The Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Africa
October 7, 2024
Rwanda Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safaris: A Premier Experience
Are you dreaming of a luxury gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda? Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda has set the bar for luxury gorilla safaris with standards unmatched by its competitors, Uganda and DR Congo. Since May 2017, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) doubled the cost of gorilla permits to USD 1,500 per person, signaling the country’s commitment to offering world-class luxury gorilla trekking experiences.
While Uganda and DR Congo continue to offer more budget-friendly options—Uganda’s permits cost USD 800, and DR Congo’s just USD 400—Rwanda has firmly positioned itself as the premier destination for luxury gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park. This price increase aligns with an upgrade in service quality, including accommodations that cater to high-end travelers.
Why Rwanda is the Top Luxury Gorilla Trekking Destination
Transportation
Rwanda’s excellent air and ground transportation make it easy for luxury travelers to access the country. With daily international flights operated by RwandaAir, visitors can fly directly from major cities around the world, minimizing travel time and avoiding the hassle of multiple connections. Once in the country, domestic charters and scheduled flights make it easy to reach your destination. For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, Akagera Aviation offers scenic helicopter transfers across the country, providing breathtaking views of Rwanda’s stunning landscape.
If you prefer to drive, luxury 4×4 Land Cruisers equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a built-in fridge, and a pop-up roof for game viewing and photography are available, ensuring a comfortable and stylish ride to Volcanoes National Park.
High Cost of Gorilla Permits
Rwanda stands out as a luxury destination, with its gorilla trekking permits priced at USD 1,500—more than double the cost in Uganda and nearly four times the price in DR Congo. This makes the experience exclusive to luxury travelers. Even with the higher price, permits often sell out, so booking in advance is essential. For help securing your permit and planning your trip, contact us to check availability and arrange your Rwanda luxury gorilla trekking safari.
Luxury Accommodations Near Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda has invested heavily in high-end lodges that offer state-of-the-art facilities and services, cementing its reputation as a luxury gorilla trekking destination. These lodges provide an unparalleled level of comfort and exclusivity, ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers.
Bisate Lodge
Located within Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge is a premier luxury option. It offers exceptional service, world-class facilities, and breathtaking views of the Karisimbi and Bisoke Volcanoes. High-end travelers can enjoy complete exclusivity by booking the entire lodge. Guests may even spot one of the local gorilla families roaming near the lodge, providing an unforgettable experience. Additionally, Bisate Lodge works closely with the local community, supporting employment and sourcing food locally, which contributes to the region’s socio-economic development.
Virunga Lodge
Renowned as one of the best lodges in Africa, Virunga Lodge offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and surrounding valleys. With top-tier service and luxurious amenities, this lodge guarantees a stay that’s worth every penny. From gourmet meals to personalized service, Virunga Lodge is a must for any luxury traveler. Located just 10 minutes from the park headquarters, it’s the ideal base for your gorilla trekking adventure, and guests can enjoy complimentary alcoholic beverages during their stay.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge holds the distinction of being the first community-owned lodge in Rwanda. While it is managed by the prestigious Governors’ Camp Collection, ownership of the lodge belongs to the Sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association. This means that profits from the lodge are reinvested into local communities, supporting both socio-economic development and conservation efforts around Volcanoes National Park. The lodge’s close proximity to the park headquarters allows guests to easily walk to the starting point of their gorilla trekking adventure, offering unmatched convenience and accessibility.
Accommodations at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge include luxurious cottages and a main lodge, all designed to provide exceptional comfort and a refined safari experience. With stunning views of the surrounding landscape, the lodge creates the perfect setting for those seeking a serene and immersive stay while on their Rwanda luxury gorilla trekking safari.
Explore Other Luxury Gorilla Trekking Destinations
While Rwanda is renowned for its luxury gorilla trekking safaris, other destinations like Uganda and DR Congo also offer exceptional experiences, often at lower rates while still providing high-quality service.
In Uganda, luxury gorilla trekking comes with a variety of options. You can combine both Rwanda and Uganda on the same trip, with domestic flights available to Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips for easy access to gorilla trekking sites. Uganda’s gorilla permits are significantly more affordable than Rwanda’s, allowing you to experience two treks for the price of one Rwandan permit. Additionally, Uganda offers a unique Gorilla Habituation Experience, which gives you up to 4 hours with the gorillas, making it an exceptional choice for travelers seeking an extended encounter with these majestic creatures. Popular luxury lodges in Uganda include Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, and 4 Gorillas Lodge—all offering top-tier services with the option of exclusive lodge bookings.
For those looking to explore gorilla trekking in DR Congo, the experience is even more budget-friendly, with gorilla permits priced at just USD 450.00. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy multiple treks for the same cost as one Rwanda permit, making it ideal for adventure seekers. Mikeno Lodge in DR Congo provides excellent accommodations for luxury travelers, ensuring comfort and exclusivity in this off-the-beaten-path destination.
How to Book a Rwanda Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safari
Booking a Rwanda luxury gorilla trekking safari is best done through a trusted safari company to ensure all your services are arranged and confirmed. Excursia Adventures specializes in organizing premium gorilla trekking experiences in Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo. With years of expertise and excellent customer reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, we provide reliable, high-quality service that guarantees a seamless and memorable trip.
Contact us today to start planning your Rwanda luxury gorilla trekking safari and experience the adventure of a lifetime.
