Expore Best Place For Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda

Rwanda is one of three places on earth where you can see mountain gorillas, the biggest primates alive. Thanks to hard work in saving these animals, their numbers went up by 25% in eight years, reaching over 1,000 by 2018. 

This makes Rwanda a great place for an amazing trip—gorilla trekking. This special journey lets people get close to these great animals in their home. Here, we will share key facts about trekking in Rwanda: where to go, when to visit, and how much it costs. This helps you get ready for a trip you’ll never forget.

All You Need to Know for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure.

Start a rare trip with our easy guide to seeing gorillas in Rwanda. Learn all you need for this special moment, from permits and what to bring, to top spots and tips for a safe, fun hike. Find out about the great gorillas, their home in the green forests of Volcanoes Park, and the work done to save them. We also explain key things like how tough the hike is, the weather you may face, and how to act near these amazing animals. Whether it’s your first trip or you’re an expert, our guide helps you get ready for a one-of-a-kind gorilla hike in Rwanda. 

 Rwanda Gorilla Trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers

When is the best time for gorilla trekking?

You can go gorilla trekking in Rwanda any time of the year. But it’s best to avoid the rainy seasons since hiking can be harder and less safe.

The best time to trek is in the dry seasons, from June to mid-September and December to February. These months have better weather, easier trails, and a more pleasant trip.

In the rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November, it can be harder to walk because the paths are wet. Still, the green plants make the trip look beautiful and lively.

There are rules for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Only a small number of permits are given out each day to protect the gorillas and their home. Make sure to book your permit early to join the trek.

Where is the best place for gorilla trekking In Rwanda?

The Volcanoes Park is the only spot where visitors can see gorillas in Rwanda and one of the top spots for this in the world. It sits in the north of the land and is home to many mountain gorillas that live across Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.

Seeing gorillas in Rwanda is a rare and thrilling trip. Meeting these big apes in thick woods makes it special. In Volcanoes Park, some groups of gorillas are used to people. This makes it easy for visitors to watch and know more about them. Known gorilla groups are Susa, Sabinyo, Amahoro, Kwitonda, and Hirwa. Each one gives its own kind of wonder.

Travelers embark on a gorilla trekking journey in the Volcanoes National Park

The trip starts with a fun walk through bamboo woods and tall hills. Skilled guides help you find one of Rwanda's special gorilla groups. The best part is the rush you feel when you stand close to these great animals. This moment stands as one of the most exciting and loved wildlife events in Africa.

For those who want more, they can enjoy two gorilla hikes by crossing into Uganda. The boldest travelers may choose to see the gorillas in Congo’s Virunga Park. Big wildlife fans can also see both mountain gorillas and Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega Park in Congo. Finding gorillas takes hard work and patience, but seeing these amazing animals makes it all worth it.

How much is Gorilla Trekking?

Getting a Rwanda gorilla permit is key to this great trip. It’s smart to book early to save your spot for trekking on a set date. This is even more important in busy times, like June to September and December to March, as these permits are hard to get because they are few.  

In Rwanda, a gorilla permit costs $1500. But this is just part of the full cost of a gorilla trekking tour. The price covers park entry, a walk with skilled guides, and one hour to watch the gorillas up close. Much of the money from permits helps protect the gorillas and supports local groups, showing how this tourism helps nature and people.  

You can get permits from a tour guide or straight from the Rwanda Development Board. You need to give your passport details to book. In Rwanda, there are 10 gorilla groups you can visit. Only 8 people can see one group in a day. So, just 80 permits are given out daily. These are shared among the gorilla groups, making it special and focused on care for the animals in Uganda.

Besides the permits, think about other costs like a place to stay, getting around, and food when planning your trip.

Read more: Is gorilla trekking worth the money?

Cost of Rwanda gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda

What should be prepared for gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is hard work, so being ready is key. Folks going to see gorillas in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park need to follow the rules. These rules help make the trip safe and fun while letting you see gorillas up close.

• To see these big apes, you must be 15 or older. Kids younger than this can't go near them. This helps stop the spread of colds, flu, or other germs, which could harm the gorillas. Visitors must also give their passport info when booking the trip. Since only about 1,000 mountain gorillas are left in the wild, these steps are needed to keep them safe from sickness.
• Fitness First: Gorilla trekking means walking through thick woods and hills. You need to be fairly fit to fully enjoy it.
• Dress Right: Put on comfy clothes that keep you dry and strong, waterproof boots. Take rain gear and extra layers, as the weather shifts fast.
• Bring Papers: Have a valid trekking permit and your passport as ID. Your guide can help with these steps.
• Be Kind to Gorillas: Stay back when you see them and listen to your guides. Don’t use flash or make loud sounds.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a trip you will never forget. It lets you see these amazing animals in their own home and helps protect them. The stunning views, rare animals, and chance to watch these kind giants up close make it a trip like no other.

Lastly, remember to get your Rwanda e-visa before your trip to this land of green hills. Getting a Rwanda visa is simple with the online system from Rwanda Immigration Services. In one day, you can get your visa and start your trip to see the home of the giant gorillas in Rwanda.