
Site for Rwanda Gorilla Tours – Where to See Gorillas in Rwanda?
Rwanda gorilla tours are only done in one destination unlike in Uganda. For Uganda gorilla tours, are possible in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as well as Mgahinga National Parks.
Below is the site for tracking gorillas in Rwanda:
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park (northwest of Rwanda) ranks as the best site for gorilla tours in East Africa. This great park is found in the Virunga Mountains within the Virunga Conservation Area which covers national parks; Congo Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga.
Rwanda Volcanoes National Park holds a beautiful montane ecosystem featuring open grasslands, swamps, bamboo forests, as well as heather.
This wonderful park in the chain of Virunga Mountains boasts about 12 gorilla family groups which are fully habituated and open for gorilla tours in Rwanda.
Volcanoes Park holds the highest population of endangered Mountain gorillas in the Virunga Conservation Area. Several gorilla families feature several females, youngsters, and at least 1 dominant Silverback.
Gorilla Families in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park:
- Karisimbi Family
- Sabyinyo Gorilla Group
- Amahoro Group
- Kwitonda Group
- Susa Group
- Hirwa Group
- Igisha Group
- Muhoza Group
- Umubano Group
- Agashya Group
- Ugyenda Group
- Bwenge Group
Apart from gorilla expeditions in Volcanoes National Park, other adventures in this wonderful park include:
- Volcano hiking, for example, Mount Karisimbi as well as Bisoke
- Golden monkey tracking
- Birding in Rwanda
- Visiting the grave of Dian Fossey– Dian Fossey was an American primatologist and conservationist who laid a foundation for conserving Mountain gorillas in Africa.
It’s thought that Dian Fossey was executed by poachers. This great lady was found in her cabin struck twice with the machete on the head and face.
How Long Is a Trek to See the Gorillas in Rwanda?
Upon spotting the endangered Mountain gorillas on your gorilla tours in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, you’ll be limited to one in the presence of these mighty giants.
The time you spend in the presence of Gorillas also applies while on other primate safaris for instance, while tracking Golden monkeys. Also, it’s followed when you’re tracking Chimps in Nyungwe Park.
Gorilla treks normally take 2-8 hours. This depends on the movement of the Gorillas in their natural habitat.
The above is applicable in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Congo Kahuzi Beiga National Park, and Virunga National Park.
How Much Does It Cost to See Gorillas in Rwanda? | How Much Are Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda?
A gorilla permit grants you permission to visit Gorillas in their natural habitat. All permits in Rwanda are issued by the Rwanda Development Board.
Cost of gorilla permits in Rwanda:
- Non-Residents: $1,500
- Foreign Residents: $500
- Residents of East Africa: $200
- Foreign Resident in Africa: $500
Permits in Volcanoes National Park are inclusive of the park entrance fees.
In most cases, travelers coming for gorilla tours book their permits through a tour operator. However, it’s also possible to book your permit directly from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices in Kigali or at the park offices.
How Much Does It Cost to Trek Gorillas in Rwanda? | How Much Is a Gorilla Safari in Rwanda?
How much does it cost to visit the gorillas in Rwanda or how much does it cost to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda are some of the questions we usually get from our clients intending to explore Rwanda on their game viewing safaris Kenya or Rwanda.
The cost for gorilla tours in Rwanda starts at around 1,700 US dollars per person a day– 1 day gorilla trek Rwanda.
This rate includes the gorilla permit as well as transportation from Kigali. It might include or not include your accommodation.
The price for a gorilla tour in Rwanda is influenced much by your travel style i.e. Your group size, transport means you wish to use, and other activities you plan to add on your gorilla trip.
Our safari expert is there to guide you!
Cost for Gorilla Trekking Uganda Vs Rwanda-Is Gorilla Trekking Cheaper in Uganda or Rwanda?
The permit for a gorilla trek in Uganda is 700 US dollars while a Gorilla permit in Rwanda is 1500 US dollars. Therefore, a gorilla trek in Uganda is far cheaper than that in Rwanda.
Gorilla permits in the Democratic Republic of Congo within Virunga National Park cost 400 US dollars. It’s the cheapest of all!
How Much Is a 1 Day Gorilla Trek in Rwanda Safari?
1-Day gorilla tour in Rwanda costs about 1700 US dollars for each person a day. This rate may include the fees for your permit, transportation, as well as the meals.
Your private safari tour guide will pick you up from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes Park headquarters. This private guide makes sure that you are safe on your vacation.
Is There a Discount on Gorilla Permits in Rwanda?
It’s hard to find discounted permits for tracking with gorillas in Rwanda! We advise you to undertake Rwanda Uganda gorilla tours in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A permit for the gorilla trek in Uganda costs 700 US dollars and that of Rwanda is 1500.
Note that, going for Rwanda Uganda gorilla tours means saving about 800 US dollars.
Is Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Worth It?
Undeniably, the gorilla trek in Rwanda is worth the money. Regardless of its fees, gorilla expeditions rank among the topmost highlights for most travelers who visit Rwanda as well as East Africa for instance, those undertaking wildlife safaris in Tanzania and Kenya.
The thrill of visiting Gorillas is incomparable to any wildlife safari in Africa. It’s a memorable wonderful encounter with the cool giants in Rwanda- the Land of a Thousand Hills.
You’ll enjoy watching them feeding, grooming each other, and young ones jumping from one tree branch to another. Sometimes, they can try to involve you in their play- just remain calm in case this happens. Also, you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of the Silverback gorillas.
Most of the money collected is channeled into gorilla conservation. Therefore, visitors undertaking gorilla treks indirectly contribute to Gorilla conservation.
How Do I Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda?
Usually, most travelers who visit Rwanda gorillas book their permits through Rwanda safari companies. However, it’s still possible to purchase a permit directly from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), though it’s barely done by travelers.
This is the same case even in the Democratic Republic of Congo Virunga National Park.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda Gorillas- What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Gorillas in Rwanda?
When to visit Rwanda gorillas? All year round you can go for gorilla tours in Rwanda however, we recommend a dry season (peak season) that starts from June-September as well as December-February.
Normally, in the dry months, there are minimal rainfall inconveniences, and therefore, trails for the gorilla trek are drier.
March-May & October-November are rainy months in Rwanda. Some trail points for gorilla expeditions get muddy and slippery. In wet months, some lodges offer discounts to their guests.
We recommend trekking with gorillas in Rwanda during dry seasons. Also, relaxing at the white sand beaches of Lake Kivu. However, mind about booking your permit in advance.
Note:
Rwanda Uganda tours as well as Congo gorilla tours are best done during dry months when little rains are expected.
Gorilla Trekking Rules in Rwanda
When on the gorilla trek in Rwanda- the Land of a Thousand Hills, there are some regulations and guidelines that travelers have to follow!
These rules also apply in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Virunga National Park of Congo as well as Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park.
These are the rules:
- Only travelers with 15 years and above can take gorilla expeditions in Rwanda.
- It’s illegal to litter in the park while on the gorilla trek. You must keep them in your backpack.
- Travelers with contagious diseases are not allowed to take a gorilla trek.
- Never use flashlights while taking photos of these cool giants. It stresses them.
- It’s illegal to touch a gorilla.
- You are not allowed to feed these gentle giants.
- Never smoke, eat, or drink in the presence of a Mountain gorilla. This puts their health in danger.
- Only 8 visitors are allowed to visit a group of gorillas a day.
- Guests are limited to one hour in Mountain gorilla presence.
- Always keep a 7m distance from these cool giants
- While on a gorilla trek, you must keep a maximum silence.
- You must follow always the park ranger’s instructions when on a gorilla trek.
The above rules should be followed during gorilla tours in Congo Virunga National Park.
Packing List for Gorilla Rwanda Safaris?
As you plan to track the gorillas of Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, we advise you to travel light. Only move with only essential items.
Below is the park list for gorilla tours in Rwanda:
- A good camera for photoshoots
- Rain jacket- helps in case rain finds you on the gorilla trek.
- Insect repellents– protect you in case of rain. It’s also great as you track Chimps in Rwanda Nyungwe Forest National Park as well as Kibale National Park
- Light hiking boots
- Garden gloves.
- Simple backpack- Keeps your daily essentials (insect repellents, sunscreens, & bottled water) safer. It’s suggested also while on a wildlife safari tour in Kenya and Tanzania. Still, it’s of use as you track Chimps in Nyungwe or Kibale National Park.
- Long trousers and long–sleeved shirts– will protect you in case of insect bites along the gorilla trek. We recommend our clients put them on while tracking Chimps in Rwanda Nyungwe Forest National and Kibale National Park
- Bottled water will keep you hydrated on the hike.
- Sunglasses– So ideal in dry seasons! Will protect your eyes from strong tropical light rays. There are also great if going for wild viewing safaris in Akagera National Park plus other wildlife viewing trips in Kenya or Tanzania
- Sunscreens– safeguard your skin from the effects of scorching sunlight
The above packing list also applies if you are to take a gorilla trek in Congo Virunga National Park as well as Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
What to Wear for Rwanda Gorilla Trek?
As you go for gorilla tours in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, you should wear appropriately! Your clothing should give you comfort.
Below is a guide on what to wear for gorilla expeditions in Rwanda Volcanoes Park:
- Hiking boots
These shoes must be comfortable, waterproof, and cover your uncles. They protect your feet from sharp objects while on the gorilla trek. Travelers going for Congo gorilla tours in Virunga National Park should also put on such shoes.
- Long-sleeved shirts & trousers
On your gorilla Rwanda safaris, long-sleeved shirts and trousers safeguard you from biting bugs. Eco-friendly clothes (brown, khaki, and grey) are ideal. Shouting colors like red irritates Mountain gorillas.
Visitors planning to track Mountain gorillas in Congo Virunga National Park or tracking Chimps in Nyungwe Forest National Park & Kibale National Park should also put on such attires.
- Garden gloves
As you visit any gorilla family group in Rwanda- the Land of a Thousand Hills, garden gloves will protect your hands from touching thorns.
- Sun protection gears
Sunglasses, sunscreens, and a sunhat are very crucial. These protect you from scorching sun rays in hot hours of the day.
- Rain jacket
Protects you when rain finds you on the gorilla trek.
How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda? | How Hard Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
Gorilla expeditions in Rwanda are not as hard as many travelers think! It just requires you to have a minimum level of fitness. 99% of travelers successively finish their gorilla expeditions.
Note that, as you are trekking with gorillas in Rwanda, you’ll go through thick vegetation, swamps, as well as challenging hillside terrain. The hike in search of these mighty giants is enjoyable.
Just put on appropriate! Hiking boots and long-sleeved shirts are recommended.
The terrain for gorilla expeditions in Congo Virunga National Park is similar to that of Rwanda.
Is Uganda or Rwanda Better for Gorilla Trekking? | Is Uganda or Rwanda Better to See Gorillas? | Is Rwanda or Uganda Better for Gorilla Trekking?
Is it better to see gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda? This a common inquiry we get from our clients intending to have gorilla tours on their visit to East Africa.
Although all countries offer standard gorilla tours in Africa, the question remains, which one is better?
Here are gorilla tours Rwanda Vs Uganda:
- A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs 1700 US dollars while that in Uganda is 700 US dollars.
- Uganda holds more gorilla family groups than Rwanda.
- Rwanda- the land of a thousand hills holds one destination for gorilla tours while Uganda has two; Bwindi and Mgahinga park.
- All countries feature amazing accommodation however, Uganda’s is relatively cheaper.
- Gorilla tours in Rwanda are ideal for short-time travelers, unlike Uganda gorilla tours. In Rwanda, it’s about a 2-3 hours’ drive from Kigali airport to Volcanoes Park while from Uganda’s Entebbe airport to Bwindi, it’s over an 8-9 hours’ drive.
- In all destinations, you can enjoy game-viewing safaris on top of your gorilla tour. However, Uganda wild viewing safaris are far better than wildlife safaris in Rwanda Akagera Park
If interested, you can undertake Rwanda Uganda safaris for a great safari experience.
Is Rwanda Known for Gorillas? | Does Rwanda Have Gorillas?
Yes, Rwanda holiday safaris are popularly known for gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
In East Africa (globally), the other only national parks to spot the endangered Mountain gorillas include Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga Park as well as Virunga National Park of Congo.
On your gorilla safari vacation, it’s possible also to track Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Park. Rwanda game viewing safaris are also possible in Akagera Game Park.
What Kind of Gorillas Are in Rwanda?
Rwanda- the Land of a Thousand Hills holds Mountain gorillas. If interested in Gorilla Tours in Rwanda, you should visit Volcanoes NP – a 2-3 hour drive from Kigali.
Travelers interested in Eastern lowland gorillas should visit Congo. Eastern Lowland gorillas in East Africa are only found in Kahuzi Biega National Park.
The Lowland gorillas are more big than Mountain gorillas.
Are Rwanda Gorilla Tours Safe? | Can You Visit the Gorillas in Rwanda?
All Rwanda gorilla safari trips are safe as they are done on fully habituated gorilla groups. Also, you’ll be accompanied by friendly armed park rangers who will ensure that you are safe while in the jungle.
Note that, only persons having 15 years are allowed to trek gorillas.
For memorable gorilla expeditions on your Rwanda safaris, go also for wildlife tours in Akagera National Park, and track chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Don’t end your trip without a Kigali city tour, and a boat tour on Lake Kivu.
Lodges in Volcanoes National Park- Where to Stay in Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation in Volcanoes Park is categorized into budget, mid-range, luxury as well and top-notch safari lodges. Thus, it caters for all classes of travelers.
Your tour operator is there to guide you on the best lodge to use on your gorilla tours in Rwanda.
These are the:
Best Luxury Lodges in Volcanoes Park
- Bisate Lodge
- Sabinyo Silverback Lodge
- Virunga Lodge
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
- Amakoro Songa Lodge
- Karenga Bush Camp
- Ruzizi Tented Camp
Popular Mid-Range Lodges in Rwanda Volcanoes Park
- La Palme Hotel
- Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
- Garden Palace Hotel
- Eagle View Lodge
- Fravan Eco Resort
- Urugano Virunga Palace and,
- My Hill Eco Lodge.
Top Budget Lodges in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
- Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
- Kinigi Guest House
- Hotel Muhabura
- Villa Gorilla Hotel
On your Rwanda tour, more accommodation can be found in Akagera National Park. We are available to guide you on the lodges you can use on Uganda, Kenya as well and Tanzania safaris.
Best Tour Companies in Rwanda to Book with Your Gorilla Tour
If you are to explore Rwanda fully, always look for the best tour operator.
A number of these companies are in a position to organize gorilla trips in Rwanda and wildlife safaris as well. They can go ahead to arrange for your wildlife viewing safaris in the national parks of Kenya, and Tanzania and primate safaris in Uganda as well as Congo gorilla tours in Virunga National Park.
The following is the list of Rwanda tour operators you should book with:
- Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
- Wild Gorilla Safaris
- Africa Safaris Tours
- Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
- Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
- Gorilla Safari Rwanda
Best Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda Packages, Best Rwanda Gorilla Tours
With great experience in arranging primate safaris as well as wildlife safaris in Rwanda, we offer the best experience for travelers intending to explore Rwanda gorillas.
Most of our gorilla tours in Rwanda future Akagera Park, Kigali city tours, cultural experiences, and tracking Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park. While in Akagera, be expectant to encounter all of Africa’s Big Five animals on game drives.
Let’s explore Rwanda gorillas together. All our primate safaris in Rwanda can be tailored to suit our clients’ needs. Rwanda Uganda tours are possible!
These are the best Rwanda gorilla tours:
2 Days Gorilla Safari in Rwanda Volcanoes Park
4 Days Safari in Rwanda – Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, Musanze cave exploration, Lake Kivu, and Kigali City Tour
5 Days Safari in Rwanda– Gorilla expedition, wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, and, Kigali city tour
8 Days Rwanda Uganda wildlife & primate safaris– wildlife viewing, hiking, & visiting local communities
10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari Trip– Gorillas, Chimpanzees, wildlife, and visiting local communities.
14 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari– Gorillas, Chimps, hiking Mount Karisimbi, wildlife viewing, Community visits.
What to Expect on a Gorilla Safari? | What to Expect from Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
This is a common query we usually get from our clients coming to explore Rwanda gorillas.
Let your topmost expectation be encountering these beautiful gentle giants- Mountain gorillas in their charming natural environment!
Upon spotting them, you’ll enjoy watching these giant humanlike primates- (the biggest apes on Earth) feeding, grooming, and youngsters playing. You’ll be amazed by their incredible sheer size and humanlike behaviors. Don’t forget to come with a camera!
How Close Can You Get to the Gorillas in Rwanda?
As you come to explore Rwanda gorillas, keep in mind that their some guidelines to follow! Among these includes keeping a 7-10m distance while in the presence of gorillas. This helps to keep you safer.
Note that although these cool giants of the forest are habituated “used to people, they remain with some wild instincts.
Can You Touch the Gorillas in Rwanda?
It’s illegal to touch these beautiful gentle giants of the forest! The fact is, they are wild animals and even they can misunderstand your touch and charge at you. Therefore, don’t risk touching them.
Are You Guaranteed to See Gorillas in Rwanda?
We can’t tell you that you have a 100% guarantee of spotting gorillas in Rwanda. However, we assure you that we have never had any instance of tourists failing to see these cool giants of the forest.
How Far Are the Gorillas from Kigali?
The drive from Kigali city to Rwanda Volcanoes Park takes about 2-3 hours drive.
To summarize, for notable gorilla tours in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, combine your gorilla trip with other adventures in this country. Among these include tracking chimps in Nyungwe park, Kigali city tour, as well as wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park.
Budget travelers should opt for Rwanda Uganda safaris. Those on Kenya or Tanzania wildlife safaris can also track Rwanda gorillas.
Let’s Explore Rwanda Together, Inquire Now for Classic Gorilla Tours in Rwanda!

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