How to Get from Uganda to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

How to Get from Uganda to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: A Complete Travel Guide

Planning to visit Rwanda after your Uganda trip? Wondering how to get from Uganda to Volcanoes National Park? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to travel between the two countries and explore one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences.

Volcanoes National Park, home to the magnificent mountain gorillas, offers an unforgettable adventure. Trekking these peaceful creatures in their natural habitat is a must-do for nature lovers. But before you go, you’ll need a gorilla permit. This essential pass grants you one magical hour with the gorillas—an experience worth every penny.

Discover Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is a renowned destination for gorilla trekking. The park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which includes five extinct volcanoes: Muhabura, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, Karisimbi and Bisoke. Known for its diverse wildlife, including mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most celebrated parks.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an adventure like no other, offering an up-close encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. These gentle creatures share 99% of their DNA with humans, making them incredibly fascinating to observe. Trekking through dense bamboo forests and steep volcanic slopes, you’ll be guided by local rangers to observe gorillas as they feed, rest and interact.

Availability of Gorilla Permits at Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park offers 12 habituated gorilla families, with 8 visitors allowed per family each day. This means there are only 80 permits available daily, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Gorilla trekking usually starts at 7:00 AM with a briefing at Kinigi, the park’s main visitor center. The trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. But with a 99% chance of seeing these incredible creatures, the effort is well worth it.

Gorilla Permit Costs for Volcanoes National Park

To trek the gorillas, you’ll need to secure a Rwanda gorilla permit. The cost is USD 1,500 per person, which grants you access to one hour of viewing the gorillas. Although this may seem like a hefty price, the experience is truly priceless. Booking in advance ensures you get the exact date you want for your trek.

How to Book Your Gorilla Permit for Volcanoes National Park

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we make booking your gorilla trek easy. When you reach out to us with your preferred dates, we’ll check the availability of permits through the Rwanda Development Board. If permits are available, we’ll send you an invoice to secure your spot. Once payment is made, we’ll confirm your booking and send you the receipt with the necessary details.

Booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons (January, February, July, August, September and December). Since permits often sell out quickly, securing yours months ahead is a smart move.

Last-Minute Gorilla Permit Booking: What You Need to Know

Even if you’re traveling last minute, we can help you secure a gorilla permit. If your schedule changes or you’re in Rwanda for a conference, let us know! We’ll do our best to find a permit for you, whether directly through the Rwanda Development Board or from resellers. However, last-minute bookings are subject to availability, so it’s always better to plan ahead.

Once your permit is secured, we’ll take care of all other arrangements, including your accommodation and transportation, to ensure your trek is smooth and unforgettable.

Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for Your Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trekking Safari?

Trek Africa Gorillas is one of the top-rated local tour operators specializing in Rwanda and Uganda gorilla trekking safaris. We pride ourselves on offering tailored, affordable and unforgettable travel experiences. With a passionate team of experienced guides and staff, we’re committed to making your gorilla trek an experience of a lifetime.

We’re highly rated on platforms like TripAdvisor, where you can read about other travelers’ experiences with us. Contact us today for discounted packages and personalized tours to Volcanoes National Park.