What to anticipate when you visit Rwanda Gorillas
One of the most amazing wildlife experiences in the world is getting closer to the mountain gorillas, and one of the most favourite places for this experience is Rwanda, in the Volcanoes National park. It is both exhilarating and emotionally touching to trek through misty forests under the guidance of professional trackers and guides and eventually getting up close with a mountain gorilla family.
A sizable percentage of the world’s surviving endangered mountain gorillas are found in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park thus rendering the country emerging as a global leader in sustainable tourism and conservation.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place in the Volcanoes National Park, a misty rain forest in the northwestern part of the country sharing borders with Uganda and the Democratic republic of Congo. The park is part of the Virunga massif, covering five of the eight Virunga volcanoes.
So, what should you expect when you visit gorillas in Rwanda? This thorough writing provides details of the gorilla trekking experience, what you expect to see on visiting the gorilla habitat and how the activity can be coupled with other safari experiences in Rwanda and Uganda. This adventure is a life-changing event that provides knowledge about biodiversity, conservation and cultural value.
The gorilla tracking experience
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park begins with an early morning briefing at Kinigi park headquarters. Each group of visitors is assigned to a particular gorilla family. In quest of their designated gorilla troop, trekkers set out on a trip through dense bamboo woods, traversing tough terrains accompanied by knowledgeable guides and trackers. The trek lasts from one to several hours depending on the location of the gorillas.
What to expect during the trek.
As you step into the park jungles, experienced trackers and park guides lead you through the trek with the guidance of other trackers who go to the forest earlier in the morning to spot where the gorillas spent the previous night.
Trekking time varies depending on the residence of the gorilla family. Some families stay close to the park centre while others enjoy the higher altitudinal zones of the park, and this is the main reason why grouping is done according to age and physical ability. Some treks are easy, others medium while others are long and physically demanding.
The hike involves hiking through varying terrain, expect steep slopes, thick vegetation, muddy paths and high altitude.
A small group of only 8 trekkers is allowed to visit a particular gorilla family in a day. this helps to control crowds and stressing the gorillas
Only individuals of 15 years and above are allowed to get up close with the gorillas. this helps to reduce risks of disease transmission.
Once you locate the gorilla family. you are allowed to spend one memorable hour in their presence as you maintain a safe distance.
The emotional and humbling moment of meeting the gorillas, provides sights of the dominant silverback watching over and guarding his family, mothers caring for the babies and the juveniles and young males playing and feeding on leaves, fruits, and stems. You will realise that, though the gorillas have giant size, they are generally calm and peaceful, so avoid getting closer and avoid direct eye contact to ensure safety and comfort for both you and the gorillas.
Combining your Rwanda gorilla safari with other activities.
For travellers who wish to enjoy more of volcanoes national park after their gorilla trekking adventure, you can embark on popular experiences like golden monkey tracking, hiking any of the volcanoes that comprise this park (Mount Sabinyo, Mhabura, Gahinga, Bisoke and Karisimbi). You can also visit the Dian Fossey Tomb, The Karisoke Research centre and Ellen De Generes Campus of Dian Fossey to learn about the famous primatologist for devoted her efforts to gorilla protection and also learn about gorilla protection and conservation.
Visiting the gorilla guardian’s village, still close to Volcanoes National Park helps you to learn Rwanda’s history, culture and tradition.
Besides the activities in volcanoes national park, many travellers visit Akagera national park for classic game drives and boat cruises to witness the big five and other wildlife creatures. Or Nyungwe National Park for Chimpanzee tracking and seeing other primates.
For travellers who wish to have broader wildlife experiences beyond gorilla tracking, Uganda offers a plethora of complementary activities. Cross to another gorilla home, Bwindi Impenetrable National park for a unique ecological gorilla experience.
Proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park for adventurous game drives for the popular climbing lions and other wildlife. A boat trip on the Kazinga channel is worth an addition to your gorilla safari.
Extending your trip to Murchison Falls National Park is a greater exploration. Enjoy the thunderous and dramatic Murchison falls as the Nile squeezes through a 7- meter gorge. A boat trip along the Nile offers sights of several wildlife including hippos, Crocodiles and water birds.
Preparing for your gorilla trekking experience.
Timing: Deciding the right time before embarking on your Gorilla Trekking tour in Rwanda guarantees an enjoyable and memorable encounter. The dry seasons, which are June through September and December through February, are the most ideal times to go because the hiking trails are clearer and less muddy. Nonetheless, gorilla trekking is possible all year long and park is always open for all interested travelers.
Cost of gorilla permits: A gorilla permit is the major requirement for one to participate in gorilla tracking. Rwanda gorilla permits cost $1500 per person and are issued by Rwanda Development Board only to persons of 15 years and above. advance booking is so vital to avoid last minute disappointments as permits run out easily especially during the peak season. Funds from the sale of gorilla permits contribute to conservation efforts and community development.
What to pack: Your trekking excursion will be easier and more comfortable with proper preparations. Include the following items in your pack:
. Sturdy hiking boots
. Long sleeves and trousers to protect your body from insects and thorns.
. A rain jacket because the forest may get wet at any time, (weather is unpredictable)
. Gardening gloves to hold on plants while you hike.
. Water and food to keep you energetic and hydrated as the trek is physically demanding.
. A flash-free camera for photography.
. A first aid kit
. Insect repellents to avoid insect bites and stings.
Trekkers are advised to hire a porter at the park entrance. Porters help to carry your back packs and helping during challenging portions of the trek
In conclusion: A memorable safari experience
An encounter with mountain gorillas in Rwanda is far greater than a wildlife trip; it’s a profound experience of getting closer to our closest human cousins. Witnessing a gorilla family go about their everyday lives while standing silently in the jungle is an unforgettable experience.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park makes a highlight of many tourists’ trips to Africa. It’s a unique opportunity to see nature up close and help save one of the most endangered wildlife creatures on the planet