Our Rwanda safaris are some of the memorable wildlife experiences that Africa can offer. These Rwanda Gorilla tours take you to a country known as a country of a thousand hills, in Africa. Rwanda is one of the most promising tourist destinations where gorilla trekking in Volcanoes Park can be carried out.
A Rwanda Gorilla safari trek to Volcanoes National Park can involve anything from a 1 to 6-hour trek through the dense tropical rain-forest of Rwanda. Using experienced gorilla trackers who have spent their entire lives inhabiting or close to the forest, a gorilla trek in Rwanda is interesting as you weave through moss-covered, Hagenia trees, overhanging vines, and giant Lobelias that thrive in the tropical climate.
Rwanda gorilla tours/Rwanda gorilla safaris offer wonderful gorilla expeditions in Rwanda to the famous Rwanda gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
There is no doubt that Rwanda the land of a thousand hills is well known for having Mountain Gorillas making tourists coming to East Africa undertake this fascinating adventure.
Tracking Gorillas in their natural habitat is a highlight for those visiting Africa especially East Africa as the adventure will allow you to encounter the endangered gentle giants with new adventures.
Gorilla trek tours in Rwanda are done in the great Volcanoes National Park which is Rwanda’s Gorilla sanctuary.
There are about 604 endangered Mountain Gorillas within the Virunga Mountains and Rwanda holds the highest number making it a good destination for Gorilla trek tours in Rwanda.
The Virunga ranges consist of national parks like Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga Park of Uganda, and the Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A Gorilla safari in Rwanda is good for last-minute travelers, unlike other Gorilla safari destinations in East Africa especially Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Gorilla treks in Rwanda can take about 30 minutes to 8 hours.
When trailing Gorillas in Rwanda, you can visit the tomb of Dian Fossey a well-known person for Gorilla conservation in the land of a thousand hills. Gorilla vacation trips can be combined with other Rwanda safari tours to give you a memorable experience like wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park.
You can also enjoy a Kigali city tour, cultural experiences, and visit genocide memorial centers. After you explore Rwanda, you can visit the Gorillas in Virunga National Park in Congo or the Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park.
You can enjoy other African safaris when you visit the neighboring countries of Kenya and Tanzania both well known for outstanding wildlife safaris and you get to spot Africa’s big Five.
Primate safaris in Rwanda are unique and they give you a real story to write with excitement.
Where to See Gorillas in Rwanda During Rwanda Safaris
This is a common question for those who want to enjoy the Gorilla trek tours. This country is not like Uganda with 2 places to see Gorillas. It has only one place which is Volcanoes National Park famous for primate safaris.
Volcanoes National Park is located in the far northwest of Rwanda and it has over 12 habituated Gorilla families and other families that are worked on for scientific research.
Within Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, at least each Gorilla group has a Silverback with females and young ones.
Gorilla family groups in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park are Susa, Igisha, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Kwitonda, Umubano, Hirwa, Bwenge, Ugyenda, and Muhoza.
There might be many Silverback Gorillas within the Gorilla family groups, though one dominant Silverback heads the family. When going to see Rwanda gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, you will see other wildlife like monkey species like Golden Monkeys and various colorful birds good for Rwanda safari tours.
Gorilla tour treks in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda start at 7 a.m. at Kinigi Park headquarters managed by the Rwanda Development Board. Before or after the Gorilla encounter, you visit the tomb of Dian Fossey a woman that did a lot in conserving the gentle giants.
Even though Rwanda the land of a thousand hills is not like the other countries of East Africa, especially Kenya and Tanzania which are good for wildlife safaris and white sand beaches, it is great for primate safaris as it has Gorillas and Chimpanzees.
Visitors can explore Rwanda and make an East Africa safari and visit the Lowland Gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo, enjoy a wildlife safari in Kenya and Tanzania.
How Long Is a Trek to See the Gorillas in Rwanda?
Gorilla trek tours are not like any wildlife safaris as they are usually between 2 hours and 8 hours and the time you spend deeply depends on the movement of the great apes. On a lucky day, you can spot the apes within a few minutes of trekking.
The adventure starts with a briefing from the rangers and some cultural experiences from the locals.
This has also worked fine in the national parks of Virunga National Park, Bwindi National Park, and Mgahinga. Once you get sightings of the shy giants, you only be in their presence for one full hour.
The time is a bit longer than Chimp trekking in search of Chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park and Kibale National Park.
How Much Are Gorilla Trekking Permits In Rwanda?
A tracking permit is an official or legal document issued by the Rwanda Development Board allowing you to engage in the tracking of Gorillas. For visitors to be able to see Gorillas in Rwanda the land of a thousand hills, they are supposed to be having permits.
Tourists who want to see Rwanda Gorillas can book their Gorilla permits through a reliable tour operator. Alternatively, you can purchase your Gorilla permit to see Rwanda Gorillas directly from the Rwanda Development Board.
Rwanda Development Board is the government body responsible for tourism and other parks like Nyungwe Forest National Park and Akagera National Park. You need your permits on time as sometimes they can be scarce.
How Much Does It Cost to See the Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda? | How Much Does It Cost to Trek Gorillas in Rwanda? | How Much Does It Cost to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda? | How Much Does It Cost to See the Gorillas in Rwanda? | How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Gorillas in Rwanda?
Mountain Gorilla trekking safaris in this country cost $1,700 and beyond. Remember that you require a Gorilla permit and other costs go on accommodation and transportation.
Gorilla expeditions in Rwanda are more expensive compared to those of Virunga National Park and those of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
When going for Gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda, expect no discounts on Gorilla permits. However, in Virunga National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga, if you buy more than 20 permits, you get one discounted permit.
How Much Is a 1 Day Gorilla Trek in Rwanda?
A 1 day Gorilla trip is possible in Rwanda unlike in Uganda which requires you at least 3 days.
Rwanda 1 day Gorilla safari can cost around $1,700 per person. This cost includes a Gorilla permit, transport, and if possible accommodation.
How Much Is A Gorilla Safari in Rwanda? | How Much Does A Gorilla Safari Cost in Rwanda? | How much does it cost to do gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Visitors should know that there is no fixed price for a Gorilla safari. However, the price of the Gorilla safari in Rwanda is determined by many factors.
1. The cost of gorilla trekking safaris is determined by the accommodation. There are luxury, midrange, and budget lodges.
2. The more days you spend on a Gorilla holiday, the more costly the vacation becomes.
3. Every activity that you add to your Gorilla tour will make your safari costly like wildlife safaris. Add a few activities to your Gorilla safari.
4. The cost of a Gorilla safari is determined by the number of people on holiday. More people on a safari share the expenses.
What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Gorillas in Rwanda?
Gorilla tours are good all year round though the best time to visit Rwanda for trekking Gorillas is during the dry season. This is usually from December to February and from June to August and this is also the peak season.
Little or no rainfall is received in Volcanoes National Park which makes the trails dry and easy to access. You can also enjoy the Gorilla tour in Rwanda the land of a thousand hills during the wet season making the treks short since the food is abundant in the jungle and the Gorillas can’t go deep into the forest.
All in all, you can explore Rwanda at any time of the year without limitations when you visit East Africa for wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park.
Rules and Regulations to Follow During Your Gorilla Tour in Rwanda
These guidelines are both for the safety of the primates and for you. These guidelines are put in place by the Rwandese Development Board, though they are the same for those who want to trek in Uganda and Congo in Virunga National Park.
On your Gorilla tour, you need to follow these rules when you meet with the Gorillas.
On the way to see the apes;
1. The age limit for seeing gorillas in Rwanda is 15 years. This is so because, young people may not be able to deal with any negative reactions from the Gorillas. This rule applies in Virunga National Park of Congo and other national parks in Uganda
2. Strictly, only 8 people are allowed to visit a gorilla family per day. This helps to minimize stress for these shy giants.
3. Please, don’t take part in the trek if you have flu, cold, or any other infectious disease. You may infect the shy giants with the disease.
4. You must wash your hands before embarking on the trek.
When you are with the Gorillas;
1. You should maintain maximum silence while on the gorilla trek.
2. On your trek, littering in the park is prohibited.
3. You should always keep a 7-10m distance from these great apes.
4. Avoid touching Gorillas even though they are habituated, they remain wild animals.
5. More so, smoking, eating, and drinking around these amazing giants is prohibited
6. Always keep with your group during the Gorilla trek
7. Always follow the instructions of the ranger when in the jungle.
8. On a trek, you are only given one full hour to be in the presence of the apes.
9. When photographing the apes, do not use the flashlight as they relate it to danger.
10. On the trek, human waste should be buried at least 30 cm deep.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trip in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park
For a memorable experience on your Gorilla tour in Rwanda, there are essential items that you need to carry with you always. This list is also ideal for those who want to meet the apes in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Virunga National Park.
Below are some of the items that you can pack during your explore Rwanda Gorilla tours;
1. Gorilla trek permits are a must-have for Gorilla tours
2. A good camera
3. Binoculars are ideal during Rwanda wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park
4. Walking sticks
5. Backpack keeps your essentials during primate safaris
6. Bottled water
7. Insect repellent
8. Sunscreen
What to Wear On A Gorilla Tour in Rwanda?
When going to explore Rwanda safaris, you are advised to wear appropriate eco-friendly clothes.
Below are some of the best clothes that you can wear on your Gorilla expedition;
1. Long-sleeved light trousers and shirts (neutral colors)
2. Light hiking boots
3. A cap or hat
4. Sunglasses especially during wildlife safaris
5. Garden gloves
6. A rain jacket or Poncho: keeps you dry on your Gorilla safaris in Rwanda
7. Gaiters and long stockings
How Hard Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda? | How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking Rwanda safaris in the land of a thousand hills can be a bit challenging, but it mostly depends on one’s physical level of fitness.
This adventure takes you within the thick and misty rainforest as you go through the challenging terrain holding slippery trails, valleys, etc. However, challenging the adventure, visit Rwanda Gorilla trekking safaris are worth the challenges.
If all fails, and you want to track in your explore Rwanda safaris, use the help of porters during your Gorilla trek.
Improve your physical fitness if you want to go for your Gorilla trip in Rwanda so that your fitness levels rise.
Is Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Worth It? | Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Worth It?
Yes, Rwanda Gorilla trekking is worth it when on your Rwanda safaris.
When you visit Rwanda, the money is used for the conservation of their habitats since the endangered Mountain gorillas cannot survive in captivity.
Money collected from the permits is used to pay the salaries of park rangers who help in Gorilla conservation.
Also, 10% percent of the total money from the permits is used in the development of local communities.
Is Uganda or Rwanda Better to See Gorillas? | Is It Better to See Gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda? | Is Rwanda or Uganda Better for Gorilla Trekking?
Often, travelers planning to have gorilla safari expeditions on top of their African safaris inquire whether to go trekking with gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda!
A Gorilla trek is one of the best experiences to enjoy during your Africa safari.
Here is a comparison of which country is best for gorilla trek tours;
1. Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trek tours in Rwanda Africa is easily accessible. It is only a 2-hour drive from the airport which isn’t the case in Uganda as you will require 3 days to trek Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga
2. A gorilla Rwanda tour is better for last-minute safaris in Africa. This is so because Volcanoes National Park is near Kigali Airport.
3. A Uganda Gorilla permit costs 700 USD while that of Rwanda costs $1500. Therefore, taking Gorilla trek tours in Uganda is way cheaper than Rwanda Gorilla treks.
4. Uganda has more permits available per day than Rwanda. For example, Uganda sells 160 permits a day yet Rwanda sells only 96 permits a day in Volcanoes National Park.
5. The Gorilla habituation experience in East Africa is only offered in Uganda giving more experiences.
Tourists can opt for a Rwanda Uganda safari. The Rwanda Uganda tour is for those who want to do double gorilla trips in both countries and Chimp treks in Nyungwe Forest National Park and Kibale National Park.
Gorilla trek tours are among the finest vacations in Africa, that most travelers come to enjoy. You will encounter the gentle giants and be with them for one hour though the trek can be between 2 hours and 8 hours.
You get to see the endangered Mountain Gorillas feeding and grooming each other.
Is Rwanda Known for Gorillas? | Does Rwanda Have Gorillas?
Rwanda has Mountain Gorillas but know that there are two gorilla species. The highest number of Mountain Gorillas is in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park of Uganda a gorilla sanctuary in Africa.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to about 50% of the 1,063 individuals on the planet. Others are within the Virunga Mountains in within the national parks in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga Park in Uganda, and Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
On your Congo safari, Virunga National Park is a must not miss a spot!
The other Gorilla species are the Eastern Lowland Gorillas found in Kahuzi Biega National Park of Congo.
On your primate safaris, you can see both Mountain Gorillas and the Eastern Lowland Gorillas.
Can You Visit the Gorillas in Rwanda?
Yes, you can visit Gorillas in Rwanda as long as you are above 15 years old and have a permit which costs $1,500. Currently, citizens of Rwanda and East Africa are eligible for special discounts.
You can also enjoy wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, especially during game drives and other national parks, meet the Chimps in Nyungwe Forest National Park similar to Kibale National Park of Uganda, or the apes in Virunga National Park of Congo.
Safari Lodges in Rwanda to Use during Your Gorilla Rwanda Safari
During your Gorilla tour in Rwanda, there are several accommodation facilities where you can stay. However, these are classified into luxury, mid-range, and budget options.
Luxury Lodges include; Bisate Lodge Volcanoes, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Virunga Lodge, etc.
Mid-range Lodges include; Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, La Palme Hotel, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, etc.
Budget Lodges include; Villa Gorilla, Hotel Muhabura, Kinigi Guesthouse, etc.
Are Rwanda Gorilla Tours Safe? | Are Gorilla Tours in Rwanda Safe?
Gorilla trips in Rwanda are safe and there is nothing to worry about during the primate safaris in East Africa. All you need is to follow the instructions of your private guide.
Throughout your gorilla trek, you’ll always be escorted by armed park rangers.
Rwanda Gorilla safaris are only done in a habituated gorilla community. This means that they recognize the presence of humans.
Top Tour Operators to Travel With on Your Rwanda Safari
There are many safari companies though you need to pick the right tour operator. The best tour operator will offer the best experiences as you visit Rwanda with a private guide.
Best Rwanda Gorilla Tours | Best Gorilla Holiday Safaris in Rwanda
Since Uganda and Rwanda are neighbors, you can then enjoy Rwanda-Uganda tours. A Uganda-Rwanda safari offers a thrilling experience worth every tourist. A Gorilla tour in Rwanda can be combined with safaris in Kenya and Tanzania and you get to have a private guide.
However, Kenya and Tanzania, only offer wildlife safaris and have white-sand beaches since they have no Gorillas in their national parks.
Below are some of the best Gorilla trek tours for you;
4 days safari to Rwanda – Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, Musanze, Lake Kivu and Kigali City
5 days safari – Rwanda Gorilla expedition, game viewing & Kigali city tour
8 days Rwanda Uganda safari – Primates, wildlife, Hiking, Local Communities
10 days Rwanda Uganda safari vacation – Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Golden Monkeys, Wildlife, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Mount Karisimbi, Communities, and cultural experiences
14 days Rwanda Uganda tour – Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Lake Kivu, Mount Karisimbi, Wildlife, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Communities, and cultural experiences
9 days Rwanda Uganda tour – Explore Rwanda Kigali city, chimp tracking, and boat cruise on Lake Kivu, Musanze cave experience, wildlife encounters, and Golden monkey tracking
In summary, Rwanda is the right place for you to encounter the endangered Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat in Africa.
When undertaking Rwanda Gorilla trek tours, you will visit the misty Volcanoes National Park which holds the highest number of gorillas in the Virunga Mountains.
For more rewarding memories, you can combine your Gorilla tour in Rwanda with a wildlife tour, visit the Dian Fossey tomb, and also enjoy the Kigali City tour where you get to visit the genocide memorial centers.
You can also combine the Rwanda Gorilla trek tours with wildlife safari trips in Tanzania and Kenya with an exploration of the white sand beaches to give you outstanding African safari memories.
Reach out to us for the best Gorilla Tours in Rwanda
