Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: Gorilla trekking is a unique opportunity on Rwanda safaris to see the natural habitats, it’s unforgettable. The largest living primate gorilla, is spread across much of the equatorial African rainforest. Broadly speaking, the species is split into lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is carried out in Volcanoes National Park. This park is located in the northwestern part of Uganda and is home to a significant population of mountain gorillas, making it a popular destination for the gorilla trekking experience.
The volcano ranges which spans Rwanda, Uganda and democratic republic of Congo is a home to the endangered mountain gorilla. Tracking gorillas in Rwanda is safe and accessible compared to others countries.
There are twelve families living in the Volcanoes National park, which are fully habituated, with a few others habituated solely for scientific research. The groups, or troop, consists of at least one silverback along with several females and youngsters.
Discover Rwanda with us, get the best experience, thrill of gorilla trekking in Rwanda alongside other attractions that make Rwanda an amazing destination. Wild Wonders Safaris will guide you to the trekking gorillas in the volcano mountains.
Wild wander safaris involve quite number of activities that can be carried out by travellers. Rwanda boasts having 3 great national parks that harbour amazing wildlife species that many travellers would love to explore. The biggest park in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park, which is home to some of the last endangered gorilla species. The mountain gorillas in Rwanda are one most selling attractions in the country, as many travellers come for the gorilla trekking experience. Other attractions in the Volcanoes National Park include Dian Fossey’s grave and research centre. She was an American primatologist who protected gorillas and believed they would live among the lives of humans. In Volcanoes National Park, you can also be able to engage in Golden Monkey trekking, which is an amazing experience for Rwanda Wildlife safaris. Some tourists can climb to Volcano Parks such as Mount Karisimbi or Mount Bisoke, which offer stunning views and to additional dose of adventure. Rwanda cultural tour experience, such as visiting the local village to participate in traditional Rwandan ceremonies, adds further richness to the trip.
Another of the most selling National parks in Rwanda is the amazing Nyungwe National Park, which harbours another type of primate species known as the chimpanzee. Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is another top activity carried out in Rwanda. In Nyungwe forest, travellers can also be able to engage in the hiking trails as they explore the thickest part of the forest. There is also a canopy walk during the gorilla trekking, which is an interesting activity that can be undertaken and allows one to walk on the suspended bridge connecting the trees high above the canopy at about 60 meters off the ground.
Rwanda is blessed with Akagera National Park where travelers can be able to carry out their wildlife safaris as they engage in activities like boat cruise, game drive, sport fishing and other cultural safaris.
Akagera National Park has the rare wildlife species that are the big five, which include Elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalo. Other wildlife includes antelopes, zebras, topis, giraffes and many more. Apart from wildlife species and primates in Rwanda, travellers can engage in other activities like rare cultural experiences, Rwanda cultural tours, Kigali city tours Genocide memorial tours. And many more. All these and the rest can be provided at handsome costs that are affordable and well organised.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is more than just a wildlife safari; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Africa’s montane rainforests. The park, part of the Virunga massif, is home to several families that have been habituated to human presence, meaning they are accustomed to seeing people but remain wild.
The trek begins early in the morning with a briefing from the park’s guides, who are not only experts on local flora and fauna but also passionate conservationists. Depending on the location of the gorilla groups, the hike to the volcanoes take 6hours. The trail is often steep and muddy, winding through dense forests and bamboos groves. Along the way, trekkers may also spot other wildlife, such as golden monkeys, elephants or exotic birds.
Permits
Gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs around USD 1500 per person, which is used to support conservation efforts and local communities.
Guided experience
The trek is led by experienced Rwanda tour guides and park rangers who track the gorillas based on where they were last seen. Trekkers are usually grouped into small numbers and assigned to specific gorilla families.
Gorilla families:
There are over 10 habituated gorilla families in the park that tourists can visit. Each family consists of several individuals, including a dominant silverback male, females and juveniles.
When to trek gorillas in Rwanda.
While trekking in Rwanda is available year-round, the dry season from June to September and December to February are the most popular times to visit and trek in Rwanda. During these periods, the trails are less muddy, and favorable for hiking.
However, trekking in the wet season can offer its rewards, such as fewer tourists and more lush, vibrant forests.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a truly unique experience, offering more than just the thrill of seeing one of the world’s most endangered animals. It’s a powerful example of how sustainable tourism can create a positive impact, helping to protect vulnerable species while also uplifting local communities.
Visitors leave not only with memories of a lifetime but knowledge that their journey has contributed to the ongoing survival of these incredible creatures.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a bucket-list adventure that combines wildlife conservation, cultural immersion, and the natural beauty of Africa’s most scenic country.
Accommodations
Visitors have a variety of lodging options near the park, ranging from budget lodges such as Bisate lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback lodge and Virunga lodge. These lodges often provide stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.
The Rwanda tour experience offers a close encounter with the gorillas, where visitors can observe them for about an hour in their natural habitat. It’s an extraordinary way to witness these majestic creatures and support conservation efforts.
