Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, referred to as Parc National des Volcans in French and Pariki y’Igihugu y’Ibirunga in Kinyarwanda, is located in the northwestern province of Rwanda, near the town of Musanze, formerly known as Ruhengeri. This park is reportedly the oldest national park on the African continent and is home to the endangered Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda, who are accessible to travelers interested in gorilla tracking in Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park adjoins Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda. In addition to its substantial population of Mountain Gorillas, this park also shelters the endangered Golden Monkeys, a primate species that currently provides the most diverse tourism activities within the national park. Volcanoes National Park encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains: Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo, spanning over 160 km² of rainforest and bamboo. Several years ago, this park served as a base for American scientist Dian Fossey, a woman whose fervor for gorilla conservation endures to this day. The primary attraction of the park is the endangered mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei), along with numerous other species that inhabit its plains.
These creatures include golden monkeys, buffaloes, black-fronted duikers, hyenas, and bushbucks. Several reports indicate that a limited number of elephants may be present in the area, but infrequently. The avian population comprises 178 species, with around 12 principal species and 15 subspecies indigenous to the Virunga conservation region and the Great Ruwenzori Mountains. The Rwanda Development Board conducts many activities for tourists, including gorilla trekking being the primary attraction. Additional activities encompass Golden Monkey tracking, visiting the twin lakes, mountaineering, touring Dian Fossey’s tomb, exploring the Iby’Iwacu traditional hamlet, and engaging in several community visits.
From premier gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, and comprehensive safaris in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, it provides an extraordinary experience for visitors seeking to appreciate its magnificence.
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, East Africa, is a distinctive tourism destination unlike any other. Volcanoes National Park is the final frontier of the West African rainforests and serves as a barrier to the encroachment of savannah grasslands into West Africa. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is a hilly area characterized by pristine rainforests teeming with diverse and distinctive wildlife species. It is an unparalleled tourism destination on the African continent.
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is situated within the expansive Virunga volcanic region, which extends into the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. It is one of the three exclusive habitats for Mountain gorillas globally and the sole site for Mountain gorilla trekking expeditions in Rwanda. The rainforests are situated at elevated altitudes, and temperatures are often lowest in the African region. The tropical sun induces heat, vapor evaporation, and precipitation formation. In Volcanoes National Park, precipitation occurs at any time, irrespective of the season. Consider the fertile volcanic soils that are abundant in mineral content for plants. The final outcome is a perennial rainforest, featuring bamboo trees in certain regions, small clusters of shrubs and grasslands, marsh and wetland flora in the valleys, and heath at the summits of the volcanoes. These represent the optimal conditions for the survival and existence of Mountain gorillas and other distinctive animal species.
Species of mammals in Volcanoes National park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park has a diverse ecology, home to distinctive and colorful species of mammals. Mountain gorillas and golden monkeys are more recognized than other wildlife species due to the fact that the Virunga volcano region is their exclusive habitat on Earth. The park exhibits a significant population of mammals, however their visibility is diminished due to the rocky and rugged terrain within a dense and confined rainforest. Mammals in this ecosystem adapt to a solitary or paired existence, avoid intruders, and exhibit aggression when cornered. Aside from infrequent physical interactions, there are indications that clearly demonstrate the park is inhabited by forest elephants, buffaloes, bushpigs, bushbucks, giant forest hogs, spotted hyenas, duikers, vervet monkeys, colobus monkeys, and various other primate species. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is a renowned place for gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking in Rwanda. There are more tourist spots in Rwanda that provide easy observation and extensive interaction with various animal species.
Bird Species Volcanoes National park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is situated at the boundary between the West African rainforests and the East African savannas. It is an area where the Virunga volcanic zone intersects with the Great East African Rift. Lake Kivu is located at a few kilometers away. These characteristics serve as a magnet that draws birds to a region and significantly influence their presence in Volcanoes National Park. Volcanoes National Park is a significant avian habitat for birdwatching excursions in Rwanda, boasting over 200 documented bird species. This location in Rwanda is a premier destination for birding safaris and an optimal site for observing many rare bird species of the Albertine Rift. Rwenzori batis, Handsome francolin, Grauer’s rush warbler, Rwenzori turaco, Archer’s ground robin, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, Collared Apalis, Red-faced woodland warbler.
Conduct Guidelines for Birding Safaris in Rwanda
Your conduct during a bird-watching safari in the forest significantly influences your experience and the quantity of birds observed. A proficient birder refrains from pursuing or flushing birds from their concealment, instead permitting them to reveal themselves voluntarily. Exercise caution in your movements when traversing the forest: while you navigate around the area, refrain from running aimlessly or disturbing birds in their nests. Reckless behavior in the forest will merely frighten the birds and pose a threat to their safety. Documenting and capturing images of birds is largely inevitable; nonetheless, to avoid startling them, it is imperative to deactivate your camera’s flash, particularly during the nesting season. Avoid approaching nests or nesting colonies to prevent alarming the birds and chicks staying therein, so safeguarding them from any threats and infections. Proximity to the birds is permitted solely for researchers authorized to handle the eggs; most tourists are prohibited from touching the eggs, as such contact may result in the abandonment of the eggs by the birds. Refrain from discarding waste in the forest. Respecting and maintaining the environment is a fundamental obligation for every tourist, as forests serve as habitats for birds. Always dispose of your waste in authorized areas to avoid damaging bird sanctuaries. Consistently adhere to the directives and regulations provided by the birding guide.
Things to Do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Gorilla Trekking In Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is a prominent safari destination in Rwanda because to its Mountain gorilla trekking adventures. Mountain gorilla trekking is arguably the premier outdoor excursion on the African continent, offering guests an intimate encounter with animals. Mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda are daring, exhilarating, enjoyable, and informative.
During gorilla trekking, you will undertake hikes to various Virunga mountains based on the gorilla groups assigned to you. For example, the Karisimbi gorilla group resides on Mount Karisimbi, while the Ugenda gorilla family is typically located along the slopes of Mount Sabyinyo, among other gorilla families.The gorilla trekking experience in the park is intriguing as it offers the opportunity to observe several sights, including diverse bird species and golden monkeys, among others. In the park, you will encounter the bamboo trees inhabited by gorillas, allowing you to observe the behavior of these gentle giants in their natural habitat. For instance, you will witness their feeding patterns, including infants suckling from their mothers and the adults consuming bamboo. This exhilarating experience of interacting with primates lasts for an hour, during which photography is permitted to capture memorable moments with these gentle giants.
Bird Watching in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is a designated Important Birding Area (IBA) in Rwanda with some distinctive avian species that are significantly more challenging to observe in other locations. Rwanda is a renowned birding safari location in Rwanda, with rare endemic species from the Albertine Rift. Groups of avian enthusiasts embark early in the morning, traversing the rainforest in pursuit of priority woodland birds concealed within the canopy or on the forest floor. They frequently get the chance to observe their preferred avian species.
Tracking Golden Monkeys
The golden monkey is another primate species native to the broader Virunga volcano region, specifically in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. Research on the lifestyle of Golden Monkeys is less prominent than that of Mountain Gorillas; yet, both species face comparable threats. Golden monkey tracking tours commence in the early morning at the Kinigi tourism office, navigating the valleys and marsh vegetation in pursuit of feeding places within the dense bamboo forest. Bamboo shoots are the primary nutrition of Golden monkeys, and they seldom venture beyond bamboo habitats. The Golden monkeys are exquisite, captivating, highly energetic, and exceptionally engaging to observe. The golden monkeys are extremely social animals that inhabit various groups based on elevation; specifically, the size of the group correlates with food availability, resulting in a higher concentration of this species where food is abundant
Hiking
The Virunga volcano region is characterized by its stunning beauty and towering mountains. Verdant, mist-laden rainforests around their berries. Travelers on safari in Rwanda are captivated by the lush vegetation and eager to uncover its hidden treasures.
Mount Karisimbi
Mount Karisimbi, at an elevation of 4,507 meters, is a dormant volcano situated along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the tallest of the Virunga volcanoes and the eleventh highest elevation on the African continent. The ascent to the snow-capped peak of Mt. Karisimbi is a two-day exhilarating endeavor that includes interactions with stunning landscapes, distinctive alpine and forest avifauna, and many monkey species; fortunate hiking groups have encountered mountain gorillas. The hike provides guests with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Ascending Mount Karisimbi is notably steep, necessitating proficient navigation both on the lower slopes and the summit itself. It comprises secondary jungle and predominantly presents an airy aspect.
Given that Mount Karisimbi is the tallest and most precipitous peak in the Virunga Mountains, it is essential to ascertain the optimal time to visit the park and undertake the Karisimbi mountain walk for an exceptional experience. For optimal trekking conditions, it is advisable to undertake the trek during the dry season when the terrain in the park is not slippery.The optimal period for engaging in the Karisimbi hike is during the dry months of December to February, the brief dry season, and from September to mid-December, the extended dry season, when the activity remains feasible.
Mount Bisoke
Mount Bisoke, at 3,771 meters, is a dormant volcano and a favored site for one-day hiking excursions in Rwanda. Mount Bisoke, similar to other volcanic summits, is enveloped in dense rainforest. It is home to distinctive wildlife species. The Karisoke Research Centre, the origin of Mountain gorilla habituation, is situated in the Bisoke foothills and serves as the habitat for Mountain gorilla families.It is a dormant volcano including a crater lake at its summit, situated near Lake Kivu within Volcanoes National Park, along the border of Rwanda and Congo, and therefore accessible from Congo’s Virunga National Park.
While hiking this mountain in Rwanda, you will traverse steep inclines densely populated with equatorial rainforest and certain alpine meadows. The location is home to several endangered gorillas. Prospective hikers should be aware that the trek is not very arduous, although it may prove quite strenuous for those lacking experience, as the high height necessitates considerable power for both climbing and traversing the entire journey.This may constitute a full-day excursion, contingent upon the frequency of your stops and your pace; yet, ultimately, you will recognize its value. Two cones located on the northern side, just 11 km from the summit, were produced during an eruption in 1957. Furthermore, no hiker should forgo the traverse around the crater rim and the exploration of Lake Ngezi, a little and shallow crater lake. During the hike, you will traverse various flora types, starting with bamboo woods, ascending to the Hagenia-Hypericum forest, and ultimately reaching the Senecio-Lobelia shrubland near the summit. Following gorilla tracking at Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, you may embark on the Bisoke mountain walk. Reservations must be made in advance, preferably the day before your arrival, to ensure necessary arrangements are in place. If you intend to track gorillas, payment should be completed on that day.
Hiking Dian Fossey trail
The Dian Fossey trail facilitates mountain gorilla expeditions, which are made feasible by research teams doing scientific studies to observe their behaviors, characteristics, home ranges, and to habituate the mountain gorillas to human presence. Dian Fossey, a conservation primatologist, pioneered the study and research of Mountain gorillas in Rwanda, based at the Karisoke Research Centre on the slopes of Mt. Bisoke. Tourists in Rwanda traverse the Dian Fossey trail to investigate the environment, enhance their understanding of wildlife protection, and observe the Mountain gorilla habitat. The trail system commemorates the conservation endeavors of Dian Fossey and the team at the Karisoke Research Center.
Gorilla guardians’ village /Iby’Iwacu cultural village tour
Mountain gorillas have historically coexisted with the indigenous Rwandan population in both beneficial and detrimental manners. On the periphery of Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, an indigenous community has organized as the Mountain Gorilla Guardians, formerly known as Iby’wacu Cultural Village, to emphasize the advantages of wildlife conservation and gorilla protection. Tourists in Rwanda engage with the local community to connect intimately and exchange life experiences. The captivating trip immerses guests in music, dance, storytelling, painting, traditional rituals and ceremonies, recreational sports, homestead architecture, and several other forms of expression. The travelers acquire extensive knowledge of African culture and lifestyles. Fees paid for the visit support indigenous people, alleviate tensions and wildlife conflicts, and eventually minimize demand on wildlife resources. The Iby’iwacu cultural hamlet is distinctive because a significant proportion of the men are former poachers who are now engaged in conservation initiatives within the national park. Visitors to the Iby’iwacu cultural village are entertained by the traditional Intore dance troupe through performances, folklore, and songs. Visitors also participate in traditional culinary workshops, the preparation of local banana beer, cow milking, and the production of items such as local ghee. Tourists may explore the Iby’iwacu cultural village following their journey with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Engagements Available in Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
A multitude of activities can be pursued with local women, while some endeavors necessitate the supervision of a qualified tour guide.
Community excursions
Community walks, accompanied by your guide and host, might commence your day with a visit to the community. Your host will escort you to several tourist attractions within the community. A community walk provides an excellent opportunity to see the daily lives of various families within their homes.
Attend the King’s dwelling
You may choose to visit the king’s residence, where you will encounter the caretakers and obtain a local guide who will narrate fascinating anecdotes about the location and its monarchs. The guide will elucidate the various significances of each symbol within the palace. If you are willing, you may assume the role of king for a brief period, during which the village leader will ceremoniously enthrone you. You will then be permitted to enjoy the powers of a king for that duration.
Engage in traditional dance and music.
Rwanda possesses around eight distinct forms of traditional dance and music. Music and dancing captivate everyone, including women, children, men, and teenagers. They may instruct you in various dance styles, such as the Intore dances, and educate you on the Agakenke drumming techniques, among others. There exist some renowned songs referred to be the songs of the gorillas, which you can also explore.
Engage with the Batwa community
The Batwa are the indigenous inhabitants of the majority of forested regions surrounding the volcanoes, and one can visit their families to acquire comprehensive knowledge about their culture. Initially gatherers, they are now embracing contemporary lifestyles and have initiated various income-generating activities, such as pottery manufacturing. Therefore, if you seek instruction, participate in pottery-making sessions during your visit to the Batwa people. In addition to pottery, you may engage in daily activities if you desire a deeper understanding, ensuring an enjoyable experience. Numerous alternative activities are available, such as visiting local schools, observing women as they create crafts, or participating with them in the kitchen during lunch preparation, followed by sharing the meal together. Participation in the meal preparation process may involve grinding millet using stones, transporting food from the garden and water from the wells on your head, and thereafter entering the neighborhood kitchen to commence cooking with firewood.
Cultural trips can be remarkable as they necessitate direct interaction with diverse individuals, facilitating extraordinary cultural encounters from many cultures. Engaging in their daily activities is the most effective method to comprehend individuals’ cultures and lifestyles. Agricultural tourism involves travelers participating with locals in gardening activities such as planting, weeding, or harvesting, so acquiring knowledge of these practices. The highlight of your vacation may be participating in the Igitaramo, an event where attendees gather around a campfire soon before nightfall for entertainment featuring dancing and drumming. The event will feature numerous narratives and puzzles presented by elderly storytellers. It is an enjoyable and informative experience.
Baby gorilla naming/Kwita-Izina-Rwanda-Gorilla-Naming-Ceremony
The Kwita Izina ceremony is a gorilla naming event in Rwanda. Mountain gorillas reside in familial groups, and each individual possesses a comprehensive database containing biographical information, including name, age, gender, familial connections, biological parents, health status, abnormalities, and characteristics. Each mountain gorilla trekking team visits a certain family in the rainforest. The naming of baby gorillas is a ceremonial event conducted periodically to commemorate the birth of new members within the Mountain gorilla families. The ritual is accompanied by music, dance, songs, drama, storytelling, and refreshments. International celebrities committed to animal protection consistently engage in naming young gorillas.The ceremony, closely modeled on a longstanding Rwandan tradition, serves as a reminder of our intimate genetic relationship with these big apes, sharing 99% of our DNA. It was founded in 2005 to raise awareness regarding conservation initiatives for the endangered mountain gorilla. “A name embodies the aspirations parents hold for their children,” articulated Belise Kariza, Chief Tourism Officer of the Rwanda Development Board. “We shape our own destiny through the names we assign to our children.” Through Kwita Izina, we are delineating our collective destiny and determining our desired trajectory.
The process of naming gorillas is a traditional ritual of the Rwandans, presently implemented among mountain gorilla families as a method to promote the protection of these endangered species globally. This would not have occurred without the assistance of the local people; so, 5% of the earnings from the tourism sector is allocated to support their development initiatives. The Imbaraga Farmers Cooperative, established through a revenue-sharing scheme, is an agricultural and livestock farming cooperative aimed at assisting farmers with various agricultural challenges, according to Maria Patricia Uwisunze, the cooperative president. She stated that this cooperative comprises over 25,000 members who engage in advanced agricultural practices, thus enhancing their livelihoods. This cooperative provides farmers with innovative livestock farming strategies to enhance output. Additionally, RDB has successfully established more than 57 primary schools throughout 13 districts, catering to over 13,680 pupils, including Basumba Primary School located in Nyabihu district, which was officially inaugurated prior to the festival.
What is Mountain Gorilla Trekking?
Mountain gorilla trekking is an activity that entails venturing into the gorilla habitat, navigating the jungle, tracking footprints, and pursuing all indications of recent mountain gorilla activity until their precise location is attained. Mountain gorillas reside in groups that include many individuals, led by a dominant adult male known as the “Silverback,” named for the whitish patch of mane that develops on his back with age. The family resides within a certain domain where the silverback governs familial activities. He regulates the time of activities, defines the diet, selects feeding locations, resolves familial conflicts, possesses unrestricted mating privileges, and ensures the family’s protection. Every evening, adult members of the Mountain gorilla family construct nests for nocturnal rest. They never, for any reason, return to the same nest permanently. Teams of scouts and trackers embark early in the morning into the trees to identify the Mountain gorilla families prior to their departure from their nests and to assess their health state. Mountain gorilla trekking teams, limited to eight tourists, get radio communications from scouts and adhere to the specified direction and pace of travel. The landscape is rugged, the flora is dense, and the gorillas are robust, highly agile, and well-adapted to their surroundings. Mountain gorilla trekking adventures are daring, exhilarating, enjoyable, informative, yet equally physically demanding.
Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations
• Each person must get a gorilla trekking permit before entering the park.
Only individuals aged eighteen and older are permitted to trek Mountain gorillas.
• Maintain a safe distance of 7 meters (about 22 feet) from the gorillas.
• Only healthy individuals engage in gorilla trekking to minimize the risk of illness transmission.
• Disable the flash on the cameras prior to photographing gorillas.
Interaction with gorillas is limited to a maximum duration of one hour.
• A maximum of 8 visits is permitted per day for each group.
• Maintain a low volume in the forests, particularly in proximity to the gorillas.
Minimize superfluous movements in the presence of the Mountain gorillas.
• In the event that a gorilla charges or vocalizes towards you, remain composed, stand motionless, avert your gaze from the gorilla, and adhere to your guide’s instructions.
Spitting in the park is a method of disease transmission and is absolutely prohibited.
· Refrain from littering in the park. Collect and retain all packs, wrappers, and bottle caps.
• Refrain from consuming food, beverages, or smoking in the vicinity of gorillas. Field rangers are amiable, seasoned, and knowledgeable. Follow their counsel. Certain regulations may vary based on prevailing circumstances.
How to get to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is situated in northeastern Rwanda, adjacent to the border with Uganda to the north and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. The park is a two-hour journey on a smooth road from Kigali, providing remarkable experiences of the Rwandan countryside. The nearest major town, Musanze, is a 20-minute drive away for vacationers in Rwanda who like urban living. The Cyanika international border post with Uganda is a 30-minute drive by road, facilitating the seamless extension of safaris between the two nations. Akagera Aviation provides expedited helicopter charter services to Kinigi.
Permits for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda are granted by the Rwanda Development Board to trekkers, serving as proof of payment for the activity. Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda are official documents granted to tourists wishing to engage in gorilla trekking activities in the country. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is exclusively conducted in Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the Virunga Mountains: Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura. The park is also home to various primate species, such as golden monkeys, mountain gorillas, black and white colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys. Visitors can also pay their respects at the grave of Dian Fossey, the American primatologist whose conservation efforts have contributed to the increasing population of mountain gorillas in Rwanda, alongside other attractions and activities available in the park.
Procedure For Acquiring A Gorilla Permit
Tourists seeking to acquire a gorilla permit for gorilla trekking may secure one through the Rwanda Development Board or a reputable tour operator of their preference. It is advisable to secure a gorilla permit in advance due to the high demand from tourists wishing to engage in gorilla trekking in the park.
Inclusions and exclusions pertaining to a gorilla permit
Upon acquiring gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda, tourists should be aware of the inclusions and exclusions associated with these permits while in Volcanoes National Park, which are as follows:
INCLUSIONS
In Rwanda, your gorilla trekking permits include the services of a knowledgeable guide who will accompany you throughout the entire trekking adventure at no additional cost, as the permit fee covers this expense. Consequently, do not hesitate to inquire should you have any questions to ensure an exceptional experience throughout your gorilla tours in Rwanda.
A ranger: The gorilla trekking permit grants you the presence of a park ranger who will ensure your safety during the trekking activity. The ranger will accompany you to mitigate the risk of encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife in the park, including bushbucks, warthogs, and various primate species such as vervet and Mona monkeys, which may pose a threat to tourists’ safety. The ranger’s responsibility is to guarantee your safety while doing activities in the park.
Park entry fees: Upon acquiring a gorilla trekking permit, you will not be required to pay additional park entrance fees, as the permit encompasses access to the park.
One hour with the gorillas: Gorilla trekking in the park permits you to spend one hour with the gorillas during your tour. During the one-hour session with the gorillas, travelers may photograph the animals and witness their natural behaviors and feeding patterns. their nest construction and their coexistence in the wild.
EXCLUSIONS
The gorilla permit does not encompass lunch during your gorilla trekking adventure in the park. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda may occupy an entire day, as it necessitates hiking the Virunga Mountains to reach various gorilla families in Rwanda, which can be arduous and fatiguing. Consequently, it is recommended to bring your own lunch for sustenance during the excursion; however, one should refrain from consuming food in the presence of the gorillas to prevent the transmission of diseases to them.
Participation in additional activities: Acquiring a gorilla trekking permit for excursions in the volcanoes does not grant access to other activities within the park. Consequently, if you wish to engage in additional activities within the park, you will be required to pay fees for participation in other activities.
Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda Porter: Gorilla trekking in the park necessitates hiking through the various Virunga Mountains to reach the mountain gorillas. Some tourists may prefer to hire a porter to assist them in ascending the mountains and accessing the gorilla families. To engage a porter, one must compensate them for their assistance with luggage during the hike to the Virunga Mountains.
Quantity of permits issued on a daily basis:Volcanoes National Park Rwanda boasts more than 18 habituated gorilla families available for observation during gorilla trekking. A maximum of 8 individuals are permitted to follow each gorilla family in the park, resulting in approximately 144 permits given daily. To participate in the exceptional activity, it is recommended that you secure your permit in advance to prevent missing the opportunity.
Best time for Gorilla Trekking
The optimal period for gorilla trekking is not fixed, as Mountain Gorillas can be walked year-round; yet, understanding the ideal times for trekking is beneficial, as each season has distinct advantages and disadvantages.
The optimal period for gorilla trekking in Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) and Uganda can be delineated due to the presence of two rainy seasons. The brief event occurs in October and November, whereas the extended event spans from mid-March to May. The subsequent months predominantly consist of arid seasons.
Peak season
The optimal months for gorilla trekking are January, February, June, July, August, September, and December. The regions have periods of less precipitation, occasionally resulting in complete absence of rainfall. Visitors have selected these months as optimal for Gorilla trekking, despite the strong demand for Gorilla permits during this period. Travelers must secure their permits in advance, at least three months prior to the date, or opt to pay 30% of the total fee.
The optimal period for gorilla trekking is during the dry season. They are preferred for trekking the mountain gorillas, as the jungles are less slippery.
Trekking during peak seasons incurs higher accommodation costs compared to the low season when lodges are more affordable.
Off-Peak Period
The low season is the optimal period for budget-conscious individuals engaging in gorilla trekking. Trekking at this period is advantageous due to reduced accommodation costs. During the months of March, April, May, and November, the rainfall is disheartening.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes
The lodges’ rates are more advantageous than those during the peak season. The reduced rates are designed to appeal to budget-conscious travelers. The limited number of travelers is divided among many gorilla families, each offering distinct experiences.
Despite the significant advantages of traveling during this season, the frequent rainfall complicates trekking, as the terrain becomes slick and muddy, resulting in discomfort.
Despite the year-round rainfall, the trek persists; the sun will ultimately emerge following the precipitation, allowing trekkers to continue their journey to observe the endangered mountain gorillas.
Gorilla trekking occurs year-round, regardless of weather conditions; no day has ever been canceled due to inclement weather.
Guidelines for Monitoring Gorillas in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking is the most popular tourism activity for visitors to Rwanda. Many individuals are unaware of the optimal methods to prepare for this exhilarating and unforgettable journey. This post presents the ten most effective recommendations to assist you in preparing for your gorilla safari.
The revere Legacy of Dian Fossey & Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Discussing gorilla trekking in Africa necessitates mentioning Dian Fossey, a pivotal figure in the history of this activity in Rwanda and the continent. Her unwavering commitment to the conservation and comprehension of these gentle giants in their natural habitat is noteworthy. Dian Fossey is recognized for pioneering gorilla habituation in Rwanda due to her study focused on the mountain gorillas of Africa.
Initially, knowledge regarding the mountain gorillas in Africa was limited; however, American zoologist George Schaller significantly contributed to this understanding with his 1963 publication, “The African Mountain Gorillas: Ecology and Behaviour.” In this work, he revealed that these primates were not hostile, as previously believed, but rather intelligent and vulnerable, emphasizing the importance of avoiding direct eye contact. In 1964, Schaller initiated a campaign called the “Year of the Gorillas,” aimed at conserving this endangered species from extinction. Despite these efforts, much remained to be discovered about mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, a task later undertaken by Dian Fossey.
Prior to assuming her role in the study of wild gorillas, Dian Fossey resigned from her position as a physical therapist, secured a bank loan, and embarked on an expedition to Africa to meet Louis Leakey, aspiring to gain employment with the archaeologist to further her understanding of primates, inspired by her readings of George Schaller’s work. Upon arriving in Tanzania, Africa, Dian Fossey visited the excavation site at Olduvai Gorge, where Louis Leakey was conducting his research; this marked her initial interaction with the archaeologist. Subsequently, she traveled to the Virunga Mountains in Congo, where she encountered her first gorillas and developed a profound affection for the species. However, due to her financial constraints, she returned to America to resume her employment. However, due to her fervor for gorillas and her desire to acquire further knowledge about the species, Louis Leakey was impressed. He invited her to study the gorillas, which she accepted, and proceeded to Zaire (Congo), making a brief stop in Gombe to learn about Jane Goodall’s studies on primates and her methodologies in the wild. Dian Fossey was employed with the support of the National Geographic Society and Louis Leakey, enabling her to pursue George Schaller’s research on the mountain gorillas in the Virunga. Their research altered the idea of gorillas as brutish creatures by illustrating their compassion, social nature, and intelligence, revealing behavioral similarities to humans, which initiated gorilla habituation and subsequently gorilla trekking in Rwanda. In the renowned Volcanoes National Park.
Research conducted by Dian Fossey
Dian Fossey commenced her research on gorillas in the Congo; however, her efforts were disrupted due to instability in the park after she was detained for two weeks by rebel soldiers. Following her escape, she relocated to Volcanoes National Park, where she established the Karisoke Research Station between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. At the research station, she studied 51 gorillas across four groups and endeavored to achieve gorilla habituation. This process involved patiently observing their behavior and mimicking various actions, such as communicating through their distinct vocalizations and consuming wild celery to demonstrate her integration into their group, among other strategies employed to gain their trust and acceptance. At the research station, she identified several significant issues confronting the gentle giants, as she referred to them, including poaching. This prompted the establishment of the Rwanda Office of Tourism and National Park Development in 1973 to combat this activity by implementing various anti-poaching laws within the park.
Numerous gorillas were being slaughtered by poachers who commercialized their meat, while the gorillas were also losing their habitats due to encroachment by farmers, jeopardizing the sustainability of the mountain gorillas, whose population was quickly declining. In a gorilla family she favored, all the adults were exterminated to procure the young. In 1978, her beloved gorilla, Digit, was also killed, prompting her to initiate several unorthodox measures to halt the brutal acts against the species. These measures included incinerating the poachers’ residences, abducting and torturing them, and kidnapping their children to impart the gorillas’ suffering and deliver a lesson. However, these tactics resulted in her garnering more adversaries than allies within the surrounding communities of the park. In 1985, she was discovered deceased in her woodland hut, having been murdered by an unidentified assailant. She was interred at the gorilla graveyard, where she had previously buried several of her gorilla companions, including Digit, who were victims of poaching. Today, people engage in the Dian Fossey tomb hike in Volcanoes National Park to gain insights about her contributions and gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Dian Fossey and gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Dian Fossey played a pivotal role in the conservation of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, facilitating the possibility of gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s esteemed Volcanoes National Park. She founded the Digit Fund, which provides financing to prevent poaching in the park. Within four months, 987 poacher traps were eradicated. The gorilla fund remains operational but has been renamed the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Dian Fossey opposed tourism and gorilla interaction due to her research revealing the primates’ fragility and susceptibility to various human-borne diseases, such as influenza, which resulted in the deaths of several members of a specific gorilla family. However, these findings enabled the park to develop appropriate methods for conducting gorilla trekking in Rwanda without endangering the gorillas. Consequently, in 1973, the inaugural gorilla trekking experience was established. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, has become one of the premier tourism activities attracting global visitors. In 1979, the mountain gorilla project was initiated, uniting various conservation organizations to safeguard the surviving mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Its purpose was to promote gorilla tourism and raise awareness regarding anti-poaching initiatives to aid in gorilla conservation. This objective has been accomplished over the years through the establishment of tourism-related employment, which has redirected local interests from poaching gorillas to benefiting from them via gorilla trekking. Due to its success in the country, the mountain gorilla project was transformed into the international gorilla conservation programme, which now extends beyond Rwanda to include conservation initiatives in Uganda and Congo.