Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris & Tours in Volcanoes National Park

Looking for a mesmerizing adventure? Look no further, Rwanda gorilla trekking is one of the best tourist activities done in the land of a thousand hills that can guarantee visitors an Unforgettable Rwanda gorilla tours, a must do African safari Adventure.

Gorilla trekking is a thrilling activity that involves walking and climbing mountain tops, through the dense vegetation and lush greenery to trace, find, and see endangered Mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

This fascinating tourist activity is only done at Volcanoes National Park found in the Virunga mountains in Rwanda which is a renowned natural habitat and home to these endangered mountain gorillas that are the major highlights of any Rwanda safaris.

It is worth noting that Rwanda gorilla treks can only be done after all necessary gorilla permits are attained from local authorities or the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) through licensed Rwanda tour operators.

The age limit for Rwanda gorilla walking is 15 years old, which means that children under the age of 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla walking activities in Volcanoes National Park.

Additionally, there also exist a few national parks where Gorilla walking can be done in East Africa and Central Africa such as Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Bwindi impenetrable forest), and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (eastern lowland gorillas).

Below are some of the interesting things about Rwanda gorilla trekking, and in case of any other inquiries contact our professional team at Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd for all information.

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park also known as (Parc National des Volcans) is the only national Park in Rwanda located in the Musanze district in the north-western part of Rwanda in the Virunga massif in the heart of Central Africa covering an area of approximately 62 square miles (160 sq km), where Gorilla walking is done in the land of a thousand hills.

This park is one of the few national parks that host almost five of East Africa’s dormant eight volcanoes which extend from sea level to approximately 4507m which are mount Bisoke (12,175 ft), mount Gahinga (11,394 ft), mount Sabyinyo (12,037 ft), mount Muhabura (13,540 ft), and Mount Karisimbi (14,787 ft).

The highest point in the park is Karisimbi Mountain, which reaches an elevation of 4,507 meters (14,787 ft above sea level) covered by alpines, 3,500-4,000 meters (11,500-13,100 ft above sea level) covered by Bamboo forests, 3,000-3,500 meters (10,000-11,500 ft above sea level) covered by Montane forests, and the lowest slopes at 2,500-3,000 meters (8,200-10,000 ft above sea level). These elevations make it the perfect spot for being a natural habitat for endangered mountain gorillas.

The park’s climate is influenced by its high altitude and proximity to the equator, resulting in a relatively stable temperature range throughout the year with a mixture of temperate, montane, and mild average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C.

It’s close to other national parks in the country and outside the country such as Virunga National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo), Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), Nyungwe Forest National Park (Rwanda), Akagera National Park (Rwanda), Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda), Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Kibale National Park (Uganda).

Please note that besides the gorillas, there are other wildlife and bird species inhabiting this park such as golden monkeys, chimpanzees, etc.

The Population of Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda

The park is home to over 600 primates found in approximately 10 habituated gorilla family groups, which are the highlights of a Rwanda gorilla walking experience hence it is perfect for tourists to visit and observe. The numbers are still steadily growing.

These habituated groups include;

Susa gorilla Group (largest group found at the base of Mt Karisimbi)
Agashya Group (found in the same area as the Sabinyo group)
Hirwa Group (found within the foothills of Mount Sabinyo and Mount Gahinga)
Karisimbi Group (found in Mt Karisimbi and is also known as Susa B)
Ugenda Group (inhabits Mount Bisoke and is always on the move)
Kwitonda Group (this family group inhabits the mountain slopes of Mount Muhabura)
Sabinyo Group (a family group that roams about Mount Sabinyo and Gahinga slopes)
Umubano Group (family group formed by members of the Amahoro family)
Amahoro Group (the most peaceful family group that lives on the mountain slopes of Mount Bisoke)
Titus Group (can be tracked and trekked in Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi slopes)

Book and secure a $1,500 gorilla trek permit with Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd a licensed Rwanda tour company or Rwanda Development Board to access and enjoy an unforgettable hour with the mountain gorillas!

Things To See While Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

While on a gorilla walking Rwanda safari, visitors can expect to see the major highlights of this trip the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Secondly, travelers can get a glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna found in the park’s vicinities, which are stunning views to the human eye.

The flora includes Montane Forest, Bamboo Forest, Hagenia forest, and Hypericum forest while the fauna includes, Golden monkeys, Black-and-white colobus monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys, Buffalo, Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Hyenas, Bush pigs, numerous bird species (the Rwenzori turaco and the Rwenzori Apalis) etc.

Additionally, the diverse picturesque landscapes that involve, rolling hills, volcano mountains (mount Bisoke, mount Gahinga, mount Sabyinyo, mount Muhabura, and Mount Karisimbi), lakes and rivers (Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, crater Lake bisoke, River Nyabarongo, River Akanyaru), etc. running through the park,

All these can also be seen while partaking in other tourist activities such as guided game drives in the park.

Other Tourist Activities Done in Volcanoes National Park

Besides Rwanda gorilla trek excursions, tourists can partake in other popular tourist activities when visiting Volcanoes National Park such as;

a) Golden Monkey Tracking

This is an activity that allows visitors to observe these golden monkeys in their natural habitat in the dense forest of the park. It is normally done in the early morning, from 7:00 AM, and often takes approximately 4-6 hours to accomplish.

It is normally done in the drier months between June to October after attaining the required permits. A Golden Monkey tracking permit costs $100 per person from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

b) Hiking To Dian Fossey’s Grave

This activity involves heading to the grave of the murdered renowned American primatologist Dian Fossey, who studied mountain gorillas and mountain gorilla habitats in the park and was laid to rest in the Volcanoes National Park.

This acts as a form of honoring her works and research seen at the Karisoke Research Centre.

c) Visiting The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village

This cultural village located in the park presents visitors with the perfect opportunities to experience the country’s rich heritage and local culture as it has avenues where one can see the people’s ways of life, traditional dance, folk music, and drama, participate in local activities like basket weaving, pottery, and farming, savor Traditional Rwandan cuisines and refreshments (banana beer), etc. for memorable cultural experiences.

Some other cultural villages and local communities found in the park that can be visited to explore and enjoy the same experience are Kinigi Cultural Village, Buhanga Eco-Park Cultural Village, Gahinga Cultural Village, and Gorilla Guardians Village.

It’s highly recommended to hire trained and professional guides or a private guide who is conversant with these cultural villages to maximize these cultural experiences.

d) Exploration Of the Twin Lakes

Travelers can explore the twin lakes found in the park called Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo which give off stunning views in the park.

These lakes are a major attraction for tourists visiting the park because they offer great sport fishing spots, stunning landscapes, and wildlife viewing opportunities for aquatic animals such as hippos, birds, otters, and more.

Some other lakes in this national park worth visiting are Crater Lake Bisoke, Lake Muhazi (partially located in the park), and in the nation, Lake Kivu, etc.

e) Birdwatching

This tourist activity is often done by bird watchers visiting the Volcanoes National Park, where they can spot over 200 bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco and the Rwenzori apalis.

It is important to remember that park authorizations are required before embarking on this adventurous activity.

Some other places where this tourist activity can be done in the country are Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park, lake Kivu, etc

Book your next trip to Rwanda with Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd for customized safari packages that will enable you to engage in Rwanda gorilla walking and other additional activities.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The minimum age limit for Rwanda gorilla treks is set by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to ensure that participants are physically and mentally prepared for the demands of this activity.

The gorilla treks can be challenging, involving long hikes and steep terrain, and may not be suitable for young children.

The minimum age for gorilla treks is 15 years old with no maximum age limit as long as the visitors or participants are mentally and physically fit and able to walk for several hours.

It’s important that they also follow all park guidelines and instructions from park guides and authorities often issued at park headquarters.

Rules And Regulations Related to Rwanda Gorilla Walking

Partaking in this activity while visiting Rwanda is a very safe choice as long as visitors adhere to the rules and regulations of the National Park related to gorilla tracking. These are as follows;

Follow assigned trained park rangers and tour guides and avoid straying off the designated gorilla trek trails
A maximum of 8 visitors per group is required and should not be exceeded
The minimum age requirement of 15 years, therefore, parents should avoid bringing children to this activity.
Keep a safe distance from the gorillas and if approached by dominant silverback gorillas, one should be very submissive by bending or crouching down but should not run
No flash photography is allowed as it frightens wild gorillas
No feeding or touching the gorillas is allowed

Please note, that these rules and regulations were drafted by park authorities for the safety of the visitors. Please follow them!

Getting To Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla Trekking

After flying into Kigali International Airport, Volcanoes National Park is approximately 90-120 km from Kigali, a 1–3-hour drive depending on existing road conditions and seasons. Tourists can get to the park by either road or by air and below are the directions for getting to the park;

a) By Road: From Kigali, take the Ruhengeri-Kigali highway (104 km), then continue straight until reaching Musanze district. Turn left at the roundabout and head towards the park entrance (10 km), passing through the entrance and continuing to the park headquarters (Kinigi) for registration and briefing before heading to the gorilla trek trailheads.
b) By Air: Take a helicopter from Kigali International Airport (near the Kigali Convention Centre) for a scenic 30-minute flight to the park headquarters (Kinigi). Please book helicopter services in advance through a reputable tour operator like Akagera Aviation.

Consult us your most trusted Rwanda tour operator Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd for the best transfer and transportation options!

Costs Incurred on A Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris

Some of the costs, fees, and tariffs one may incur while on a gorilla-tracking Rwanda safari are:

1) Gorilla Permits

A gorilla permit (gorilla trek permit) goes for $1500 per person for international tourists, while a golden monkey tracking permit costs $100 per person per trek.

Its important for one to know which activities they want to engage in and attain necessary permits in advance from the local authorities or Rwanda development board.

2) Park Entrance Fee

The entrance fees for Volcanoes National Park vary depending on visitor statuses or nationality that is to say, Foreigners can be charged $100 per person (grants access to most activities), Foreign residents in Rwanda $65, Rwandan citizens RWF 4000, and East African citizens $65.

The money collected contributes to the upkeep of the park’s offices, and infrastructure and supports the services offered to visitors, to ensure a seamless experience is given to travelers.

3) Accommodation

Depending on whether budget range, midrange, and luxury options located in, out, and near the park are chosen by a traveler, the costs of accommodation or lodgings range from $100-$500 per night at most safari lodges and hotels.

Please be mindful of the options taken as it determines the cost, and also the season one is visiting in i.e. the drier season which is the peak season tends to charge higher for lodging than the rainy season or low peak season when most lodgings are offered at discounted prices.

4) Transportation

The transportation options often used to get to the park range from $100-$300 and he is a breakdown of each;

Private car and driver hire ($100-$150 per day)
Safari package (inclusive of transportation, costs depend on the operator and package)
Public transportation (approximately $5-$10 for one hour).
Helicopter ($200-$300 per person)
Rental car in Kigali and self-drive (approximately $40-$70 per day).
Shuttle services offered by some lodges and hotels (cost depends on the lodge or hotel).

Tourists should consider looking at these costs before starting to plan a trip to Rwanda and a licensed tour operator will give a visitor the best insights and deals. Contact us today for the best exclusive deals!

Accommodations Near Volcanoes National Park

The lodging options found in, near, and around the park offering budget range, midrange, and luxury lodging options to tourists looking for a stay in are;

Luxury Lodges

These often offer luxurious ensuite cottages adorned with spacious rooms, private balconies, with a variety of amenities and they include Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge, Bisate Lodge, etc

Mid-Range Options

These often offer standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and suites with some amenities and they are Mountain Gorilla Nest Lodge, Gorilla Volcanoes Hotel, etc.

Budget-Friendly Options

These like the name budget offer comfortable stay-in rooms with quite fewer amenities compared to other lodges and some of these are Volcanoes National Park Cottages at the park headquarters etc.

Tourists are encouraged to seek out better deals and flexibility of the places as related to activities to be done. Consult our professional team at Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd for a customized option today!

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The best time to visit Rwanda for a gorilla walking excursion is during the dry season which runs from June to September (long hot season) or December to March (shoulder season).

This season offers perfect weather characterized by clear blue skies, and clear hike trails, and often the gentle giants are moving to water sources because of thirst, all these provide perfect avenues to spot these gentle giants.

Please note that attaining permits for tracking during this season is quite competitive and hard hence visitors are advised to book permits in advance before the peak season.

Additionally, travelers can also visit the park during the wet season especially if looking for discounted offers on transport, and lodgings as these are often available during the rainy season or low peak season.

This season is characterized by muddy and slippery trails so tourists are advised to seek guidance from parka authorities or licensed Rwanda tour operators like us!

The Uniqueness of Volcanoes National Park

There are several factors or aspects that have ranked the Volcanoes National Park as one of the best safari destinations in East Africa, central Africa, Africa, and the entire world.

Being home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains makes this park a worthy safari destination worth visiting by any visitor.
The Presence of numerous diverse ecosystems in the park that include rainforests and bamboo forests, among other vegetation types that act as natural habitats for a vast number of wildlife (mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, Africa’s big five) and bird species (Rwenzori turaco, the Rwenzori Apalis)
Another aspect that makes this park a very unique safari destination is the fact that it is one of the few national parks and national habitats for critically endangered mountain gorillas that are spearheading the gorilla conservation efforts of these gentle giants.

Book your next safari and Visit Rwanda today for gorilla trek excursions in this park.

Gorilla Trekking What to Wear/Gorilla Trekking Clothing

These are some of the attires and clothing visitors are strongly encouraged to carry;

Hiking boots/sturdy shoes
Comfortable hiking clothes (moisture-wicking or linen)
Waterproof rain jacket
Insulating layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic scarfs or neck gaiter)
Long trousers and pants
Long-sleeved shirts
Warm hat and gloves (gardening gloves)
Quick-drying socks
Extra underwear and socks

What to Pack For Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda/Personal Essentials Packing List For Gorilla Walking

When it comes to the packing list, we look at what to wear, and what to carry while heading to Rwanda for gorilla trek activities and these include;

Tourists preparing for his activity ought to carry gear used in treks such as

Backpack (waterproof)
Water bottle or hydration pack
Lunch box and water container
Walking stick (optional)
Binoculars (optional)
Camera and charger or extra batteries (optional)
Reusable bag for carrying essentials

For personal essentials and utilities, visitors are advised to carry some of these items for seamless travels;

Passport and copies with visas
Travel insurance documents
First-aid kit
Medications and prescriptions from recommended doctors
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
Contact lenses/glasses (if applicable)
Extra cash (preferably the Rwandan francs used for tipping and buying crafts, and souvenirs) and credit cards (should be Visa enabled used for bigger purchases)
d) Other Items

These are optional things a visitor may pack or not, such as;

Snacks (energy bars, nuts, etc.)
Reading material or a book
Map or guidebook
Portable charger for phone/camera
Travel pillow and eye mask (optional)

It is however strongly recommended to check with your Rwanda tour operator or park authorities for specific requirements and recommendations before embarking on this trip to the land of a thousand hills.

Rwanda Gorilla Tour Operators

When planning to embark on a gorilla-walking Rwanda safari and considering using tour companies or tour operators for a hassle-free safari, consider contacting some of the best Rwanda tour operators for the best tailor-made safari packages.

These have been ranked as the best tour operators with the best reviews online, affordable packages, and customized itineraries.

FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]

1. Is Rwanda safe for tourists?

Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest countries, welcoming thousands of tourists each year, mainly for gorilla safaris among other tourist activities. Visitors feel safe and secure, thanks to the country’s warm hospitality and protection from the Rwandan army.

2. Is Uganda or Rwanda better for gorilla trekking?

Both countries are good for gorilla walking safaris but depending on intentions, that’s where the differences come in for example for affordable gorilla treks and gorilla permits, many tourists can choose Uganda over Rwanda, whereas for numerous numbers of gorillas to view, the land of a thousand hills is most preferable.

3. How much does it cost to see gorillas in Rwanda?

Tracking Gorillas costs $1500 per person per day (min. age 15) with some special offers given to Rwandan & East African residents.

4. How hard is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

A gorilla trek in Rwanda can range from tough and moderate to challenging with 4-8 hours of hiking and climbing involved.

Contact our team at Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd today to plan your next safari to the land of a thousand hills to partake in the adventure-filled Rwanda gorilla trekking excursions. Don’t miss out on visit Rwanda safaris!