A Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda
A Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda : What To Expect : Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular tourist activities in Rwanda, and for good reason. Rwanda is home to almost a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and visitors can trek through the dense forests to get up close to these majestic creatures. Here’s everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Rwanda:
When to Go
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During the rainy season, the trekking trails can become slippery and muddy, making it more difficult to hike through the forests. However, if you don’t mind the rain, you can still go gorilla trekking during the rainy season from March to May and October to November.
A Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda : Getting There
Most visitors fly into Kigali International Airport, which is located in the capital city of Kigali. From there, you can hire a driver or take a bus to the gorilla trekking trailhead, which is located in Volcanoes National Park in the northwestern part of the country. The journey takes around two to three hours and offers stunning views of the countryside.
A Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda : Preparing for the Trek
Gorilla trekking can be a physically demanding activity, so it’s important to prepare in advance. You should be in good physical condition and able to walk for several hours through steep and slippery terrain. You’ll also need to bring appropriate gear, including hiking boots, long pants, a rain jacket, and a backpack to carry water and snacks.
A Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda : The Trekking Experience
On the day of your trek, you’ll meet your guide at the trailhead and be assigned to a group of up to eight people. Your guide will brief you on the rules and regulations for gorilla trekking, including how to behave around the gorillas and the importance of staying a safe distance away. You’ll then hike through the forest to the area where the gorillas were last seen, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
Once you’ve located the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe and take photos of them. The experience is truly unforgettable, and visitors are often moved by the gentle nature of these intelligent animals. However, it’s important to remember that the gorillas are wild animals and should be treated with respect.
A Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda : Costs
Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda cost $1,500 per person, which may seem steep, but the funds go towards conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals. The permits also include the services of a guide and park ranger, as well as transportation to and from the trailhead.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed. With proper preparation and a sense of adventure, you can observe these incredible animals in their natural habitat and contribute to their conservation efforts at the same time.
