Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity in Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to around 30% of the world’s mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places for gorilla encounters.
Depending on the location of the gorillas, the gorilla trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours and the best part of this experience is the one-hour observation period where you see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
A limited number of permits—only 80—are issued each day, allowing groups of up to eight trekkers to visit one of the ten habituated gorilla families. Visitors should book their permits well in advance due to high demand and controlled availability.
Rwanda’s gorilla treks begin early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. Visitors are divided into groups and assigned specific gorilla families to track. Some of the well-known gorilla families in the park include the Susa, Agashya, and Kwitonda groups.
Our Safari Tips:
- Trekkers need to be physically fit as the terrain can be challenging, requiring hiking through dense bamboo forests and steep slopes. Consider incorporating a good workout routine to keep you in shape a few months before your safari.
- It’s important to wear proper clothing when going for the gorilla treks—long-sleeved shirts and trousers, sturdy hiking boots, and carrying rain gear due to the park’s unpredictable weather.
3 Days 2 Nights Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Day
1
Kigali City Tour – Volcanoes National Park
Arrive morning/lunchtime at Kigali International Airport and be met by your Driver Guide for a brief of your Rwanda visits.
You will visit then step into the heart of Rwanda’s history of the 1994 genocide by visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This powerful experience offers profound insights into the nation’s resilience and the steps taken toward healing.
Afterwards, you will embark on a picturesque drive towards Volcanoes National Park where the captivating landscapes of Rwanda will unfold before you.
Upon arriving at your luxury forest lodge in Volcanoes National Park, you will check in and soak in the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Dinner and Overnight stay at the lodge.
Day
2
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
Early breakfast and proceed for a Gorilla tracking experience in the Volcanoes National Park. You will be accompanied by skilled rangers and trackers.
The gorilla trek is an adventure as you navigate through varying terrains, with each twist and turn bringing you closer to the gorilla groups. Once you locate them, time seems to stand still. You are allowed to spend an hour watching. This is perhaps one of the most breathtaking wildlife experiences. You get so close to these giant primates. Tracking the gorillas through the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virunga is truly a magical experience.
After Gorilla tracking, return to your Lodge for lunch and enjoy an afternoon of relaxation around the lodge. You may also visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village and mingle with the local community in learning about their cultural activities. You also get to enjoy the traditional Rwandan dances.
Dinner and Overnight stay at the lodge
Day
3
Drive Back To Kigali
What’s
Inclusions
- Accommodation in mid-range-priced lodges and meals as indicated in itinerary
- 1 gorilla trekking permit ($1,500)
- Park entrance fees
- All excursions and activities as indicated in the itinerary under the supervision of a professional English-speaking safari guide.
- Ground transport and transfers in a 4×4 Custom Safari Landcruiser
- Government taxes
What’s
Not Included
- International flights
- Visa fees and processing
- Extra activities and meals not indicated in the itinerary
Tips Before You Travel
Be safari-ready with key tips, essentials, and answers to common questions.
1. Timing Your Visit
Choose the best season based on wildlife activity, weather, and migration patterns. For example, the Great Migration in the Serengeti typically occurs between July and October.
2. Travel Documents
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Apply for your visa online in advance for faster processing.
3. Health & Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination may be required depending on your origin. It’s also advisable to take malaria prophylaxis and carry a small medical kit.
4. What to Pack
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Apply for your visa online in advance for faster processing.
5. Currency & Tipping
Carry small amounts of USD or local currency. Tipping is appreciated — approx. $10–$15/day per guest for guides and $5–$10/day for camp staff.
6. Connectivity & SIM Cards
Wi-Fi is available in many lodges but may be limited. Local SIM cards are available in major cities like Nairobi or Arusha.
7. Safari Etiquette
Respect wildlife by maintaining silence and not feeding animals. Always follow your guide’s instructions and stay within designated paths.
8. Emergency Contacts
Keep a copy of important contact numbers: your tour operator, embassy, and local emergency services.
Accommodation Highlights
Experience exceptional hospitality and comfort while immersed in nature. Each handpicked lodge or tented camp has been selected for its location, charm, and unique safari experience.
Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Nanyuki, Kenya
Highlight: Located inside Ol Pejeta Conservancy with an award-winning chimpanzee sanctuary
Unique Feature: Wildlife-viewing deck where rhinos and elephants frequently visit
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Experience the Best of the Wild — Our Bestseller Picks
Fun
Activities
Experience a wide range of fun activities crafted to entertain, inspire, and bring people closer together. From exciting challenges to relaxing pastimes, every moment is designed to create lasting memories
Game Drives
Gorilla Trekking
Chimpanzee Tracking
