Rwanda Gorilla Trekking The 2025 Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
Lost in Rwanda: Rwanda Gorilla Trekking The 2025 Ultimate Beginner’s Guide. The Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Cost starts from 2,000 USD Per-Person. Rwanda offers some of the Accessible Gorilla Trekking safaris on the planet.
Rwanda is a famous destination for gorilla trekking, specifically in Volcanoes National Park, which is home to a significant population of endangered mountain gorillas. A permission is required to follow gorillas, and it costs $1,500 per person. The trip entails travelling around the park with a guide, viewing gorillas in their natural habitat for an hour, and following safety instructions to preserve the creatures.
Book customized remarkable Rwanda Gorilla tours or Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda for exceptional Gorilla tours with Kabira Gorilla Safaris. Gorilla trekking is one of the Best Rwanda Safari activities popularly termed a unique wildlife experience.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking If there is any kind of safari that brings you closer to wildlife on foot, then it is a Rwanda Gorilla trekking tour. Living within a bamboo forest with Mountain Gorillas several times your weight and wild animals is such an experience that shouldn’t miss on a traveler’s bucket list.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is the only place for Rwanda Gorilla tracking Tours Safaris just about 2 hours drive from Kigali International Airport. It’s the only Gorilla trekking park from its International Airport. There are 10 habituated mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park open for Rwanda gorilla trekking by tourists. Each family receives 8 tourists on gorilla holidays per day for the trek. Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda. Fortunately the Gorilla population of Rwanda is the easiest to trek. This is because they move for shorter distances and as well live in a bamboo forest which offers easy hiking experiences.
It was in Rwanda where the popular American primatologist Dian Fossey did her extensive conservation on the Mountain Gorillas. She wrote a book titled Gorillas in the Mist 2 years before her death and it was later adapted into a film in 1988 with the same title. Today her legacy lives on at her Resting place in the Karisoke Research Centre.
Rwanda Safaris/ Rwanda Tours – To see the Rwanda Mountain Gorillas here you must take Rwanda Gorilla Safaris tours/Rwanda Gorilla trekking whether on a short or long trip. The tour requires each trekker to go hiking/walking/trekking in the tropical dense forest.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda is such a beautiful country that accommodates all kinds of travelers including Luxury and budget travelers. Depending on the amount of time one has in Rwanda, one can take either a Short or Long Gorilla tracking tour. Here are the different itineraries to suit both Short and Long Rwanda Gorilla tours;
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: All You Need to Know
Because of the dire situation of gorilla populations, trekking in Africa’s gorilla parks is strictly regulated. You cannot hold a permit on a provisional basis; they are expensive, difficult to obtain, and final. If you want to travel to such isolated places and have the best chance of a gorilla trek, you need the kind of first-hand expertise and local knowledge that an Africa Safari Expert can provide. Make contact with an individual who has experienced this:
1 Day Gorilla Trek Rwanda
Gorilla Trek Rwanda is the only possible Gorilla safari day tour created for tourists already in Rwanda. The tour starts with a very early morning pick-up and ends with a late evening drop-off in Kigali town. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is the only park with Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda and the closest habitat to an international airport.
2 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda
Gorilla Trek Rwanda is a short Gorilla safari well customized for tourists who would want to have only a Gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda in the shortest time possible but not much exhausting as the 1 Day Gorilla tour. Gorilla Trekking Rwanda is a perfect option for tourists already in Rwanda.
Gorilla Trekking And Kigali City Tour
3-Day Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari well customized to suit all kinds of tourists including budget, mid-range, and Luxury interested tourists. Gorilla Trek Rwanda is favorable for tourists who are coming in with international flights to the country or those coming from neighboring countries.
Gorilla And Dian Fossey Hike
3 days 2 nights Rwanda Gorilla trekking tour and hike to visit the grave of the famous primatologist Dian Fossey who lost her life to poachers in the park while conserving Mountain Gorillas. Taking time to visit her grave doesn’t only offer a great hiking experience but is a good time to learn about Mountain Gorilla conservation.
Gorillas And Golden Monkey Trekking
The 4 Days Gorillas And Golden Monkey Trekking is very favorable for tourists who are coming in with international flights to the country or those coming from neighboring countries. This is because the first and last days are reserved for arrival and departure.
10 Days in Rwanda Itinerary
This 10 days Rwanda safari takes to Nyungwe, Lake Kivu and Volcanoes National Park. Experience Chimp tracking. Canopy Walk. Gisenyi town. Lake Kivu. Golden Monkey Tracking. Cultural Tour, and Gorilla Trekking. Experience The tidy city of Kigali, with its historically significant Genocide Museums, Nyungwe National Park, which is home to chimpanzees and features a fantastic Forest Canopy Walk, and Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda Gorilla Flying Safari
The 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Flying Safari starts and ends at Kigali International Airport where daily flights arrive and depart from different countries of the world. For tourists arriving at Kigali International Airport, your Driver Guide will ensure pick up and drop off at the airport. All road drives/transfers within Rwanda will be done by 4×4 Luxury Land cruisers along with a personal Rwanda Safari Guide.
6 Days Rwanda Safari
Chimpanzee and Gorilla Trekking Package include a Kigali city tour, chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking with chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, and Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Kigali city is such a very historical city with several museums that keep the artifacts and traditions of the people of Rwanda.
7 Days in Rwanda Itinerary
7 Days Rwanda safari experience watching primates i.e. chimpanzees and gorillas in Nyungwe and Volcanoes. In Africa’s oldest national park, get up and personal with mountain gorillas while hiking through the rainforest in search of chimpanzees. View gorilla families playing, observe chimps swinging through the vines, and stand in astonishment as a massive silverback muscled its way through the forest.
9 Days Rwanda Safari Itinerary
On this custom vacation, spend nine days exploring Rwanda’s top attractions, from the stunning Lake Kivu to gorilla trekking in the mountains. Spend some time in Kigali, the country’s capital, where a guided tour will highlight the poignant Gisozi genocide memorial site and discuss Rwanda’s colonial heritage as well as its recent painful history.
Congo Nile Trail and Nyungwe Tour
The 9-day Congo Nile Trail and Nyungwe Tour traverses the Congo Nile Trail, a trail that runs along Lake Kivu from Rubavu to Rutsiro via the Karongi and Nyamasheke districts and ends in Rutsizi District. 227 kilometers (141 miles) of breathtaking scenery, including undulating terrain and clear water. The entire journey can be accomplished in ten days.
Flying Safaris in Rwanda
Book Private Flying Safaris in Rwanda by charter helicopter with us and fly to all Rwanda National Parks. Our Rwanda Flying Safaris make transportation easy in Rwanda. International flights into Rwanda land at Kigali International Airport in the capital city of Kigali. A helicopter can be chartered from here to travel between Kigali and Bisate, Kigali and Magashi, or Bisate and Magashi (and vice versa).
Mountain Gorilla vs Lowland Gorilla
Mountain Gorilla vs Lowland Gorilla, Fight, Size, Who Wins. African gorilla safaris are once-in-a-lifetime experiences that everyone should include on their itinerary. There are two distinct gorilla species that are frequently lumped together. Mountain gorillas are larger and have longer hair and shorter limbs than their lowland counterparts.
Rwanda Gorilla And Chimpanzee Trekking
A Detailed Rwanda Gorilla And Chimpanzee Trekking Itinerary Guide. Explore the World with Kabira Safaris & Tours Into the heart of Rwanda’s hilly woodland ecosystems, where some of the most elusive monkeys in Africa call home. On this nine-day Rwanda Gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking itinerary, you’ll experience a range of temperatures and stay in tiny, elegant lodges on the outskirts of the wild rainforest.
Rwanda Primates Safari
Set out on a once-in-a-lifetime Primates Safari through Rwanda’s most fascinating locations, experiencing things like breathtaking gorilla trekking and exhilarating chimpanzee tracking. Kigali, Rwanda’s cultural epicenter, will serve as your starting point. After that, you’ll head into Nyungwe National Park, where you can spend a few days at a rustic cottage in the woods, taking it all in.
Akagera vs Volcanoes vs Nyungwe Itinerary
On this private detailed Akagera vs Volcanoes vs Nyungwe Itinerary Guide, multi-day safari, you’ll get to see three of Rwanda’s wildlife reserves. In Akagera National Park, you may go on game drives and boat rides to see giraffes, leopards, rhinos, and other famous animals.
Volcanoes And Akagera Safari
Set out on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the Rwandan rainforest in search of golden monkeys and mountain gorillas. Gorillas are truly remarkable animals; to learn more about them, you can visit a facility established by Dr. Dian Fossey, who spent 18 years studying them in the Virunga Mountains with funding from National Geographic.
Trek Gorillas on Honeymoon in Rwanda
Trek Gorillas on Honeymoon in Rwanda: A Prefect Itinerary. Gorilla interactions in Rwanda are very unforgettable. The breathtaking scenery of verdant mountain slopes teeming with gorilla families is sure to enchant you both. Seeing these massive apes in their native habitat, untouched, was an incredible experience.
Travel Advice for Visiting Rwanda
Best travel advice for Visiting Rwanda for the First Time (by a Local!). Visit Rwanda: Explore the Land of a Thousand Hills & Travel Advice – Greetings from Rwanda. It is essential to engage the services of a tour operator like Kabira Gorilla Safaris to help you make the most of your stay in Rwanda. Coming to Africa, especially to Rwanda and the entire continent, requires some planning and preparation.
Volcanoes And Akagera Safari
Set out on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the Rwandan rainforest in search of golden monkeys and mountain gorillas. Gorillas are truly remarkable animals; to learn more about them, you can visit a facility established by Dr. Dian Fossey, who spent 18 years studying them in the Virunga Mountains with funding from National Geographic.
Gorilla Trekking Staying At Singita
Anyone who takes the plunge and travels to Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat will come away altered. Meeting these incredible animals in one of the few remaining habitats they have left has a profound effect on visitors, and ultimately on conservation efforts in East Africa.
Golden Monkeys Trekking in Volcanoes
Learn about the golden monkey’s playful and curious character, a gorgeous creature native to the high-altitude woods of Volcanoes National Park. Spend the morning looking for a habituated group of golden monkeys, one of which is a large troop of more than 80 individuals, amid the dense jungle at the base of Mount Sabyinyo. An hour spent watching them play in the thin bamboo shoots or tumbling through the underbrush will feel like a lifetime.
Gorilla Tours From Kigali
This page shows the best gorilla trekking tours from Kigali to Uganda. Trekking Gorillas in Uganda are done in the two national parks of Bwindi and Mgahinga both situated southwest of the country. These are both at the border with Rwanda. It’s just about 4 hour drive from Kigali-Rwanda to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and just 3 hours to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Gorilla Tours in Africa
Guide to Gorilla trekking in Africa: Africa is home to the three best countries in the world for gorilla tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Experience Ultimate Luxury on a Gorilla Tour in Africa. For those who have had the honor of taking advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime chance, seeing mountain gorillas in their natural environment is reported to be a life-altering and eye-opening event that has become an indelible memory.
16 Days Birding in Rwanda Itinerary
On a bird watching safari through Rwanda that lasts 16 days, you’ll get to see the breathtaking landscapes and learn about the abundant wildlife that calls this country home. Embark on a captivating excursion through Kigali, the expansive Akagera National Park, the ethereal Nyungwe woods, and the majestic Virunga Mountains, as you explore the heart of Rwanda’s avian treasures.
Multi Country Africa Tours
In common usage, “Safari Africa” refers to both East and Southern Africa. Due to the vast geographical differences between the two regions, deciding whether to go east or south should be your first order of business when organizing a safari.
While safaris in East Africa often involve visits to the Serengeti in Tanzania and Rwanda, where visitors may also get the chance to see gorillas in their natural habitat, safaris in Southern Africa might begin in Cape Town and include stops to Victoria Falls and Botswana.
A massive “pan-Africa” safari that includes stops in both East and Southern Africa would be an incredible way to see the best of both regions.
The ideal approach to begin organising any safari is to speak with one of our experts over the phone because we personalise each one for you. After going over all of your options with you, they’ll send you an email with trip planning details that are specific to you. There is a lot of misleading “sale-focused” information online, so tread carefully when you do your homework.
Looking at our most popular pathways below will give you just a few ideas of what is actually possible if you aren’t quite ready to have a discussion.
If we had to give you one piece of advise, it would be to stick with the region you’ve always imagined. Travel to East Africa if, for instance, witnessing the vast Serengeti grasslands is your greatest desire. Similarly, if the Okavango Delta in Botswana is your ideal vacation spot, you should definitely give Southern Africa your full attention. The correct choice is usually to stick to your initial idea; it’s that easy.
The response to an often requested question—”Where can I have the best safari?”—supports this belief. Actually, we can arrange tours to any location with a great safari camp, so there really is no bad place to go on a safari! No matter where you are in Safari Africa, we are certain that we can create a memorable safari just for you. That’s our general guideline for safaris: the correct property in any country may provide for an unforgettable experience.
2 Weeks in Rwanda And Uganda
The main attraction of this 2 Weeks in Rwanda And Uganda Itinerary is seeing mountain gorillas, and the plan permits you to undertake that activity twice for the best experience. The gorilla tracking experience is so engrossing that your enthusiasm may overshadow the subjective experience the first time, and it’s only the second time you take on the task that you’ll record eternal memories.
Gorilla Trekking Uganda vs Rwanda vs Congo
One of the most singular, memorable, and life-altering travel experiences is tracking the endangered mountain gorilla through the strange intimacy of the rainforest, filled with the calls of colorful birds and the chattering of the rare golden monkey. The best places to go gorilla trekking are in Rwanda, Uganda, and the D.R. Congo.
Rwanda Gorilla Tours from South Africa
Remarkable Rwanda Gorilla Tours from South Africa to Volcanoes National Park with Kabira Safaris. Our Favourite Rwanda Gorilla Tours from South Africa. Fortunately, Kigali International Airport has daily international flights, and therefore easy to have a short gorilla safari to South Africa from Kigali. Tourists trek Ugandan Gorillas via Rwanda because the permit in Uganda is cheaper and the parks are nearer to an International Airport.
Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania And Zanzibar Itinerary
This is the ultimate Rwanda Kenya Tanzania And Zanzibar safari for someone looking to see every bit of what East Africa has to offer within 15 days. This itinerary also includes accommodations at handpicked best-in-class hotels and lodges. So, welcome to the ultimate East Africa experience.
Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania Itinerary
This Safari in Uganda, Rwanda & Tanzania is unique in nature as it grants a great opportunity for travelers to experience Uganda’s gorillas at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Tour Rwanda’s Capital, Kigali, and at the same time Visit the wildlife extravaganza, Tanzania. The 14 Days Safari in Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania Safari through Rwanda offers a variety of safari activities among others; City Tours, Cultural experiences, Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, and lots of game drives in Tanzania.
Uganda and Rwanda Safari
The 11 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari (The Great Apes of Africa). This Uganda and Rwanda Safari includes Watching Gorillas, Chimpanzees & Wildlife Game Viewing. Set out on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure across the lush hills of Uganda and Rwanda in search of chimps and mountain gorillas in the wild. Observe chimps and gorillas with a primatologist in the jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park.
Tanzania, Zanzibar And Rwanda Itinerary
A private lecture at Oldupai Gorge, where the remains of early man were found; a hot air balloon ride at dawn over the Serengeti, followed by breakfast; an ocean safari on a private dhow boat, with lunch on a secluded beach; and a one-hour interactive visit with a silverback gorilla family in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, with an expert guide and a personal porter, in small groups of just 8 guests.
Big 5 Safari And Gorillas Itinerary
How to Plan The Big 5 Safari And Gorillas Itinerary for Your First Time. Take note. Meet… Interact! The endangered mountain gorilla and other plains-dwelling big game are revealed by our one-of-a-kind safari itinerary. In our specially designed 6-passenger open-top jeeps, our knowledgeable safari guides will bring you closer to the Big Five, giving you a front-row seat to every exciting encounter!
Gorilla Trek and Masai Mara Safari
9 Days Gorilla Trek and Masai Mara Safari in Rwanda and Kenya. A Customized Safari in Rwanda and Kenya best for Gorilla Trekking and Wildebeest Adventure. Combine two of East Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences on a trip that includes gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and three days on safari in the Masai Mara.
Wildebeest Migration and Gorilla trekking
8 Days Wildebeest Migration and Gorilla trekking Flying Safari; Rwanda and Tanzania safari is a unique safari package that offers a great opportunity for travelers to witness one of Africa’s natural wonders, the Great Wildebeest Migration, and at the same time do gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Wildebeest and Gorilla Trek – Tanzania safari is one of the best safari packages for those who crave gorilla trekking at the same time wish to witness the wildebeest migration in Tanzania.
The Great Apes of Africa
Set out on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure across the lush hills of Uganda and Rwanda in search of chimps and mountain gorillas in the wild. Observe chimps and gorillas with a primatologist in the jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park. Stay at breathtaking lodges, ranging from a lakeside house at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains to a hilltop eco-lodge with panoramic views of Rwanda’s volcanoes.
Gorilla Trek and Tanzania Safari
A well-planned 16 Days Gorilla trek and Tanzania Safari is a classical adventure expedition to Tanzania through Rwanda and Uganda. This safari Package is unique in nature as it grants a great opportunity for travelers to experience Uganda’s gorillas at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Tour Rwanda’s Capital, Kigali, and at the same time Visit the wildlife extravaganza, Tanzania.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you make your Rwanda Gorilla Tours Trekking package a memorable experience, we offer you all of the most important Gorilla trekking information. There are several frequently asked questions about Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and here is everything you need to know.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Cost
ORDINARY PERMIT: USD $1500 per person for all trekking visitors to Rwanda. The behind the scenes gorilla Tour for 3 days costs US$ 30,000 for 3 persons.
Is gorilla trekking worth the money
Yes, Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is absolutely worth the money, effort & time spent. Travelers that have experienced gorilla trekking will definitely agree with me that the experience of coming face-to-face with these gentle giants is very worth every effort, money, and time put into planning the gorilla trekking holiday.
When should I go to Rwanda
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the drier period from June to September, when you have the best chance at spotting the country’s undoubted highlight: the mountain gorilla. The rainy seasons, from March to May and in November, are the optimum times for tracking chimpanzees. It’s also quieter then.
Why is Gorilla Trekking So Expensive/Costly
Why is Gorilla Trekking so Expensive in Rwanda, Uganda. Because Mountain Gorillas are endangered and only in three countries of the world. Because of this, many people have wished to go Gorilla trekking which has made governments increase the cost of permits as a way of minimizing the numbers visiting these natural habitats daily.
Why Are Gorillas Endangered
Mountain gorillas have endured unrestricted poaching, sickness, habitat degradation, and the effects of armed warfare for many years. Since their population fell, they are now regarded as endangered. However, as Gizmodo’s George Dvorsky notes, there is good news for these magnificent primates. According to a recent census, there are now 1,063 confirmed mountain gorillas, an alarmingly low number but evidence that conservation efforts are having an impact.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! However, in order to fully appreciate the experience, you must arrive prepared. Although Uganda has a tropical environment, the mountain gorillas reside at a high altitude, where the temperature drops dramatically at night and remains cold well into the morning. Mist and rain are typical throughout the year, and daytime hours are generally humid and cool. Trekking with gorillas is not for the faint of heart.
Kwita Izina
The ceremony of giving a name to a newborn baby commonly known as ”Kwita Izina” has been part of the Rwandan tradition for centuries. This ceremony has also been used for the past 3 decades now to give names to newborn gorillas. The names attributed to the gorillas play a great part in the program of monitoring each individual and Gorillas group in its habitat. Since it started, the gorilla naming ceremony has been essential to Tourism and Conservation as well as its partners. The goal of Kwita Izina is to raise awareness of the protection of the mountain gorillas and their habitat.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
The Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda, on the border with Burundi, where it is contiguous with the Kibira National Park to the south, and Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. The Nyungwe rainforest is probably the best preserved montane rainforest in Central Africa. It is located in the watershed between the basin of the river Congo to the west and the basin of the river Nile to the east. From the east side of the Nyungwe forest comes also one of the branches of the Nile sources.
Gorilla Safari Lodges
Mountain gorillas: Sadly, a trekking safari to observe these gorgeous primates is a once-in-a-lifetime event due to their highly endangered status and a low natural population of less than 1,000. The good news is that most of the money made from gorilla trekking tourism is invested directly back into efforts to protect the gorillas and their rainforest habitat, and those funds are growing as more and more charming lodges draw even more charming trekkers (like you!). Check out this page if you want to know which nation is best for your gorilla safari. However, this one focuses on the best gorilla safari lodges to stay at while on a gorilla trekking safari. Check out our favorites below…
Gorilla Trekking Age Limit
Gorilla trekking Age limit in Uganda and Rwanda is the set minimum age/years for mountain Gorilla trekking in Uganda for any persons. Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Uganda Gorilla Trekking Age Limit are currently at 15 years and any person below 15 is not eligible to Trekking Gorillas. This is the age limit for all persons visiting the two gorilla parks in the country – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Therefore, individuals below the age of 15 are not allowed to go Gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Can you see the Gorillas in Rwanda
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda is safe and relatively accessible. At the latest count, there are approximately 1,000 mountain gorillas in the wild, with 604 in the Virunga Massif. The population is slowly increasing, thanks to concerted efforts between our governments, communities, and NGOs.
Where should I stay for Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
- Volcanoes Virunga Lodge. You would never guess that gorilla trekking could be glamorous – yet Virunga Lodge makes the experience exactly that. …
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. …
- Singita Kwitonda Lodge. …
- Singita Kataza House. …
- One & Only Gorilla’s Nest. …
- Bisate Lodge.
Is it safe to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Is it safe to Trek Gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park at present? The answer is a resounding yes. Rwanda remains one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. The security breaches in 2019 have been dealt with, and Rwanda has further increased security measures for tourists.
How many gorillas are left in Rwanda
According to Dec 16, 2019 – The results show that the population there has increased to 459 individuals, from 400 at the last census. Including the mountain gorillas living in the Virunga mountain range of Rwanda and Congo, the overall total of mountain gorillas is now 1,063.
What is Gorilla Trekking
What is Gorilla Trekking: Definition, Photos, Videos & Tours – What is Gorilla trekking? entails taking a guided journey through the rainforest in order to spend time with a specific gorilla tribe in their natural habitat. Visiting these enigmatic and magnificent creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You’ll understand the everlasting fascination with these humаn-like creatures when you watch the children at play, the females cooing over their offspring, and the bold posturing of a silvеrbасk.
What Do Gorillas Eat
One of the most intelligent animals in the world, gorillas are the largest of the great apes. There are two living gorilla species, both of which are indigenous to Sub-Saharan Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo all have tropical woods where the more common variety, the western gorilla, can be found. In contrast, the less common eastern gorilla inhabits the DRC’s lowland forests as well as the mountains of Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC. Both species are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN because to habitat loss and hunting.
Walking With Gorillas
The Perfect Gorilla Walking Safaris – Walking with gorillas can be an amazing and unforgettable experience for those who have the opportunity to do so. Gorillas are the largest primates in the world and are known for their intelligence, strength, and gentle nature. They are also endangered, with only a few thousand remaining in the wild. All our gorilla walking safaris support communities and preserve nature – which helps you get closer to both.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda (also known as Parc National des Volcans) is arguably the best place in the world to observe the critically endangered mountain gorilla. This is where Dian Fossey started the habituation of these gentle giants decades ago. Other activities in the park include golden monkey trekking, a hike to Diane Fossey’s former camp, and the more strenuous volcano summit.
Gorilla Safari Destinations
The Top Gorilla Safari Destinations; Bwindi Impenetrable, Mgahinga Gorilla and Volcanoes National Parks and Other Uganda Safari Parks; Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo National Parks.
A safari to Uganda is awful in general though it becomes more magical if we take you through the top highlight of the country, the pearl is a fantastic place for honeymoon vacationists or holiday vacations. Kabira Gorilla Safaris is a locally based Tour and Travel Company proven and registered under Uganda Tourism Board that can help you plan your safari to the country with a guaranteed wilderness experience.
Gorilla Trekking Guide
Here’s everything you need to know about mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, from where and when to go to the best trips and places to stay. Dreaming of gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda? Here’s everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda – from where and when to go, to how to prepare and what to pack, to the best place to stay, and best gorilla trekking safaris on offer.
I Trekked To See Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda. Here’s How You Can Do It
The Client’s – Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Experience
On a rainy Sunday, I cautiously navigated the mist-enshrouded woodlands of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, my senses heightened by my guide’s gesture signalling the proximity of wildlife. Suddenly, I am stopped by a sight that takes my breath away. A gorilla is situated in the clearing.
The drone of insects ceases, and time halts. The mountain gorilla presents a formidable presence, radiating grandeur and strength. It appears almost as a mystically monster; nonetheless, I am aware that this gorilla is indeed genuine. We are inhaling the same atmosphere. I can detect the musk of his fur. He is observing me. A gorilla is observing me.
The tranquility is disrupted by the sound of snapping branches as infant gorillas collide and tumble into view. They resemble resilient, textured playground spheres and appear to lack spatial awareness, colliding with one another, oscillating, and subsequently descending. A greater number of gorillas leisurely approach, cradling their infants as they establish nests on the ground to forage for berries from vines.
My Rwanda gorilla trekking expedition has led me to the Umubano family, one of ten habituated gorilla families in Rwanda, and among the last surviving mountain gorillas on the planet. It feels hallowed to be present here, to share this environment with such lovely beings.
Approximately 1,000 mountain gorillas exist in the wild, with this national park, located near the borders of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, housing the majority at 604. The government strictly regulates the treks, allowing just eight individuals to visit each gorilla family daily, with a maximum observation time of one hour.
On the trail
Because the gorillas roam about, no two Rwanda gorilla trek encounters are the same. Some families must walk for many hours to get to the park’s boundaries since they are so far away. (Moreover, they aren’t always congregating close to the trails.) Others are close to the mountain base and may be reached on foot in 30 minutes.
Arriving as early as 3am, park rangers analyse the gorillas’ whereabouts from the previous day, examine their movements to identify trends, and search for hints, such as the nests and trails the families leave behind, in order to locate each group. The trackers only locate the gorillas and communicate with the guides who conduct the hikes; rangers never force the animals to stay or encourage them to move.
A couple hours of hiking are required for my encounter. The terrain is difficult right away—my group’s progress is hampered by ankle-deep muck, thick undergrowth, and stinging nettles. We use machetes to cut stairs into the slippery, steep hills and slice our way through the thick undergrowth. With each stride, my boots make a sucking noise and feel like they’re soaked in glue. In one particularly difficult part, I crawl about on all fours like an ape.
Even though the treks are thought to be secure, there is a chance of risk, including encounters with wild creatures other than gorillas, poachers, and rebel groups who operate along the DRC’s border. For this reason, we are accompanied by an armed ranger. Primatologist Dian Fossey, who studied these endangered species and wrote Gorillas in the Mist, was similarly killed by unidentified assailants in 1985 on this same site.
According to a World Bank assessment, nature-based tourism now accounts for 80% of visitors to Rwanda, and gorilla tourism is widely seen as a conservation and economic success. Gorillas were listed as critically endangered when their numbers fell below 250 in the 1970s, about the time Fossey established her research centre. They were in danger of going extinct due to habitat degradation, illnesses, poaching for bushmeat or the illegal animal trade, and armed conflicts.
Gorilla tourism has grown to be a significant source of employment and tourism-related income in the area in recent years, which encourages the preservation of the forest’s habitat and its inhabitants.
“The government’s commitment to involving local communities through tourism revenue sharing and the daily efforts of rangers and park rangers have greatly contributed to the mountain gorillas being the only great ape with an increasing population,” stated Prosper Uwingeli, chief park warden at Volcanoes National Park.
My prime mate
Before the hike, my party is given a safety briefing that includes specific regulations that must be observed when observing the gorillas—most crucially, people must stay at least seven meters (approximately 23 feet) from the gorillas at all times. Under no circumstances should a hiker approach or touch the animals. Should a gorilla elect to approach us, we must remain motionless and avoid direct eye contact.
It is surprising when Charles, the dominant male of the family, strides past me with confidence. He touches my shoulder with one massive hand, approximately the size of a baseball mitt. My guide murmurs, “Remain still,” and I cease breathing. After what seems like an interminable duration, Charles proceeds further. He halts at a ridge that commands a view of the mountain.
Almost adjacent, the formidable gorilla and I observe the terrain underneath, beyond thorns, creeping vines and down jagged green hills. Diaphanous clouds, resembling cotton candy, float by. My forearms are marked with muck, superficial abrasions, and dried blood, yet my body feels revitalised. Only the sound of my heartbeat is present. I refrain from blinking, certain that the moment will conclude all too swiftly.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda – FACE TO FACE WITH WILD MOUNTAIN GORILLAS | Volcanoes National Park
Mountain Gorilla Trek in Rwanda
Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda (Unforgettable)
GORILLA TREKKING in Rwanda – Ultimate Bucket List
Mountain Gorillas, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Mountain Gorilla Trekking in RWANDA!!!
Getting there
- The majority of tourists arrive in the country via Kigali International Airport (KGL), situated around 20 minutes from the capital city. From Kigali, you will journey to Musanze, approximately a 90-minute drive, either by hiring a private vehicle or use the dependable public minibus service, which offers frequent departures from Kigali. Vehicles are available for hire in Musanze to convey you to the park gate on the morning of your trip. Many tour operators and hotels include transport services from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park if your hike is part of a package.
- The average cost for economical roundtrip flights to Kigali is $661.
How to do it
- Best time to go: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda are available year-round; however, it is advisable to visit outside of Rwanda’s rainy season. Heavy rains often occur from March to May and from September to November.
- Cost: The permission charge for foreign tourists is $1,500, with varying prices for East African residents and Rwandan citizens. This is available for direct purchase from Visit Rwanda. All permit holders trek with a park ranger guide, who possesses familiarity with the terrain, expertise in tracking, and intimate knowledge of each gorilla family. The experience can also be reserved via several tour operators for $2,000–$5,000 per individual; these operators can facilitate transportation, accommodations, and permits, while park ranger guides will conduct your gorilla trek.
- Safety considerations: A safety briefing prior to the hike will outline optimal procedures for the experience. All individuals are required to wear a mask in proximity to the gorillas, but not during the remainder of the hike. This safeguards the animals; due to our significant genetic similarity, we can readily transmit viruses or diseases to them.
- Tips: Pack a compact bag for your hydration and sustenance. Additionally, wear suitable attire for the jungle environment: gaiters over hiking boots, gardening gloves, a robust waterproof jacket, and layered clothing. These items are generally not supplied by tour companies, so ensure you bring your own.