Best Rwanda Gorilla Safaris offer visitors an immersive and exhilarating experience, allowing them to trek through the rainforests of Volcanoes National Park and observe the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Embarking on a gorilla trek is an unforgettable adventure that involves hiking through lush, sloping hills while keeping your eyes peeled for glimpses of these majestic creatures. Picture the thrill of spotting a gorilla peeking out from the bush or encountering a mother gorilla tenderly watching over her babies. For those seeking to experience this incredible journey, Acacia Rwanda gorilla tours provide some of the best opportunities to track gorillas in the world-renowned Volcanoes National Park.
Volcanoes National Park, spanning 62 square miles, is a sanctuary for the last surviving population of mountain gorillas, a critically endangered species threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and disease. In addition to gorillas, the park is home to the endangered golden monkey, a unique old-world monkey distinguished by its golden-orange patch on its upper flanks and back. Exploring this remarkable park promises a truly unforgettable experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Discover Rwanda on our Best Rwanda Gorilla Safaris and embark on life-changing adventures.
What you need to prepare before going to Rwanda for gorilla trekking.
1. Gorilla Trekking Permit – Best Rwanda Gorilla Safaris
If you’re planning to participate in gorilla trekking, one of the must-haves is a gorilla trekking permit for Volcanoes National Park. Gorilla trekking permits are legal documents that grant visitors access to gorilla trekking areas. These permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or authorized tour operators and are limited in number. It’s crucial to book your permit well in advance, as they can sell out quickly due to high demand. The cost of a Rwanda gorilla permit is about $1500 for foreign residents, although there are discounted permits for eligible travelers. You can book your Rwanda gorilla trekking permit through Acacia Safaris Limited, and we guarantee the availability of these permits. We also book Uganda gorilla trekking permits for both Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.
2. Appropriate Clothing – Best Rwanda Gorilla Safaris
When planning a trip to Rwanda for gorilla trekking, it is important to ensure that you have appropriate clothing for the adventure. The trek can be physically demanding, and it is recommended to wear comfortable and breathable clothing that will allow you to move freely. As the weather in Volcanoes National Park can be unpredictable, it is advisable to dress in layers that can be added or removed as needed. This will help you regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable throughout the trek. We also recommend bringing a waterproof jacket or poncho in case of rain. Proper clothing is essential to ensure that you have an enjoyable and safe experience while trekking to see the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Other necessary gear includes sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and insect repellent.
3. Camera and Binoculars
The best way to capture your iconic gorilla trekking moments is by taking photographs. It would be a great idea to bring along a good camera and binoculars. These two items can greatly enhance your experience by allowing you to capture stunning wildlife photos and get a closer look at the gorillas in their natural habitat. With a good camera, you can capture the breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, and intimate moments of the gorillas. Similarly, binoculars can help you spot the gorillas from a distance and observe their behavior safely. To make the most of your gorilla trekking adventure, be sure to pack a good camera and binoculars. Other important items to bring include water and snacks, a hat and sunscreen, and some cash.
4. Physical Fitness
Gorilla trekking safaris are a unique and unforgettable experience, but they can also be physically demanding. You should be in good physical condition and prepared to hike for several hours through dense forest terrain. The trek can vary in difficulty, ranging from relatively easy to more strenuous, depending on the location of the gorilla families on that particular day. It’s important to note that the trekking group size is limited to eight people per gorilla family to reduce the risk of disease transmission, so you’ll need to plan your trip accordingly.
Best Time To Go For Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which occur from mid-December to early February and from June to September. These periods offer more favorable trekking conditions, as the trails in Volcanoes National Park are less muddy and easier to navigate. The dry seasons also provide clearer skies and better visibility, enhancing your overall experience and increasing the chances of observing gorillas in their natural habitat. Additionally, the reduced rainfall during these months means fewer insects, making the trek more comfortable. However, gorilla trekking can be done year-round, as the experience of encountering these magnificent creatures remains extraordinary regardless of the season. For optimal conditions and an unforgettable adventure, planning your trek during the dry seasons is highly recommended.
Comparing Uganda And Rwanda Gorilla Safaris
Gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda offer unique and unforgettable experiences for wildlife enthusiasts. Both countries are home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas, but the trekking experiences differ in several ways. Here, we compare Uganda and Rwanda gorilla safaris based on key factors such as trekking conditions, permit costs, accessibility, and additional attractions.
Trekking Conditions
Rwanda: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place in Volcanoes National Park, which is characterized by its lush, mountainous terrain. The park’s compact size means that the trekking distances are generally shorter, often between 1 to 4 hours. The altitudes range from 2,500 to 4,500 meters, making the hikes manageable but potentially challenging for those not acclimated to high elevations. The terrain can be steep and muddy, especially during the rainy seasons, but the relatively short trekking times make it accessible for most visitors.
Uganda: In Uganda, gorilla trekking is conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi’s terrain is famously rugged and dense, often requiring longer treks ranging from 2 to 8 hours. The park’s vast and varied landscape includes steep slopes and thick undergrowth, making the trekking more physically demanding compared to Rwanda. Mgahinga offers a different experience with its mix of forest and volcanic landscapes, though it is less visited due to a smaller gorilla population. The challenging treks in Uganda, however, reward visitors with a profound sense of adventure and accomplishment.
Permit Costs
Rwanda: Rwanda charges $1,500 for a gorilla trekking permit for foreign visitors. This higher cost is partly due to the country’s efforts to position itself as a high-end ecotourism destination. The revenue supports conservation efforts and community projects, enhancing the overall sustainability of the tourism sector.
Uganda: Uganda offers gorilla trekking permits at a more affordable rate of $700 for foreign non-residents. The lower cost makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. The permit fees also contribute to conservation initiatives and local community development, similar to Rwanda.
Accessibility
Rwanda: One of Rwanda’s significant advantages is the proximity of Volcanoes National Park to Kigali, the capital city. The park is just a 2-3 hour drive from Kigali International Airport, making it highly accessible for travelers with limited time. This ease of access allows visitors to plan short trips without extensive travel time within the country.
Uganda: Reaching Bwindi or Mgahinga in Uganda involves more travel. The drive from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi takes approximately 8-10 hours, though domestic flights are available to shorten the journey. The remoteness of Uganda’s parks can be seen as a drawback for some, but it also adds to the sense of adventure and seclusion, providing a more immersive wilderness experience.
Additional Attractions
Rwanda: Besides gorilla trekking, Rwanda offers other attractions such as the Genocide Memorial in Kigali, Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks, and Akagera National Park for classic savannah safaris. Rwanda’s compact size allows for a diverse range of activities within a short distance.
Uganda: Uganda boasts a rich array of wildlife and natural beauty beyond gorillas. Bwindi is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, while Queen Elizabeth National Park offers the chance to see the famed tree-climbing lions. Murchison Falls National Park, with its spectacular waterfalls and diverse wildlife, and Kibale National Park, home to the highest concentration of primates, including chimpanzees, are other notable destinations.
