-brown coloring on their backs makes golden monkeys stand out. You will be completely moved by these monkeys’ behavior and appearance when you first meet them within Volcanoes National Park. The most popular hiking routes in Volcanoes National Park include:
The Ngezi Lake Trail
The Ngezi Lake trail takes hikers to the magnificent Ngezi Lake, which is a tiny, shallow, and picturesque lake located in the foothills of Mount Bisoke. Exploring this lake takes 3–4 hours round trip and is best done after ascending Mount Bisoke. You can expect to see a variety of monkeys and bird species along this trail, among other interesting attractions. This lake stands out due to the fact that it is surrounded by significant birding areas, which is why many birds call them home, including the Papyrus gonolek and the Grauer’s Swamp warbler. Prepare to be in awe of the stunning views of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Virunga Massif’s volcanoes as you hike this trail in Virunga National Park. Therefore, it is undeniable that this trail provides visitors with the chance to enjoy Lake Ngezi, the Crater Lake on Mount Bisoke, a variety of mammal and bird species, the Foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, and the surrounding areas.
Hiking to the Dian Fossey grave site
Travelers shouldn’t forget to visit the grave of the woman who died defending the mountain gorillas when they are at Volcanoes National Park. In the end, Dian Fossey sacrificed her happiness and her life to protect mountain gorillas, and in the end, she paid a high price—her own life. Following the release of “Gorillas in the Mist,” the world became aware of her life and work. Her research camp, known as Karisoke Research Camp, which is situated between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke, can also be seen while on the hike. Her beloved gorilla, Digit, who is located close to Dian Fossey’s grave, can be heard raving at the end of a 3-to 4-hour hike that starts from Kinigi Park Headquarters.
Hiking to the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera
Visitors can take nature walks to the Twin Lakes, which are two of Volcanoes National Park’s most breathtaking lakes. You can choose between boat cruises and a three-hour hike to the Rusumo waterfalls when you visit these lakes, where you can also see rare bird species like the African Marsh Harrier, Cinnamon-breasted Bee-eater, Long-crested Eagle, Plain Martin, Paradise Flycatchers, pink-backed pelicans, and Grey-throated Tit, among others.
A Nature Walk to the Buhanga Sacred Forest
Taking a nature walk through the Buhanga Eco-park is a way to fully experience nature, culture, and heritage in this small, majestic forest where the Rwandan Kings’ coronation took place. Given the cultural significance that the locals attach to the forest, it is because of this that it is still preserved today. The trees in this forest are most notable for their yellow color and for being a haven for numerous bird and butterfly species that draw tourists in.
Travelers can reach the breathtaking peaks of these volcanoes within the Virunga Massif. Mountain climbing can be done on Mount Muhabura, Mount Bisoke, and Mount Karisimbi. Along with hiking through Volcanoes National Park, nature strolls through the Musanze Caves are a lot of fun.
Finally, you should visit Volcanoes National Park for more than just gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking. You should also go on nature walks or hikes around the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera, visit the grave of Dian Fossey, and hike to Lake Ngezi.