Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is exclusively conducted in the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, situated in the far northwest of the country within the Virunga Mountains, bordering Congo’s Virunga National Park. This park is one of the few places in East Africa where you can trek to see endangered gorillas, with other opportunities available in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Volcanoes National Park boasts 12 habituated Mountain gorilla families, each led by a dominant silverback gorilla, as witnessed during gorilla trekking Rwanda tours. During your Rwanda gorilla tour, there is an impressive 95% chance of encountering these gentle giants. This high likelihood also applies to Uganda safaris and DR Congo tours. No Rwanda gorilla trek is complete without a trip to Dian Fossey’s tomb.
The Mountain Gorilla Families in Volcanoes National Park
- Susa Gorilla Family
- Hirwa Gorilla Family
- Igisha
- Sabyinyo
- Agashya
- Amahoro
- Karisimbi
- Kwitonda
- Umubano
- Ugyenda
- Muhoza
- Bwenge
Gorilla tracking tours in Volcanoes National Park typically begin around 8 am and can last between 2 and 8 hours. Alongside the majestic gorillas, trekkers might spot various wildlife species, including numerous bird species and forest elephants. The hikes themselves are both beautiful and rewarding.
Volcanoes National Park boasts 14 fully habituated gorilla family groups, with a few others undergoing habituation for scientific research. All the Rwanda gorilla families within Volcanoes National Park at least consist of 1 dominant silverback along with several females and young ones.
Cost of Rwanda Gorilla Permits
A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1500. These permits must be purchased from the park authorities through your Rwanda tour operator. Read More About Gorilla Permit Booking
Cost of a 1-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek
A one-day gorilla tour in Rwanda, including the permit and transport, typically costs around $1700. While the cost may seem high, a significant portion goes towards gorilla conservation, making it a worthwhile African gorilla trekking expense.
The cost of the gorilla permits is as follows:
| Category | Cost/Price |
| Non-residents | $1500 |
| Foreign residents | $500 |
| East African residents and citizens | $200 |
| African citizens or foreign residents in Africa | $500 |
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Rules & Guidelines
The conservation and protection of endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park set these gorilla trekking rules and regulations. To ensure the safety and preservation of the gorillas, several rules must be followed:
- Visitors must be over 15 years old.
- A maximum of 8 people can visit a gorilla group per day.
- Wash your hands before the trek.
- Follow all instructions from your ranger guides.
- Human waste must be buried in a deep hole (at least 30 cm).
- Do not litter; carry out all trash.
- Avoid trekking if you have an infectious disease.
- Maintain a safe distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas.
- Do not eat near the gorillas; maintain a distance of 200 meters.
- Smoking is prohibited in the presence of gorillas.
- Visitors are allowed to spend only one hour with the gorillas.
- Turn off the flash when photographing gorillas to avoid stressing them.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking: What to Wear on Your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari?
Those wishing to go on a gorilla trek trip in Volcanoes National Park or on wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park should dress appropriately and put on clothing that will not inconvenience them. Clothes that make you comfortable can help you have successful gorilla tours.
This guideline also works for Virunga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Dress appropriately for the trek as recommended below for
- Long-sleeved light trousers and shirts in neutral colors.
- Light hiking boots.
- A cap or hat.
- Sunglasses.
- Garden gloves.
- A rain jacket or poncho.
Packing List for Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda: What to Carry for a Rwanda Gorilla Trek?
Below are some of the essential items you need most on the Rwanda gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park:
- Gorilla trekking permit.
- Backpack.
- A useful camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Insect repellent.
- Walking sticks.
- Sunscreen.
- Bottled water.
Other African Gorilla Trekking Destinations
Uganda Gorilla Safari Tours
Over half of the world’s endangered Mountain gorilla population resides in Uganda, with Bwindi National Park having about 500 members. Uganda Gorilla trekking tours are primarily conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.
Bwindi alone hosts around 21 habituated gorilla groups, making it a prime destination for gorilla safaris in Uganda. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has two gorilla families.
A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800.
Congo Gorilla Trekking Tours
In Congo, gorilla trekking can be done in Virunga National Park or Kahuzi Biega National Park. Congo is unique in offering the chance to see both Mountain gorillas in Volcanoes Park and Eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega Park.
The permit for tracking gorillas in the Congo costs $400 and is sold at the Park headquarters. Congo Gorilla safaris offer birding opportunities as you walk through the thick forests.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Vs Uganda and Congo
Comparing Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo: While the gorilla trekking experience is similar across these countries, there are notable differences:
- Rwanda’s permits are the most expensive, at $1500, compared to $800 in Uganda and $400 in Congo.
- Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is only a three-hour drive from Kigali airport, while Uganda’s Bwindi is a nine-hour drive from Entebbe, and Congo’s Virunga is a four- to five-hour drive from Kigali.
- Rwanda and Uganda are generally safer than Congo.
- Rwanda offers luxurious lodges, making it ideal for high-end tours.
- Congo is unique for trekking to see Eastern lowland gorillas.
- Uganda also offers diverse wildlife safari opportunities.
Rwanda Safari Activities to Add on Your Gorilla Trekking Tour in Volcanoes National Park
Game Viewing in Akagera National Park
Wildlife safari game drives offer the best experience for game-viewing tours in Akagera National Park. You’ll search for wild animals such as Cape buffaloes, Lions, Zebras, Impalas, Topis, Rhinos, Bushbucks, Waterbucks, Leopards, and Hyenas, among others.
Therefore, don’t think that Kenya’s Masai Mara is the only place for wildlife viewing tours in East Africa!
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Although Rwanda is famous for gorillas, chimpanzee safaris are also possible in the Land of the Thousand Hills.
Most gorilla safari packages in Rwanda typically include chimpanzee tracking safaris in Nyungwe Forest National Park before the gorilla trek. Chimpanzee tracking expeditions in Nyungwe Forest are among the most remarkable safari activities in Rwanda; why miss them on your gorilla tour?
Other rewarding tourist activities in Rwanda to do:
- Kigali city tours
- Tracking golden monkeys will take you face-to-face with the endangered Golden monkey. Rwandan golden monkey tracking expeditions start at 7 am
- Cultural experiences in local communities
- Exploring Kigali Genocide Memorial Center
- Volcano climbing in Rwanda Volcanoes park
- Relaxation on Lake Kivu, a hidden gem in Rwanda worth exploring after the gorilla trek
- Undertaking a canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park
- Exploring Dian Fossey Tomb & Karisoke Research Center under the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund promotes strategies for conserving mountain gorillas.
- Bird watching is another rewarding adventure that Rwanda offers
- Enjoying a traditional meal in a local restaurant
Gorilla Habituation Experience
Gorilla habituation involves gradually getting wild gorillas accustomed to human presence. This process, essential for gorilla tourism, takes place over several months.
Tourists can participate in this process only in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where they can spend up to four (4) hours with the gorillas. A permit for this experience costs $1500.
Packing List for Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda: What to Carry for a Rwanda Gorilla Trek?
Below are some of the essential items you need most on the Rwanda gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park:
- Gorilla trekking permit.
- Backpack.
- A useful camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Insect repellent.
- Walking sticks.
- Sunscreen.
- Bottled water.
Best Rwanda Gorilla Safari Lodges During Rwanda Gorilla Safaris
Your Rwanda safari accommodation facilities on a gorilla Rwanda safari tour can be luxury, mid-range, or budget. You have a right to choose! These are the popular lodges we use while on gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park:
Rwanda Luxury Gorilla Safari Accommodation
These high-end hotels and luxury lodges in Volcanoes National Park include:
- Bisate Lodge
- Amakoro Songa Lodge
- Kataza House
- Ruzizi Tented Camp
- Karenga Bush Camp
Mid-range Accommodation
Mid-range lodges in Volcanoes National Park include the following:
- Fravan Eco Resort
- Eagle View Lodge
- My Hill Eco Lodge
- Urugano Virunga Palace
- La Palme Hotel
Budget Gorilla Safari Accommodation
Budget lodges are also defined as basic safari lodges and are ideal, especially for those traveling on a budget or shoestring. Their services are limited compared to those of luxury and some midrange lodges.
These lodges include Hotel Muhabura, Kinigi Guesthouse, and Villa Gorilla.
The Best Rwanda Gorilla Tour Companies
For an unforgettable gorilla safari in Rwanda, it is essential to use a reputable and reliable tour operator. A trusted Rwanda tour operator will ensure you have a remarkable experience, providing you with a private guide throughout your tour.
Most tourists prefer using a tour operator who can arrange a private guide for the entire safari, offering personalized attention and expert insights. These operators can seamlessly combine primate safaris with wildlife safaris in Kenya, Tanzania, and Congo, covering several national parks and delivering a comprehensive safari experience.
Popular Rwanda Gorilla Tours & Itineraries
There are numerous gorilla trips in Rwanda, and some of the best include:
Rwanda gorilla safari tours can be combined with other Rwanda tours like birding, chimpanzee trekking, primate safaris, Rwanda wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park and national parks in Kenya and Tanzania, and an exploration of the white sand beaches to give you outstanding African safari memories.
Gorilla Trekking Rwanda Frequently Asked Questions
When to Visit Rwanda Gorillas?
The best time to safari Rwanda gorillas in Volcanoes National Park is during the dry season, but this adventure remains possible all year round. From June to early September, Rwanda experiences its dry months. During this season, gorilla trekking trails are always dry; likewise, wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park is superb!
The long wet season in Rwanda runs from March to May, and it’s great for budget gorilla safaris.
How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
Rwanda gorilla safaris vary in difficulty, but you should be able to hike an uneven trail for at least 30 minutes and some gorilla hikes can go for 8 hours. Though the gorilla hike is fairly challenging, 99% of clients conquer it, and the trek moves at the pace of the last person.
Is gorilla trekking safe in Rwanda?
Yes, it is safe to visit Rwanda gorillas, with various measures in place to protect both visitors and gorillas. All Rwanda gorilla treks are accompanied by rangers, who strictly adhere to safety guidelines.
Is Rwanda Safe to Visit? Is It Safe to Travel to Rwanda?
Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in East Africa. Though it is safe to tour Rwanda, travelers should remain vigilant and generally feel secure.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Rwanda?
While possible, it is recommended to apply for a visa online in advance to avoid border delays.
It’s possible to get a Rwandan visa upon arrival. It is recommended to apply for a visa online in advance to avoid border delays.
If you plan to undertake a combined Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya safari trip, apply for an East African tourist visa.
What to Expect on Your Rwanda Gorilla Safari Trip?
During a Rwanda gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, expect a beautiful hike through bamboo-covered mountains and the thrill of encountering mountain gorillas up close.
You will enjoy magnificent views of the Virunga Mountains.
How Many days are there to See Gorillas in Rwanda?
Travelers need a minimum of 1 day for a gorilla trek in Rwanda Volcanoes Park, but three days are recommended for the best experience.
How to Prepare for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park?
- Improve your fitness beforehand and ensure you have the right gear and supplies for the trek during your gorilla tour in Rwanda. This helps you be relatively fit to manage hiking in the hilly jungle.
- Have an appropriate gorilla parking list, as recommended above
- Prepare the recommended clothing or attire for your trek, as we have recommended
For more information or to book your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari, please contact us. We specialize in creating memorable experiences for families, groups, and solo travelers.
If you are interested in gorilla tours in Rwanda, please contact us.
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