Gorillas in Rwanda Tours – Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking Safaris at Volcanoes National Park
Gorillas in Rwanda Tours are specialised travel experiences that take visitors into Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat. These tours are guided by professional park rangers and trackers who lead small groups through lush, mist-covered jungles to observe Rwanda gorilla families up close, often just a few meters away. Beyond the trek itself, Gorillas in Rwanda Tours often include cultural encounters, nature walks, and scenic trips around Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, such as Lake Kivu and the Virunga Volcanoes. They combine adventure, wildlife conservation, and cultural discovery, offering travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect deeply with nature and support Rwanda’s sustainable tourism efforts.
Gorillas in Rwanda are endangered mountain gorillas that inhabit Volcanoes National Park, a protected sanctuary in the Virunga Mountains. The park is a must visit destination for anyone seeking a once in a lifetime Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure. To experience these magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, simply book a Rwanda gorilla trekking tour with Animal View Safaris. By securing a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit, you gain access to the park and the rare opportunity to observe these endangered primates in the wild. Rwanda offers gorilla treks for all types of travelers, with budget, mid-range, and luxury tour packages available.
What is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a guided wildlife adventure that involves hiking through the lush rain forests of Volcanoes National Park to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The experience allows visitors to spend a precious hour with a habituated gorilla family, learning about their behaviour, social structure, and conservation. It’s one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife encounters, combining adventure, nature, and a deep sense of connection with one of the world’s rarest primates.
Rwanda’s mountain gorillas are organised into 10 gorilla families, each closely monitored and tracked for visitors. Each gorilla family has 8 trekking permits allocated per day, allowing up to 8 visitors the chance to spend an hour with a family. Most Rwanda gorilla tours start from Kigali City and can last from 1 to 4 days or even longer depending on your chosen itinerary and additional activities beyond gorilla safari tour.
Our customised gorilla safaris take place in Bwindi impenetrable national park and in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, Uganda plus DR Congo. The rich Virunga ecosystem contains 3 national parks in which the breathtaking gorilla trekking experience is carried out. These include Volcanoes national park in Rwanda, Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda and Virunga national park in DR Congo. Note that gorilla tracking is the best wildlife experience in Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo and this is evidenced by a large number of travelers that visit the 3 countries purposely to encounter gorillas compared to other tour activities in the region.
Check out our best gorilla trekking tours and safari packages arranged by Animal View Safaris and choose the most ideal one to your tour plans, budget and preferences. Fortunately, the cost to visit gorillas in Rwanda is also affordable and friendly.
Affordable Gorilla Tours in Rwanda
Book an affordable 1 Day Gorilla trekking safari Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, starting early morning from Kigali to the park, see gorillas are return in the evening. Read More.
2 Day Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Enjoy 2 Day tour to see Rwanda gorillas in Volcanoes National Park offering you one of the best gorilla safari experiences in Africa. With time allowing, you may have a additional tourism activity near the park before driving back to Kigali City. Read more.
3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Take a 3 days Rwanda gorilla trekking safari in the Volcanoes National Park during which you will see gorillas, undertake golden monkey trekking and finally hike to Dian Fossey grave site. Kigali city tour is also part of this holiday. Read more.
Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda
Located in the northeast of this small African country, Volcanoes National Park spans approximately,square kilometers and is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which stretches across DR Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. To trek and see the endangered Mountain gorillas in Rwanda, travelers must first secure a gorilla trekking permit, which grants access to the park.
Gorilla Trekking Tours in Rwanda
To experience gorilla trekking in Rwanda, it is essential to book a Rwanda Gorilla Permit in advance. Permits can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or via a professional tour operator such as Animal Safaris.
Timing is important, each traveler can choose their preferred safari schedule, but checking the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking ensures the most memorable wildlife experience. A well-planned trip allows you to enjoy up-close encounters with mountain gorillas while exploring the beauty of Rwanda’s lush forests.
Tours to Visit Rwanda Gorillas
The trips to visit Rwanda Mountain gorillas include those with only gorilla trekking as well as others with the activities combined with other safari tours. But for visitors looking for cheapest way to trek gorillas in Rwanda, booking a shorter safari may be the best option. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda may be done alone or with golden monkey tracking, exploration of Musanze caves, volcano hiking or hiking to the Dian Fossey gravesite. Other tours in Rwanda include wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, Chimpanzee trekking, Colubus monkey tracking and Canopy walk plus nature tours in Nyungwe Forest National Park. While in Rwanda for gorilla trekking, you can also enjoy genocide tours, Kigali City tour or enjoy cultural and historical excursions in the country. Choose a holiday package to supplement your gorilla trekking adventure. Rwanda Gorilla trekking safaris include: –
Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
There are many frequently asked questions about gorilla trekking in Rwanda that people are trying to get answers for. Experiencing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable, and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is one of only three places in the world where this is possible. To join a trek, you’ll need a gorilla trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which also oversees the park’s conservation and sustainable tourism programs.
Many travelers have questions before planning their visit, from when to go and what to expect on the trek, to how to prepare and what to bring. Below, we answer the most common questions and provide practical tips to help you make the most of your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda.
What Is Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is an adventure activity that involves hiking through dense forests, bamboo thickets, and mountainous terrain to observe mountain gorillas in the wild. In Rwanda, this takes place exclusively in Volcanoes National Park, located in the Virunga Mountains of northwestern Rwanda. The park is home to multiple habituated gorilla families, which have been trained to tolerate human presence, allowing visitors to safely view them.
Gorilla trekking offers more than a wildlife encounter, it is an educational and conservation-focused experience. Visitors learn about the gorillas’ social structure, behavior, and habitat, while also supporting protection programs through permit fees. Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world—alongside Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where mountain gorillas can be seen in the wild, making it a premier destination for primate tourism.
What Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?
A gorilla trekking permit is an official pass that allows a visitor to trek and observe mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Permits are strictly regulated to minimize human impact on gorilla populations and their habitat. Each permit provides one hour of direct observation with a gorilla family.
Permit fees are a critical source of funding for conservation projects, anti-poaching initiatives, and local community development programs, ensuring both gorillas and local communities benefit from tourism.
How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Rwanda?
As of now, a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs USD $1,500 per person per day. Children under 15 are not allowed to participate, and discounts may be available for Rwandan and East African Community residents.
While the cost may seem high, it directly supports conservation, sustainable tourism, and community development. The permit price is the same for Rwanda and Uganda for regular one-hour trekking, though Uganda offers the unique gorilla habituation experience, which allows four hours with a gorilla family.
How Can I Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda?
Permits can be booked through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) website or through licensed local safari operators. Using a trusted operator is often more convenient because permits are packaged with transportation, accommodation, and expert guides.
Since permits are limited and in high demand, especially during peak seasons, it is strongly recommended to book 3 to 6 months in advance. Get more details on how to book a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit.
When Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. During these periods, rainfall is minimal, making forest trails firmer and easier to navigate, and hiking conditions generally more comfortable. The dry weather also improves visibility, increasing your chances of spotting gorillas and capturing clear photographs of these incredible primates in their natural habitat.
While the dry seasons are ideal for trekking, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is available year-round, even during the rainy months of March to May and October to November. Trekking in the wet season can be more challenging due to muddy, slippery trails and thicker vegetation, which may slow your progress. However, visiting during the off-season has its advantages: the park is less crowded, permits are often easier to secure, and you may enjoy a more intimate and peaceful encounter with the gorillas.
Ultimately, the choice of when to visit depends on your preference for weather conditions, crowd levels, and overall trekking experience. Whether in the dry or wet season, guided treks are carefully managed to ensure safety, comfort, and unforgettable close encounters with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.
How Many Days Do I Need for Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda typically last 1 to 3 days:
- 1-Day Trek: Ideal for travelers short on time. Depart from Kigali early in the morning, trek gorillas, and return the same day.
- 2-Day Trek: Combines gorilla trekking with scenic drives or a visit to cultural sites.
- 3-Day Trek: Offers a more relaxed schedule, includes accommodation near the park, and allows additional activities such as golden monkey tracking, cultural village visits, or hikes to Dian Fossey’s research center and tomb.
How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking?
The difficulty of gorilla trekking in Rwanda largely depends on the location of the gorilla family you are assigned and the forest terrain on the day of your trek. Some gorilla groups live closer to the park entry points, while others are deeper within Volcanoes National Park, requiring longer and more physically demanding hikes.
Trek durations typically range from 2 to 6 hours, although the total time can vary depending on the movement of the gorillas, trail conditions, and the pace of the group. During the trek, you may encounter:
- Steep slopes and inclines in mountainous areas
- Dense bamboo and tropical forest thickets that require careful navigation
- Muddy, slippery, or uneven trails, especially during the rainy season
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the experience. Even if you are not an experienced hiker, the trek remains accessible: porters and walking sticks are available to provide support, helping with balance and carrying luggage or gear. Guides are highly trained and will adjust the pace to suit the group, ensuring that both beginners and more experienced hikers can have a safe and enjoyable experience.
While challenging at times, the physical effort is rewarded with the unforgettable sight of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, making the trek an incredibly rewarding adventure for travelers.
What Should I Wear or Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
Proper preparation is essential for a comfortable and safe gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. The forest environment can be challenging, with thick vegetation, muddy trails, and unpredictable weather. Here’s a detailed guide on what to wear and bring for gorilla trekking in Rwanda:
- Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers: Protect your arms and legs from scratches, thorns, and insects while trekking through dense forest vegetation. Breathable, quick-drying fabrics are ideal.
- Waterproof hiking boots: Trails can be slippery and muddy, especially during the rainy season, so sturdy waterproof boots with good ankle support are highly recommended.
- Rain jacket or poncho: Weather in the Virunga Mountains can change rapidly. Even during the dry season, sudden showers are common, making a lightweight rain jacket essential.
- Gardening gloves: These protect your hands when holding onto branches or pushing through bamboo and undergrowth. Gloves also provide extra grip on muddy trails.
- Hat and insect repellent: A wide-brimmed hat protects from sun and light rain, while insect repellent helps prevent mosquito bites and discomfort from other insects.
- Water and snacks: Carry at least 1–2 liters of water to stay hydrated. Energy snacks such as nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate bars can help maintain energy during the hike.
- Daypack: A small backpack is ideal for carrying your essentials, including water, snacks, camera, rain jacket, and personal items.
- Optional walking stick and porter assistance: Walking sticks can help with balance on steep or uneven terrain. If you prefer extra support, porters are available to carry your belongings or assist during the trek.
Dressing and packing appropriately ensures you can focus on enjoying the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Being prepared also reduces fatigue and increases safety, especially for first-time trekkers or those unfamiliar with rainforest trekking.
How Many People Can Trek a Gorilla Family per Day?
To protect the mountain gorillas and their delicate habitat, only eight visitors are allowed to trek each habituated gorilla family per day in Volcanoes National Park. This strict limitation helps minimize human impact on the gorillas, reduces stress on the animals, and preserves the natural environment of the forest.
Limiting group size also ensures that each visitor has a more intimate and personal experience, allowing everyone enough time to observe the gorillas closely without feeling crowded. Smaller groups make it easier for guides to manage the trek, maintain safety, and provide informative commentary about gorilla behavior, social dynamics, and conservation efforts.
Rangers and guides enforce this rule rigorously, and visitors are briefed before the trek on proper etiquette, such as keeping a safe distance, speaking quietly, and following the guide’s instructions. By regulating the number of trekkers, Rwanda has been able to create a sustainable tourism model that balances unforgettable wildlife experiences with the long-term conservation of endangered mountain gorillas.
How Long Does the Gorilla Trekking Experience Take?
A full gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park usually lasts 4 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the assigned gorilla family and forest conditions. The trek begins with a briefing at the ranger station, followed by a hike through dense forest, bamboo, and steep terrain. Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed exactly one hour to observe, photograph, and appreciate the family from a safe distance. The time limit ensures minimal disturbance to gorillas while giving trekkers a meaningful encounter. Experienced guides help manage pacing and provide insights into gorilla behavior throughout the trek.
How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking?
The difficulty of the trek depends on the gorilla family’s location and terrain. Treks usually last 2 to 6 hours and can include steep slopes, dense bamboo, and muddy trails. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but even beginners can enjoy the experience. Porters and walking sticks are available to provide assistance. While physically challenging at times, the trek is incredibly rewarding, offering close-up encounters with mountain gorillas and the chance to appreciate Rwanda’s unique forest ecosystem. Guides pace the hike according to the group, ensuring safety, comfort, and an unforgettable adventure for all visitors.
Is Gorilla Trekking Safe in Rwanda?
Yes, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is very safe. Volcanoes National Park is carefully monitored by trained rangers, trackers, and security personnel who accompany every trekking group. Guides are experienced in forest navigation and understanding gorilla behavior, ensuring both visitor safety and minimal disturbance to the animals. The park has strict rules on group size, distance, and health precautions to prevent accidents or disease transmission. Rwanda’s government has invested heavily in conservation and tourism infrastructure, making the park one of the most secure and well-managed wildlife destinations in Africa. Following guide instructions is essential for a smooth and safe experience.
What Is the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is 15 years. This rule protects both the safety of visitors and the well-being of the gorillas. Younger children may struggle physically on the steep, muddy forest trails and could behave unpredictably, potentially disturbing the animals. Children are also more prone to carrying infectious diseases, which could pose a risk to these endangered primates. By enforcing this age limit, the park ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors while minimizing stress and health risks to the gorilla families.
Can People with Disabilities or Limited Mobility Trek Gorillas?
Yes, gorilla trekking is accessible for travelers with limited mobility. Volcanoes National Park provides porter services and specialized sedan chairs, also called “gorilla stretchers,” carried by trained porters. This allows visitors who cannot hike long distances to be transported safely to the gorillas. Guides and porters are experienced in ensuring comfort, safety, and a high-quality trekking experience for all participants. This inclusive approach allows people of varying ages and physical abilities to experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of observing mountain gorillas in Rwanda, while still respecting conservation rules and maintaining the safety of the animals.
Rwanda vs Uganda for Gorilla Trekking
- Rwanda: Easier access, shorter drives from Kigali, luxury lodges, more comfort, and high-quality trekking. Ideal for travelers seeking a premium and convenient experience.
- Uganda: Longer treks in Bwindi or Mgahinga, potentially more rugged, but may be more cost-friendly. Uganda also offers the gorilla habituation experience, where visitors can spend up to four hours with gorillas.
Both destinations provide world-class gorilla sightings, but Rwanda is favored for comfort, accessibility, and efficiency.
Are Gorilla Habituation Experiences Available in Rwanda?
No. Rwanda only allows one-hour encounters with fully habituated gorilla families. Gorilla habituation experiences, where tourists spend extended hours with gorillas during habituation, are exclusive to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
What Other Activities Can I Do in Volcanoes National Park?
Besides gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers:
- Golden Monkey Tracking: Another rare primate endemic to the Virungas
- Mount Bisoke Hike: Explore its crater lake
- Mount Karisimbi Hike: Rwanda’s highest peak for experienced hikers
- Dian Fossey Tomb & Research Center: Learn about her pioneering work
- Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village: Experience Rwandan traditions, music, and dance
These activities complement gorilla trekking and provide a richer understanding of Rwanda’s natural and cultural heritage.