Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes Safari
Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes Safari
Mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the greatest wildlife encounters in Africa, “In the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat,” wrote the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey, “are great, old volcanoes towering almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rain forest – the Virunga’s. The unique opportunity to see gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable, some even say life-changing. Encounters with gorillas as they go about their daily lives are carefully managed, with expert trackers and guides leading small groups of tourists up bamboo-covered slopes to spend a precious and awe-inspiring hour just a few feet away from the gentle creatures.
The largest living primate, gorillas are spread across much of the equatorial African rainforest. Broadly speaking, the species is split into lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas.
The volcanic range which spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo is home to the endangered mountain gorilla.
Where to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park covers 160 km² of rainforest
Tracking endangered mountain gorillas through the mysterious intimacy of the rain forest, alive with the calls of 200 species of colourful birds and chattering of the rare rear golden monkeys is only one of the truly unique experiences in the area.
The actual encounter with mountain gorillas
A trek to see mountain gorillas requires you to be physically well and most importantly, maintain your physical fitness before embarking on the actual trek. A gorilla trek in Rwanda can last you about 2-8 hours and it involves hiking through the dense vegetation and steep slopes while in search of mountain gorillas.
Please be in the know that mountain gorillas live in high elevations and because of this; you need adequate drinking water and some energy-giving snacks as energy boosters do not forget a hiking stick to help you while on a hike. Walking sticks can be found at the park headquarters or safari lodge. Besides, hiring a porter is not bad if you do have heavy luggage. They can help carry luggage and let you enjoy your adventure. Porters are around at the park headquarters and can be hired.
How long is the mountain gorilla tracking in Rwanda?
Hikes up to their various locations can last anything from 30 minutes to four or more hours, reaching an altitude of between 2,500m and 4,000m. Porters are available to carry backpacks and cameras, as well as to offer a helping hand along the route.
Gorilla Permits
A gorilla permit costs $1500 obtainable from the Rwanda Tourism Board offices in Kigali or Ruhengeri which is near the park. Your tour operator can also help you get the permits especially if you are using them to organize all aspects of your tour.
Age limit for Gorilla Trekking
Rwanda’s gorilla trekking age limit is currently 15 years and above meaning that children below the age of 15 years are not allowed to trek gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda.
What to pack
When packing for gorilla trekking in Uganda, consider essential items first. What shouldn’t miss out on your packing list are; waterproof hiking boots, a waterproof day pack, insect repellents, a rain jacket/poncho, a camera with no flashlight that should be good to help you capture clear pictures, binoculars, a long-sleeved shirt/t-shirt, trousers, sweaters, sunglasses, hat, bottled water, energy-giving snacks, first aid kit, and many others.
Where to go
Our recommended places to stay are….
Governor’s Silverback lodge-Luxury, Tiloreza Eco Lodge-Mid range and Le Bamboo lodge-Budget
When to go
Gorilla trekking can be done all year round but the best time is from mid-May to mid-September, this is the long dry season and has perfect conditions for tracking gorillas.
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