Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guide: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place exclusively in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern corner of the country. This stunning park borders both Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the only destination in Rwanda where visitors can trek mountain gorillas. Rwanda currently has 12 habituated gorilla families living within the park. These include well-known families such as the Susa, Agashya, Kwitonda, Amahoro, Hirwa, Uganda, Umubano, Titus, and Bwenge families, among others.
How to Get a Gorilla Permit
Before you trek gorillas in Rwanda, you must purchase a gorilla permit. You can buy one directly from the Rwanda Development Board or through a trusted tour operator. Permits cost $1,500 for foreign non-residents, $500 for African citizens, and $200 for East African citizens. Rwanda also offers a 30% discount on permits, but only if you plan to spend at least two nights in either Nyungwe Park or Akagera National Park.
Once you decide on your trekking dates, contact your tour operator and share those dates with them. They will check permit availability and send you an invoice. After you complete payment, they will purchase the permits and send you a scanned copy as confirmation.
Can You See Gorillas During the Rainy Season?
Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, there is a 98% chance of spotting mountain gorillas during the rainy season. Because the park is home to 12 habituated gorilla families, every trekker gets a real opportunity to see them. The Rwandan government has also put systems in place to ensure that all visitors encounter gorillas during their safari.
On the morning of every trek, trackers head out early to locate the gorillas. They use the last known location of each family to map out the best route for trekkers. These trackers stay in constant contact with the guides throughout the day, making sure every group finds their assigned gorilla family.
Rwanda experiences two rainy seasons — the long rains from March to May, and the short rains from October to November. However, since Volcanoes National Park is a rainforest, rain can fall at any time of year. This means you might experience some rain even during the dry season. Importantly, rainy season does not mean it rains all day. Most showers are short and manageable.
What to Expect During Your Trek
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park begins at 7:00 AM at the park headquarters. Guides start with a briefing session where they explain what to expect and go over the rules you must follow. After the briefing, rangers divide trekkers into groups of eight and assign each group a gorilla family. You then head to the trailheads and begin trekking.
The length of the trek depends on the location of your assigned gorilla family on that day. Once you find the family, you spend one hour with them. During this time, you can take photos, observe their behavior, and record videos. Afterward, your group returns to headquarters, where rangers award each trekker a certificate.
Trekking Rules to Follow
Following the rules during gorilla trekking protects both you and the gorillas. Here are the key guidelines to keep in mind:
- The minimum trekking age is 15 years.
- Stay at least 7 to 10 meters away from the gorillas at all times.
- Leave your bags behind before approaching the gorillas.
- Always turn off your camera flash when photographing mountain gorillas.
- Only eight people may trek a single gorilla family per day.
- Do not litter inside the national park.
- Remove your sunglasses before approaching the gorillas, as reflections can provoke the silverback.
- Never feed the gorillas or eat and drink near them.
- If you need to use the bathroom, dig a 30-centimeter hole and cover it afterward.
- Never touch the gorillas or move too close to them.
- Cover your mouth and turn away from the gorillas if you need to sneeze or cough.
- Sick tourists are not allowed to trek, as gorillas can catch human illnesses.
- Always stay with your group and follow your guide.
What to Pack for Your Safari
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guide: Packing the right items makes a big difference to your comfort on the trail. Bring long-sleeved shirts and long trousers — avoid jeans, since wet denim becomes heavy and difficult to walk in. Pack a warm sweater and a waterproof rain jacket, because the weather in Volcanoes National Park can change quickly. Wear strong, waterproof hiking boots that fit well and support your ankles.
During the rainy season, adjustable gaiters help keep mud and water off your trousers. Bring a camera — any type works as long as you remember to switch off the flash. Also pack extra batteries, memory cards, and a waterproof camera bag. Finally, carry insect repellent to protect yourself from bugs inside the forest.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guide: The best time to trek gorillas in Volcanoes National Park is during the dry season, from June to September. During this period, roads are easy to navigate, and trails are much less slippery. You can also add other activities to your trip, such as nature hikes, birdwatching, or visiting the grave of the legendary Dian Fossey.
However, even during the peak dry season, the park never feels overcrowded because trekker numbers are strictly limited. If you want lower prices and discounts on accommodation, consider visiting during the wet season instead.
Getting There and Where to Stay
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guide: Volcanoes National Park sits just two to three hours from Kigali by road. After landing at Kigali International Airport, a driver will take you through the city and on to the park in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
The park offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly lodges to luxury retreats. Popular choices include Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, and the Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, among many others.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a truly unforgettable experience. It connects you directly with one of the world’s most magnificent animals while supporting their conservation for generations to come.
