How to combine Horseback Riding with Gorilla Safari in Rwanda
Combining Horseback Riding with Gorilla Safari in Rwanda
Combining Gorilla Safari with horseback riding in Rwanda offers both thrilling wildlife moments and peaceful countryside exploration. Most travelers complete both activities within three days, making it perfect for short visits.
Start your journey with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This demanding activity requires good physical fitness. Afterward, head to Mount Kigali for horseback riding. This order works best because horseback riding helps you relax after the challenging gorilla trek. The peaceful ride through scenic trails provides the perfect way to unwind.
Both activities complement each other perfectly. Gorilla trekking gives you an intense wildlife experience. Meanwhile, horseback riding offers a calm way to explore Rwanda’s beautiful countryside. Together, they showcase different sides of Rwanda’s natural beauty.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park stands as Africa’s first national park, established in 1925. Located in northwestern Rwanda, the park protects the endangered mountain gorillas. It covers 160 square kilometers within the Virunga Mountains. The park borders both Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Eight volcanoes rise within the park boundaries. Mount Karisimbi reaches the highest point at 4,507 meters. Mount Bisoke stands at 3,711 meters. The altitude ranges from 2,400 meters to 4,507 meters across the park.
This varied elevation creates different vegetation zones. Tropical rainforest covers the lower areas. Bamboo forests grow in the middle elevations. Hagenia and hypericum forests thrive at higher altitudes. Subalpine and Afro-alpine zones cap the highest peaks. These diverse habitats support over 1,200 plant species. The park also protects golden monkeys alongside the famous mountain gorillas.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Gorilla trekking begins early at park headquarters. Briefings start between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. Rangers explain safety rules and trekking protocols during this session. Certified local guides then lead groups into the forest.
The trek takes visitors through lush rainforests and bamboo groves. Altitude ranges from 2,500 meters to 4,000 meters during the hike. Trek duration varies greatly depending on gorilla locations. Some groups find gorillas within 30 minutes. Others may trek for 6-7 hours before locating them.
Once you find a gorilla family, you spend one magical hour observing them. During this time, you watch their natural behaviors up close. You can take photos and videos of these gentle giants. Porters assist with carrying gear during the strenuous hike. This service proves especially helpful on steep terrain.
Gorilla Permits and Costs
Gorilla permits cost USD 1,500 per person. These permits are mandatory for all trekkers. You can purchase permits through local tour operators (Iconic Africa Safaris) or the Rwanda Development Board. Sometimes, low-season discounts become available when you visit other national parks too.
The high permit fee serves an important purpose. Most money goes directly toward gorilla conservation efforts. The funds also support park management and local communities. This investment helps protect these endangered animals for future generations.
Horseback Riding at Mount Kigali
Mount Kigali offers excellent horseback riding opportunities. Fazenda Sengha serves as the main horseback riding ranch. This facility sits atop Mount Kigali, providing spectacular views of the capital city.
Riding sessions typically last one hour. Both beginners and experienced riders enjoy these guided trail rides. The routes wind through forests and hilly terrain. Along the way, you see breathtaking panoramic views of Kigali and surrounding hills.
The trails pass through forest paths and nearby villages. Local residents often wave and greet riders warmly. This interaction adds a wonderful cultural element to the riding experience. The friendly encounters make the ride even more memorable.
Professional guides accompany all rides for safety. They provide riding instructions for beginners. Additionally, guides share interesting facts about the local environment and culture. Riders can choose their preferred pace, whether walking or trotting. This flexibility makes the activity suitable for all skill levels.
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer
Your adventure begins with pickup from Kigali International Airport or your hotel. Head directly to Volcanoes National Park for the night. If you arrive early, consider visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This optional stop provides important historical context about Rwanda’s past.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Day
Start early with breakfast at your lodge. Arrive at park headquarters by 7:00 AM for the mandatory briefing. Join your assigned group and certified guide for the trek. Spend the day searching for and observing mountain gorillas. Return to your accommodation in the evening for rest and dinner.
Day 3: Cultural Experience and Horseback Riding
Begin with an optional early morning visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village. This experience showcases traditional Rwandan culture and customs. Learn about local traditions, music, and dance performances.
After lunch, drive to Mount Kigali for horseback riding at Fazenda Sengha. Enjoy one hour of guided riding through scenic trails. Take in the panoramic views of Kigali city below. Finally, transfer back to Kigali for your departure or next destination.
Best Time to Visit
Rwanda enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. However, the dry seasons offer the best conditions for both activities. June to September provides excellent weather with minimal rainfall. December to February also offers good conditions. During these periods, forest trails remain drier and easier to navigate.
The rainy seasons occur from March to May and October to November. While gorilla trekking continues during these months, trails become muddy and more challenging. Horseback riding may face weather delays during heavy rainfall.
