Exclusive Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Exclusive Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Experience the thrill of exclusive gorilla trekking in Rwanda with Trek Africa Expeditions. Imagine having a whole day dedicated to trekking with mountain gorillas in the stunning Volcanoes National Park, all to yourself, your family, or a private group. This unique opportunity allows you to enjoy an intimate and uninterrupted encounter with these magnificent creatures.

About Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, including not only the majestic mountain gorillas but also golden monkeys and other primate species. The park is home to twelve gorilla families, offering a limited number of 96 gorilla permits each day for trekking enthusiasts. To secure your permit, you can book directly through the Rwanda Development Board or partner with a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.

How to Book Exclusive Trekking

If you’re eager to arrange a private trek in Volcanoes National Park, Trek Africa Expeditions makes it easy. You can block all gorilla permits for an exclusive day by paying a percentage of the total permit cost in advance—options include 100%, 70%, or 30% of the permit price.

The cost of a gorilla permit varies based on residency status:

• Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 per person
• Foreign Residents: $500 per person
• East African Citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan): $200 per person

Securing all 96 permits for a day will total $144,000 for foreign non-residents, ensuring a private trek with only your party and experienced ranger guides.

Key Considerations for Exclusive Trekking

1. Advance Booking: It’s essential to secure all gorilla permits well in advance, ideally 3 to 4 months before your intended trekking date. Permits tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
2. Travel Comfort: For a pleasant journey to Volcanoes National Park, consider traveling in a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser or opt for a helicopter ride from Kigali for a breathtaking aerial view of the landscape.
3. Booking Process: To start the booking process, simply confirm your travel dates and contact us via email. We’ll check for permit availability with the Rwanda Development Board. Once confirmed, we will provide an invoice for payment. After receiving your payment, we will purchase your permits and send you a scanned copy for your records, confirming your exclusive trek.

What to Wear for Exclusive Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Planning your exclusive trek in Volcanoes National Park? Choosing the right clothing and gear is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a helpful guide on what to wear during your day of trekking with mountain gorillas:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: The weather can be quite cool in the park, especially in the early morning. A long-sleeved sweater will keep you warm.
2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Wear sturdy, long pants that can protect you from thorny vegetation and insects. Consider bringing an extra pair in case the first gets muddy.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: Invest in good-quality waterproof hiking boots. The terrain can be wet and muddy, so proper footwear is crucial for your comfort and safety.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can protect you from the sun. These are optional but can be beneficial on warmer days.
5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capturing memories of your gorilla encounter is important! Bring a camera with long-lasting batteries, and remember to keep the flash off to avoid startling the gorillas.
6. Binoculars: A pair of binoculars will enhance your experience, allowing you to spot birds and other wildlife in the lush forest.
7. Gardening Gloves: These can be useful for gripping onto trees and branches as you navigate through the terrain, providing extra support.
8. Raincoat: The weather in Volcanoes National Park can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to carry a raincoat to stay dry during sudden showers.
9. Mosquito Repellent: To protect yourself from insects, apply mosquito repellent or wear it throughout your trek.
10. Sunscreen: Depending on the season, the sun can be strong. Wearing sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, especially if you’re trekking during hotter months.
11. Neutral Colors: Avoid bright colors, as they may scare off the gorillas. Neutral tones are best, and steer clear of black and blue, which can attract tsetse flies.

Getting to Volcanoes National Park

Reaching Volcanoes National Park is easy, with a scenic two-hour drive from Kigali and about an hour from the Cyanika border between Uganda and Rwanda. For your comfort, we recommend using our 4×4 vehicles, equipped with air conditioning and complimentary drinking water, driven by professional guides.

Where to Stay in Volcanoes National Park

There are various accommodation options near Volcanoes National Park, catering to different budgets. For a luxurious experience, consider Bisate Lodge, Gorilla Nest, or Virunga Lodge. Mid-range options include Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge, and Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge. Budget travelers can check out Kinigi Guesthouse, Hotel Muhavura, and Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge. Given that rooms can fill up quickly during high season, we recommend booking your accommodation well in advance to secure the best options and potentially enjoy discounts for extended stays.

Best Time to Book Exclusive Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The ideal time to book your exclusive trek is during the drier months of January, February, and June through early September. These months provide better accessibility to the park and clearer views of the mountain gorillas, as vegetation is less dense. While trekking is possible year-round, the wet months of April, May, and November can lead to taller vegetation, making sightings more challenging. However, treks during these months may be shorter since gorillas typically remain in areas where food is abundant.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Trek

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in organizing remarkable gorilla safari experiences in both Uganda and Rwanda. Our high ratings and positive reviews on TripAdvisor highlight our commitment to providing unforgettable adventures. We focus on eco-friendly practices that not only enhance your experience but also contribute to wildlife conservation and local community upliftment. Alongside gorilla trekking, we offer a range of activities, including chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters across popular African safari destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Ready to embark on your exclusive gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda? Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable experience!