Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park is the main activity in the park where travelers get a chance to experience the endangered mountain gorillas by walking with them. Rwanda is widely regarded as one of the prime destinations for engaging in walking with gorillas. The activity of Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is conducted within the Volcanoes National Park.
Volcanoes National Park, situated in Musanze in the northwestern region of the country, has a total area of 160 square meters and is a component of the Virunga massifs. A significant population of mountain gorillas resides in this park in Rwanda. The distribution of these mountain gorillas is limited to two additional nations, namely Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Gorilla trekking refers to the activity in which travelers hike into the dense forest to seek for mountain gorillas.
The presence of a significant population of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National area, along with the existence of approximately 10 habituated gorilla families, has facilitated the opportunity for gorilla trekking in the area. Only the habituated gorilla families in the park can be tracked or visited by tourists. In Volcanoes National Park, the elusive Hirwa gorilla family, as well as the Bwenge, Amahoro, Ugenda, Titus, Karisimbi, Kwitonda, Umubano, Agashya, and Susa gorilla families, are available for visitation. The Rwanda Development Board has implemented rigorous steps to protect and conserve the endangered mountain gorillas, resulting in an increased availability of these animals.
They are limited in number and in great demand. It is recommended to book at least 3-4 months in advance to get a confirmed reservation. The cost of gorilla trekking permits in Volcanoes National Park is $1,500 per person each trek, regardless of whether the individual is a Rwandan national or not. A portion of the cash generated from the sale of gorilla trekking permits is allocated towards the funding of gorilla conservation initiatives and providing assistance to the local population. Gorilla permits can be obtained either through a reputable tour operator or directly from the Rwanda Development Board in Kigali. When purchasing a gorilla tracking permit, it is necessary to provide the RDB with the passport data of the passenger. The number of individuals allowed to trek a single gorilla family per day is limited to 8. This means that there are only 80 gorilla permits available each day. To ensure that you can track gorillas on your preferred date, it is highly recommended to make a reservation well in advance.
In order to maximize one’s preparation for an exceptional gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, it is imperative to:
Make thorough preparations both physically and mentally well ahead of time. Short exercise sessions, such as running around the house consistently over a period of time, can be sufficient.
Assemble the required equipment for an optimal gorilla trekking expedition. Essential goods such as waterproof hiking shoes, trousers, long-sleeved shirts, waterproof rain coats, a waterproof backpack for storing your belongings, and insect repellent creams should be brought along. The supplies you bring with you can either enhance or diminish your gorilla trekking experience. It is recommended to have snacks that provide energy and to drink water.
Additionally, it is important to be aware that precipitation, often in the form of heavy rainfall, can occur at any moment in this location.
Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park commences at an early hour of the morning, with a detailed briefing conducted by park rangers at 7am in Kinigi, which serves as the park’s administrative center. During the briefing about Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park, hikers are divided into groups of eight and assigned a certain family to follow and walk with the gorillas. Gorilla families are assigned based on the trackers’ degree of physical fitness, and the walk commences at 8 am. While walking with gorillas, it is advised for guests to remain vigilant for many wildlife species present in the park, such as forest elephants, bush pigs, and several bird species. The park rangers will also provide you with information about the park, forest, and other relevant topics that they consider important to impart, ensuring that you are well-informed.
Upon encountering these docile primates you will be impressed simply by observing them. Mountain gorillas, particularly the adolescents, exhibit playful behavior and are often intrigued about humans. They may even approach and engage in play with or on someone. on your Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park Tourists are recommended to adhere to the guidance provided by the rangers, maintain composure at all times, and avoid making abrupt motions. The duration of Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park, might vary from 30 minutes to over 5 hours, depending on the whereabouts of the mountain gorillas, as they frequently change their location. At the beginning of the trek, you can employ porters who will assist you by providing physical force when necessary and by carrying your belongings.
Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park, like any other activity, has specific rules and guidelines in place to ensure the safety of guests and the conservation of mountain gorillas. Several examples include:
- For the purpose of monitoring gorillas, persons must be at least 15 years old.
- Maintain good health in order to have the ability to monitor.
- Individuals with diseases and illnesses are strongly encouraged to stay away from approaching mountain gorillas, since they are susceptible to contracting these ailments and can be significantly impacted by them.
- Always maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters from the mountain gorillas.
- Remain within the assigned group. Remain in close proximity and do not separate
- It is advisable to refrain from making direct eye contact with mountain gorillas, as this can be perceived as a threat by them.
Excessive noise is prohibited; please only whisper if absolutely necessary.
Avoid depositing waste in the park
It is imperative that you refrain from making physical contact with the gorillas.
Maintain composure when confronted by a charging mountain gorilla and consistently adhere to the guidance provided by the rangers.
Avoid consuming food in close proximity to the mountain gorillas. This task should be performed at a minimum distance of 200 meters from them. - Experience the amazing adventure of Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Experience the amazing adventure of Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park can be conveniently reached by road from either Gisenyi town or Kigali International Airport. The maximum duration for the journey to the park is 2 hours, allowing for a one -day gorilla trekking excursion in Volcanoes National Park. The park offers a variety of hotel options that cater to all types of travelers, ranging from extremely luxurious to more modest accommodations. No matter your financial constraints, ensure that you discover precisely what captivates your interest.
The experience of Gorilla walking safaris in Volcanoes National Park can be enhanced by incorporating additional activities both within the park and from other national parks such as Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, or Serengeti National Park. These parks offer exceptional African safaris. Allocate sufficient time to visit and engage a reliable tour operator to meticulously arrange the most exceptional safari encounter that will be eternally treasured.
3 days gorilla trekking Rwanda safari
3 days gorilla trekking Rwanda safari is awe-inspiring! Aside from engaging in mountain gorilla trekking, visitors have the option to partake in a cultural tour
2 days gorilla tours in Rwanda
2 days gorilla tours in Rwanda to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers an unforgettable and exhilarating experience. This 2 days gorilla tour experience allows
1 day Uganda Gorilla Trek from Kigali
1 day Uganda Gorilla Trek from Kigali, commencing and concluding in Kigali. Are you constrained by a tight schedule yet nevertheless interested in engaging in gorilla
10 days Uganda Rwanda Safari
The 10 day Uganda Rwanda Safari includes a visit to the top locations in Uganda and Rwanda. The journey commences in Uganda and concludes in Rwanda.
4-Day Rwanda gorilla trekking expedition
Experience a 4-Day Rwanda gorilla trekking expedition: This Safari offers exceptional opportunities to observe gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and engage in community
1 day Uganda Gorilla Trek from Kigali
1 day Uganda Gorilla Trek from Kigali, commencing and concluding in Kigali. Are you constrained by a tight schedule yet nevertheless interested in engaging in gorilla
