A close encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda
A close encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda
One of the most remarkable wildlife encounters in Africa exists for visitors to witness endangered mountain gorillas during close encounters in Rwanda. These giant primates function as ambassadors of conservation success since people commonly describe them as gentle giants. Visitors choose Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda as their essential destination to encounter mountain gorillas while they reside in their natural habitat. This article will present information about a close encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda alongside the best visiting periods and tour procedures and essential preparation steps to ensure an unforgettable gorilla safari experience.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
People who want to encounter mountain gorillas in close proximity choose Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda’s northwest section as their primary destination. The park belongs to the Virunga Conservation Area that extends across Rwanda through Uganda and into the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors prize Volcanoes National Park for its thick forest growth and volcanic features and equally admire its variety of unique species.
Visitors who want to observe mountain gorillas must visit Volcanoes National Park since it holds one third of all the wild mountain gorillas in existence worldwide. Gorillas in the park undergo habituation training that enables visitors to witness them while they live in their native environment. Visitors who wish to observe gorillas must select from different families located in the park based on current availability.
What to Expect During a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
Visitors to Volcanoes National Park face physical challenges yet they receive great value from their gorilla trekking adventures. The journey to a gorilla location requires between a couple of hours and the entire day since it depends on where the gorilla family resides. The trekking experience includes experienced guides and park rangers who provide knowledge about gorillas and the surrounding ecosystem.
When you reach the gorilla family location you will witness the actual enchanting moment of this experience. The gorillas are visible to visitors when they engage in feeding while playing and resting within the forest habitat. Progressive tranquility marks their social interaction as the gorillas display their natural behaviors while they groom and maintain contact with one another. Being in personal distance from a mountain gorilla creates an amazing feeling of both deep respect and intense excitement.
Best Time to go for a safari in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda are possible throughout the entire year yet the optimal time for visiting Volcanoes National Park occurs in both June to September alongside December to February due to reduced rainfall. Hikers will find better conditions for trekking on the trails with improved conditions caused by dry weather patterns. The park accepts visitors throughout every month of the year with options for trekking despite challenging weather during the rainy period.
Regarding gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda the demand peaks especially when tourism activity reaches its highest point. When planning to participate in gorilla trekking it is recommended to buy permits in advance since good permits will sell out months before the planned date.
Gorilla Trekking Permits and Costs
Obtaining permission from the Rwandan government to encounter mountain gorillas stands as a prerequisite for visitors. The Rwandan government puts considerable effort into maintaining gorilla trekking as both a sustainable practice and a responsible activity. The price for a gorilla trekking permit stands at $1,500 per person providing admission to spend an hour with a particular gorilla family. The gorilla park’s conservation program and local community growth receive funding from this payment.
The expense of this permit supports both conservation programs that protect mountain gorillas and their natural environment. The government’s dedication to conservation has led to an increase in the gorilla population of Rwanda while investments in this sector produced significant results during recent times.
What to Wear and Bring on Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
Physical preparation plays a vital role for gorilla trekking since this activity demands both safety and comfort. The following list includes important items you need on your gorilla trekking adventure.
– Sturdy Hiking Boots: The terrain in Volcanoes National Park can be rough, so it’s essential to wear durable and comfortable hiking boots that can handle muddy trails and steep slopes.
– Lightweight Rain Gear: Even during the dry season, the weather in the mountains can change quickly, so packing a waterproof jacket and pants is a wise decision.
– Long Pants and Sleeved Shirts: The dense vegetation can scratch your skin, so it’s important to cover up with long pants and sleeves to protect yourself from thorny plants and insects.
– Water and Snacks: The trek can be long, so staying hydrated and energized is essential. Carry a reusable water container together with nutritious portable snacks.
– Insect Repellent: The forest is home to various insects, so applying repellent is a must to avoid bites.
Other Activities to do while on a safari at Volcanoes National Park
All travelers who visit Volcanoes National Park should prioritize gorilla trekking but they can still experience various other engaging activities during their stay in the area. These include:
– Golden Monkey Trekking: Volcanoes National Park is also home to the endangered golden monkeys, and visitors can track and observe these playful primates on a separate trek.
– Hiking Mount Bisoke: For adventure enthusiasts, a hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke offers stunning views of the park’s volcanic landscape and a crater lake at the top.
– Visiting the Tomb of Dian Fossey: Dian Fossey, the renowned American primatologist, spent many years studying mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Visitors can have an emotional encounter at her tomb because it provides educational insights into her life’s mission of conservation and legacy accomplishments.
Conclusion on a close encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda
An encounter with Rwandan mountain gorillas ranks as an everlasting adventure that both defends wildlife and let people witness first-hand the rarest primates on Earth. Visiting Volcanoes National Park offers you two essential benefits aside from enjoying its remarkable natural beauty because it assists wildlife protection programs that secure the survival of these unique species through time. An adequately planned Rwandan gorilla trekking expedition, together with proper preparation, will lead to a deeply fulfilling travel experience.
