Rwanda Gorilla Trekking in August

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking in August

Planning to visit Africa this August to experience the unforgettable adventure of mountain gorilla trekking? Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the perfect destination for this iconic wildlife experience. Encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is not only one of Africa’s top highlights but also a deeply emotional and awe-inspiring journey.

Here’s everything you need to know to make your August gorilla trekking adventure seamless and memorable.

Why Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking in August?

August is part of Rwanda’s dry season, which offers ideal weather conditions for trekking through the dense bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. The dry trails make it easier to hike and maximize your chances of comfortably spotting the mountain gorillas.

Known for their calm and peaceful demeanor, gorillas may even interact with their visitors—sometimes approaching you out of curiosity. Observing them as they feed, rest, and play is truly a magical experience that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.

Explore Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, located in Musanze in northern Rwanda, is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area. This park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, forest hogs, bushbucks, and a variety of bird species.

The park also features five extinct volcanoes—Mount Bisoke, Mount Karisimbi, Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura—offering breathtaking landscapes and thrilling hiking opportunities. Beyond wildlife, Volcanoes National Park is a cultural treasure, reflecting Rwanda’s rich heritage and history of conservation.

Gorilla trekking in this park not only provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience but also contributes to Rwanda’s economic growth and supports local communities.

How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available Per Day?

Volcanoes National Park has 10 habituated gorilla families available for trekking, with each family accommodating only 8 visitors per day. This means a total of 80 permits are issued daily.

The trek starts at 7:00 AM at the park’s Kinigi headquarters, where visitors are briefed on trekking guidelines. While the chances of spotting gorillas are 99%, it’s important to follow the instructions of the experienced trackers, guides, and park rangers to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Cost of a Gorilla Permit in Rwanda

To participate in a gorilla trek, you must secure a permit for Volcanoes National Park. The cost of a Rwanda gorilla permit is USD 1,500 per person, regardless of nationality. This fee grants you one hour with the gorillas and supports conservation efforts to protect these endangered primates and their habitats.

August is a peak travel month, so permits often sell out quickly. Booking in advance ensures you won’t miss this bucket-list experience.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

At Excursia Adventures, we make the process of booking your gorilla permit simple and transparent:

1. Contact Us: Let us know your preferred travel dates in August.
2. Check Availability: We’ll check permit availability with the Rwanda Development Board.
3. Secure Your Permit: Once permits are available, we’ll send you an invoice. After payment, we’ll secure your permit and send you a receipt with your booking details.
4. Plan Your Trip: We’ll assist with accommodations, transportation, and any other activities to enhance your adventure.

Last-Minute Gorilla Permit Bookings

If you’re traveling on short notice, we also organize last-minute bookings for gorilla permits. Whether you’re in Rwanda for a conference, seminar, or spontaneous trip, we’ll do our best to secure a permit for you.

Our team can assist with finding permits from the Rwanda Development Board or resellers. Once your permit is secured, we’ll help arrange your accommodations and travel plans for a hassle-free experience.

What to Expect During the Trek

Gorilla trekking can be challenging yet incredibly rewarding. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Terrain: The trek involves steep slopes, dense vegetation, and sometimes muddy trails, especially if it has rained.
• Duration: Depending on the gorillas’ location, the trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
• Fitness: A reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended for the hike.

Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, and a lightweight rain jacket. Carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and a camera to capture the unforgettable moments.

Why Book With Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we organize personalized gorilla trekking experiences that prioritize comfort, adventure, and sustainability. Here’s why travelers trust us:

• Expert Knowledge: Our team consists of passionate local experts who understand the ins and outs of gorilla trekking.
• Highly Rated: We’re proud of our excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and our reputation for delivering exceptional safari experiences.
• Sustainability: We focus on eco-friendly tourism practices that benefit local communities and support conservation.

Why August Is a Great Time for Gorilla Trekking

August is part of the peak travel season in Rwanda, making it an excellent time for gorilla trekking. The dry weather ensures more comfortable hikes, and the lush green forests provide stunning backdrops for photography. While the demand for permits and accommodations is high, early booking guarantees a smooth and stress-free trip.

Ready to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure?

Don’t wait to make your dream of seeing mountain gorillas a reality. Whether you’re planning well in advance or booking last-minute, Excursia Adventures is here to make your August gorilla trekking experience seamless and unforgettable.

Contact us today to start planning your journey and secure your spot for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.