Top 5 Gorilla Trekking Tours in Rwanda
Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers some of the most thrilling wildlife adventures in the world. Among these, gorilla trekking stands out as a life-changing experience. Volcanoes National Park, located in the lush Virunga Mountains, allows you to witness these endangered giants in their natural home.
Planning Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours requires careful thought. Whether you crave luxury, seek a quick adventure, or desire a diverse safari experience, Rwanda has something for you. These tours provide essential insights and unforgettable memories. Here are five top gorilla trekking tours to consider for your Rwandan adventure.
Classic Gorilla Trekking Tour (3 – 4 Days)
This tour offers a perfect introduction for first-time visitors. A guided trek through the dense rainforest brings you face-to-face with the gorillas. Usually lasting three to four days, this experience balances wildlife, culture, and comfort. The highlight of this trip is a single gorilla trekking excursion led by expert guides. These guides not only ensure safety but also enrich the experience with fascinating insights about gorilla behavior.
After the trek, the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village adds a unique cultural dimension. Here, you learn about traditional Rwandan customs, dances, and crafts. This visit provides a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s heritage and community life. Comfortable lodges such as Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or Bisate Lodge offer warm hospitality and beautiful views of the Virunga Mountains.
This tour suits travelers with limited time or those who want a simple yet immersive experience. The short duration and clear itinerary make it easy to plan. Additionally, the combination of wildlife and culture ensures a well-rounded adventure.
Luxury Gorilla Safari (5 – 7 Days)
For those who prefer exclusivity and comfort, the luxury gorilla safari offers the ultimate adventure. This trip spans five to seven days, combining premium services with Rwanda’s stunning landscapes. Private gorilla trekking ensures a personalized experience. Dedicated guides focus on your group alone, providing tailored insights and attention.
One major perk of this tour is the scenic helicopter transfer. This not only saves time but also offers breathtaking aerial views of Rwanda’s hills and forests. The accommodations stand out for their elegance and comfort. Luxurious lodges such as Singita Kwitonda Lodge or One&Only Gorilla’s Nest provide world-class amenities and personalized service.
In addition to gorilla trekking, you can opt for golden monkey trekking. This adds another layer of wildlife discovery. Visiting the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund also enriches your knowledge of gorilla conservation. This tour suits those who want an opulent, well-organized, and deeply personalized journey. The blend of convenience, comfort, and wildlife makes it a dream experience.
Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari (7 -10 Days)
This tour offers a combination of gorilla trekking and savannah adventures. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, this package typically lasts seven to ten days. The experience begins with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Expert guides lead you through the rainforest, where you observe gorillas in their natural environment.
Afterwards, the trip continues to Akagera National Park. Here, you explore Rwanda’s only savannah park and enjoy game drives. During these drives, you can spot the “Big Five”: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. The contrast between the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park and the open plains of Akagera creates a diverse experience.
Sunset boat safaris on Lake Ihema offer another highlight. The lake teems with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Lodges such as Magashi Camp and Bisate Lodge provide comfortable and scenic stays throughout the journey.
This tour suits travelers who love both primates and big game. The diversity of landscapes and wildlife ensures a rich, multi-faceted adventure. Each day offers a new experience, making the trip dynamic and unforgettable.
Primate-Focused Safari (7 – 8 Days)
If you have a passion for primates, this tour provides the perfect itinerary. Spanning seven to eight days, it combines gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The adventure begins with a trek to meet the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Expert guides help you navigate the terrain and locate the gorilla families.
Next, the trip shifts to Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Here, you embark on a chimpanzee tracking expedition. The thrill of spotting these energetic primates in their forest home creates lasting memories. Canopy walks offer another exciting experience, allowing you to view the forest from above.
Cultural experiences in nearby villages provide a glimpse into local life. You can also visit tea plantations and learn about Rwanda’s tea-growing heritage. Throughout the tour, luxurious stays at One&Only Nyungwe House offer relaxation and top-notch service.
This tour suits travelers who love primates and biodiversity. The combination of gorillas, chimpanzees, and cultural activities ensures a varied and immersive journey. Each destination reveals a different side of Rwanda’s natural beauty.
Ultimate Rwanda Adventure (10 -14 Days)
For a comprehensive Rwandan experience, this tour covers everything. Lasting between ten to fourteen days, it combines gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and cultural exploration. The journey starts with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Expert guides lead you through the rainforest, making sure you have an unforgettable encounter with the gorillas.
Golden monkey tracking adds another dimension to the adventure. These playful primates live in the bamboo forests of the park. From Volcanoes National Park, the tour continues to Akagera National Park. Here, game drives offer the chance to see the “Big Five” and other wildlife.
The journey also includes exploring Nyungwe Forest. Chimpanzee tracking, canopy walks, and birdwatching fill your days with excitement. You also get to relax by the shores of Lake Kivu, enjoying its scenic beauty and calm waters.
In Kigali, you visit the Genocide Memorial and local craft markets. These stops provide a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history and culture. Stays at premium lodges like Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Magashi Camp ensure comfort and luxury throughout the trip.
This tour suits travelers who want a deep dive into Rwanda’s attractions. The blend of wildlife, nature, and culture makes for an all-encompassing adventure. Each experience adds a new layer, making your journey through Rwanda truly unforgettable.
Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda cost $1,500 per person. This fee gives you access to the gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park for a one-hour trekking experience. The permit also covers park entry fees and the services of a park guide.
To obtain a gorilla trekking permit, you can book through an authorized tour operator, such as Iconic Africa Safaris. They can help you secure the permit as part of a travel package or separately. It is advisable to book your permit well in advance, as there is high demand, especially during peak seasons (June to September and December to February).
You can also directly book through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which oversees the gorilla trekking operations in the country. Payment for the permit is required in full at the time of booking, and permits are non-refundable.
Permits are limited, with a maximum of 96 visitors allowed per day to trek the gorillas. This ensures a controlled and sustainable approach to wildlife tourism. It’s important to follow all guidelines provided by the park authorities during your trek to ensure both your safety and the gorillas’ well-being.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions, with less rainfall and warmer temperatures. The dry weather makes trekking easier as the trails are less slippery, and it is generally more comfortable to hike through the forests.
During the dry season, the gorillas are more likely to be found at lower altitudes, making trekking less strenuous. This is also the peak tourist season, so it’s important to book permits in advance. The dry season is ideal for those who want to avoid muddy trails and enjoy clear skies.
However, the rainy season, from March to May and October to November, can also offer a unique experience. The park is less crowded, and the lush green scenery is at its most vibrant. While the trails are more challenging, trekking during this time can be a great option for adventurers who want a quieter experience with fewer tourists.