Gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda

The Virunga Mountains that straddle the borders of Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo are home to around 480 mountain gorillas, more than half of the world’s entire population; the rest live in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. In Volcanoes National Park, the Rwandan part of the Virungas, ten gorilla groups are currently habituated for gorilla safaris, more than anywhere else in the world.

Look into the eyes of a large silverback gorilla and he'll look back with a thoughtful, intelligent gaze, mindful that you're another individual. Any apprehensions or nerves you might have had during your trek will melt away the minute you see your gorilla family. Gorilla-trekking safaris offer a magical encounter that transcends any other “wildlife” experience we know.

Planning your gorilla-trekking safari

When to go gorilla trekking

Gorilla-trekking safaris can be done throughout the year. The hiking itself can be more arduous in the rainy seasons, during April–May and in November, but at an altitude of 2,000m and more, it can of course rain here at any time of the year. For more details, see Rwanda’s climate.

The most popular times for gorilla trekking are during the drier months, between December and February, and from about June to mid-September.

Permits for gorilla trekking

Securing permits for trekking gorillas, especially during the popular periods, can be difficult at short notice, so you should plan well ahead. We will make all the arrangements for buying your permits.

No more than 96 gorilla-trekking permits are available each day, each costing US$1,500 per person for a one-hour visit. Travellers who are also spending a minimum of three days in either Nyungwe Forest National Park or Akagera National Park between November and May are entitled to a 30% discount, reducing the costs to US$1,050 per person. Amongst other things, the permits pay for a 24-hour guard for each gorilla group (armed teams constantly track each habituated group – like royal bodyguards in the UK!). The fees also help to strengthen conservation efforts and to support the development of local communities.

How fit do I need to be to track gorillas?

You don’t have to be super-fit for a gorilla-trekking safari but it does help if you have a general level of fitness, if only to enhance your overall enjoyment of the experience. Depending on which group you track, and the time of year you go (gorillas tend to move down the mountains in the rains), you might find yourself walking on some pretty steep slopes for several hours. On the other hand, you could reach your group after a 30-minute stroll. Either way, walking will be at a slow pace, with time for breaks if needed, but it’s best to be prepared for the most active option, and if nothing else, a few hill walks before you leave home would be beneficial.

What kit should I take for a gorilla-trekking safari?

Paths on gorilla treks can be slippery, muddy and steep so sturdy walking boots are essential. Some people take thick gardening gloves because of the brambles and nettles along the way, and you should wear long trousers rather than shorts. A waterproof jacket may come in handy and take some water and a snack in case it’s a long trek. You might also find a walking stick or pole helpful; these are available at the start of the trek.

For a small fee of around US$10, porters are available at the trailheads to carry your backpacks and to offer a hand during tricky parts of the hike. Even if you don’t really need this service, hiring a porter is a helpful way to contribute directly to the local economy, and chatting to them as you walk can broaden your understanding of local life as well as enhancing your gorilla trek.

For keen photographers, a camera is a must: taking your own pictures of mountain gorillas is one of the most magical photo sessions you’ll ever experience. It’s as well to remember that the light can be poor in the rainforest and that use of flash is not permitted. You might also need to protect your camera against heavy rain.