What to Expect on a Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour.

Rwanda is one of the most sought-after destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those hoping to experience the awe-inspiring adventure of gorilla trekking. Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest of the country, is home to around half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. A gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Here’s what you can expect when embarking on a Rwanda gorilla trekking tour.

1. Planning and Preparation

Before setting off on your trek, a few key details need to be arranged. Gorilla trekking requires a valid Gorilla Permit, which costs $1,500 per person. These permits are in high demand, so it’s recommended to book well in advance, often months before your visit. Once you’ve secured your permit, you’ll need to prepare for the physical aspects of the trek. While gorilla trekking can range from moderate to strenuous, the experience is suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.

Gorilla trekking involves walking through dense jungle, sometimes climbing steep terrain, so comfortable, waterproof hiking boots are essential. Other packing essentials include long pants, a rain jacket, gloves, a hat, and plenty of water. A camera with a good zoom lens is also highly recommended to capture the incredible moments without disturbing the gorillas.

2. The Trekking Experience

On the day of your trek, you’ll start early in the morning. Typically, you will be picked up from your lodge and driven to the park headquarters, where you’ll be briefed on the rules and guidelines for the trek. These include maintaining a respectful distance from the gorillas (at least 7 meters), staying quiet to avoid disturbing them, and adhering to the guidance of your experienced trackers and guide.

From there, you’ll be assigned to one of the 10 habituated gorilla families in the park. The groups vary in size and ease of access, with some gorillas living in lower altitudes and others in more challenging locations higher up the mountain slopes. The trek can last anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the location of the gorilla group. As you hike through the dense vegetation, you may pass through bamboo forests, marshes, and uneven paths, making the journey an exciting and sometimes challenging adventure.

3. Encountering the Gorillas

Once you reach the gorilla family, you’ll be allowed to spend up to one hour in their company. The moment of encountering a mountain gorilla is one that stays with you forever. As you quietly approach the group, you might witness gorillas of all ages—mothers nursing their babies, juveniles playing, and the dominant silverback leading the group. The silverback, the leader of the group, is an imposing figure, but despite their size and strength, gorillas are gentle and calm in nature.

The gorillas’ behavior is fascinating to observe; they may move around the group, rest, or forage for food. The experience is intimate and humbling, and it’s a privilege to witness these critically endangered animals in their natural environment.

4. The Return Journey

After your hour with the gorillas, you’ll begin your trek back to the starting point. Depending on the difficulty of the trek, the return journey can be less strenuous, but it’s essential to stay alert as you descend through the dense forest. Once you arrive back at the park headquarters, you’ll typically be offered a celebratory drink, and you can reflect on the incredible experience.

5. Conservation and Community Impact

Rwanda’s commitment to gorilla conservation is an integral part of the experience. The revenue from trekking permits goes directly to supporting conservation efforts, local communities, and anti-poaching initiatives. In this way, your gorilla trekking tour contributes to the protection and preservation of the species and helps improve the livelihoods of nearby communities.

A Rwanda gorilla trekking tour is a truly unforgettable experience that combines adventure, wildlife viewing, and a deeper connection with nature. From the initial trek through the dense jungle to the moment you encounter the majestic gorillas, it is a journey that will leave you with lasting memories. The opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, combined with Rwanda’s commitment to conservation, makes gorilla trekking an enriching and life-changing experience for every traveller.