Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Rwanda-All you need to know about Weather and Climate

Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda. Rwanda, a place known for its majestic mountain gorillas, offers a mild climate thanks to its elevation. The weather can vary depending on the time of year and the region you’re in.

Dry Season:

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry season, which usually spans from June to September and then from December to February. During these months, the weather is cooler, and the skies are clearer, making it more comfortable to explore the dense forests.

Rainy Season:

Rwanda experiences rainy seasons from March to May and from October to November. Trekking is still possible during these times, but the trails might be muddy and slippery, adding a bit of challenge to your adventure. However, the rainy season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, offering a unique experience for those willing to embrace it.

Temperature:

Rwanda maintains a relatively stable temperature throughout the year due to its equatorial location and elevation. In the mountainous areas where gorilla trekking happens, temperatures can range from around 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F). Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially in the early morning and evening at higher altitudes.

Altitude:

Altitude plays a significant role in Rwanda’s climate, particularly in places like Volcanoes National Park where gorilla trekking occurs. With altitudes ranging from 2,500 to 4,500 meters (8,200 to 14,700 feet) above sea level, you’ll encounter volcanic peaks and dense forests. Expect cooler temperatures and thinner air due to the high altitude.

Packing:

Regardless of when you plan to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking, packing the right gear is crucial. Essentials include sturdy hiking boots, lightweight and moisture-wicking clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a daypack for carrying water and snacks. Layering clothing is wise to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.

Overall, while the dry season offers more favorable weather conditions for gorilla trekking, the rainy season can provide a unique experience amidst lush vegetation and fewer tourists.

To participate in gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, you’ll need to secure a gorilla trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). These permits are limited and sell out quickly, so it’s wise to book yours well in advance through a Rwanda Tour Operator like Iconic Africa Safaris. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda promises to be a memorable and life-changing adventure, and Volcanoes National Park is the perfect place to embark on this journey.

 Exploring Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, also known as Parc Des Volcans in French and Pariki Yigihugu yibirungu in the local language of Kinyarwanda, is located in the northeastern region of Rwanda, specifically in the small town of Musanze. This park is renowned as one of the major national parks in Rwanda and East Africa, boasting a rich diversity of wildlife and vegetation. It is home to endangered apes and primates such as the Mountain Gorillas and golden monkeys, alongside various bird species, monkeys, trees, and other animals. The park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, encompassing five extinct volcanoes: Mountain Muhabura, Mountain Sabyinyo, Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Karisimbi, and Mountain Bisoke.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the endangered gorillas in their natural habitat. This experience is not only awe-inspiring but also contributes significantly to the economic development of Rwanda through tourism. With a success rate of 99%, visitors have high chances of encountering these magnificent creatures. Guided by experienced trackers, guides, and park rangers, visitors embark on their trek from Kinigi at 7:00 am daily.

Guidelines and Precautions

Before setting out on the trek, participants receive a briefing on the guidelines to follow while in the presence of gorillas. Despite sharing 99% of their DNA with humans, gorillas remain wild animals, and adherence to safety protocols is crucial. The knowledgeable guides provide instructions on appropriate behavior to ensure a safe and respectful encounter with the gorillas.

Duration and Difficulty of Trek

The duration of the gorilla trek can vary, ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the movement and location of the gorilla groups within the forest. Trekkers should be prepared for moderate physical exertion and be equipped with sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing for the terrain and weather conditions.

Cost of Rwanda Gorilla Permit

To participate in gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, visitors are required to obtain a Rwanda gorilla permit from the Rwanda Development Board. The cost of the permit is USD 1500 for all nationalities, which grants one hour of viewing time with the gorillas and the opportunity to capture photographs. Securing a gorilla permit is essential for planning a memorable and fulfilling gorilla trekking experience.

Booking with Iconic Africa Safaris

Iconic Africa Safaris specializes in arranging bespoke gorilla trekking tours that are both affordable and memorable. With their expertise and attention to detail, they ensure that each visitor’s experience is tailored to their preferences, allowing them to tick off this extraordinary adventure from their bucket list.

How to Book Rwanda Gorilla Permits

When you get in touch with Iconic Africa Safaris about your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda‘ plans and preferred dates, we’ll check the Rwanda Development Board’s online system for permit availability. If permits are available, we’ll send you an invoice to pay for them. Permits are a top priority, so securing them promptly is crucial. If permits aren’t available for your chosen dates, we’ll work with you to find alternative dates with availability. It’s advisable to book months in advance to ensure you get the date you want. Once payment is received, we’ll book and secure your permits, and send you a receipt with a booking ID to confirm your trek. Acquiring permits is a straightforward and transparent process, ensuring you’ll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the gorillas.

High Season Gorilla Permit Booking

Gorilla trekking permits tend to sell out quickly during the high season, which includes January, February, July, August, September, and December every year. Booking in advance during these times is especially important to secure your spot.

Last Minute Booking for 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Tour

At Iconic Africa Safaris, we also facilitate last-minute bookings for Volcanoes Mountain gorilla permits in Rwanda. Whether you’re visiting Rwanda for a conference, seminar, or have a change of plans while in Rwanda or elsewhere in East Africa or Africa, we’ll do our best to secure a gorilla permit for you. When you contact us, we’ll work swiftly to find available permits from the Rwanda Development Board or authorized resellers, ensuring you don’t miss out on this incredible experience. Booking a permit requires payment to secure your trekking spot. After contacting us, we’ll provide you with a quote for the number of days you require, and then you can choose the dates that work for you. We prioritize booking your permits and accommodation, ensuring everything is in order for your gorilla safari.