What to Know Before Embarking on a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda from Germany?
Mountain gorillas are found in only two locations worldwide: Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the Virunga Massif, a chain of volcanoes spanning 174 miles across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
If you’re familiar with the film Gorillas in the Mist, inspired by renowned American primatologist Dian Fossey, you may recognize Volcanoes National Park as the site where she conducted much of her groundbreaking research. Fossey’s work at the park helped raise global awareness of the endangered mountain gorillas. Today, Volcanoes National Park remains a hub of conservation in Rwanda and is home to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, which continues her important legacy of research and gorilla conservation efforts.
During your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda, departing from Germany, you’ll have the unique opportunity to spend up to an hour with a gorilla family. This limited interaction time is carefully regulated to prevent causing the gorillas any undue stress and to avoid them becoming overly accustomed to human presence. While the habituated gorillas may show some curiosity towards you, they typically continue their natural behavior, feeding and interacting with their environment as if you weren’t there.
In Volcanoes National Park, only eight trekking permits are issued per gorilla family each day. With each permit costing USD 1,500 per person, planning your trip well in advance is essential. The limited number of permits ensures the forest remains uncrowded, allowing for a more intimate and peaceful experience while minimizing the impact on the gorillas’ natural habitat.
Your trek begins with a guide leading you to the last known location of your designated gorilla family. The hike to find them may vary in length—sometimes just a few hours, or it could be a longer journey depending on the gorillas’ movements. This unpredictable aspect adds to the adventure, making each trekking experience unique and rewarding.
How long does gorilla trekking take in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a highly anticipated adventure that can vary in duration depending on several factors. Typically, the entire experience, including the trek and the time spent with the gorillas, can range from 4 to 8 hours.
The day begins early in the morning with a briefing at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, where you’ll be assigned a gorilla family to track. The actual trekking time depends on the location of the gorilla family you’ve been assigned. Some families may be closer, requiring just a couple of hours of hiking, while others may be further away, involving more strenuous trekking through dense forests, steep terrain, and varying altitudes.
Once you locate the gorilla family, you’ll be allowed to spend up to one hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. This time is regulated to minimize human impact on the gorillas.
How Many Gorillas are in Rwanda?
The volcanic range spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo is home to the endangered mountain gorilla, making Rwanda a prime destination for gorilla tracking. This activity is both safe and relatively accessible.
Currently, there are around 1,000 mountain gorillas remaining in the wild, with approximately 604 residing in the Virunga Massif. Thanks to collaborative efforts between governments, local communities, and NGOs, this population is gradually increasing.
In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, twelve gorilla families are fully habituated and available for trekking, while a few others are habituated exclusively for scientific research. Each gorilla group, or troop, typically includes at least one dominant silverback male, accompanied by several females and their young. These family groups offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Booking a Rwanda Safari from Germany with Kenlink Tours
Booking a Rwanda safari from Germany with Kenlink Tours is a seamless way to experience the wonders of Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Kenlink Tours specializes in creating personalized safari packages that cater to your interests and needs, ensuring a memorable and stress-free adventure. From the moment you make your inquiry, their experienced team will assist you with all the details, including visa information, flight arrangements, and itinerary planning.
Kenlink Tours offers a variety of safari options, including gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, golden monkey tracking, cultural tours, and visits to the stunning Lake Kivu. They provide top-notch guides who are knowledgeable about Rwanda’s wildlife and history, enhancing your overall experience. With comfortable accommodations and reliable transportation arranged for you, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the journey.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, booking with Kenlink Tours ensures an unforgettable Rwandan safari adventure.
