Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from Italy

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from Italy is a popular activity, offering visitors the chance to meet mountain gorillas in the wild. If you’re traveling from Italy to Rwanda, the distance is about 5002 km. The journey takes around 14 hours and 44 minutes, including transfers.

How to Get from Italy to Rwanda

Several airlines provide flights from Italy to Rwanda. These include:

• Turkish Airlines
• Ethiopian Airlines
• RwandAir Express
• EgyptAir
• Qatar Airways

You can fly from various cities in Italy, such as Bari, Milan, Rome, Naples, or Bologna, to Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. The quickest flights are from Milan Malpensa to Kigali, taking about 13 hours and 52 minutes, and costing around $285–715. Other options include flying from Rome or Naples, with flight times ranging from 13 to 16 hours, depending on the route. Prices typically range between $285 and $940.

For those who prefer a more adventurous route, driving from Italy to Kigali is possible but takes about 5 days and 2 hours, covering a distance of over 9,000 km.

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours

Gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda are an incredible experience. Visitors have the opportunity to see endangered mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat. The tours typically start from Kigali and head towards the Virunga Mountains, where Volcanoes National Park is located. Here, you can explore the dense rainforest to track the gorillas.

At Iconic Africa Safaris, we offer different tour packages to suit every budget and schedule. You can choose from shorter 3-day treks or longer 10-day safaris that also include other activities like chimpanzee trekking, wildlife safaris, and cultural experiences.

What to Expect on a Gorilla Trek

1. Early Morning Start: Your trek begins early in the morning at the park headquarters, where you’ll meet your guide. They will brief you on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking.
2. The Trek: You will then set off on a guided hike through the lush forest. The trek varies in length and difficulty, depending on where the gorillas are. You may spend anywhere from 2 to 6 hours hiking. The trails can be steep, muddy, and challenging, but the excitement of encountering gorillas makes it worthwhile.
3. The Gorilla Encounter: Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe them. You’ll see them play, interact with each other, and move around in the jungle. This close encounter with the majestic silverbacks and their families will be an unforgettable experience.
4. Memories for Life: Your trek will leave you with a deep appreciation for gorillas and the efforts to protect them. Many visitors describe this experience as life-changing.

Tips for a Successful Gorilla Trek

1. Be Physically Prepared: Gorilla trekking requires a moderate level of fitness. You’ll be walking on steep and sometimes muddy paths, so it’s important to be ready for physical activity.
2. Pack the Essentials: Make sure to bring comfortable hiking boots, waterproof clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and enough water to keep you hydrated during the trek.
3. Respect the Gorillas: Always follow your guide’s instructions, keep a safe distance from the gorillas, and avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
4. Capture the Moment: Bring your camera to take photos of the gorillas, but make sure the flash is turned off to avoid disturbing them.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The most important part of your gorilla trekking experience is the permit, which allows you to enter Volcanoes National Park and visit a gorilla family. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1500 per person. This fee helps fund the conservation efforts aimed at protecting the mountain gorillas and their environment.

Additional Costs to Consider

1. Accommodation: You will need to arrange accommodation during your trip. There are options for all budgets, ranging from luxury lodges to more affordable guesthouses.
2. Transportation: Your travel between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park can be arranged with our reliable transport services, ensuring a smooth journey.
3. Meals: Throughout the trip, enjoy well-prepared and nourishing meals to keep you energized during your trekking adventure.
4. Park Fees and Guides: Your tour package will include park fees and professional guides to ensure a safe and educational trek.