If seeing mountain gorillas in the wild has always been a dream of yours, Rwanda needs to be at the top of your travel bucket list! Thanks to dedicated conservation and tourism initiatives, some of the most incredible gorilla trekking experiences in the world can be had in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
There are a few things you should know before you leave so that you can get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Getting ready for your gorilla trekking safari is very important; this process includes obtaining your permits (an essential part of planning ahead) and packing the right gear so that you can take on the rainforest trails with more ease. Read on to discover six tips for the ultimate Rwanda gorilla safari.
1. Get Your Gorilla Trekking Permit Early
There aren’t many permits available for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, and they’re always in high demand. One permit costs USD 1,500 and a portion of these proceeds goes towards conservation efforts in the national park. The permit process is also how the national park regulates the flow of tourists—an important part of maintaining the safety of the gorillas and ensuring the park remains a true wilderness.
Get your permit at least six months in advance, if not longer. This helps ensure you’re not disappointed.
2. Understand the Physical Demands and Prepare
On a gorilla trekking safari, you may have to walk up steep, muddy forest paths that can go up to 10,000 ft. The paths you hike all depend on where the gorillas are in the park. You don’t have to be a top athlete, but being in good shape will make the experience much better. Do regular hikes or cardio workouts to prepare yourself for your trip.
3. Pack Smart
The best clothes for a gorilla tracking safari are light, moisture-wicking, and come in neutral colours. Long sleeves and trousers can help keep bugs from biting you and thorny plants from scratching you. Remember to bring thick socks, sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, and gloves to protect your hands when using them to move aside plants and navigate the trails.
Don’t forget your gorilla trekking permit and passport, of course! Bring water for during the hike, as well as sunscreen and insect repellent for the mosquitos. You also need a small backpack and a rain jacket that dries quickly. The weather in Rwanda can change quickly, so it’s best to be ready for both sun and rain.
4. Hire a Porter If Possible—It’s Worth It
Even if you don’t have a lot of stuff, it’s a good idea to hire a porter. They’ll not only help you carry your bag but will also help you on slippery or steep ground. And it’s a good way to help the local community.
5. Follow the Rules and Respect the Gorillas
Remember, your guide knows the park and the gorillas extremely well, so listen to them and adhere to their rules. Keep a safe distance from the gorilla family you’re observing (around 23 ft), don’t make sudden movements, and avoid direct eye contact. Even though the gorillas you go to see are habituated, they’re still wild animals and you need to keep your distance.
It’s also important to make sure that your camera flash is off when you’re taking photos of the gorillas. A sudden flash of light can agitate them and cause them to have a reaction.
6. Extend Your Rwanda Safari
Rwanda has more to offer than just gorilla trekking! To see more primates, you could head to Nyungwe Forest to look for chimpanzees. Or visit Akagera National Park for a classic Big Five safari.
A gorilla safari in Rwanda isn’t just about seeing these magnificent primates—it’s also an incredible opportunity to get closer to nature and contribute to the conservation efforts that are keeping the gorillas safe. Ensure that this once-in-a-lifetime adventure is the best it could possibly be by considering the above six tips.