Volcanoes national park is located in Northern Rwanda 2 hours’ drive from Kigali international airport making it possible to trek these giant species in a day trip. Gorilla trekking is the country’s eye open in the tourism industry, many people come to trek mountain gorilla as the main intension other wildlife activities come under the main theme “Gorilla trekking safari”.
Volcanoes National park has 10 gorilla families habituated within the park, Mountain gorillas never stay in the same area, and they keep moving from spot to spot feeding food and socialising.
Gorillas usually hike up to the mountain in the dry season, and later descend in the wet season, tour guide/Ranger guide might have a general idea where the endangered species are camping before heading for the trek. Group you are tracking might be depending a particular season, but there are no guarantees that you will find them where you expect them to be.
Before the hike/ trek starts, you will attend the briefing about the dos and don’ts while with the mountain Gorillas, rally behind the knowledgeable ranger guide as he narrates awesome stories about the gorillas themselves and the myth behind the forest.
On encountering the Giants, you will spend magical one hour with them, taking pictures and videos that will make your travel experience in Rwanda the country that is commonly referred to as a place for a thousand hills memorable. Please note that the country can be explored on foot.
Gorilla are susceptible to human infections since their DNA is a 98% matching with that one of human. Mean their immunity is less strong compare to that one of humans so even the slightest infection such as a common cold, can be life threatening to the gorilla.
Guidelines for gorilla trekking in Rwanda
- People affected with cold, flu and any other contagious infection are prohibited from doing Gorilla trekking activity.
- Only one group of tourist can visited a gorilla family/ group once a day and spend an hour with them.
- A distance of 7m while with gorillas is a must.
- Minimise your voice while with gorillas.
- Never eat or drink when you are with the gorilla.
Essential items to carry on your gorilla trekking safari adventure in volcanoes National park Rwanda include: walking boots, thick gardening gloves to protect your hands from the bramble as you track, long trousers, a waterproof jacket, water and a snack, a walking stick, some money to pay porters to carry your backpack, a journal, a camera, binoculars plus things of personal nature.