Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from Belgium
If you are planning Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from Belgium, First you can fly from Brussels Airport to Kigali International Airport, Rwanda’s main gateway. Flights are available with various airlines. The journey takes about 8 to 9 hours, depending on your route.
Once you arrive in Rwanda, you will find plenty of transport options. You can take a taxi or book a private car to get around. Kigali is a modern city with friendly locals. You can explore its attractions, such as the Genocide Memorial, and enjoy local food.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an exciting adventure. Rwanda is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, especially in Volcanoes National Park. This park offers a unique chance to see these incredible creatures up close.
The trek begins early in the morning. You will meet your guide, who will lead you through the forest. The trek can take anywhere from one to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are. While walking, you might see other wildlife and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the park.
Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing them. It’s a peaceful experience as you watch them eat, play, or rest. The gorillas are not afraid of humans, but the guides ensure your safety and respect for the animals. Taking photos is allowed, but you should avoid using flash.
The trek is physically challenging but rewarding. You need to be in good health to hike through the forest, which can be steep and muddy. However, the opportunity to see the gorillas makes it worth the effort. After the trek, you can relax and reflect on the incredible experience.
You can stay in nearby lodges, where you can enjoy the comfort of luxury accommodations after your adventure. In addition, the local people offer a chance to learn about their culture, adding more value to the trip.
Suggested Travel Plan for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from Belgium (4 Days)
This 4-day itinerary will take you through some of Rwanda’s most famous places, like Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. It will help you make the most of your time in Rwanda.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Your adventure starts when you arrive at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. Upon arrival, a guide from Iconic Africa Safaris will meet you. The guide will take you to your hotel for the night. You will stay in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city.
Kigali is a clean and safe city with many interesting places. If you arrive early, you can visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. It’s an important site that tells the history of the 1994 genocide. The visit helps you understand Rwanda’s history and culture.
You will spend the night in Kigali to rest after your flight from Belgium. The next day, your trek will begin.
Accommodation Options in Kigali City:
- Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury)
- Radisson Blu Hotel Kigali (Upscale)
- Hotel des Mille Collines (Mid-Range)
- The Manor Hotel (Budget)
Day 2: Travel to Volcanoes National Park
On the second day, you will have breakfast at the hotel. After that, you will drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park. This journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. The drive offers beautiful views of Rwanda’s hills, valleys, and farms.
Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwest of Rwanda. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rare mountain gorillas. The park also has many other animals, birds, and lush forests.
When you arrive at the park, you will check into your lodge or hotel. There are several lodges near the park, ranging from budget to luxury. Your guide will explain the trekking plan and give you advice on what to bring. You will have dinner at your lodge and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trek.
Accommodation Options in Volcanoes National Park
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (Luxury)
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (Mid-Range)
- Virunga Lodge (Luxury)
- Kinigi Guesthouse (Budget)
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking
Day three is the highlight of your trip: Gorilla Trekking! After an early breakfast, your guide will take you to the park headquarters. Here, you will meet other trekkers and your assigned ranger guide. The ranger will give you a briefing about the gorillas and safety rules for the trek.
The trek will take you into the forest, where you will search for a family of mountain gorillas. The trek can last between 1 to 4 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. It’s a physical activity, so be prepared to walk through muddy and sometimes steep terrain.
During the trek, your guide will explain the ecosystem, wildlife, and plant life in the park. You will also learn about the conservation efforts to protect the gorillas.
When you finally find the gorillas, it will be a magical moment. You will have one hour to spend with them. This is a special time to observe their behaviors, take photos, and enjoy their company. Remember, the hour is short, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The gorillas are peaceful animals, and it’s a privilege to see them up close in their natural habitat.
After the trek, you will return to your lodge. You can relax and share your experience with fellow trekkers. You will have dinner and rest for the night.
Day 4: Return to Kigali and Departure
On the final day of your trip, you will have breakfast and then check out of your lodge. You will begin your journey back to Kigali. The drive will take you through beautiful scenery, so you can enjoy the view one last time.
Upon reaching Kigali, you can stop at local markets or shops to buy souvenirs. You can also enjoy a light lunch in the city before heading to the airport. Depending on your flight time, your guide can arrange a city tour if you have enough time. However, if you’re running short on time, you can head directly to the airport.
Your guide will drop you at Kigali International Airport for your return flight to Belgium. The trip will end here, but the memories of your Gorilla Trekking experience will stay with you forever.
What to park for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Before you go on your trek, it’s important to know what to bring. You should pack:
- Hiking Boots: Strong and comfortable shoes to walk through the forest.
- Rain Jacket: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
- Long Pants and Sleeves: Protect your skin from thorns and insects.
- Hat and Sunglasses: The sun can be strong, especially at higher altitudes.
- Camera: To capture the special moments with the gorillas.
- Water and Snacks: It’s always good to stay hydrated and have energy for the trek.
Your guide will provide other necessary details about what to bring before you leave for the trek.
Why Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?
Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills” for its stunning landscapes. The country is also famous for its conservation efforts. The mountain gorillas are one of the rarest animals in the world, and Rwanda is one of the best places to see them. Volcanoes National Park is a prime destination for gorilla trekking, where tourists can observe these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
Rwanda’s tourism industry is well-developed, making it easy for visitors to enjoy their time. The country is known for its friendly people, safety, and cleanliness. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is not just about seeing the gorillas; it’s also about supporting conservation and local communities.
