Gorilla Trekking in the Volcanoes National Park draws many visitors, as Rwanda is regarded by some as the ultimate destination for encountering gorillas in Africa. The park is a captivating sanctuary for the fascinating yet endangered mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas inhabit just three countries: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda: The Volcanoes National Park spans approximately 16,000 hectares and is located in the northwestern region of Rwanda. It features a diverse landscape of afro-montane forests, bamboo forests, expansive savanna grassland, extensive swamps, and five majestic volcanoes: Bisoke, Gahinga, Muhabura, Sabyinyo, and Karisimbi. Mount Karisimbi stands as one of the four highest peaks on the African continent. The Volcanoes National Park boasts an array of wildlife, including spotted hyenas, buffaloes, elephants, bush bucks, duikers, and golden monkeys, along with many other fascinating mammals.

Gorilla tourism in Rwanda draws numerous explorers to Volcanoes National Park, where the likelihood of encountering majestic mountain gorillas is exceptionally high. Gorilla trekking at the Volcanoes National Park takes you on a thrilling journey through lush bamboo forests and rugged mountain trails as you seek out one of the captivating gorilla families in Rwanda. The last meeting with the primates stands out as one of the most thrilling and unforgettable wildlife experiences in Africa. To have the best of both worlds, visitors can also cross the border to see the gorillas in Uganda in what is a known as double gorilla trekking. Some tourists even choose to embark on triple gorilla trekking, which includes a visit to the gorillas in Virunga National Park of Congo. An exhilarating experience awaits as you encounter mountain gorillas and Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park of Congo. Tracking gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park presents its challenges, yet the moment you encounter these magnificent creatures is often regarded as the pinnacle of wildlife adventures.

The expense of embarking on a gorilla trekking journey in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla Safari in Rwanda: It is essential to secure a Rwanda gorilla permit ahead of time to guarantee your place for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience on your chosen date. Obtaining gorilla permits can be quite challenging during the busy seasons, particularly from June to September and December to March. In Rwanda, the cost for gorilla permits is currently set at $1500. That is just a small part of the total cost for gorilla trekking. It’s essential to recognize that a portion of the funds raised from gorilla permits contributes to the vital work of gorilla conservation and community initiatives. Permits can be arranged via your tour operator or directly with the Rwanda Development Board. To secure the permit, you need to provide your passport details to the Rwanda Development Board. There are 10 gorilla families ready to explore, and each day, only 8 adventurers can join a specific group. This indicates that just 80 permits for gorilla encounters are offered each day for the different habituated groups.

What is the experience of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park like?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda kicks off with an exciting briefing from the park authorities and Rangers at approximately 7:30am. During the briefing, participants are split into groups and given the exciting task of tracking a specific family of gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. The less fit hikers are grouped with those who are nearer to the park offices. At 8:00am, the park Rangers guide the group on an exhilarating quest to find the gorillas. As previously mentioned, gorilla trekking in Rwanda presents you with 10 habituated groups or families to select from. No matter which group you end up with, the experience will be truly remarkable. Time seems to slip away as you observe the little ones tumble and frolic with pure joy. Mountain gorillas embody a spirit of playfulness and curiosity. Some may approach you with curiosity, bringing no threat at all. When you’re with the gorillas, it’s essential to heed the guidance of your Guides and maintain a sense of calm at all times. Always proceed with caution. Embarking on a journey to track gorillas in Rwanda can lead you through an exhilarating experience lasting anywhere from one to six hours, influenced by the gorilla group assigned to you and their whereabouts on the day of your trek.

Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Note: Consider hiring a porter or two if your luggage or equipment is particularly heavy. Porters are ready to assist you right from the starting point. Many of these porters, once driven by the thrill of poaching, have now embarked on a journey of embracing gorilla conservation programs. The earnings from providing their services help them steer clear of their past habits. If you’re considering a trip with your parents, exploring the topic of gorilla tracking for older individuals could be beneficial. The fees for porters range from $10 to $15. Be sure to pack sturdy hiking boots, warm cotton gloves, and a reliable raincoat. Your Tour Company should provide you with a detailed packing list and guidelines for your gorilla trekking experience.

How to get ready for an exhilarating experience in Gorilla Trekking at Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Get ready for an exciting journey by exploring the nearby forests on long walks, both for your body and mind.
Get the right shoes to tackle the occasionally rugged landscape.
Arrive prepared for the possibility of heavy rain.
Bring along plenty of water and some light snacks.
Tip the park Rangers and guides whenever possible – They work hard to ensure your gorilla tracking experience is truly memorable. The suggested tipping range is around $10 to $15 or the equivalent in the local currency.
Gorilla Trekking at the Volcanoes National Park is an exhilarating experience, and like all adventures, it comes with its own set of rules and regulations. Only those who are 15 years old and above can approach the primates. The reason children are kept away from the gorillas is that they can carry contagious diseases such as the flu and cough, which may be passed on to the primates. One of the reasons tourists must provide their passport details before embarking on a journey. Mountain gorillas are a rare sight, with only about 1,000 of them left roaming their natural habitat. Every measure is implemented to shield them from illnesses. Individuals carrying a communicable disease must be kept away from the primates. Mountain gorillas face vulnerabilities to certain infections that we, as humans, also carry. Additional guidelines and protocols for gorilla trekking are available in a separate article.

Note: Many visitors to Rwanda enjoy pairing gorilla trekking with two days of golden monkey tracking, cultural visits, and a hike to one of the volcanoes in the national park – particularly Mount Karisimbi and Bisoke. Embarking on the journey of hiking Mount Karisimbi alongside gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park demands a strong spirit and physical endurance to achieve success. The ideal months for embarking on a thrilling gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda are June, July, and August.

Additional experiences beyond gorilla trekking in Rwanda
In addition to gorilla trekking in Rwanda, there are a variety of exciting activities to explore at Volcanoes National Park and throughout the country. As you journey through the country, you’ll encounter stunning landscapes filled with rolling hills and majestic mountains. Experience the thrill of gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park alongside these exciting activities:

Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park: Embark on an exhilarating journey to encounter the endangered Golden Monkey in the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park. These stunning primates inhabit the same regions as the majestic mountain gorillas. They thrive on bamboo shoots, insects, and sometimes embark on daring raids for potatoes from nearby farms. Golden Monkeys are incredibly lively primates, with their only true adversaries being humans and the African eagle. Golden monkeys can be spotted in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda kicks off alongside golden monkey trekking, with permits priced at $100. Tracking golden monkeys in Rwanda offers a delightful experience, as these playful creatures inhabit the lower slopes of the volcanoes, making it a more accessible adventure compared to gorilla trekking.

Visiting the grave of Dian Fossey: Dian Fossey is regarded as one of the most remarkable primatologists in history due to her profound research and dedication to mountain gorillas from 1969 until her untimely death in the 1980s. She boldly shared the story of the mountain gorillas and passionately battled against poaching. She embraced innovative methods for acclimating mountain gorillas by observing their behaviors, immersing herself in their environment, and earning the trust of the formidable Silverback. This is truly extraordinary, as the mountain gorillas she engaged with had come to view all humans as a danger. Their population had dwindled due to the actions of poachers and those involved in the pet trade.

As the trafficking of baby gorillas spiraled out of control, Dian Fossey shifted her focus from pure research to actively engaging in the conservation of these magnificent creatures. This is where her journey took a dark turn, ultimately leading to her demise. Embarking on a hike to the resting place of Dian Fossey offers a unique opportunity to honor and discover the remarkable contributions of this esteemed primatologist. Dian Fossey led groundbreaking efforts in conservation to protect the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Discover the exciting details of visiting the Dian Fossey grave by exploring our 3 Days Gorilla tour in Rwanda and Dian Fossey Hike package.

Explore the Musanze Caves: These caves are a remarkable historical site in Rwanda, waiting to be discovered. The caves are located near the park in the vibrant town of Musanze. The Musanze caves are thought to have existed for more than 65 million years. With 31 entrances leading into the depths, the tunnels stretch an impressive 20 kilometers long. The caves lie right next to the majestic Mount Sabyinyo and the towering Bisoke. The caves are thought to have been created when lava erupted during the formation of the two volcanoes and subsequently cooled. The Musanze caves served as a secret refuge for the local kings of Rwanda, providing a strategic hideout during tribal conflicts with neighboring tribes. An experienced Guide can lead you to the caves and unveil their fascinating history. The fee for embarking on an adventure through these caves is $50.

Hiking one of the Volcanoes: If you are fit and ready for a challenge then you should look no further than the Virunga Volcanoes. The renowned volcanoes include Bisoke and Karisimbi. The hike up Karisimbi Volcano spans two days and offers an exhilarating experience. Embarking on a day hike up Mount Bisoke offers an exhilarating opportunity to witness the breathtaking crater lake at the peak. These mountains promise breathtaking vistas of the Virunga ranges, national parks, the Rwenzori Mountains, and the borders of three countries. The journey to hike Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi kicks off at 7:00 am with an exciting briefing from the park offices. Following the briefing, a Guide is appointed to steer the group of Hikers on their journey.

A bird in Rwanda: The Volcanoes National Park stands out as a remarkable destination for birdwatching, boasting around 200 recorded species of birds. Among these, 13 are unique to the region. The Rwenzori turaco and the handsome francolin are the most coveted birds. These birds are truly stunning and offer an experience like no other. Among the fascinating inhabitants are the archer’s ground robin, collared apalis, dusky crimson wing, Grauer’s rush warbler, red faced woodland warbler, Rwenzori double collared sunbird, and the peculiar weaver.

Gorilla Guardians Village: Explore the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, the largest and most frequented cultural center in Rwanda. It is situated near the Volcanoes National Park. The Centre was established to highlight Rwanda’s rich culture and enable the local community near the park to enjoy the experience of gorilla trekking. Many of the performers were once poachers, which is why the center is also known as the Gorilla Guardians Village. At the Iby’iwacu Cultural Centre, visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant cultural performances, including dance, drama, and storytelling. Discover the fascinating organization of a traditional Rwandan home and indulge in the delightful flavors of local cuisine and beverages. Local medicine men are eager to share their knowledge about traditional herbs that can be used to treat common ailments.

Exploring the Genocide Memorial center in Rwanda: Rwanda boasts numerous genocide memorial sites throughout the country, with the one in Kigali being the most frequented. The Museum offers an immersive experience that allows you to grasp the profound events that unfolded in Rwanda before and right after the 1994 genocide, during which approximately one million lives were lost. If this museum doesn’t meet your expectations, consider exploring the former Kings palace and the National Museum in Butale for deeper insights into the tragic event.

Explore the Forest Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park and track chimpanzees in the enchanting Nyungwe Forest, a highlight of Rwanda’s stunning offerings. The park boasts the most ancient and expansive afro-montane forest on the planet. Exploring the park offers the chance to encounter various primates, including chimpanzees. If you’re embarking on a primate safari, this is a destination you absolutely cannot overlook for the ultimate experience in Rwanda. In addition to Chimpanzees, you’ll encounter Colobus Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, Baboons, and golden monkeys, among others. Nyungwe forest offers an incredible opportunity to track chimpanzees in Rwanda. The park authorities also host exciting nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and thrilling forest canopy explorations.

Explore Lake Kivu: Amidst your Rwanda safari, take a moment to unwind and soak in the stunning African sun in a captivating setting. Lake Kivu holds the key. It is a remarkable lake in Africa, straddling the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lake Kivu offers thrilling opportunities for fishing, exploring islands, and enjoying refreshing swims. There are tales of methane gas lurking beneath the waters, but don’t let that concern you; the lake’s beauty is truly captivating.

Game drives at Akagera National Park: For an unforgettable wildlife experience in Rwanda, exploring Akagera National Park is a fantastic choice. It is Rwanda’s sole safari park, located a thrilling 3 hours’ drive from Kigali. Akagera may not boast the vastness of the national parks in Kenya or Tanzania, but you’ll emerge having encountered all of Africa’s iconic big five mammals.

Other activities: Beyond the primary attractions already mentioned, there are also hidden gems such as exploring the bustling market in Ruhengeri for authentic Rwandan fabric, engaging with local village projects, experiencing the warmth of local homes while savoring traditional dishes, or enjoying a refreshing glass of locally brewed beer. For those seeking a serene spot surrounded by breathtaking views, the twin lakes Burera and Ruhondo are a perfect destination. I must highlight the Congo Nile trail. Imagine the thrill of combining gorilla trekking in Rwanda with an exhilarating safari in Masai Mara, Kenya.

Places to stay while exploring the wonders of gorilla trekking at the Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda has established itself as a premier destination for gorilla trekking, pouring significant resources into its accommodations. Numerous exceptional lodges are situated near the Volcanoes National Park, ready to welcome tourists as they explore the wonders of the park. The lodges provide a range of accommodations, from ultra-luxury to budget-friendly options. The ultimate choice hinges completely on an individual’s financial plan. The most sought-after luxury hotels feature Bisate Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, One and Only Gorilla Nest Lodge, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, and Virunga Volcanoes Lodge. Five Volcanoes Lodge stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options among the upscale accommodations in Volcanoes National Park. They have a special room that can be presented to guests as an exciting surprise during select months of the year. Sabyinyo Silverback lodge provides stunning vistas of the majestic Virunga Volcanoes. If you’re seeking an extraordinary lodge experience, you should definitely explore Bisate or One and Only Gorilla Nest.

Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park offers a range of exciting mid-range lodges, including Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, and Lebambou Gorilla Lodge. Davinci Lodge captivates with its five roomy cottages and delightful international cuisine. For breathtaking vistas of the Virunga Volcanoes and the surrounding park, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is an excellent choice. If you’re looking to explore on a budget, consider staying at Virunga Hotel, Gorilla Solution Lodge, Villa Gorilla, Hotel Muhabura, La Palme Hotel, or Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel for an unforgettable experience. Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel is perfect for accommodating large groups with its 31 cozy rooms. Villa Gorilla Lodge is a fantastic option for those looking to be near the park offices. La Palme Hotel, in contrast, is renowned for its outstanding restaurant and authentic Rwandan cuisine. If many of the affordable hotels are fully booked during peak season, consider reaching out to Kinigi Guesthouse. They offer a variety of well-appointed rooms that provide a comfortable experience.

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