Mountain Gorillas are the biggest primates in the world. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a life changing experience. This unique once in a lifetime opportunity with Gorillas is done in the Virunga National Park.

Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is made up of five dormant volcanic mastiffs which span from Rwanda, Uganda and Congo. Virunga mastiffs consist of Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, Bisoke, Muhavura volcanic mountains which are home to the endangered mountain Gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Encounters with Gorillas in the Virunga National Park are done with expert trackers and guides who guide small group of visitors to the location of a specific group or family.

The large primates live in groups called troops or family. There are twelve Gorilla families in living in Rwanda. Some of these Families are habituated for scientific research.

Visitors are expected to be at the national park headquarters at the national park headquarters at 7am CAT for briefing and the visitors are a located a group on the day. The guides will then lead a small group of maximum eight people into the forest for trekking. The treks are usually 1-6 hours depending on the location of the family and the fitness level of the visitors.

Visitors are allowed one hour of an awe-moment just a few meters away from the gentle giants. Visitors observe their human like behaviors, take photographs and quietly enjoy their company.

 

Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda

In Rwanda only 96 permits are available each day for Gorilla Trekking. It’s very important to book in advance especially the high season of June to September, December to February. To trek Gorillas in Rwanda one must be 15years old.

Gorilla permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board, however one can obtain a permit through a licensed Tour operator.

How to prepare for gorilla trekking

Be physically and mentally prepared. You will be hiking through thick bamboo forest, muddy trails which incline at altitude of 2500 to 3000 meters. Practice hiking, walking and some cardio before Gorilla trekking.

What to pack

• Sturdy hiking boots (water proof).
• Long-sleeved shirt and Trousers to avoid insects and scratches
• Rain jacket. Rain is common even in dry Season.
• Gloves for holding walking sticks and branches.
• Backpack with water and snacks.
• Cameras ETC.

Safety and Etiquette

• Stay at least 7meters away unless the gorilla approaches.
• Remain calm and still if the gorilla gets close
• Speak in low tones and avoid sudden movements
• Never use Flash while photographing.
• Do not trek if you are sick. Gorillas are vulnerable to human sickness.

Conservation and Community impact

A percentage from Gorilla trekking revenues are channeled to the local community to promote peaceful co-existence. There is also a compensation fund for local farmers who lose their crops to Gorillas.

Gorilla trekking creates employment to local tour operators, guides, trackers and porters most of who were poachers. When you go for Gorilla trekking you are not visiting the Gorillas but also positively impacting the Local community.

Gorilla Trekking is more than just an adventure, its life changing experience that will leave you humbled, inspired and forever changed.