How to plan Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from the South Korea
If you are planning Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from the South Korea, here are some things to know. Rwanda is a beautiful country in East Africa, known for its wildlife, culture, and stunning landscapes. To get there, you will likely take a flight from South Korea, with at least one stopover in a major city like Doha, Istanbul, or Addis Ababa. The main international airport in Rwanda is Kigali International Airport, located in the capital city, Kigali.
Rwanda is a safe country to visit, and you can enjoy friendly locals and rich cultural experiences. You can learn about Rwanda’s history at the Kigali Genocide Memorial or visit local markets to shop for handmade crafts in addition to your main activity of gorilla trekking.
Before traveling, check visa requirements, flight options, and any travel restrictions. With careful planning, your trip to Rwanda from South Korea can be an unforgettable experience.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an exciting adventure that allows you to get up close with endangered mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park is the main place for gorilla trekking, located in the northwestern part of Rwanda. The park is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
To go on a gorilla trek, you need to buy a trekking permit. The permit costs $1,500 per person. This fee covers the cost of park entry, guides, and conservation efforts. You can buy a permit directly from Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the organization responsible for managing Rwanda’s national parks. Permits can be booked online or through a safari company like Iconic Africa Safaris. It is recommended to book your permit well in advance since they sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons (June to September and December to February).
Once you have your permit, you will join a group led by an experienced guide. The guide will take you through the forest in search of a gorilla family. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. When you find the gorillas, you will spend up to one hour observing them. It is a rare and unforgettable experience to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: 4 – Day Travel Plan from South Korea
If you’re coming from South Korea, a 4-day gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda which can be customized is a great way to experience the country’s incredible wildlife. Rwanda is known for its mountain gorillas, and a visit to Volcanoes National Park offers you the chance to see them up close. This travel plan provides you with all the details you need for an unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda
Your adventure begins with a flight from South Korea to Rwanda. Once you arrive at Kigali International Airport, a guide from Iconic Africa Safaris will meet you. The guide will help with your transfer to your accommodation in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time to relax and explore Kigali.
Accommodation Option: You can stay at a hotel like the Kigali Serena Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities. It’s a great choice for those who want to rest and get ready for the upcoming trekking experience.
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to Volcanoes National Park, which takes about 2 to 3 hours. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful scenic views of Rwanda’s countryside. When you reach the park, check into your accommodation and relax for the evening, preparing for the gorilla trek the next day.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge or Singita Kwitonda Lodge
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Budget: Kinigi Guest House
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking Experience
This day is the highlight of your trip! After an early breakfast, you will head to Volcanoes National Park for your gorilla trekking experience. You will meet your park ranger and other trekkers before starting the hike through the forest to find the gorillas. The trek can last between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family you are visiting.
Once you find the gorillas, you will have one hour to observe them. You can take photos and enjoy watching the gorillas interact with each other. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever.
After the trek, you will return to your accommodation and relax. In the evening, you can enjoy a delicious dinner and share your experience with fellow travelers.
Day 4: Return to Kigali and Departure
After breakfast, you will begin your drive back to Kigali. You can visit local markets or the Kigali Genocide Memorial if you have time. Your guide will drop you off at the airport for your flight back to South Korea.
Accommodation Option: If you have a late flight, you can stay at Kigali Serena Hotel for a final night in Rwanda before your departure.
Safari Cost Inclusions
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Transportation within Rwanda (airport transfers, park transfers)
- Full board accommodation (depending on your choice)
- Services of a guide
- Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial (if time allows)
Safari Cost Exclusions
- International flights from South Korea to Rwanda
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, tips)
- Travel insurance
- Drinks and extra meals not mentioned in the itinerary
