What To Expect On A Gorilla Trek In Rwanda
Mountain Gorillas are the largest 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 mountains which span from Rwanda, Uganda and Congo. Virunga mastiffs consist of Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, Bisoke, and 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 a small group of visitors to the location of a specific group or family.
The large primates live in groups called troops or families. There are twelve Gorilla families living in Rwanda. Some of these Families are habituated for scientific research.
Visitors are expected to be at the national park headquarters at 7 am (CAT) for a briefing, and visitors are allocated a group on the day. The guides will then lead a small group of a maximum of 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 during the high season of June to September, and December to February. To trek Gorillas in Rwanda, one must be 15 years 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 an altitude of 2500 to 3000 meters. Practice hiking, walking and some cardio before Gorilla trekking.
What to pack for Gorilla trekking
- Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof).
- Long-sleeved shirt and Trousers to avoid insects and scratches
- Rain jacket. Rain is common even in the dry Season.
- Gloves for holding walking sticks and branches.
- Backpack with water and snacks.
- Cameras ETC.
Safety and Etiquette
- Stay at least 7 meters 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 of Gorilla trekking revenues is 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 for local tour operators, guides, trackers and porters, most of whom 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, it’s a life-changing experience that will leave you humbled, inspired and forever changed.