Gorilla Safari Essential Information in Rwanda

Gorilla Safari Essential Information in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is one of the most incredibly adventurous activities in the world and Rwanda is one of the few countries where it can be done, gorilla trekking offer visitors a chance to have a face-to-face encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

In Rwanda, this unforgettable journey takes through the lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat and is led by expert guides. Along the way, you trek through the dense vegetation and steep slopes and experience a rare and thrilling encounter with these gentle giants. You will learn about their behavior and habits and witness their interactions with each other and their environment

Mountain gorilla trekking / gorilla safari is a once-in-a lifetime adventure and an incredible opportunity to witness one of the world’s most endangered species up-close and personal.

In Rwanda, gorilla safaris are done in Volcanoes National Park – the most popular safari destination in the country, the only home to mountain gorillas in Rwanda and one of the only four places where you can find mountain gorillas.

Here is the essential information about gorilla safari in Rwanda to help you plan a hustle free activity.

Gorilla Permit

A gorilla permit is a must have for all travelers going for gorilla trekking tours in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, the gorilla permits are the only documents visitors need to get access to the park as well as gorillas.

Due to the high demand for gorilla permits in Volcanoes National Park most especially in the peak season, you are advised to buy the gorilla permit in advance about three months to your gorilla trekking dates. You can buy your gorilla permit online via the Rwanda Development Board’s website or through a tour operator.

A Rwanda Gorilla Permit costs $ 1,500 per permit per trek and per person, these fees include park entrance fees.

Please note that the permit is strictly for individuals aged 15 and above.

Frequently asked questions and answers

There are many questions frequently asked by travelers planning a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, the guide offers you professional tips to make your Rwanda gorilla tour planning stress – free by helping you choose the right time for gorilla trekking, know the cost and choosing the right safari company.

 What is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking a guided adventure taking you on a trek into the forested mountains of the Central Africa to find a troop of a habituated gorilla family and spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-life-time adventure is managed and designed to offer a unique and respectful wildlife experience with Africa’s great apes up close and appreciate their behavior, social interactions and captivating beauty.

Where can I go gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is done only in Volcanoes National Park. this forest dominated park is situated in the far northwest of Rwanda in a small village called Musanze, previously known as Ruhengeri.

Volcanoes covers an 160 square kilometers of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Volcanoes Chain namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo.

How much does gorilla trekking in Rwanda cost?

A gorilla permit in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park currently costs USD $ 1500 per person for all international visitors, locals pay RWF 30,000.

How to obtain gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda?

You can obtain a gorilla permit via online or through a tour operator, gorilla permits in Rwanda are issued by the Rwanda Development Board.

Best time to go : Gorilla Safari Essential Information in Rwanda

Gorilla treks in Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda are available throughout the year, but the best time to go for a gorilla tour is during the dry seasons that is from June to September and December to February. In the dry season, the rain is less likely to disrupt your charming moment with the gentle giants.

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda can still be done during the wet season which is also the low season, normally this season is avoided by most travelers. However, it is the best time for budget travelers and those not afraid to take on the adventure. Also, visitors get to take advantage of the reduced rates on accommodations and other services.

Security and safety

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is not only an exciting adventure but also safe, to ensure the safety of visitors as well as mountain gorillas, the Rwanda Development Board and other conservation organizations have put in place several safety measures. While on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it is important for visitors to strictly adhere to the rules and guidelines that are provided by the lead guide during briefing at the park headquarters.

What to pack or wear

As you are planning to go on a gorilla tour in Rwanda, it is important to ensure that you pack appropriately. To make the most out of your experience, you need to be comfortable and well – prepared. It is always a good idea to wear a lightweight, neutral – colored clothing that will help you blend in with the natural surroundings.

Additionally, long – sleeved shirts and pants will protect you from insects and vegetation. It is also crucial to have sturdy, waterproof hiking boots to help you navigate the varied terrains during the trek safari in Rwanda. Pack a small backpack to carry essential such as water, snacks and a camera.

Here are some of the essentials to carry

• Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Pants
• Facemasks
• Hats and gloves
• sunglasses
• Waterproof jackets
• Backpacks among others

Conservation and sustainability

If you are looking for a truly unique and unforgettable adventure, consider traveling to Rwanda to experience the beauty and wonders such as thousands of hill and mountain gorillas. Not only will you have a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, but you will also be contributing to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts in the region.

Your participation in these efforts helps support local communities around the protected area and also ensure the long-term well-being of the gorillas and their natural habitats preserving Rwanda’s rich biodiversity for generations to come.