Things to Do in Musanze

Musanze, the busy town at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes, is the base for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. But there is far more to do here than one famous hour. These are the best ways to spend an extra day or two.

In Volcanoes National Park

• Gorilla trekking — the reason you're here (Rwanda gorilla permits cost $1,500).
• Golden monkey trekking — lively, easier, $100 permit.
• Mount Bisoke hike — a strenuous day climb to a crater lake.
• Dian Fossey tomb hike — to Karisoke and Fossey's grave.
• Karisimbi climb — two days to Rwanda's highest point (4,507 m), for fit hikers.

Around Musanze

Musanze Caves

A long lava tube formed by ancient eruptions, explored with a guide, with bats and dramatic shafts of light where the roof has collapsed.

The Twin Lakes: Burera and Ruhondo

Two deep-blue lakes set between steep terraced hills east of Musanze. Take a boat trip, a lakeside walk or simply a picnic with volcano views.

Gorilla Guardians Village

Formerly Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village, near Kinigi: traditional dance and drumming, a replica king's house, banana beer, archery and crafts, run in partnership with former poachers and the local community.

Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund — Ellen DeGeneres Campus

A striking research and education centre with an exhibition about gorilla science and conservation.

Musanze market and town

A colourful market, cafés and local life — a good place for coffee and a stroll.

Suggested extra day

Where to stay

Musanze has the widest choice of budget and mid-range hotels; Kinigi, closer to the park, has the upscale lodges. See where to stay near Volcanoes National Park.

Musanze questions