Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers one of the most thrilling safari activities, which gives primatologists and nature lovers an opportunity to watch these endangered mountain gorillas in their natural environment. Volcanoes National Park is located in the Northwestern part of Rwanda, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the best gorilla destination for luxury travellers seeking exclusive experiences and high-end accommodation. It’s one of the oldest national parks in Africa, established in 1925 to protect the endangered mountain gorillas then living there.
The park comprises five of the eight Virunga Mountain Volcanoes: Gahinga, Muhabura, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, and Bishoke. Volcanoes has over 12 fully habituated gorilla families which are accustomed to human presence, like the Ugenda family, Agashya family, Hirwa family, Kwitondo family, Susa A family and more. Each gorilla family is led by a male Sliverback who protects and looks after his family. It has over 30% of the world’s total population of mountain gorillas. The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, since trekking involves hiking steep slopes into the dense forests. If you are planning your dream gorilla safari, Volcanoes National Park should be added to your bucket list as it promises exceptional experiences in the heart of Africa.
Cost of Gorilla Permits in Volcanoes National Park.
Gorilla permits are official documents that allow participants to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. A gorilla trekking permit costs $1500, and travellers can obtain the permits directly from the Rwanda Development Board, or they can contact a licensed travel company to purchase the permits for them. Gorilla permits are few, and they are subject to availability on a first come first serve basis. Visitors are highly advised to book their permits at least 3 to six months in advance to avoid disappointment.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park.
Gorilla trekking Volcanoes begins in the morning at the park’s headquarters, where all gorilla permits are verified, and later, participants are briefed about the rules and regulations of the activity. They are divided into groups of 8, and each group is assigned by an armed park ranger who ensures their safety and gives them more information about the inhabitants that they might encounter. Participants are led by their assigned guide through the dense forest in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. The duration for trekking is between 2- 7 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas, and once located, participants spend strictly one hour with them observing and learning about these gentle giants. They will see how the feed, play, and mothers take care of the young ones. Gorillas are our closest relatives on earth, sharing 98% of human DNA. Having a close encounter with these awesome creatures allows us to appreciate nature and create everlasting memories.
What to Pack on gorilla Safaris.
Travellers visiting Rwanda for mountain gorilla encounters should pack essential things which will enable them to have a memorable gorilla trekking on their dream safari. They should consider packing a camera and extra batteries to take as many pictures and videos as they wish, garden gloves, a light rain jacket, long sleeved shirts and long trousers, a brimmed hat, insect repellent, comfortable hiking shoes, energy snacks, a water bottle, water proof backpack, sunscreen and sunglasses.
What is the Best Time to do Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is an incredible activity which can be done at any time of the year, depending on your travel plans. The park experiences two seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season is the most loved period of the year by travellers, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this period, the park receives little to no rainfall, and it’s less muddy and slippery, making it easy to penetrate. The wet season runs from March to May and from October to November. This season receives enough rainfall, and the park is always muddy and slippery, making it challenging to search for these awesome creatures.
