13 Days Tour Discovering DR Congo
Does Gorilla trekking take place every day in Virunga National Park
You can do the Rwanda Gorilla trekking tour including other activities. A Rwanda gorilla trekking tour is an unforgettable experience that allows you to get up close and personal with one of the world’s most endangered species in their natural habitat. In addition to gorilla trekking, Rwanda offers a variety of other activities that showcase its rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to a Rwanda Gorilla trekking tour including other activities you can enjoy:
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
1. Planning Your Gorilla Trek:
- Location: Volcanoes National Park in the Virunga Mountains, northwest Rwanda.
- Permits: Required and limited to 96 permits per day. It’s advisable to book well in advance. The cost is approximately $1,500 per person.
- Best Time to Visit: June to September (dry season) and December to February.
2. Trekking Experience:
- Duration: Treks can last from 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla group’s location.
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous. Prepare for muddy and steep terrain.
- Guides: Experienced guides and trackers will lead you to the gorillas.
Other Activities to do in Rwanda
1. Golden Monkey Tracking:
- Location: Volcanoes National Park.
- Experience: Similar to gorilla trekking but focused on tracking the endangered golden monkeys.
2. Visit Kigali:
- Kigali Genocide Memorial: Learn about the 1994 genocide and pay respects to the victims.
- Local Markets: Explore vibrant markets like Kimironko Market for local crafts and produce.
- Kigali City Tour: Discover the city’s clean streets, modern architecture, and cultural spots.
3. Nyungwe Forest National Park:
- Canopy Walk: Walk 60 meters above the forest floor on a suspension bridge.
- Chimpanzee Tracking: A thrilling experience to see chimps in their natural habitat.
- Hiking Trails: Numerous trails offering varying levels of difficulty and stunning scenery.
4. Akagera National Park:
- Safari: Home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros).
- Boat Trips: Explore Lake Ihema and see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.
5. Lake Kivu:
- Relaxation: Enjoy the beautiful beaches and take a boat ride on one of Africa’s Great Lakes.
- Water Sports: Kayaking, fishing, and other water activities.
6. Cultural Experiences:
- Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village: Experience traditional Rwandan culture, dance, and music.
- Traditional Crafts: Visit local artisans to see and buy hand-made crafts like baskets and pottery.
7. Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi Hiking:
- Mount Bisoke: A one-day hike to the crater lake at the summit.
- Mount Karisimbi: A more challenging two-day hike to the highest peak in the Virunga range.
Sample Itinerary for a Rwanda Gorilla trekking tour including other activities
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
- Arrival and transfer to your hotel.
- Relax and explore Kigali.
Day 2: Kigali City Tour
- Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial.
- Explore local markets and museums.
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- Drive to Volcanoes National Park.
- Evening at leisure or optional cultural visit.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking
- Early morning gorilla trek.
- Afternoon at leisure or visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
Day 5: Golden Monkey Tracking or Mount Bisoke Hike
- Morning golden monkey tracking or hike.
- Afternoon relaxation or local activities.
Day 6: Transfer to Lake Kivu
- Drive to Lake Kivu.
- Enjoy beach activities or a boat ride.
Day 7: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Travel to Nyungwe.
- Canopy walk in the afternoon.
Day 8: Chimpanzee Tracking and Hiking
- Morning chimpanzee tracking.
- Afternoon hike on one of the forest trails.
Day 9: Return to Kigali and Departure
- Drive back to Kigali.
- Last-minute shopping or relaxation.
- Transfer to the airport for departure.
Tips for Your Trip
- Health: Consult with your doctor about necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
- Gear: Bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, long-sleeved shirts, and insect repellent.
- Photography: A good camera with a zoom lens is recommended for capturing wildlife.
- Fitness: Ensure you are in good physical condition, as some activities can be demanding.
Rwanda offers a diverse range of experiences that combine adventure, wildlife, and culture, making it a perfect destination for an enriching and memorable trip.
What is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which typically run from June to September and from December to February. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect during these periods:
Dry Seasons (June to September and December to February)
- June to September:
- This is considered the long dry season.
- The weather is relatively cool and dry, making it the best time for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- Wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park is excellent as animals gather around water sources.
- Hiking and other outdoor activities are more enjoyable due to the reduced likelihood of rain.
- December to February:
- This is the short dry season.
- Similar to the long dry season, it’s an excellent time for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing.
- The landscapes are lush from the preceding short rainy season (October to November), offering beautiful scenery for photography.
Rainy Seasons (March to May and October to November)
- March to May:
- This is the long rainy season.
- Heavy rains can make some roads and trails muddy and difficult to navigate.
- Gorilla trekking is still possible, but more challenging due to the wet conditions.
- The countryside is lush and green, providing a different kind of beauty and fewer tourists.
- October to November:
- This is the short rainy season.
- The rains are less intense than the long rainy season.
- Gorilla trekking remains feasible but can be muddier.
- The scenery is vibrant and green, with fewer tourists compared to the dry seasons.
Special Considerations
- Gorilla Trekking:
- Booking permits well in advance is essential, especially during the peak dry seasons.
- Trekking permits are available year-round, but the experience is generally more comfortable during the dry seasons.
- Wildlife Viewing:
- The dry seasons are ideal for seeing a wide variety of animals as they congregate near water sources.
- Bird watching is excellent year-round, but the rainy seasons bring migratory birds, adding to the diversity.
In summary, the optimal time for visiting Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, offering the best conditions for trekking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the country’s natural beauty.
Where to stay in Volcanoes National Park during gorilla Trekking.
There are several options of lodges and hotels in Volcanoes National Park ranging from budget to luxury, namely; Bisate lodge, Gorilla Nest and Virunga lodge are luxury options, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge, Le bamboo Mountain Gorilla Lodge are Midrange options to consider, Kinigi guesthouse, Hotel Muhavura and gorilla volcanoes lodge are some of the budget hotels. The hotel rooms can sell out quickly, especially during the high season, your accommodation choice needs to be booked in advance for your visit to Volcanoes National Park. You will also be able to get a discount on accommodation when you stay more nights.
Why book Gorilla Trekking Tour in Rwanda Through Eco Adventure Safaris
Eco Adventure Safaris offers amazing experiences to Volcanoes National Park. Contact us for our discounted packages and also tailor-made gorilla trips, birding, cultural experiences and golden monkey tracking to the volcanoes national park. Our magic in organizing authentic experience stems from the fact that we have overtime assembled a team mixed with young and energetic staff guided by well experienced Team and passionate about what they do. Eco Adventure Safaris is highly rated and reviewed on trip Advisor to help you learn on the experiences of the other travelers who have traveled with us to volcanoes national park for a Rwanda Gorilla trekking tour including other activities.