Can You Trek the Agashya Gorilla Group Exclusively?

Can You Trek the Agashya Gorilla Group Exclusively?

The Agashya gorilla group, also known as Group 13, is one of the most sought-after gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. With over 26 gorillas, including a dominant silverback, the group is usually found near the Sabyinyo gorilla family. The name “Agashya,” which means “something special,” reflects the remarkable leadership of the silverback in guiding such a large group.

If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to trek the Agashya gorilla group exclusively, the answer is yes! With Trek Africa Gorillas, you can secure all permits and enjoy a private, uninterrupted encounter with this magnificent family of mountain gorillas. Whether you are traveling alone or with a private group, trekking Agashya exclusively gives you the rare opportunity to experience these incredible animals in peace, surrounded only by your group and the ranger guides.

How to Secure Your Exclusive Trek to the Agashya Gorilla Group

To trek Agashya exclusively, you need to block all 8 available permits for the day. Here’s how it works:

• Gorilla permits cost:
  • $1500 per person for foreign non-residents
  • $500 per person for foreign residents
  • $200 for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi and South Sudan)

Each permit allows you to spend one hour with the gorillas in their natural habitat. If you’re traveling alone or want to guarantee an exclusive experience, you will need to purchase all 8 permits, which cost $12,000 for foreign non-residents. By securing these permits, you’ll have the opportunity to trek the Agashya gorilla group exclusively—no other tourists will be allowed, ensuring a private experience.

Key Tips for Planning Your Exclusive Agashya Gorilla Trek

1. Book Your Permits Early
   The Agashya gorilla group only offers 8 permits per day, so it’s crucial to book them well in advance. We recommend securing your permits 3 to 4 months before your planned trek, especially during high season, as permits sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Flexible Payment Options
   To block all 8 permits, you can make an advance payment of 100%, 70% or 30% of the total cost. We will work with you to ensure your booking is secure and all payments are processed smoothly.
3. Getting to Volcanoes National Park
   Volcanoes National Park is about a 2-hour drive from Kigali. For your comfort, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, a spacious and comfortable vehicle ideal for Rwanda’s rugged roads. Alternatively, you can opt for a helicopter transfer from Kigali for a unique and scenic journey.

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park for Your Exclusive Agashya Trek

Volcanoes National Park is easily accessible from Kigali—just a 2-hour drive away. If you’re coming from the Cyanika border between Uganda and Rwanda, it’s only about an hour’s drive to the park entrance. For your convenience, we offer all-inclusive packages that include comfortable transportation in 4×4 vehicles, ideal for the journey to the park. These vehicles come with air conditioning and complimentary drinking water, driven by our experienced and professional driver-guides.

To enter the park and trek with the Agashya gorilla group, ensure you have a gorilla permit for your trek or have paid the necessary park entrance fees in advance.

Where to Stay in Volcanoes National Park During Your Exclusive Agashya Gorilla Trek

Volcanoes National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury to budget options:

• Luxury Lodges: Bisate Lodge, Gorilla Nest and Virunga Lodge provide upscale, high-end accommodations with stunning views of the volcanoes and excellent service.
• Mid-range Lodges: Consider options like Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge and Le Bamboo Mountain Gorilla Lodge for a more affordable yet comfortable stay.
• Budget Hotels: Kinigi Guesthouse, Hotel Muhavura and Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge offer budget-friendly options for travelers.

Due to the popularity of gorilla trekking, rooms sell out quickly, especially during the high season. It’s important to book your accommodation well in advance. Staying multiple nights could also earn you discounts and you can expect great service throughout your stay.

Best Time to Trek the Agashya Gorilla Group Exclusively

The ideal time to trek the Agashya gorilla group exclusively is during the drier months from January to February and June to early September. These months offer easier travel conditions and provide clearer views of the gorillas, as the vegetation is less dense.

During the wet months of April, May and November, the park experiences heavier rainfall, making vegetation thicker and the terrain more challenging. However, treks tend to be shorter during these months, as the gorillas don’t travel as far in search of food, which is more abundant in the forest during the rainy season.

Despite the weather, gorilla sightings in Volcanoes National Park are almost guaranteed year-round, with a 99% success rate in encountering the gorillas in their natural habitat.

Why Book Your Exclusive Agashya Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we organize customized, tailor-made gorilla trekking experiences in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to assist with all aspects of your trip, ensuring your experience is seamless and memorable.

When you contact us, you can expect prompt responses—typically within 20 minutes. Our expert tour consultants will help plan your trip, answer all your questions and make sure that every detail of your trekking experience is arranged well in advance to avoid any inconveniences. We also offer knowledgeable safari guides who are fluent in various languages, so you can enjoy the experience in your preferred language.

Ready to book your exclusive trek with the Agashya gorilla group? Feel free to contact us today and we’ll handle everything for you!