Guide to Gorilla safaris in Rwanda

Guide to Gorilla safaris in Rwanda: Gorilla trekking undoubtedly stands out the main highlight not only of Rwanda safaris but also East African safaris. Each year, Rwanda and the broader East African region welcomes a large number of visitors primarily eager to see the endangered mountain gorillas.

In Rwanda, mountain gorillas are among the most distinctive attractions, attracting many tourists who see them as a must-see on an Africa safari. These Mountain gorillas, a subspecies of Eastern gorillas, reside in Rwanda, where gorilla safaris are exclusively conducted within and only in Volcanoes National Park. This park spans 160 square kilometers of bamboo and rainforest in Northwestern Rwanda, approximately a 2-3 hours’ drive from major towns.

Approximately 30% of the world’s total of 1,063 mountain gorillas on earth are hosted in Volcanoes National Park. Volcanoes national park is a home to over 340 mountain gorillas that are always available to be trekked. This park is situated near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo and it is encompassed by the extensive Virunga Conservation Area (VCA). Located in Ruhengeri, also known as Musanze, Volcanoes National Park is the oldest of Rwanda’s national parks, established in 1925.

More so, Volcanoes National Park lies within the Virunga Region, hosting up to 5 of 8 Virunga Massifs; Sabyinyo, Muhabura, Bisoke, Karisimbi Volcano, Gahinga. known locally as Parc National des Volcans. While on Rwanda tour to Volcanoes National Park, expect to indulge in the most inspirational experiences such as mountain gorilla trekking. Trekking Rwanda mountain gorillas includes visiting any of the 12 fully habituated gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park and these include Sabyinyo, Group 13, Karisimbi/Susa B, Susa A, Kwitonda, Umubano, Bweza, Hirwa, Amahoro, Titus and more

This is where the late Dian Fossey, one of the conservationists/primatologists conducted 18 years of research on gorillas. She is a reason why the plight of the mountain gorillas in Rwanda became popular. She left behind an incredible gorilla conservation legacy worth remembering and Dian Fossey tomb hike is a perfect option to explore more about her.

Booking Rwanda gorilla safari permit

Achieve Global Safari is your trusted patterner for planning Rwanda gorilla safari planner. We organize gorilla tours throughout Rwanda and nearby gorilla destinations Gorilla permits in Rwanda are open for booking at USD1500 per person, allowing travelers to visit Volcanoes National Park for guided gorilla trekking adventures. If you are over 15 years, you can have a gorilla permit booked for yourself and you get a chance to meet mountain gorillas in the wild.

Due to the high demand for gorilla trekking permits, it is recommended to secure your permit in advance before your trip to Rwanda.

What to expect on a gorilla safari in Rwanda?

A gorilla safari in Rwanda offers an unforgettable experience immersed in nature and wildlife. Visitors can anticipate trekking through lush forest and mountain terrains as they search for mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. While on your gorilla trekking safari expect to see other wildlife that dwell in the park such as wildlife, including bushbucks, spotted forest elephants, buffaloes, bush pigs, giant forest hogs, duikers, spotted hyenas and bush-buck. You will also expect to spot different bird species such as Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori double-collared sunbirds, Rwenzori batis, Archer’s ground robin, Collared Apalis, Doherty’s bush- shrike, Red-faced woodland warblers, Brown-necked parrot, Baglafecht weaver, African long-eared owl and Dusky Crimsonwing African green broadbill, olive bellied and more.

Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park normally starts with briefing early in the morning at the park’s headquarters with the guidelines about the rules and regulation as well as expectations and carryon items while on the forest. This activity involves on foot trek through the lush forest in search for these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.  The park guides are assigned to every group of 8 tourists to go visit a habituated gorilla group. Once you locate the gorilla family, you’re allowed to spend one hour watching them. During this time, you can observe their natural behaviors, including how they feed, groom each other, and care for their young ones. This hour is a unique opportunity to take photographs and immerse yourself in the experience.

Gorilla trekking rules and regulations in Rwanda

• Maintain a safe Distance: Keep at least 8-10m distance away from the gorilla at all times to avoid disturbing them or transmitting diseases.
• Limit Trekking Time: The maximum time spent with the gorillas is one hour. this helps minimize stress on the animals and preserves their natural behaviors.
• Your voice should be low when talking to avoid scaring gorillas.
• No Feeding or Touching: Do no feed or attempt to touch the gorillas. human contact can transmit diseases and cause stress to the animals.
• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Visitors should wear neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment and avoid startling the gorillas.
• Limit the Number of Visitors: Only a small group (usually up to 8 people) is allowed to trek together to reduce disturbance.
• During photography, flashlight cameras aren’t allowed or better, turn off the flashlight.
• Respect the environment: Do no litter or damage the forest and wildlife habitats during your trek

  

When to go gorilla safaris Rwanda?

Rwanda gorilla safaris are possible year-round in Volcanoes National Park.  However, the best time to see mountain gorillas is during the dry season, which includes two periods: June-September and December-February.  While gorilla safaris are possible during the wet season, heavy rainfall can be a challenge.

Where to stay

Lodging options in Volcanoes National Park are numerous to consider for overnight stays, including luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodations. Some of the lodges here includes Bisate Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Virunga Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Da Vinci Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Best View Hotel and Hotel La Palm among others.

Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about the guide to gorilla safaris in Rwanda and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Elephant Whispers Safaris who offer the best tour packages while on you are in the country.