Volcanoes national park protects more than half of the world’s mountain gorilla population surviving in the Virunga Mountains, which span the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The remaining gorillas are found in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest national park. More gorilla family than anywhere else in the world. Currently Rwanda habituates its gorilla families in the Volcanoes National Park.
A large silverback gorilla will stare back at you with a thoughtful, intelligent gaze, aware that you are a different person. The moment you see your gorilla family, a wonderful memory you may have had during your gorilla trek will never vanish. Gorilla trekking safari provide a magical experience unlike any other “wildlife” encounter we’ve had before.
When to go gorilla trekking
Gorilla trekking trips can be taken at any time of year. At an altitude of 2,000 meters or more, rain can fall here at any time of the year, but gorilla trekking can be more difficult during the rainy months of April to May and November. The drier months are between December and February, and from roughly June to mid-September, are when gorilla trekking tour is most popular.
Permits for gorilla trekking
Tourists should make advance plans for gorilla trekking experience because it can be challenging to obtain gorilla trekking permits at short notice, particularly during the busiest times. We’ll take care of all the details so you can purchase your permits. Rwanda’s gorilla-trekking permit costs $1,500 per person for an hourlong visit and is limited to 96 per day.
How fit should I be to track gorillas?
Gorilla trekking requires a general level of fitness, even if only to increase your enjoyment of the trip overall. You don’t need to be exceptionally fit for the trip. You might spend several hours walking on some fairly steep slopes, depending on which gorilla family you track and the season you visit (gorillas typically move down the mountains in the rains). On the other hand, after a 30-minute walk, you might arrive at your gorilla group. It’s best to be ready for the most active option, and if nothing else, a few hill walks before you leave home would be beneficial. Walking will always be at a slow pace with time for breaks as needed.
What should I pack for a gorilla-trekking safari?
Gorilla trekking needs a Sturdy walking boots because the paths on gorilla treks can be muddy, slippery, and steep. Due to the brambles and nettles along the route, some people opt to wear heavy gardening gloves. travelers should wear long pants compared to shorts. If the gorilla trek is long, a waterproof jacket might be useful, and tourists should bring some water and a snack. A walking stick or pole may also come in handy, these are available at the beginning of the trek.
Porters for gorilla trekkers are available at the trailheads to carry your backpacks and lend a hand during challenging sections of the gorilla hike for a small fee of about $10 -$20. Even if you don’t really need this service, hiring a porter is a helpful way to support the local economy, and conversing with them while you walk can enhance both your gorilla trek and your understanding of local culture.
A camera is a necessity for serious photographers because seeing mountain gorillas up close and personal is one of the most magical photo opportunities you’ll ever have. It’s a good idea to keep in mind that the rainforest can have poor lighting and that using a flash is not permitted. Additionally, you might need to shield your camera from very heavy rain
Volcanoes National Park’s Gorilla-trekking experience
Gorilla trekking safari is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for many tourists. Volcanoes National Park staff have years of experience, so trekking to see the mountain gorillas is well-structured and clearly organized.
Gorilla trekkers walk in groups of no more than eight people, the distance and terrain being determined by the location of “your” gorilla family, having been assigned a specific group of “habituated” mountain gorillas. The pace is leisurely, but be aware that the altitude, at over 2,500m, can be taxing and that the slopes are frequently steep.
When travelers spot the gorillas going about their daily routines such as feeding, interacting with each other, playing with each other, taking care of the elderly, and even watching you with interest, any fear you may have is likely to disappear. However, it’s crucial to remember that they are susceptible to things like human colds, which is why there are strict regulations in place to protect them.