Tips For Planning The Perfect Gorilla Trek In Rwanda

Tips For Planning The Perfect Gorilla Trek In Rwanda : Rwanda is a small landlocked country in East Africa that has become increasingly popular among tourists seeking to experience the awe-inspiring gorillas in their natural habitat. Home to more than a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures in the wild. However, planning a gorilla trek can be quite daunting, and requires careful planning to ensure a memorable experience. In this article, we will provide you with essential tips for planning the perfect gorilla trek in Rwanda.

• Choose the right season to visit:

The best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking is during the dry season, which is between June to September and December to February. During this time, the trails are drier, and the gorillas tend to stay in lower altitudes, making it easier to trek through the forest to find them. However, do note that the dry season is also the busiest time for tourism, and you may need to book your trek in advance to secure a permit.

• Secure your gorilla trek permit in advance:

Gorilla trek permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board, and it’s essential to secure yours in advance. The permits are limited to a certain number of visitors per day, and they tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak season. You can book your permit through a tour operator or directly with the Rwanda Development Board. The cost of the permit is currently $1,500 per person, and it’s advisable to book at least six months in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Choose the right tour operator:

Choosing the right tour operator is crucial to ensuring a successful gorilla trek. A good tour operator will provide you with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodation, and reliable transportation. They will also take care of all the logistics, including securing your permit, arranging transportation to and from the park, and providing you with a packed lunch during the trek. Do your research and choose a reputable tour operator that has experience in gorilla trekking.

• Get fit and healthy:

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, and it’s essential to be in good shape to fully enjoy the experience. Trekking through the forest can be quite strenuous, and you may need to climb steep hills or cross muddy terrain. It’s advisable to engage in regular exercise and seek medical advice before embarking on the trek, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

• Dress appropriately:

The weather in Rwanda can be unpredictable, and it’s essential to dress appropriately for the trek. Wear comfortable, lightweight, and breathable clothing that can wick away sweat. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are recommended to protect your skin from scratches, insect bites, and stinging nettles. Good quality hiking boots are also essential to provide you with support and grip on the slippery terrain.

• Follow the rules:

When you finally get to see the gorillas, it’s essential to follow the rules to ensure the safety of both humans and gorillas. Maintain a distance of at least seven meters from the gorillas, do not touch or feed them, and avoid direct eye contact. Do not use flash photography or loud noises, and if you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose. Always listen to your guide’s instructions, and follow their lead at all times, Tips For Planning The Perfect Gorilla Trek In Rwanda

Planning a gorilla trek in Rwanda requires careful preparation to ensure a memorable experience. By choosing the right season, securing your permit, choosing the right tour operator, getting fit and healthy, dressing appropriately, and following the rules, you will be well on your way to an unforgettable adventure. Remember to take the time to enjoy the natural beauty of Rwanda and the majesty of the gorillas.

 Rwanda, a small country in East Africa, is home to more than a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provides visitors with the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. However, gorilla trekking permits are limited, and it’s essential to secure one in advance to avoid disappointment. In this article, we will provide you with a guide on how to obtain a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda.

• Plan ahead:

Gorilla trekking permits are in high demand and limited to a certain number of visitors per day. It’s essential to plan ahead and book your permit as early as possible. The permits can be booked through a tour operator or directly with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). The RDB recommends booking at least six months in advance, especially during the peak season, which runs from June to September and December to February.

• Choose the right tour operator:

While it’s possible to book a permit directly with the RDB, most visitors prefer to book through a tour operator. A reputable tour operator will handle all the logistics, including securing your permit, arranging transportation to and from the park, and providing you with a knowledgeable guide. They will also offer additional services such as accommodation and meals. Do your research and choose a tour operator with experience in gorilla trekking and a good reputation.

• Provide your information:

To obtain a gorilla trekking permit, you will need to provide personal information such as your full name, passport number, and nationality. You will also need to indicate the date of your trek and the group you wish to join. Gorilla groups are limited to a maximum of eight visitors per day. It’s essential to provide accurate information to avoid any issues when you arrive in Rwanda.

• Pay for the permit:

Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda currently cost $1,500 per person. Payment can be made through the Rwanda Development Board’s online portal, by bank transfer, or in person at their offices in Kigali. It’s essential to pay for your permit in advance to secure your spot.

• Receive your permit:

Once your permit is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email from the Rwanda Development Board. You will need to print this email and present it along with your passport on the day of your trek. Your guide will also have a copy of your permit, Tips For Planning The Perfect Gorilla Trek In Rwanda

• Trekking Day:

On the day of your trek, arrive at the park headquarters in Kinigi by 7:00 am. Here, you will be briefed by your guide on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking. You will also be assigned to a gorilla group based on your fitness level and preferences. Your guide will then lead you into the forest to search for the gorillas. The trek can take between one to six hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.

Obtaining a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda requires careful planning and preparation. By booking your permit in advance, choosing the right tour operator, providing accurate information, paying for your permit, and following the rules on trekking day, you will be well on your way to a memorable gorilla trekking experience. Remember to respect the gorillas and their habitat and to take the time to enjoy the natural beauty of Rwanda