Gorilla trekking in Rwanda safaris/Rwanda Gorilla tours are the best for exploring the Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda. Gorilla safaris in Rwanda/Rwanda Gorilla safari tours will take you into the jungle of Volcanoes National Park and search for the endangered gentle giants with new adventures.
Rwanda Gorilla safaris will usher you to explore Rwanda the land of a thousand hills is one of the outstanding countries in East Africa offering the best Gorilla tours. This is because it is one of the countries where the Gorillas live the rest being Uganda and Congo.
There are about 604 endangered Mountain Gorillas within the Virunga Mountains and Rwanda holds the highest number making it a good destination for Gorilla tours Rwanda.
Gorilla tours in Rwanda will have you meet the endangered Mountain Gorillas in the Virunga Mountains with over 98% DNA similarity with that of humans.
Meeting the giant apes in their natural habitat is the top highlight of an African safari in Rwanda. The number of Gorillas may not total to that of Uganda but the experiences are truly beyond forgetting.
Mountain Gorilla tours in Rwanda the land of a thousand hills will have you enjoy a one-on-one experience with the gentle giants as you are only 6 meters away from them. After you explore Rwanda, you can as well opt to see Gorillas in Virunga National Park in Congo.
And when in Congo, you can as well enjoy more primate safaris in Kahuzi Biega National Park the best place for seeing the Eastern Lowland Gorillas.
You will watch the magnificent Lowland Gorillas and gaze into their brown eyes.
Trekking Gorillas is combined with other Rwanda safaris to give you the full experience of Africa safaris like wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park.
Where To See Gorillas in Rwanda in Rwanda Safaris
Rwanda is not like Uganda with 2 places to see Gorillas. It has only one place which is Volcanoes National Park famous for primate safaris.
This park is located in the far northwest of Rwanda within the Virunga Mountains covering an area of 37.4 km2 and it adjoins Virunga National Park of Congo. It is rich in a mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forests, open grassland, swamp, and heath.
Volcanoes Park is home to the only endangered Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda. There are many Gorillas within the Virunga Mountain chain, but Volcanoes National Park holds the highest number of gentle giants.
This park has about 12 Gorilla family groups which are fully habituated, with a few others habituated for scientific research. All the Gorilla families within Volcanoes National Park at least consist of 1 dominant Silverback along with several females and youngsters.
The Mountain Gorilla families in Volcanoes are Susa, Igisha, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Kwitonda, Umubano, Hirwa, Bwenge, Ugyenda, and Muhoza.
Apart from the Gorillas, this park also has other wildlife like monkey species and various birds good for Rwanda safari.
Even though Rwanda the land of a thousand hills is not like the other East Africa countries of Kenya and Tanzania which are good for wildlife safaris and white sand beaches, it is great for primate safaris as it has Gorillas and Chimpanzees.
Tourists can explore Rwanda and make an East Africa safari and visit the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo, enjoy a wildlife safari in Kenya and Tanzania.
How Many Hours Can One Spend with Mountain Gorillas? | How long is a trek to see the Gorillas in Rwanda
Rwanda the land of a thousand hills is among the best destinations for Gorilla trips and visitors are permitted to spend one hour with the apes. This is the same time you spend with the Chimps and Golden Monkeys in Nyungwe National Park which is like Kibale National Park of Uganda.
The limited 1 hour is for conservation purposes and not to inconvenience the Gorillas’ peace and habitat.
This amazing hour is the best time to watch the Gorillas play and care for each other, and it is the time for photography though do not use the flash.
This is the same time visitors spend with Gorillas in the Virunga National Park of Congo Democratic Republic or Kahuzi Biega National Park when meeting the Lowland Gorillas.
How Long Is Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda? | How Long Is A Trek To See The Gorillas In Rwanda?
Gorillas are like any other wild animals as they move from one place to another and you have to search for them in the jungle. Usually, Rwanda Gorilla trekking safaris or primate safaris are between 2-5 hours same as that of Virunga National Park in Congo.
Visitors gather at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi at 7 am. They enjoy a short briefing for about 30 minutes, they enjoy morning cultural experiences through the traditional dance of the Rwandan natives.
After, you then follow the park rangers in Volcanoes National Park in search of the Gorillas. The hikes can last for anything from 30 minutes to 4 hours or more hours and once you spot the apes you be with them for 1 full hour.
How Much Are Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda?
A tracking permit is an official or legal document issued by Rwanda Development Board allowing you to engage in tracking of Gorillas.
For visitors to be able to see Gorillas in Rwanda the land of a thousand hills, they are supposed to be having permits. They are the passport for seeing Gorillas.
The cost of the permits is as follows;
| Category | Cost/Price |
| Non-residents | $ 1500 |
| Foreign residents | $ 500 |
| East African residents/Citizens | $ 200 |
| African citizen/Foreign resident in Africa | $ 500 |
All the prices are inclusive of park entrance fees and Rwanda Gorilla trekking permits are purchased from Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices in Kigali or directly from the park.
Permits in Uganda go for $ 700 and for Congo go for $ 400 making it the Cheapest among the countries of East Africa.
For tourists who want to explore Rwanda more as they want to track the Chimpanzees, the permit is $ 90 and Chimps are available in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Since Rwanda has 12 habituated Gorilla families and only 8 permits are issued per troop per day. This means that 96 permits are available each day in Rwanda.
Travelers who wish to engage in Gorilla trek in Rwanda safaris can book for themselves the Gorilla permits online. You will be able to call Rwanda Development Board to book your Gorilla permit.
In case you are to buy the permits directly from Rwanda Development Board, you will then be able to send them a bank payment confirmation email. You will be able to collect your permit once you arrive in Rwanda for your Gorilla safari.
Tourists should always use the services of a reputable safari company to buy all the Rwanda Gorilla trekking permits.
How Much Does It Cost to See Gorillas in Rwanda? | How Much Does It Cost to Trek Gorillas in Rwanda?
How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Gorillas In Rwanda? Many tourists ask themselves how much a Gorilla safari in Rwanda is. Also, this question is asked by those intending to go on safaris in East Africa i.e. Kenya, Tanzania, Congo, and Uganda.
However, the Gorilla safari Rwanda price is based on several factors same as tracking Chimps in Nyungwe Forest National Park or Gorillas in Virunga National Park.
Below are factors that make up a Gorilla safari Rwanda price;
Gorilla Permit: Gorilla tours require one to have a permit which is at a fee of $1,500 for both foreign residents and citizens of East Africa pay $ 200.
Accommodation costs: this will determine the price of your primate safari if you choose either, luxury, mid range, or budget accommodation.
Mode of transport: You need to consider the mode of transport you will be using, is it a public means or private means.
Considering porters: sometimes you need someone to help you lift heavy equipment.
How Much Is A 1 Day Gorilla Trek In Rwanda Safari?
A 1 day Gorilla trek in Rwanda safari is very possible unlike in Uganda. The 1 day Gorilla trek in Rwanda will depend on the number of people on the safari but consider a fixed fee of the Gorilla permit which is $1500.
This 1 day gorilla trek would cost from $1700 per person. This price must be inclusive of a tracking permit, private transport, a guide, and meals.
When To Visit Rwanda Gorillas | Best Time To Gorilla Trek In Rwanda | What Is The Best Time Of Year To See The Gorillas In Rwanda?
Seeing Mountain Gorillas is good all year and one can visit Rwanda at any time though the best time is in the dry season/peak season. These months are from June to August and December to February.
This is the best time because the trails are dry and accessible leading to successful Gorilla treks as well as in Virunga National Park.
Also, wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park are successful as you watch Africa’s big 5 with quick sightings as the savannah grasslands are short. And if you are combining Gorilla tours with boat cruises on Lake Kivu, there are better in the dry months.
However, the Gorilla treks can be short during the wet season which is not tiring as it is easy to find the Gorillas. They tend to move closer since the food is abundant throughout the entire jungle though the trails may be slippery.
The wet months of Rwanda are from March to May and from September to November may not be suitable for wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park.
Gorilla Trek Guidelines in Rwanda/ Rules and Regulations
These rules and regulations are set for the conservation and protection of endangered Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
These rules are similar to those of tracking Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park of Uganda and Virunga National Park of Congo.
Every tourist should follow these rules when they meet with Gorillas and below they are as follows;
On the way to see the apes;
- Only persons above the age of 15 years can be allowed to embark on Gorilla trips.
- A maximum of 8 people are allowed to visit a Gorilla group (Gorilla family) per day to maintain the conservation of the Gorillas.
- Always wash your hands before you embark on the activity.
- During your explore Rwanda Gorilla trekking safaris, always listen to what the rangers and guides tell you. Do not touch anything in the park.
- In case you want to ease yourself, make sure that the human waste is buried in a deep hole of at least 30 cm.
- Do not litter in the park, always carry your rubbish and you will dump it after the activity.
- If you have any illness, do not prompt to go on Gorilla trek as you can spread the sickness to the Gorillas.
- Always make sure that you have your permits with you because if you don’t have them, then you will not be allowed to trek.
When you are with the apes;
- Always maintain a safe distance of 7 meters away from the Gorillas.
- Do not eat or drink near the Gorillas as it should only be done 200 meters away from the Gorillas.
- Smoking is prohibited in the presence of Gorillas as you may cause sickness to the Gorillas.
- Tourists are only given 1 hour to be with the apes as it is to minimize the disturbance of Gorillas by humans.
- In case you want to cough or sneeze, keep your mouth and nose covered at all times as you can spread the sickness to the Gorillas.
- If you are photographing Gorillas, always keep your flash off as it stresses the Gorillas and they also relate it with danger.
What to Wear For Gorilla Trekking Safaris In Rwanda
Those wishing to go on a Gorilla trek trip in Volcanoes National Park or wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park then you should wear appropriately and put on clothing that will not inconvenience them. Clothes that make you comfortable can make you have successful a Gorilla tours.
This wear also works for Virunga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Below is what to wear for explore Rwanda Gorilla trips;
- Long-sleeved light trousers and shirts (neutral colors)
- Light hiking boots
- A cap or hat
- Sunglasses
- Garden gloves
- A rain jacket or Poncho
What to Carry for Gorilla Trek In Rwanda?
This packing list consists of items that you will carry for Gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park or for wildlife safaris. It is also the same list if visiting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park of Uganda and Virunga National Park.
Some of these essential items include;
- Gorilla trek permits are a must have for Gorilla tours as you need present them to the officials.
- A good camera with extra batteries and memory cards
- Binoculars
- Walking sticks
- Backpack
- Bottled water
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
How Hard Is Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda | How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda?
Gorilla trek is not that hard, though it involves hiking and passing through thick terrains and vegetation, steep slopes, and hills as the Volcanoes National Park is mountainous.
Going up those steep slopes and thick vegetation within the forest can be challenging and it needs some bit of physical fitness.
If it fails and it is very hard for someone to trek, one can hire porters who can help you carry some of your heavy stuff and carry you on a sedan chair so that you meet the giant apes.
The experience is almost the same as that in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park of Uganda and Virunga National Park.
Is Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda Worth It?
Yes, Gorilla trek is worth it and 100% worth the money. Meeting the Gorillas in their natural habitat is a lifetime experience and unspoken for.
Once you trek the Gorillas, you will want more of the experience as you get to see the giant apes feeding, and caring for each other as the young ones jump from one tree branch to another. They may as well want you to take part in their games as they surround you. Wow!
You will be amazed by the size of the Silverback Gorillas. Truly, Gorilla trek is worth the money as you as well see other wildlife in other national parks during this amazing visit Rwanda Uganda encounter.
Is Uganda Or Rwanda Better To See Gorillas? | Is Rwanda Or Uganda Better For Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trek is one of the best experiences to enjoy during an Africa safari.
However, there is a comparison between tracking in Rwanda Uganda. One would want to know which is the better destination for the activity.
- Rwanda Gorilla trek is mostly for high-end travelers as the Gorilla permit is at a fee of $1500 whereas the one in Uganda is at $700.
- One can trek Gorillas in a short time of fewer than 2 days as the drive distance from the Kigali International Airport is just 3-4 hours to the trek point.
This is impossible in Uganda as one can do 3 days and upwards as from the airport to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park is about 11 hours and tracking starts early in the morning.
- Uganda has cheaper accommodation compared to that of Rwanda though they both have superb lodges.
- Uganda has more Gorilla families (20) meaning that it can sell 160 Gorilla permits a day unlike Rwanda which has 12 Gorilla family groups and can sell 96 permits a day.
One can decide on whatever country they feel going to depending on their schedule and budget but explore Rwanda Uganda Gorilla trips are amazing.
Why Go For Gorilla Trek In Rwanda?
There are numerous reasons why you should track Gorillas and why choose Rwanda.
- Rwanda Is Home To The Mountain Gorillas
This country is among the countries in East Africa having this species of Gorillas. Only 3 countries in the whole world have it. That’s Rwanda Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Rwanda Is A Safe Country For All Tourists
Many tourists fear traveling to African countries as they take them to be not safe to travel to. However, Rwanda is a safe country as it welcomes all tourists worldwide. The national parks are also well protected by rangers giving you full security.
- You Can Contribute To Gorilla Conservation And Supporting Communities
Gorillas are critically endangered as their population is down and when you do Gorilla trekking safaris, you are contributing to Gorilla conservation.
The money collected is used to pay the park rangers and 10% of the revenue from the permits is channeled toward local communities.
- Gorilla Tours Can Be Combined With Other Holidays
Rwanda has other national parks which offer safari activities that can be combined with other safaris to give you better African experiences.
Some of the activities include wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park where you get to enjoy game drives, birding safaris, cultural experiences, etc.
You can meet Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park similar to Kibale National Park of Uganda, track Golden Monkeys on your primate safaris, and visit the Dian Fossey grave.
Enjoy boat cruises on Lake Ihema and Lake Kivu as you enjoy the views of a thousand hills or even hike the 5 volcanoes, especially Mount Karisimbi. Or you can visit Virunga National Park of Congo.
Does Rwanda Have Gorillas? | Is Rwanda Known For Gorillas?
Yes, Rwanda is known for Gorillas and these are the country’s primary tourist attractions.
Dian Fossey, who was fiercely territorial and despised tourism, brought these Gorillas to the world’s notice. She safeguarded and conserved Gorillas in the tropical rainforests in Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park of Congo.
Tourists can now visit Rwanda Uganda to trek Gorillas and contribute to their conservation. Uganda and the Congo Democratic Republic are two other countries renowned for their Gorillas.
This country is also known for Chimps in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Can You Visit The Gorillas In Rwanda?
Yes, you can visit Gorillas in Rwanda whenever you like, but you must first obtain a permit, which costs $1,500 per individual per day.
Also, visitors must be at least 15 years old to see Gorillas. Currently, citizens of Rwanda and East Africa are eligible for special discounts.
You can also enjoy wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park and other national parks, meet the Chimps in Nyungwe Forest National Park similar to Kibale National Park of Uganda or the apes in Virunga National Park of Congo.
Hotels In Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Accommodation is either luxury, midrange, or budget safari lodges.
Luxury Accommodation In Volcanoes National Park
These high-end hotels/luxury lodges in Volcanoes National Park include;
- Bisate Lodge
- Amakoro Songa Lodge
- Kataza House
- Ruzizi Tented Camp
- Karenga Bush Camp
Mid-range Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park
Mid-range lodges in Volcanoes National Park include;
- Fravan Eco Resort
- Eagle View Lodge
- My Hill Eco Lodge
- Urugano Virunga Palace
- La Palme Hotel
Budget Accommodation In Volcanoes National Park
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 that provided by luxury and some midrange lodges.
These lodges include; Hotel Muhabura, Kinigi Guesthouse, and Villa Gorilla.
List of The Best Tour Companies in Rwanda | List of Rwanda Tour Operators for Rwanda Gorilla Tours
If you are planning your explore Rwanda Uganda Gorilla safari, it is ideal to use a reputable tour operator who is reliable. The Rwanda tour operator will make sure that you enjoy your tours with remarkable experiences in the company with a private guide.
Most tourists use a tour operator who will arrange a private guide for the entire explore Rwanda safari tour.
They can as well combine primate safaris with wildlife safaris in Kenya, Tanzania, and Congo in several national parks giving you full safari experiences.
Below are the best tour operators to use for exploring Rwanda Gorilla tours;
Below Are Some of the Best Gorilla Safari in Rwanda Packages | Popular Gorilla Tours Rwanda Itineraries
There are numerous gorilla trips in Rwanda and some of the best include:-
10 Days Rwanda Safari Vacation Trip
In summary, Gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda trip takes you to Volcanoes National Park to trek and see Mountain Gorillas. They are remarkable as they will offer you life experiences.
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.
If You Are Interested In Gorilla Tours Rwanda, Inquire
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