Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

Experience the Best Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

Are you considering to embark on a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda? Rwanda is one of the top destinations for tracking mountain gorillas, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience. The endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda are found in Volcanoes National Park, part of the larger Virunga Mountain range, which also includes Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest of the country. This breathtaking park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, lush bamboo forests and open grasslands.

Gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park is a well-organized activity, conducted once daily, with a maximum of eight visitors allowed per gorilla group. Trekkers must arrive at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices by 7:00 AM for a briefing on safety guidelines and trekking expectations.

Once you’re allocated a gorilla family, an armed ranger guide will lead you through the forest in search of these gentle giants. The trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla group’s location. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe them in their natural habitat. It’s important to follow all guidelines provided during the briefing to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the gorillas.

How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

Booking a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda requires securing a gorilla trekking permit in advance through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). To book your safari:

1. Confirm your travel dates – Gorilla trekking permits are limited and should be booked well in advance.
2. Contact Trek Africa Gorillas – Send us an email with your preferred trekking date.
3. Permit Availability Check – We will check permit availability with the RDB.
4. Payment & Confirmation – Once permits are available, we’ll send you an invoice. After payment, we will purchase the permits on your behalf and send you a scanned copy for confirmation.

Gorilla Permit Prices in Rwanda

• Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 per person per trek
• Foreign Residents: $500 per person per trek
• East African Citizens: $200 per person per trek

Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

The cost of a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda depends on various factors, including permit fees, accommodation, transport and guiding services.

Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages

We offer all-inclusive gorilla trekking safari packages:

• 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari:
  • $2,700 per person (group of 2)
  • $3,100 for solo travelers
  • $2,600 per person (group of 3)
  • $2,500 per person (group of 4+)

These packages include permits, accommodation, transportation, meals and guided trekking.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. During these months, rainfall is minimal, making trekking easier and vegetation is less dense, offering better visibility for photography.

The rainy seasons (April, May and November) can make trails muddy and more challenging but gorillas tend to stay in accessible areas since food is abundant.

Where to Stay for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari

Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options near Volcanoes National Park, from budget lodges to luxury safari lodges.

Luxury Lodges ($300 – $1,000 per person per night)

• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
• Bisate Lodge
• Virunga Volcanoes Lodge
• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
• Mountain Gorilla’s Nest Lodge

Mid-Range Lodges

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
• Davinci Gorilla Lodge

Budget Accommodation

• Kinigi Hotel
• Hotel Muhabura
• Gorilla Solution Lodge
• Villa Gorilla
• Virunga Hotel
• Faraji Hotel
• La Palme Hotel

All lodges adhere to strict health and safety protocols, ensuring a comfortable and secure stay for all visitors.

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park

The easiest way to reach Volcanoes National Park is by road. The park is located 2-3 hours from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide will brief you and drive through the scenic “Land of a Thousand Hills”, offering spectacular views and photography opportunities along the way.

Why Book Your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is a trusted local tour operator specializing in Rwanda and Uganda safaris. Our expertise extends to Tanzania, Kenya, Congo and Zanzibar, with carefully curated itineraries designed for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers and conservation enthusiasts.

Why Choose Us?

• Expert Guides – Knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife and conservation.
• Tailor-Made Safaris – We customize every itinerary to suit your travel preferences.
• Sustainability Focus – We promote eco-tourism and responsible travel practices.
• Reliable Customer Service – We ensure smooth booking and travel experiences.

Ready to book your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda? Contact us today!