Northern

Northern Province is Rwanda's most dramatic landscape, dominated by the volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains — a chain of dormant volcanoes that includes Mount Karisimbi (4,507 m), Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura. The province is home to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda's premier tourist attraction, where visitors trek to see endangered mountain gorillas. The fertile foothills are intensively farmed with pyrethrum, potatoes, and tea.

The provincial hub is Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), the main base for gorilla trekking. The region also offers golden monkey tracking, guided volcano climbs, visits to the Dian Fossey tomb, and cultural experiences in the surrounding communities.

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer the best trekking conditions. Gorilla permits are available year-round but are most in demand from June to September. The wet season trails can be steep and muddy, making trekking more challenging.

The main road from Kigali to Musanze is paved and in excellent condition (about 2 hours). From Musanze, local transport connects to Kinigi (park headquarters), Burera, Gicumbi, and the border crossings to Uganda and the DRC. A 4x4 is not essential for Musanze town but helpful for reaching some trailheads.

• Musanze — the main town and base for gorilla trekking, with a vibrant market
• Burera — a district of crater lakes and beautiful landscapes
• Gicumbi — a hilly district on the road to Uganda
• Gakenke — a high-altitude district known for tea plantations
• Rulindo — a scenic district north of Kigali
• Kinigi — the site of Volcanoes National Park headquarters and starting point for most gorilla treks
• Volcanoes National Park — the world-famous gorilla trekking destination, home to mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and the Dian Fossey grave

Musanze has a good range of restaurants catering to trekkers. Local specialities include potatoes (grown extensively in the region), beans, and brochettes. The town's markets sell fresh vegetables and local cheese.

The annual Kwita Izina ceremony (September) sees newly born gorillas given names in a public celebration of conservation. Traditional Intore dance performances can be arranged through local cultural villages. The Dian Fossey legacy draws researchers and conservationists.

• Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Climbing Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi
• Golden monkey tracking
• Visiting the Dian Fossey tomb and research station
• The Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village experience near Kinigi
• Crater lake walks around Burera and Ruhondo