How long is the hike to see gorillas in Rwanda?

The hike to see gorillas in Rwanda can vary in length and difficulty depending on the location of the gorilla family you are assigned to track. Typically, trekkers spend between 2 to 6 hours hiking, which includes the time spent with the gorillas. The hike can be challenging, with steep and muddy trails through dense vegetation, but the reward is an unforgettable hour spent observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. During this hour, visitors can witness their playful interactions, tender family moments, and the serene majesty of these endangered animals as they navigate their jungle home.

Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda, is one of the best places in the world to experience gorilla trekking. Known as “Parc National des Volcans” in French, this park is home to a significant population of endangered mountain gorillas. It’s also a key destination for Rwanda’s eco-tourism, attracting travelers from around the globe who are eager to experience gorilla trekking and other adventures while supporting conservation efforts.

Volcanoes National Park is conveniently located just a two-hour drive from Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, making it accessible for visitors. The park’s combination of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance has made it a vital area for both conservation and tourism in Rwanda.

The vegetation in Volcanoes National Park is diverse, with rainforests at lower elevations, bamboo forests between 2,500 and 3,200 meters, and Hagenia-Hypericum forests between 2,600 and 3,600 meters. At higher elevations, the landscape transitions into Afro-alpine vegetation, home to unique plant species like Lobelia wollastonii and Senecio erici-rosenii. This varied environment supports a wide array of wildlife and contributes to the park’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other Activities Alongside Gorilla Trekking

Golden Monkey Trekking

In addition to gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers another unique primate experience: golden monkey trekking. This trek is typically less strenuous than gorilla trekking, but still provides an exhilarating opportunity to observe these playful primates in their natural habitat. Golden monkeys are known for their striking orange fur and energetic behavior, often leaping and playing through the bamboo forests at the base of the park’s volcanoes.

The golden monkey, a sub-species of the Sykes monkey, is endemic to the Virunga region, which spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Volcanoes National Park, two habituated troops of golden monkeys can be found, the largest of which has around 80 to 100 individuals. These monkeys primarily inhabit bamboo forests, making them easier to track than gorillas.

The golden monkey trekking experience begins early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters, usually around 7:00 AM. Trekkers are then divided into small groups and guided by experienced park rangers. Depending on the location of the monkeys, the trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. Once the monkeys are found, visitors can spend an hour observing their fascinating behaviors as they feed, play, and interact with one another. A golden monkey trekking permit costs $100 per person, making it a more affordable alternative to gorilla trekking, and there is no age limit, making it an excellent option for families.

Hiking in Volcanoes National Park

The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountain range, offering several excellent hiking opportunities. Among the most popular hikes are Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi.

• Mount Bisoke Hike: Mount Bisoke, standing at 3,711 meters, features a stunning crater lake at its summit. The hike typically takes about 5 to 7 hours round trip, depending on the trekker’s fitness level. Though moderately challenging, the trail is accessible to anyone in good physical condition and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests and volcanic features.
• Mount Karisimbi Hike: At 4,507 meters, Mount Karisimbi is the highest peak in the Virunga Massif and offers a more strenuous hiking experience. The trek usually takes two days, with an overnight camp at a high altitude. This hike is best suited for those with good physical endurance. Hikers pass through several ecosystems, including bamboo forests and Afro-Montane vegetation, with the summit offering panoramic views of the other volcanoes and the scenic Twin Lakes below.
• Dian Fossey Trail: For those interested in conservation, the hike to Dian Fossey’s grave is a meaningful trek. Fossey, a pioneer in gorilla research and conservation, is buried near her former research camp at Karisoke. The hike takes 1 to 3 hours and offers an opportunity to pay homage to her legacy while learning about her contributions to wildlife conservation. Along the way, trekkers may spot wildlife such as birds and monkeys, while enjoying stunning views of the volcanic landscape.

Hikers in Volcanoes National Park should be well-prepared, as the weather can be unpredictable, and the terrain is often rugged. Sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and ample water are essential. All hikes are guided by experienced park rangers who ensure safety and provide valuable insights into the flora and fauna encountered along the way.

Cultural Experiences

Volcanoes National Park also offers rich cultural experiences that immerse visitors in Rwanda’s heritage and traditions.

• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village: Also known as the Gorilla Guardians Village, Iby’Iwacu provides visitors with a hands-on introduction to traditional Rwandan culture. Activities include traditional dance performances, storytelling, banana beer brewing, and workshops on local crafts. Visitors can also participate in everyday tasks like farming, giving them an authentic glimpse into the lives of the local community.

• Batwa Pygmy Community Experience: The Batwa people, indigenous to the forests surrounding Volcanoes National Park, offer another unique cultural experience. Visitors can engage with the Batwa through traditional cooking, pottery making, and learning about their history and craft production. This interaction provides insight into how the Batwa have adapted their traditional lifestyles to modern challenges while maintaining their cultural identity.
• Kwita Izina Festival: The annual Kwita Izina, or Gorilla Naming Ceremony, is a cultural highlight in Rwanda. Held outside Volcanoes National Park, this event celebrates the birth of baby mountain gorillas. Inspired by an ancient Rwandan tradition, Kwita Izina honors the new gorillas while acknowledging the efforts of conservationists, local communities, and rangers. The festival has grown in importance since its inception in 2005, drawing attention to conservation efforts for these endangered animals.

Whether hiking through stunning volcanic landscapes or engaging with local communities, a visit to Volcanoes National Park offers an enriching experience that combines adventure, wildlife, and cultural heritage.