Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is renowned, as volcanoes national park is regarded by some as the premier destination for trekking gorillas in Africa. The park features the fascinating yet endangered mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas inhabit three countries: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Trekking Gorillas in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is around 16,000 hectares and is located in the northwestern region of Rwanda. It comprises afro-montane forests, bamboo forests, savanna grasslands, extensive wetlands, and five volcanoes: Bisoke, Gahinga, Muhabura, Sabyinyo, and Karisimbi. Mount Karisimbi is among the four highest mountains in Africa. Volcanoes National Park hosts a variety of species, including the spotted hyena, buffaloes, elephants, bushbucks, duikers, and golden monkeys.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda draws several travelers to Volcanoes National Park, where the likelihood of encountering mountain gorillas is significantly elevated. Gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park entails hiking through dense bamboo forests and steep mountain slopes to locate one of the gorilla families in Rwanda. The ultimate interaction with the primates is regarded as one of the most exhilarating and unforgettable wildlife experiences in Africa. To experience the advantages of both locations, travelers may traverse the border to observe the gorillas in Uganda, a practice referred to as double gorilla trekking. Some people choose triple gorilla trek in Rwanda, which includes a visit to the gorillas at Virunga National Park in Congo. A particularly exhilarating experience is observing mountain gorillas and Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo. Monitoring gorillas at Volcanoes National Park can be arduous, although the culminating encounter with the gorillas is regarded by many as the quintessential wildlife experience.
What is the cost of gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Cost of gorilla hiking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda is essential to secure a Rwanda gorilla permit in advance to guarantee participation in gorilla trekking on a specified date. Obtaining gorilla permits can be exceedingly challenging during high seasons, namely from June to September and December to March. Gorilla licenses in Rwanda are presently priced at $1500. That constitutes merely a portion of the total cost of gorilla trekking. A portion of the revenue generated from gorilla permits is allocated to assist gorilla conservation initiatives and community programming. Permits for booking can be obtained via your travel operator or directly from the Rwanda Development Board. To secure the permit, passport information must be submitted to the Rwanda Development Board. Ten gorilla families are accessible for trekking, with a maximum of eight individuals permitted to see a specific group each day. This indicates that just 80 gorilla licenses are accessible daily for the different habituated gorilla groups.
What is the experience of gorilla trekking in Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda commences with a briefing from the park administration and rangers at approximately 7:30 AM. During the briefing, participants are segmented into groups and allocated to a certain gorilla family for trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Less fit hikers are allocated to groups nearer to the park administration. At 8:00 a.m., the park rangers guided the group in the search for the gorillas. As previously stated, gorilla trekking in Rwanda provides access to 10 habituated groups or families for selection. No matter the group you ultimately join, the experience will be remarkable. One may devote hours merely watching the young ones frolic and tumble. Mountain gorillas exhibit consistent playfulness and notable curiosity. Some individuals may approach you without any malicious intent. When with the gorillas, it is essential to heed the directions of your Guides and maintain composure at all times. Avoid abrupt motions. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda may last from one to six hours, contingent upon the assigned gorilla group and their precise location on the day of the expedition.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Consider employing one or two porters if you possess very large bags or equipment. Porters are present at the departure point. Numerous porters, previously engaged in poaching, have recently adopted gorilla conservation initiatives. The revenue generated from providing their services prevents them from reverting to their previous vice. If you intend to travel with your parents, you may wish to explore gorilla tracking options for seniors. The cost of porter services ranges from $10 to $15. Appropriate hiking footwear, durable cotton gloves, and a waterproof raincoat are required. Your tour company should provide you with a detailed packing list and regulations for gorilla trekking.
When is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is feasible throughout the entire year. The optimal time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons, specifically from December to early March and from June to September. The period from December to March constitutes an extended dry season in Rwanda, with temperatures reaching up to 29 degrees Celsius on certain days. Conversely, the months from March to mid-May and July to September are considered the rainy season in the country.
Overall, Rwanda experiences favorable weather year-round, while the dry season is more desirable. The weather is typically favorable, and animal observation is more prevalent during this period. For tourists keen on gorilla excursions, this period is optimal because to the reduced likelihood of precipitation during treks and favorable hiking conditions in the rainforest. We continue to recommend waterproof attire even in these dry months, as the Equatorial climate is quite unpredictable. This period is a busy season; therefore, costs for accommodations, vehicle rentals, and similar services may be elevated.
Conversely, certain travelers, particularly those on a budget, like to visit during the rainy season. During this season, hotels experience low occupancy and consequently offer passengers discounted accommodations and dining services, which is a notable benefit. Additionally, there is less demand for gorilla permits, which ensure tourists an opportunity to observe these endangered species without competition.
Where to go for gorilla trekking in Rwanda
The gorilla trekking in Rwanda occurs at Volcanoes National Park, situated in the far northwest of the country, which is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and abundant highland vegetation, including bamboo forests and open grasslands. Gorilla tracking at this park occurs once daily, with eight individuals visiting a gorilla troop each day. Visitors are anticipated to arrive at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices at 7 AM, where they will receive a briefing on expectations and the protocols for tracking gorillas, followed by distribution among various gorilla groups. Upon the completion of the briefing and assignment to a gorilla troop, you will accompany your armed ranger guide to commence your expedition in pursuit of these gentle giants. The duration of your excursion may range from several minutes to six hours, contingent upon the location of the group you are monitoring. Upon gaining insight into the group, you will be permitted to remain in their presence for a duration of only one hour. Recall the details provided in the briefing and strive to adhere to them for both your safety and that of the gorillas.
How to Book gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda
To reserve a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda, it is essential to obtain your gorilla permit in advance from the Rwanda Development Board to verify your booking for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park on a specified day. Upon confirmation of your travel dates, please email gorillas trekking in Africa to enable us to verify the availability of gorilla permits with the Rwanda Development Board. Once we ascertain the permits are available for your specified dates, we will inform you and provide an invoice for payment. Upon receipt of your money, we will promptly get your permits and provide you with a scanned copy for your records, thereby confirming your reservation for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes Gorilla National Park.
How to get to volcanoes national park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is optimally accessed via road, with a travel time of 2-3 hours from Kigali. Your driver-guide will meet you for a brief orientation at your specified hotel before departing for the park, traversing the picturesque landscapes of Rwanda’s 1000 hills, allowing you opportunities to pause for photographs and viewing.
Where to stay during gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park varies from budget to luxury alternatives. Luxury accommodations include Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Virunga Volcanoes Lodge, Five Volcanoes Hotel, and Mountain Gorillas’ Nest Lodge. The cost varies from USD 300 to USD 1000 per individual per night.
The mid-range lodging options at Volcanoes National Park are Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Lebambou Gorilla Lodge, and Davinci Lodge. In Volcanoes National Park, inexpensive accommodations are many, ranging from basic lodging to camping, including Kinigi Hotel, Hotel Muhabura, Gorilla Solution Lodge, Villa Gorilla, Virunga Hotel, Faraji Hotel, and La Palme Hotel or Home Inn.
All lodges in Volcanoes National Park are adequately prepared to accommodate tourists, using numerous standard operating procedures in accordance with the guidelines of the Rwanda Health Ministry and WHO to ensure the safety and health of visitors participating in gorilla trekking in Rwanda.