A Rwanda gorilla safari experience is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Rwanda is among the best gorilla trekking tour destinations. Mountain gorillas are Great Apes that live in the Virunga Mountains and the Bwindi Impenetrable forest.
Mountain gorillas in Rwanda live in Volcanoes National Park. A Rwanda Gorilla safari is exclusive and offers unforgettable primate adventures. Wildlife enthusiasts visit Rwanda to meet mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. Rwanda gorilla trekking tours offer the ultimate Great Apes Adventure.
The Allure of Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours
A Rwanda Gorilla safari experience starts with a briefing at the park headquarters. There, you are told about the gorilla trekking rules and regulations. After the briefing, you are guided to the forested mountains on a quest to meet the rare Apes. The trek takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas.
You are allowed in the presence of the gorillas for an hour to learn more about them. Watching mountain gorillas feed, interact, and go by their daily routine is an emotional experience.
Volcanoes National Park has 12 fully habituated gorilla families open for visitation. Gorilla tours provide up-close encounters with one of these habituated gorilla families.
Rwanda Gorilla Tours
Rwanda gorilla tours are customized, starting with a 1-day tour with a pick up from Kigali at 4:30 am. This is suitable for people with limited time but would love to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.
The 3-day Rwanda tour is more relaxed and features a golden monkey trekking adventure. Other gorilla safari experiences can be customized to include two gorilla trekking adventures.
Volcanoes National Park offers other safari adventures, including mountain hiking, and a visit to the Dian Fossey Research site.
Preparing for Your Safari
A successful Rwanda Gorilla safari requires proper planning. You need to secure a gorilla permit in advance. They are limited and highly demanded. The hiking is done in a forested area and requires the right hiking gear.
Rainfall is unpredictable and can happen at any time of the day. Carry a raincoat or poncho and ensure to wear waterproof hiking boots. Bring a quality camera plus extra batteries and a suitable lens.
Responsible tourism is key during Rwanda gorilla trekking tours. Follow the ranger guide’s instructions and avoid littering in the forest. Keep a 10-meter distance to protect the Apes from human disease infections.
Best Time for Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda
Rwanda gorilla tours are doable all year round. The best experiences are during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. Tracking trails are dry, and minimal rainfall disturbances are making the overall experience enjoyable.
The wet season from March to May and October to November equally offers a great gorilla trekking experience. Although the trails are more challenging, sightings remain excellent.
Why Choose a Rwanda Great Ape Adventure?
A Rwanda gorilla safari is the most exclusive African primate trekking adventure. The country is safe, and its well-developed road network makes movement easy. Volcanoes National Park offers several lodging options, ranging from budget to high-end luxury lodges.
Some funds from mountain gorilla tours directly support communities and wildlife conservation programs.
Rwanda has other outstanding safari destinations like Nyungwe Forest and Akagera National Park. Meeting the Great Apes in their natural habitats is unforgettable. Rwanda safaris can be done alongside other East African adventures including Birding in Kenya. Plan your safari today and start your epic Discovery Journeys Adventure!