Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from France
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from France: A Journey to Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda from France offers an incredible opportunity to see endangered mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat. Volcanoes National Park is the main location for this unforgettable adventure. If you’re coming from France and feel more comfortable with a French-speaking guide, Iconic Africa Safaris can arrange one for you. This way, you can fully enjoy your experience without language barriers.
Distance and Travel Options from France to Rwanda
The distance from France to Rwanda is approximately 6,298 km by air. The road distance, though much longer, spans about 9,794 km. The fastest and most convenient way to get from France to Rwanda is by flight, which takes around 12 hours including transfers. If you were to drive, the journey would take over five days – a demanding trip that few travelers undertake. Flying is much more popular, and there are a few different routes available:
- Fly from Paris (Charles de Gaulle) to Kigali – 12 hours, $283–663
- Fly from Marseille to Kigali – 14 hours 20 minutes, $296–763
- Fly from Lyon to Kigali – 14 hours 50 minutes, $296–713
- Other Routes: Via Brussels, Bujumbura, or Kamembe
Several airlines operate between France and Rwanda, including Rwandair Express, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Air France.
Starting Your Gorilla Trek
Your gorilla trekking adventure begins at 7:00 am with a briefing from park authorities at the Kinigi headquarters in Volcanoes National Park. The trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 5 hours to find your allocated gorilla family. During the hike, you’ll experience the varying altitudes of 2,500 to 4,000 meters as you traverse steep hills, humid forest paths, and dense vegetation. Hiring a porter is highly recommended; they carry your bags and help support the local community.
There are 12 habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park that visitors can track. These families include Bwenge, Hirwa, Ugyenda, Sabyinyo, Umubano, Karisimbi, Susa, Amahoro, Agashya, Kwitonda, Igisha, and Muhoza. Each day, only 96 visitors are allowed to track the gorillas, so booking permits in advance is essential.
The duration of the trek varies depending on where the gorillas are located that day. Finding your allocated gorilla family could be a quick 30-minute walk or a 5-hour trek. The terrain is challenging, filled with hills and slopes. There are no clear paths, so you’ll often need to hold onto branches and roots to pull yourself up.
Face-to-Face with Mountain Gorillas
Once you locate the gorilla family, your guide will remind you to remain calm and move slowly. Sudden movements can startle the gorillas, so it’s best to stay quiet and avoid direct eye contact. If a gorilla does look at you, hold your ground, but lower your gaze to avoid appearing confrontational. This respectful approach keeps both you and the gorillas calm.
With cameras ready, you have up to one hour to observe and photograph these incredible creatures. Just remember to turn off the flash and mute camera sounds. The gorillas may be on the ground, in the trees, or moving around, so follow their movements carefully but stay a safe distance of at least 7 meters. Staying near your guide and listening to their instructions ensures a safe experience for everyone.
Gorilla trackers often help by clearing the brush with machetes, making it easier for you to get a clear view. Watching these peaceful animals interact in their natural environment is unforgettable. You’ll especially be awed by the silverbacks (mature males) who oversee their groups with grace and authority.
Booking Your Gorilla Trekking Experience
Gorilla Permits
The permit to track gorillas costs $1,500 per person for a one-day experience. You must be at least 15 years old to join the trek. Rwandan and East African Community residents can sometimes access special offers.
What to Wear
For the trek, solid walking shoes, gaiters, and durable clothing are essential. Thick gloves can protect against stinging plants, and a lightweight waterproof jacket is advisable in case of rain.
Booking in Advance
Booking your permit in advance is crucial as there are limited permits available. You can secure a permit directly through the Rwanda Development Board or with the help of licensed tour operators.
Best Time to Visit for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is available year-round, though the best time is during the dry season, from June to September. During these months, the trails are less muddy and easier to navigate. However, the weather in Rwanda can be unpredictable, and rain can happen any time of year.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring muddy trails but offer some advantages, such as clear air after rain, making it ideal for photography. During the dry season, gorillas tend to climb higher into the mountains, whereas in the wet season, they come down closer to the forest floor. The rainy season is also perfect for chimpanzee tracking, as ripe fruits attract them to lower parts of the forest.
Where to Stay Near Volcanoes National Park
To make the most of your gorilla trekking experience, staying close to Volcanoes National Park is ideal. This allows you to arrive promptly at the park headquarters for the early morning briefing and gives you more time to explore the stunning Virunga region. Here are some recommended lodges:
Virunga Lodge
This popular lodge sits on a ridge with panoramic views of Musanze Valley, Lake Bulera, Ruhondo, and the Virunga Volcanoes. Virunga Lodge has ten luxurious bandas, each featuring a private terrace, cozy fireplace, and vibrant Rwandese décor. The lodge is only a 40-minute drive from the park, providing an excellent base for gorilla trekking. Guests enjoy a range of activities, from hikes to the nearby Karisimbi or Visoke volcanoes to visiting the Dian Fossey Map Room, which is filled with fascinating memorabilia about the famous gorilla researcher.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Located just 3 km from the entrance to Volcanoes National Park, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge offers an upscale stay in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. This community-owned lodge has nine comfortable cottages built from local stone and terracotta, each with private decks offering views of the volcanoes and forest. After a long day of trekking, you can relax in the onsite spa or simply unwind on your deck with a fresh cup of Rwandan coffee. The lodge is also committed to supporting conservation and community projects, allowing guests to engage with local initiatives if interested.
Final Tips for Your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Journey
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda from France is a unique experience that requires preparation and respect for the animals and their environment. Carry energy-boosting snacks and enough water to stay hydrated. Listen carefully to your guide and enjoy the incredible experience of observing these gentle giants in the wild. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers a rare, life-changing adventure to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary creatures.
