What you need to know to prepare for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda. One of the most incredible experiences you can have in Rwanda is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. The adventure begins early in the morning, with trekkers required to arrive at the Kinigi Park Headquarters by 7:00 AM for a briefing by the park rangers. During the briefing, you’ll learn about the trekking rules, safety guidelines, and what to expect when encountering the gorillas.

Due to the early start, it’s essential to have your accommodation arranged the night before your trekking day. Staying near the park helps ensure you arrive on time and are well-rested for the trek. Options range from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses close to the park entrance.

The experience of trekking through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable, making Rwanda one of the premier destinations for gorilla trekking in Africa.

Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda

Starting the Trek

Once you arrive at the Volcanoes National Park, you will be assigned to a specific gorilla family to trek. The trek typically begins at 8:30 a.m., and you should anticipate returning by around 6:00 p.m. The length and difficulty of your trek depend on the location of the gorilla family you’re tracking. The trek can take anywhere from one to nine hours, depending on the terrain and distance.

Trekking Difficulty

While it’s not necessary to be in top physical condition, having a good level of fitness will certainly make the trek more enjoyable. The terrain is often challenging, with steep, slippery paths and muddy conditions beneath the forest canopy, even in the dry season. The altitude can also make the trek physically demanding. However, the effort is well worth it once you encounter the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Encountering the Gorillas

When you finally locate the gorilla family, you will have up to an hour to observe and interact with them. During this time, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance of around 7 meters from the gorillas. However, some gorillas may come close to you, and in such instances, it’s best to remain still and let the gorillas approach and move on their own.

Behavior and Etiquette

To ensure a peaceful and respectful encounter, you are advised to speak quietly or in a low voice. Loud noises or sudden movements should be avoided as these could disturb the gorillas. While you may feel excited, it’s crucial to manage that excitement and avoid startling the gorillas.

Additionally, you are strictly prohibited from touching the gorillas, even though they may appear relaxed around humans. They are wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to always follow the instructions given by your guides and trackers.

Photography Tips

Trekking gorillas in Rwanda presents unique opportunities for photography, but it can be challenging due to the dim lighting in the forest and the proximity of the gorillas. A DSLR with high ISO capabilities is recommended, and a 70-200mm lens works best, as you are required to stay at least 7 meters away from the gorillas. A 2.8 lens will also help capture clearer shots in low light conditions.

Flash Photography and Preparation

Flash photography is not permitted during your encounter with the gorillas, so ensure that your camera’s flash is turned off before you approach the gorilla group. The time you have with the gorillas is limited, so it’s important to be prepared. Bring extra memory cards and ensure that your camera batteries are fully charged. Given the unpredictable nature of the rainforest climate, it’s advisable to bring waterproof covers for your camera gear in case of rain.

The Unique Experience

Each gorilla trekking experience is different, and returning for a second or third trek offers the opportunity to see a different gorilla family in a new part of the park. On these repeat treks, you may choose to spend more time enjoying the experience rather than focusing solely on photography. Regardless of how many times you trek, the thrill of encountering the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat remains an unforgettable adventure.

What to Pack on Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

Packing for a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda requires preparation for both the challenging terrain and the unpredictable rainforest climate. Here’s a list of essentials to ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience.

Clothing:

• Long Sleeves and Pants: Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect yourself from nettles, branches, and insects in the forest. Quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal.

• Waterproof Jacket: Rwanda’s rainforest can be rainy at any time. A lightweight, waterproof jacket will keep you dry.

• Comfortable Hiking Boots: Ensure your boots are sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken in. The muddy trails can be slippery, so good grip is essential.

• Hat and Gloves: A wide-brimmed hat will protect you from the sun, while gloves will protect your hands while trekking through dense vegetation.

Accessories:

• Backpack: A small, lightweight backpack for carrying essentials, such as snacks, water, and your camera.

• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the bright sun and occasional glare.

• Water Bottle: Hydration is crucial, so bring a reusable water bottle to carry enough water during your trek.

• Camera and Extra Batteries: You’ll want to capture the moment, so bring a camera with extra memory cards and charged batteries. Make sure the flash is turned off, as it’s prohibited around the gorillas.

Health and Safety:

• Insect Repellent: To avoid insect bites, especially in the humid rainforest.

• Personal Medications: If you have any prescribed medications, ensure you pack them in sufficient quantities.

• Hand Sanitizer: Keep hand sanitizer handy for hygiene before and after handling food or touching surfaces.

Other Essentials:

• Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability on the rugged and slippery trails.

• Snacks: Light snacks like energy bars can help sustain you during the trek.

Gorilla Trekking Permit for Rwanda.

Mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a highly regulated activity to protect these critically endangered animals and improve their chances of survival. There are only 12 habituated gorilla families available for viewing, and only 8 visitors are allowed to visit each gorilla family each day. As a result, permits for trekking are limited to just 96 per day, making it essential to secure your permit well in advance.

Booking Your Permit

Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda cost $1500 USD per person, which includes park entry, the services of trained guides and trackers, safety measures provided by tourism police, and the opportunity to spend an hour with the gorillas in their natural habitat. Given the high demand, permits for popular dates, especially during the dry seasons (December to March and June to September), tend to sell out quickly. For this reason, it’s recommended to book your permit months in advance.

While the wet seasons from April to May and October to November see fewer visitors, permits are still limited, so early booking is advisable.

Health and Safety Considerations

To ensure the safety and well-being of the gorillas, Rwanda has strict health protocols in place. If you exhibit symptoms of illness, you will not be allowed to trek with the gorillas. Human diseases can easily be transmitted to gorillas, and since they lack the immunity to fight off these illnesses, even a mild illness could pose a serious threat. It’s important to be healthy before embarking on your trek.

Age Restrictions

For safety reasons, participants in gorilla trekking must be at least 15 years old. This age limit helps ensure that trekkers are physically and mentally prepared for the activity.

Booking Rwanda Gorilla Permit with Kenlink Tours

Booking a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda with Kenlink Tours is simple and hassle-free. As a trusted tour operator, Kenlink Tours assists in securing your permit for an unforgettable experience in Volcanoes National Park. With their expertise, they ensure your permit is booked well in advance, especially for popular travel dates. They offer personalized services, including organizing your gorilla trek, providing knowledgeable guides, and arranging accommodations. To book your permit or for more details, contact Kenlink Tours team at info@kenlinktours.com or call +256-789-210-067 / +256-200-955-001. Let Kenlink Tours make your Rwanda gorilla adventure seamless and memorable.