The drive from Kigali to Musanze (the gateway town for Volcanoes National Park) is one of Rwanda’s most scenic routes — 112 km of mountain tarmac that climbs from Kigali’s valley setting (1,500 metres) through increasingly dramatic highland scenery to Musanze at 1,850 metres, with the Virunga volcano chain filling the northern horizon. It is also one of Rwanda’s most important tourist routes, used by hundreds of gorilla trekkers weekly. This guide covers the route in detail.
Route: Kigali to Musanze via RN1
The standard route is the RN1 north from Kigali through Rulindo, Burera District, and into Musanze. Total distance: 112 km. Driving time: approximately 2–2.5 hours including one fuel stop. The road is consistently good tarmac throughout — one of Rwanda’s best-maintained national highways.
- Kigali to Base Camp (40 km): Northern Kigali suburbs thin out quickly. The road climbs through green hills and tea plantations. First views of the volcanic peaks appear ahead. Allow 45 minutes.
- Base Camp to Musanze (72 km): The road levels briefly before a dramatic descent into the Musanze valley — the three Virunga volcanoes (Muhabura, Gahinga, Sabyinyo) visible from the road as you approach. Allow 1 hour.
What to See En Route
- Twin Lakes (Lac Burera and Lac Ruhondo): Two beautiful crater lakes visible from the road approximately 70 km from Kigali. A 10-minute stop at the viewpoint provides one of Rwanda’s most photographed landscapes — the two lakes set in a valley surrounded by cultivated hills.
- First Virunga volcano views: As you begin the descent to Musanze, the perfect symmetrical cones of Muhabura and Gahinga appear ahead. On clear days (best November–February), all three Rwandan Virunga volcanoes are visible from the road approach to Musanze.
Musanze Town: Fuel and Supplies
Musanze has reliable fuel stations (Total, KenolKobil), ATMs, supermarkets, and a range of accommodation from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. This is your last major supply stop before the park. The gorilla trekking briefing is at Kinigi, 15 km west of Musanze — so allow time in Musanze before driving on if you need to resupply.
Musanze to Kinigi (Park Headquarters)
The final 15 km from Musanze to Kinigi is on a narrower but good road through agricultural land on the volcano slopes. The park gate and briefing facilities are clearly signed. Allow 30 minutes for this section. Arrive at Kinigi by 7am on trekking day — the briefing starts promptly and late arrivals miss the group assignment.
Car Hire 4×4 Drive provides vehicles for the Kigali–Volcanoes NP route. Contact us for Rwanda vehicle rental.
