Reasons to embark on a thrilling journey to trek gorillas in Rwanda
Reasons to trek gorillas in Rwanda; Gorilla trekking is the most sought-after experience in Rwanda, drawing numerous tourists eager to embark on a journey through the lush tropical rainforest in pursuit of the majestic mountain gorillas. Once located, visitors have the incredible opportunity to spend an hour with these magnificent creatures in their wild habitat. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place in Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the northwestern region. Volcanoes National Park is a vibrant habitat for golden monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and black and white colobus monkeys, as well as mammals such as forest elephants, buffaloes, duikers, bush pigs, and more than 200 species of birds. Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, as well as Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Embarking on a journey to trek with gorillas in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park begins bright and early at approximately 8:00 am, kicking off with an exciting briefing about the rules, regulations, and what to expect at the park headquarters. Following the briefing, you will be divided into groups of 8, with each group assigned to a habituated gorilla family for trekking. A knowledgeable park guide, familiar with the gorilla trails, will accompany you on this exciting journey. Trekking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location, as they enjoy roaming in search of food. While trekking, you will encounter various primate species, mammals, and birds, among others. Once you find the mountain gorillas, you will have the chance to spend an hour with them in their natural environment. This experience allows you to observe their behaviors and habits, watch them engage in their daily activities, and capture photos and videos to share with friends and family back home.
The price of permits for gorilla trekking in Rwanda
In Volcanoes National Park, the cost for gorilla trekking permits is 1,500 USD per person, applicable to all nationalities. Volcanoes National Park presents exciting opportunities with discounted gorilla trekking permits available. Be sure to grab the promotional permits at least a month ahead of your trekking adventure! If the permit is purchased within a month of the trekking date, the cost will be 1,500 USD.
Reasons to embark on a gorilla trek in Rwanda
Rwanda stands out as a premier destination for gorilla trekking, offering numerous compelling reasons for travelers to embark on this journey in Volcanoes National Park. The park’s convenient accessibility from Kigali makes it an attractive option, with just a three-hour drive from Kigali International Airport to the heart of the park.
Volcanoes National Park offers accessible gorilla treks in Africa, standing out among other gorilla trekking destinations.
Exploring the world of golden monkeys
Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered golden monkeys, offering an exciting opportunity to encounter them during your safari. Golden monkey trekking is an exciting and dynamic experience in Volcanoes National Park that begins early in the morning with a briefing on the rules and regulations at the park headquarters. After the briefing, explorers will embark on a trek through the forest, tracing the paths of leftover bamboo shoots and leaves. Once the golden monkeys are discovered, you will have the opportunity to spend one hour in their natural habitat, where you can observe them as they feed, play, leap among the tree branches, and capture photos and videos of these enchanting creatures.
Scaling peaks
Mountain climbing is an exhilarating activity that you can immerse yourself in during your gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park boasts five of the eight majestic Virunga volcanoes that adventurers can explore. Among them are Mount Bisoke, towering at 3,700 meters above sea level, Mount Karisimbi, reaching an impressive 4,507 meters, and Mount Muhavura, standing at 4,127 meters. Additionally, there is Mount Sabinyo, with a height of 3,674 meters, and Mount Gahinga, which rises to 3,474 meters.
Exploring the world of birds
Volcanoes National Park boasts a vibrant array of over 200 bird species, including Albertine endemic birds, forest dwellers, and migratory visitors, establishing it as a premier birding destination in Rwanda. Embarking on a bird watching journey in Volcanoes National Park offers the thrill of early morning or evening excursions with a knowledgeable park guide. Together, you’ll seek out a variety of captivating bird species, such as the African Green Broadbill, Ruwenzori Batis, Palm Nut Vulture, Archers Robin Chat, Ruwenzori Turaco, Crested Barbet, Lesser Honey Guide, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Baglafecht Weaver, Common Stonechat, Brown Woodland Warbler, Black-crowned Waxbill, Dusky Crimsonwing, and Handsome Francolin, among many others.
Reasons to embark on a gorilla trek in Rwanda
Iby’iwacu cultural tour
Volcanoes National Park presents the thrilling iby’iwacu cultural experience, allowing you to connect with the local communities, discover their rich culture and way of life, explore traditional homes, participate in vibrant dances, and purchase unique craft souvenirs, among other engaging activities.
During your gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, you can immerse yourself in a variety of exciting activities. Consider hiking to the Dian Fossey grave, exploring the Dian Fossey gorilla fund, or visiting the stunning twin lakes. A tour of Kigali city will also allow you to experience local culture at Kimironko market and reflect at the Kigali genocide memorial centre, among other enriching experiences.
The ideal period for embarking on a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is an exhilarating experience available throughout the year. However, the ideal time to embark on this adventure is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the park enjoys less rainfall, resulting in dry and accessible trekking trails. This makes the journey much easier compared to the rainy season, when the trails can become muddy and slippery, presenting more challenges for trekkers.
Choosing your accommodation for an unforgettable gorilla trekking safari
There are numerous accommodation options available for your gorilla trekking safari, catering to all preferences and budgets. You can choose from places like Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Hotel Muhabura, Kinigi Guest House, Sambora Kinigi Lodge, Eagle View Lodge, Gorillas Nest Lodge, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, Amakoro Songa Lodge, Virunga Lodge, Mountain Gorillas Nest Lodge, and Virunga Inn Resort and Spa, among others.
Essential items for an unforgettable gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda
When embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park, it is essential to prepare by packing several key items. Be sure to include insect repellent, a long-sleeved shirt and trousers, sturdy hiking shoes, garden gloves, a waterproof rain jacket or poncho, long cotton socks, a warm sweater, a camera with extra batteries, energy snacks, drinking water, a pair of binoculars, a walking stick, a backpack, and face masks, among other essentials.
