Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa
If you’re in South Africa and dreaming of an unforgettable adventure, consider a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda. The good news is that you can easily travel from South Africa to Rwanda. Kigali International Airport offers daily international flights, making it simple to plan a short gorilla safari from South Africa. The distance from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Kigali International Airport is approximately 4,476.8 km. This flight usually takes around 4 hours and 29 minutes, while driving would take about 65 hours!
As for travel requirements, you’ll be pleased to know that, as of now, COVID-19 vaccination passports or certificates are not required for entering Rwanda. However, travel regulations can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to check the latest travel updates for Rwanda before your trip.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that attracts many tourists to this beautiful country, often referred to as the “land of a thousand hills.” Trekking gorillas is not an easy task; it involves hiking through dense jungles, crossing rivers and marshes, and navigating thick vegetation to find the endangered mountain gorillas.
When you go gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you’ll have the chance to hike and spend one precious hour observing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. To take part in this experience, you need a gorilla permit, which is required for entry into the national parks that offer gorilla trekking. Since permits and services can sell out quickly—especially during peak seasons like June to September—it’s best to book your gorilla trek at least five months in advance. This way, you can secure the dates and locations you want for your adventure.
You can obtain your gorilla permit directly from the Rwanda Development Board or through a reputable tour operator like Iconic Africa Safaris. The cost of a gorilla permit in Rwanda varies: it is $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents, $500 per person for foreign residents, and $200 for East African citizens (including Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan). With this permit, you’ll get to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Rwanda is home to 12 gorilla families, which means there are 96 gorilla permits available each day for trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This limited number ensures a more intimate experience with the gorillas while helping to protect this endangered species.
Age Requirements for Gorilla Trekking
If you’re planning to go gorilla trekking, it’s essential to know the age requirements. The minimum age for participating in gorilla trekking is 15 years, while the maximum age is usually around 85 years, depending on individual fitness levels. To make gorilla trekking accessible for older participants or those with mobility issues, Rwanda now offers a service with sedan chair carriers. These chairs allow those who may not be able to hike to be carried into the forest during their trek. You can arrange to hire a sedan chair in advance or on the day of your trek, with costs ranging from $400 to $500.
Cancellation Policies for Gorilla Permits
To trek with the gorillas, you must have a gorilla permit. If you book a permit, it is generally expected that you will use it on the designated day. However, cancellation policies can be strict. If you need to cancel your gorilla permit within 0 to 8 days before your trek, you will not receive a refund. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, cancellation policies have been adjusted somewhat over the last six months, but it’s still wise to keep this in mind when planning your trip.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking can be done throughout the year, but the best time to go is during the drier months. The ideal months for trekking are January, February, and from June to early September. During these times, the weather is more favorable, making it easier to travel to the parks. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense, providing clearer views of the gorillas.
In conclusion, a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda is not just a vacation; it’s an experience that will stay with you forever. With easy access from South Africa, a range of permits, and beautiful landscapes, Rwanda offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and see these extraordinary creatures up close. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a wildlife enthusiast, this is an adventure you won’t want to miss!