Musanze Caves Tour

One of the few activities to do in volcanoes national park after the famous gorilla tracking and golden monkey experience is to explore the Musanze caves which are located 2 km from the main town Musanze on the Lake Kivu road. Musanze caves were officially recognized as tourism products in Rwanda in 2013 and have since then become some of the geological tourism activities in Northwestern Rwanda province.

Formation of the Musanze Caves

Musanze Caves are lying below the volcanic mountains of the Virunga massif and it is belied to have been formed as a result of volcanic eruption decades ago that offers an in-depth understanding of the geological and geographical historical development of the area. Musanze cave can be explored after gorilla tracking in Volcanoes national park for travelers with enough time and wanting an extra adventure, the place is located on the foothills of Volcanoes national park, meaning that you can easily visit this place after a gorilla tracking experience in the evening hours.

Wearing protective gear before entering the Musanze caves

Once you reached there, you will ask to put on the protective gear, a touch helmet, gloves, and mouth and nose cover. This activity is offered by Rwanda Development Board and the guides from the park usually armed in order to ensure that the experience is fantastic and enjoyable.

Actual experience in the Musanze caves

The first item to raids you is the size. Going inside the cave is like entering into a cathedral, you are able to learn that these caves were once used by the Rwanda Kings as an Ikigega or store for food and many other supplies during the times of war. Immediately put on the helmets, Jackets, and the boots, which are all provided, it became clear that the caves were not only so rich in history but also the natural beauty.

You are right away enclosed by the dense silence that is broken only by the footsteps and the drops of water that hit the rock floor below. Though we are not alone, just a look high above showed hundreds of bats that hang from the stunning rock formations. These were also alarmed by our presence, the sound of the panicking wings rebounded through the cave.

When to visit the Musanze Caves?

The caves are open for a visit at any time but the best time is usually when the sun is fully dispersed over the clouds and that allows a bit of light into the extremely unbelievable caves so any time after 10 am up to 4 pm is perfect to explore the Musanze caves.