Gorillas in Rwanda – Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking at Volcanoes National Park
To see Gorillas in Rwanda at the Volcanoes National Park, just look for Rwanda gorilla trekking tours with Animal View Safaris and visit to enjoy a lifetime adventure experience at one of the places for mountain gorillas in Africa. To visit the endangered primates in the wild, just book a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit, get access to the park and be able to see them in the wild. A gorilla trek in Rwanda is available at all levels including budget, mid range and luxury tour packages.
Rwanda Mountain gorillas are organized into 10 families or groups under which they are tracked by visitors everyday. Each gorilla family 8 trekking permits which are allocated to 8 visitors per day. The trips to watch Rwanda gorillas usually begin from Kigali City to the park and range from 1 to 4 days or beyond depending on the itinerary and activities involved besides gorilla trekking.
Our customized gorilla safaris take place in Bwindi impenetrable national park and in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, Uganda plus DR Congo. The rich Virunga ecosystem contains 3 national parks in which the breathtaking gorilla trekking experience is carried out. These include Volcanoes national park in Rwanda, Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda and Virunga national park in DR Congo. Note that gorilla tracking is the best wildlife experience in Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo and this is evidenced by a large number of travelers that visit the 3 countries purposely to encounter gorillas compared to other tour activities in the region.
Check out gorilla tour packages arranged by Animal View Safaris and choose the most ideal one to your tour plans, budget and preferences. Fortunately, the cost to see Rwanda gorillas is also affordable and friendly.
AFFORDABLE TRIPS TO SEE GORILLAS IN RWANDA
1 Day Gorilla Trek Rwanda
Book an affordable 1 Day Gorilla trekking safari Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, starting early morning from Kigali to the park, see gorillas are return in the evening. Read More
2 Day Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Enjoy 2 Day tour to see Rwanda gorillas in Volcanoes National Park offering you one of the best gorilla safari experiences in Africa. With time allowing, you may have a additional tourism activity near the park before driving back to Kigali City. Read more.
2 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Take a 3 days Rwanda gorilla trekking safari in the Volcanoes National Park during which you will see gorillas, undertake golden monkey trekking and finally hike to Dian Fossey grave site. Kigali city tour is also part of this holiday. Read more.
Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda
The park in the north east of the tiny African country covers —–square kilometers and is part of the Virunga Conservation Area stretching from DR Congo, to Rwanda and finally Uganda. To trek to see the endangered gorillas in Rwanda, one must have booked a gorilla permit trekking permit to be able access the park.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
To visit and see gorillas in Rwanda, one should book a Rwanda Gorilla Permit to get access to the gorilla park. A gorilla permit booking should be done in line with one’s ideal time to have a safari to Rwanda. A gorilla permit can be booked through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or a professional tour operator like Animal Safaris. Every traveler has his own time to travel on a safari. But it’s always good to check for the best time to visit Rwanda to see gorillas so that you have the best memorable wild safari experience.
Trips to Visit Rwanda Gorillas
The trips to see Rwanda Mountain gorillas include those with only gorilla trekking as well as ones with the activities combined with other safari tours. But for visitors looking for cheapest way to trek gorillas in Rwanda, booking a shorter safari may be the best option. Trekking gorillas in Rwanda trekking may be done alone or with golden monkey trekking, exploration of Musanze caves, volcano hiking or visiting the Dian Fossey grave-site. Other tours in Rwanda include, wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, Chimpanzee trekking, Colubus monkey tracking and Canopy walk or nature tour in Nyungwe Forest National Park. While in Rwanda to visit gorillas, you can also enjoy genocide tours, Kigali City tour or enjoy cultural and historical tours in the country. Choose a holiday package to supplement your gorilla trekking adventure. Rwanda Gorilla safaris include:-
Gorilla Trekking Questions
Trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda requires a visitor to have gorilla trekking permit. The permit is issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), a government body in charge of wildlife conservation in the country. In this article below, we are trying to answer some key questions many people ask in an attempt to comprehend gorilla trekking as a tourism concept. Below are some of the questions and their brief answers:-
What is a gorilla trekking permit?
A gorilla trekking permit is a government-issued pass that grants access to trek and see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The activity of gorilla trekking also supporting protection and conservation efforts for the endangered primates. Read on for how to get the permit and where! Primates. Travel Guides.
How much does it cost to see gorillas in Rwanda?
The Cost is US $1500 per person per day for a gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park. The minimum age limit to track gorillas is 15 years old. Special offers are currently available for Rwandan and East African Community residents.
How many days to see gorillas in Rwanda?
The trip to see gorillas in Volcanoes National Park may last between 1 to 3 days. And all Rwanda gorilla tours start from Kigali City to the park. Visitors can book a 1 day Rwanda gorilla trek, 2 day gorilla tours in Volcanoes or a 3 day Rwanda gorilla trekking. On a guided trekking tour through the jungle, you are able to visit mountain gorillas in Rwanda in their natural habitation. The gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park is a memorable wildlife encounter!
Is Rwanda or Uganda better for gorillas?
In case affordability and a wide-ranging wildlife safari experiences are one’s targets, Uganda seems better than Rwanda. However, Rwanda could be better fit if one’s goals include luxury or lavish stay, an easier trek, short comfortable transfers as well as maximizing gorilla watching.
Is it safe to see gorillas in Rwanda?
Yes, it is very safe to trek gorillas in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda because of the several security measures in place to protect the gorillas, their habitats as well as the visitors to the park. Even during the treks to visit gorillas, each group of tourists is allocated armed rangers to escort it through the park.
Where is the best place in the world to see gorillas?
The best places in the world to visit and see gorillas are Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park as well as Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. These three destinations offer the best gorilla trekking tours that may definitely be prolonged to other impressive wildlife experiences like Murchison falls safaris, Masai Mara and Serengeti tours.
15 Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park
1. What is gorilla trekking and where is it done in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a thrilling and life-changing adventure that involves hiking through the forest to observe endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda in their natural habitat. This unforgettable experience takes place only in Volcanoes National Park, located in the Virunga Mountains of northwestern Rwanda. The park is home to several habituated gorilla families that have been made comfortable with human presence, making it possible for tourists to safely visit them. Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see wild mountain gorillas, making it a top destination for primate tourism in Africa.
2. How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost in Rwanda?
The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500 USD per person, issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). This permit grants you one hour of close interaction with one of the gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. Although the price may seem high, it contributes directly to the conservation of gorillas in Rwanda, anti-poaching efforts, and development projects in local communities. This investment helps ensure the long-term survival of mountain gorillas while supporting sustainable tourism in Rwanda.
3. How can I book a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
To go gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you need to book a permit in advance through either the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or a licensed local tour operator such as Animal View Safaris. Booking through a trusted safari company offers convenience, as they often provide complete Rwanda gorilla trekking tour packages that include permits, transport, accommodation, and experienced guides. Since the number of permits is limited and demand is high, especially in peak season, booking early (at least 3 to 6 months in advance) is highly recommended.
4. When is the best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. These months offer more stable weather, clearer skies, and better hiking conditions in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. The drier trails make trekking less strenuous and increase your chances of excellent wildlife viewing and photography. However, Rwanda gorilla trekking tours are available all year, and visiting in the off-season may offer quieter trails and better availability of permits.
5. How difficult is the gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park?
The physical difficulty of a Rwanda gorilla trek depends on the specific gorilla group you’re assigned to and their location on the day of your trek. Some gorilla families in Rwanda live closer to park entry points, while others are deeper in the forest, requiring longer hikes. On average, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park takes between 2 to 6 hours and can involve navigating steep, muddy, and forested terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but experienced guides and porters are available to assist trekkers throughout the journey.
6. What should I wear or pack for a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda?
For an enjoyable gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda, pack and dress appropriately for the tropical mountain environment. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and sturdy waterproof hiking boots for protection against insects, thorny plants, and slippery terrain. Bring a rain jacket, even in dry season, as Volcanoes National Park Rwanda has unpredictable weather. Other essentials include gardening gloves, insect repellent, a hat, refillable water bottle, snacks, and a daypack. A walking stick and porter (optional but recommended) can also be hired to ease your trek.
7. How many people can visit a gorilla family per day in Rwanda?
To minimize human impact and support conservation, only eight visitors per day are allowed to track each habituated gorilla family in Rwanda. This limited number helps reduce the risk of spreading diseases to the mountain gorillas in Rwanda and ensures a more intimate and respectful experience for visitors. It also helps regulate the number of people on the forest trails in Volcanoes National Park, maintaining a peaceful and natural environment for both gorillas and tourists.
8. How close can I get to the gorillas in Rwanda?
During gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, visitors are required to maintain a 7-meter distance from the mountain gorillas in Rwanda. This rule protects gorillas from potential disease transmission, as they share up to 98% of their DNA with humans. Sometimes, curious gorillas may move closer on their own—if this happens, trekkers must stay calm, avoid direct eye contact, and follow the ranger’s guidance. Respecting this distance helps ensure the gorillas remain wild and undisturbed.
9. Is gorilla trekking safe in Rwanda?
Yes, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is very safe. Rwanda is one of the most secure countries in Africa, and Volcanoes National Park is closely monitored by trained rangers, trackers, and security personnel. All visitors are escorted by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about gorilla behavior and forest navigation. The Rwandan government, through the Rwanda Development Board, has invested significantly in conservation and tourism infrastructure to make the park safe for both tourists and wildlife.
10. What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
To participate in gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you must be at least 15 years old. This age restriction is enforced to ensure the safety of both visitors and gorillas in Rwanda. Younger children may find the trek physically demanding or may behave unpredictably, which could disturb the gorillas or other trekkers. Additionally, children are more likely to carry infectious diseases, which could pose a threat to the health of these endangered primates.
11. Can people with disabilities or limited mobility go gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Yes, even travelers with limited mobility can enjoy gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The park offers porter services and sedan chairs (sometimes called “gorilla stretchers”) carried by teams of porters, allowing those who cannot hike to be transported to the gorillas. This initiative promotes inclusivity and ensures that all tourists, regardless of age or physical condition, can experience the incredible opportunity of seeing gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
12. How long does the gorilla trekking experience take in Rwanda?
A full Rwanda gorilla trekking experience, including orientation, hiking, and viewing, typically lasts 4 to 8 hours. The actual time spent hiking depends on the movement of the assigned gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park on that particular day. Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed to spend exactly one hour with the gorillas, observing their behavior and taking photos. The duration ensures minimal disruption to the gorillas’ routine and helps preserve their natural behavior.
13. How does Rwanda compare to Uganda for gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is often considered more accessible due to the close proximity of Volcanoes National Park to Kigali International Airport—just a 2.5-hour drive. Rwanda also offers more luxury lodges and premium experiences, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort and ease. In contrast, Uganda gorilla trekking typically involves longer travel and more rugged terrain, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, but may be more budget-friendly. Both destinations offer excellent sightings of mountain gorillas in Africa, but Rwanda stands out for its efficiency, infrastructure, and luxury appeal.
14. Is gorilla habituation available in Rwanda?
No, gorilla habituation experiences are not available in Rwanda. This unique activity, where visitors spend up to four hours with a gorilla family undergoing habituation, is only offered in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, tourists are only permitted a one-hour encounter with fully habituated mountain gorillas. However, Rwanda compensates for this with its high-quality trekking experience, shorter travel times, and world-class tourist infrastructure.
15. What other activities can I do in Volcanoes National Park besides gorilla trekking?
While gorilla trekking in Rwanda is the highlight, Volcanoes National Park offers several other exciting activities. You can track golden monkeys, another rare primate species endemic to the Virunga region. Adventurous visitors can hike Mount Bisoke, known for its crater lake, or attempt the more challenging Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest peak. Cultural enthusiasts can visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience Rwandan traditions, dance, and food. You can also hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb and research center, learning about her groundbreaking work in gorilla conservation in Rwanda.