Rwanda Gorilla Trekking is the most popular tourist activity in Rwanda that tourists from around the world like to take part in when they visit Rwanda. About 1,000 mountain gorillas live in the wild on the African continent worldwide. These are found in Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Volcanoes National Park. They live freely without being confined within the national park. 30% of gorillas live there. Gorillas are distinguished from other species in the world by their calm nature, large and thick bodies and brown eyes. They live in groups of up to 20 members led by silverback males. Gorilla cubs live under the care of their parents until they are 12 years old, eating plants, fungi, roots, and the underside of dead trees as they grow. These nest on the ground and constantly move from one place to another.
Rwanda is a popular destination for mountain gorilla trekking tours. These can be seen in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The country offers the easiest way to get close to this endangered species. Covering an area of approximately 160 square kilometers, this breathtaking park is home to five volcanoes, including Mount Karisimbi (4,507 m), Mount Muhabra (4,127 m) and Mount Visoke (3,711 m), belonging to Virunga’s eight major volcanoes, Mount Sabinyo (3,669 m) and Mount Gahinga (3,474 m), parts of which are shared between neighboring Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 gorilla families. These are trained to contain human presence. It entertains young stars as they roll from tree to tree. These families are called Susa, Karisimbi, Amahogo, Umbano, Sabinyo, Agasha, Kwitonda, Hilwa, Bwenge, Muhoza, and Igisha. Gorillas are tracked in groups of 8 people per gorilla family and the activity will start at 8am with an experienced park ranger guide. It takes about 2-7 hours, depending on the distance traveled. A gorilla permit is required to track the gorillas, and the permit fee is $1,500. In order not to miss a purchase, we recommend purchasing early.
Although gorilla trekking is private, there are rules and guidelines on how to behave when interacting with the world’s largest primate, including respecting the 7-meter distance rule when interacting with gorillas. This is done for your own safety and the safety of guests with contagious diseases or food. It is forbidden to hug or approach primates. Flash photography is not permitted. The minimum age you can do this activity is 15 years old.
Tracking is done by all types of people for those with disabilities. They can be carried to where the gorillas are by use of sedan chairs or porters. A number of 8 visitors is allowed for the gorilla trekking activity and the gorilla habituation process is done by a maximum of 4 people. It is wise to park accordingly while going for the activity. This includes boots, warm jackets, gaiters, rain coats, hand gloves, insect repellants, good camera for photography.
There is available accommodation around the national park ranging from the best budget to luxury. These offer facilities like food, meals, clean water and a place to stay while in the park. Trips to Volcanoes National Park can be combined together with the savannah park and cultural experiences.