When is the Best Time to Trek Rwanda’s Gorillas?

When is the Best Time to Trek Rwanda’s Gorillas?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an unforgettable experience and while it’s possible to trek year-round, the timing of your trip can make a significant difference. This guide explains the best time to trek Rwanda’s mountain gorillas and what to expect.

Ideal Seasons for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda’s mountain gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern region of the country, near the town of Musanze. This park is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, as well as other wildlife like golden monkeys, forest hogs and a variety of bird species.

The ideal time to visit Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons:

• Mid-December to early February
• June to September

During these months, the weather is relatively dry, with mild rainfall, making trekking through the forest more comfortable. The vegetation is less dense, offering better visibility for spotting and photographing the gorillas. These conditions make it easier to enjoy the trek and get clear, up-close views of these magnificent creatures.

However, trekking during the wet season (April, May and November) is still possible. While the trails can be muddier and vegetation denser, the gorillas tend to stay within smaller areas, making the treks shorter. The lush forest can also be a stunning backdrop for photography. While you might encounter rain, gorilla sightings are still highly likely, as the trekking experience is well-organized and highly successful year-round.

Essential Packing List for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

When preparing for your trek to see Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, it’s essential to pack appropriately for the challenging forest conditions. Here’s a list of items you should bring for your gorilla trekking adventure:

• Comfortable Hiking Boots: Choose sturdy, waterproof boots with good grip, as the forest trails can be muddy, especially during the rainy season.
• Long-Sleeve Shirt & Long Trousers: Protect yourself from thorns, stinging nettles and biting insects.
• Insect Repellent: Essential for keeping away mosquitoes and other insects.
• Gardening Gloves: Helpful for gripping branches and protecting your hands while navigating the terrain.
• Rain Jacket: The weather in the forest can be unpredictable, so a lightweight, waterproof jacket is important.
• Camera & Extra Batteries: Capture the magic of your gorilla encounter but remember to turn off your flash.
• Binoculars: Perfect for bird watching or spotting other wildlife during your trek.
• Water Bottle & Snacks: Stay hydrated, especially during the strenuous parts of the trek.
• Torch/Flashlight: A handy tool for navigating in low-light conditions, with spare batteries.
• Sunscreen & Hat: Protect yourself from the sun during the hike, especially in the dry season.
• Swimwear: If you plan to relax in a hotel pool or visit hot springs after the trek.

Gorilla Permits in Rwanda: Costs and Booking Process

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda varies based on your residency:

• $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents
• $500 per person for foreign residents
• $200 per person for East African citizens (from Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi and South Sudan)

A permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, a rare and incredible experience. There are 12 gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park and only 96 permits are available daily, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

You can book your gorilla trekking permit directly through the Rwanda Development Board or with a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas, who can handle all the arrangements for your trip.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Gorilla Permits with Trek Africa Gorillas

Step 1: Contact Us

Reach out to Trek Africa Gorillas with your preferred trekking dates (such as your birthday). We will check the availability of gorilla permits through the Rwanda Development Board’s online system.

Step 2: Availability Confirmation

If the permits are available for your chosen dates, we will send you an invoice for payment. However, if the permits are not available, we will suggest alternative dates when permits are open for booking. We highly recommend booking months in advance to ensure availability for your preferred dates.

Step 3: Make Payment

Once you confirm your dates, you can proceed with the payment. After receiving your payment, we will secure your permits and send you a copy of the receipt along with the booking ID, officially confirming your trek.

Step 4: Permit Issuance

The process is simple and transparent. After securing your permit, you can rest assured that your trek will provide an unforgettable experience with Rwanda’s majestic mountain gorillas.

High Season Alert

Permits tend to sell out quickly during the high season (January, February, July, August, September and December). To guarantee your spot, booking well in advance is strongly recommended.

Last-Minute Booking Options

We also offer last-minute bookings for travelers who may be in Rwanda for a conference or who have a sudden change in plans. If you find yourself free on a weekend or during your stay in East Africa, just contact us and we will do our best to secure a permit for you, either directly from the Rwanda Development Board or through a reseller. After confirming your permit, you’ll need to make payment to finalize the booking.

We will provide you with a detailed quote and once you confirm your dates, we will arrange for your accommodation and all necessary travel services.

Where to Stay Near Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla Trekking

While trekking Rwanda’s mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, finding a comfortable, clean and scenic place to stay enhances your safari experience. There are various accommodation options available, from budget to luxury:

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Gorilla Nest Lodge, Virunga Lodge
• Mid-range: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge, Le Bamboo Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse, Hotel Muhavura, Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge

Since rooms can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons, it’s crucial to book your accommodation in advance. Staying multiple nights may also earn you discounts.

Getting to Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is located in Musanze, also known as Ruhengeri and is easily accessible from both Kigali (Rwanda’s capital) and Gisenyi. The drive from Kigali to the park takes about 2 hours, making it possible to trek gorillas and return the same day if you catch a late afternoon flight. To make this work, you must arrive in the park before 7:00 AM (Rwanda time) and book flights that depart after 6:00 PM.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Gorillas?

With years of experience and a dedicated team, Trek Africa Gorillas offers an authentic and seamless experience for travelers looking to explore Rwanda and Volcanoes National Park. We specialize in organizing custom gorilla trekking tours, including birding, cultural experiences and golden monkey tracking.

Our team is passionate, professional and committed to providing you with the best service. Don’t just take our word for it—check our high ratings and glowing reviews on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings.

Let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime to Rwanda, where you’ll connect with the incredible mountain gorillas. Contact us today to get started!