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Published by Angel V K on December 8, 2023

The Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Experience

Nestled in northwestern Rwanda lies the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, a 160 km² (62 sq. miles) expanse of pristine wilderness that embodies adventure and conservation. This park, part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area, seamlessly connects with Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, creating a haven for biodiversity.

Known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’, Rwanda’s picturesque landscapes are crowned by the Virunga Mountains, a chain of dramatic volcanic peaks. Within this rugged terrain, Volcanoes National Park captivates visitors with its enchanting bamboo forests, breathtaking vistas, and unparalleled opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in their natural habitat.

Beyond its ecological treasures, the park carries a profound legacy as the former research base of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, whose groundbreaking work brought global attention to gorilla conservation.

A journey here is not merely a trek; it’s a connection to nature, a step into history, and an invitation to preserve the beauty of these majestic creatures and their environment.

What is the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?

A gorilla permit is your entry ticket to this unforgettable experience, granting you the privilege of joining a trek to meet one of the world’s most inspiring creatures.

Valid for 24 hours, the permit allows you to venture deep into the wilderness, guided by expert trackers, to spend a magical hour in the presence of a mountain gorilla family. These 60 minutes—observing their behavior, interactions, and soulful gaze—are nothing short of transformative.

Obtainable through the RDB Tourism Reservation Office, the gorilla permit costs $1500 per person. Issued on a first-come, first-served basis, the availability of permits is never a guarantee.

How to Secure Your Gorilla Permit

Available through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) Tourism Reservation Office or registered tour operators, the permit costs $1,500 per person. Due to high demand and limited availability, these permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis—so planning ahead is crucial.

Each day, only 80 permits are available, reflecting Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability. This limit corresponds to the 10 habituated gorilla groups within Volcanoes National Park, ensuring that each group hosts a maximum of eight visitors. Such thoughtful management minimizes human impact while prioritizing the well-being of the gorillas.

Please Note: Permits are on a first come first serve basis and recommended to book well in advance at least 4-6 months before your gorilla trekking in Rwanda trip.

How long does a typical gorilla trekking experience last in Rwanda?

Embarking on the thrilling journey of tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park is an adventurous undertaking that involves traversing challenging terrains.

The Thrill of the Gorilla Trek

Prepare to traverse dense forests, navigate steep and muddy hillsides, and ascend altitudes that exceed 10,000 feet (3,000 meters). The terrain is challenging, but each step deepens your connection to the breathtaking wilderness of the Virunga Mountains. The journey is as exhilarating as the destination—its part of the Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Adventure.

Before your trek begins, the experience is carefully curated to ensure safety and maximize the encounter. At 7:00 am, a mandatory briefing equips trekkers with essential safety tips and guidelines for interacting with the gorillas. Each visitor is thoughtfully assigned to a specific gorilla family based on their preferences and fitness levels, ensuring an accessible adventure for everyone.

At 8:00 am, the journey begins. Accompanied by an experienced park guide, trekkers are transported to the starting point. For added ease, hiking assistants are available to carry your gear or lend a steady hand for a modest fee of FRW 10,000 (about USD 20). This service not only makes the trek more comfortable but also supports the local community.

These assistants can help carry backpacks and offer support to trekkers with physical challenges, enhancing the accessibility of this remarkable experience.

The trek itself can last anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your group’s pace and the location of the gorilla family. Each moment builds anticipation as you traverse lush greenery, listening to the distant calls of forest creatures. The first sight of a mountain gorilla—a silverback towering over his family or a playful juvenile—is nothing short of magical.

Gorilla trekking is undeniably strenuous, but the reward far outweighs the effort. Standing mere feet from these gentle giants, observing their interactions and behaviors, is one of the most profound wildlife experiences on Earth.

What are the Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking rules and regulations serve as guidelines or safety measures not only to ensure the survival of mountain gorillas but also to safety of trekkers while in the wild with these creatures on your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Experience.

They include:

Gorilla trekking is restricted to only 8 visitors per gorilla family per day
The age limit for gorilla trekking is 15 years old.
No visitor is allowed to trek gorillas when sick or not feeling well
Visitors are not allowed to eat, drink, or smoke while on a trek to view mountain gorillas
A distance of 8-10 meters should be kept at all times away from gorillas
Flashlight cameras for photography aren’t allowed or better you can turn the lights off before you begin taking pictures of these apes.
Low voices should be kept while in the wild tracking gorillas.
When gorillas approach or rub themselves on you, don’t try touching them – this gorilla rule is vital because it limits any likelihood of infectious diseases spreading.
No littering the habitat, have all your used containers or items carried back to the visitor center or lodge and dump them in the designated dustbins.

How many Gorilla Trekking Groups are in Rwanda?

There are 10 gorilla families available for visitors to trek in the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Experience at Volcanoes National Park, with each group accommodating 8 visitors per day. Here are details about each habituated gorilla family:

The Susa group: 28 members including 3 silverbacks. Susa was named after the Susa River and was the largest gorilla group before it split into two.

It was the group studied by Dian Fossey and is popular because of a pair of twins, Byishimo and Impano.

The Karisimbi group: 15 members including 3 silverbacks. This family is split from the Susa family and has 15 members living on the lower slopes of Karisimbi Volcano.

The Sabyinyo group: 12 members including 2 silverbacks. The group was named after the Sabyinyo Volcano. Sabyinyo means ‘old man’s teeth’ and the group stays between the slopes of Mt. Sabyinyo and Mt. Mgahinga.

The Amahoro group: 17 members including 1 silverback. Amahoro means ‘peaceful’ and the group is gentle and peaceful. It lost its members to Agasha because its Silverback didn’t challenge other Silverbacks. Yet, the hiking is a bit challenging.

The Umubano group: 11 members including 1 silverback. Umubano means ‘live together’ as the group formed when it split from the Amahoro group though they share the same territory. Umubano is known for its active and playful juveniles.

The Kwitonda group: 18 members including 2 silverbacks. Kwitonda means ‘humble one’, a name given to the group after the name of their dominant silverback.

The group settles on the lower slopes of Mount Muhavura one of the most challenging hiking.

The Hirwa group: 12 members including 1 silverback. Hirwa means ‘lucky one’. Hirwa was formed after splitting from the Sabyinyo group and it inhabits the slopes of Mount Sabinyo near Mount Gahinga.

This group was formed by individuals from different existing groups, making it a unique and diverse collection of gorillas.

The Agasha group: 25 members including 2 silverbacks. Agasha means ‘the news’. The Agasha group was known as Group 13 before the split from the Amahoro Group.

It was renamed when Agasha challenged the dominant silverback of Amahoro and led the group away from him. It inhabits the higher slopes of Mt. Sabyinyo and the hike is challenging as well.

The Bwenge group: 11 members including 1 silverback. Bwenge means ‘brightness’ and lives between Mt. Karisimbi and Mt. Bisoke. Bwenge group was featured in the popular gorilla movie titled “Gorillas in the Mist”.

The hiking trails are very steep and muddy hence visitors allocated to this group should take note.

The Ugyenda group: 11 members including 1 silverback. Ugyenda means ‘departure or mobile’ and the group is always on the move along Mount Visoke region and the hiking trails are not too challenging.

Rwanda gorilla trekking experiences

When is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is a remarkable experience that can be enjoyed year-round, but timing your visit during the dry season enhances the adventure, ensuring both comfort and accessibility.

Why Choose the Dry Season?

The dry season spans from June to August and again during the short dry period in December, January, and February. This period is ideal for gorilla trekking due to several factors:

Easier Trails: The rainforest trails are less muddy and slippery, making the trek more manageable for travelers navigating the steep, forested slopes.
Better Visibility: With less rain, the visibility improves, allowing trekkers to better appreciate the lush surroundings and increase the chances of spotting gorillas more clearly.
Comfortable Weather: Dry, sunny days enhance the overall trekking experience, letting you fully enjoy the beauty of the forest.

Wet Season Adventures

The rainy season, from March to May and October to November, presents more challenges:

Muddy Trails: Rain can turn the trails slippery, demanding more effort and resilience from trekkers.
Limited Visibility: The dense fog and frequent downpours can obscure views of the forest and the gorillas.
Lush Scenery: On the upside, the park bursts into vibrant green, offering a striking backdrop for photographs.

While the dry season is favored for its ease of trekking, the rainy season offers a quieter, more intimate experience, as there are typically fewer visitors. Whichever time you choose, the opportunity to come face-to-face with Rwanda’s majestic mountain gorillas promises an unforgettable journey into Rwanda’s wilderness.

What should I pack for a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda?

The Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Experience packing list includes the following.

Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Safari socks or Gaiters to keep insects, and climbing plants away from your ankles and socks.
Neutral-colored long-sleeved shirts and trousers or pants that protect you from stinging plants/nettles, crawling insects, and thorns.
Backpack to carry your picnic lunch, drinking water, energy snacks, sunglasses, and some hand wipes.
A rain jacket, sweater, and some hand gloves( made of strong material to grip branches or vines)
Insect repellent and sunscreen/ block.
Camera with a mid-sized lens for easy portability.

Where to stay in Volcanoes National Park – The Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Experience

Virunga lodge bedroom

Volcanoes National Park accommodation options range from luxury to budget.

Bisate Lodge is a premier experience comprising six traditionally shaped villas with conical thatched roofs. It is surrounded by dense foliage woodland at the entrance of the Volcanoes National Park.

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge is a premier experience comprising six charming stone cottages, two luxurious suites, and one spacious family unit with two separate bedrooms.

Each elegant cottage features large sitting areas, fireplaces, stylish en-suite bathrooms, and a sheltered veranda with cinematic views over the volcanoes.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge is a luxury experience surrounded by eucalyptus trees and comprising twenty-one rooms.

Fourteen are guest rooms while the seven are one-bedroom suites that include 2 super suites. It is decorated with a touch of traditional Rwandan culture.

Virunga Lodge is a luxury experience located atop a ridge and offers picturesque panoramas of the Bulera (aka Burera) and Ruhondo lakes and the volcanic peaks of the Park.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge is a luxury experience located on 178 acres 7 one-bedroom suites, A two-bedroom suite, and a Four-bedroom villa -the Kataza House.

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is a mid-range option comprising 9 Deluxe guest rooms, a Family Suite, a Honeymoon Cottage, and 3 Standard rooms.

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge offers 30 guest cottages with sweeping views of the Virunga Mountains as a backdrop.

How to get to Volcanoes National Park.

From Kigali: A smooth 2-3 hour drive takes you through lush hills and vibrant rural areas, offering glimpses of the heart of Rwanda. This journey will build the anticipation as you approach the park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
From Gisenyi: A quicker 1.5-hour drive along the Gisenyi-Goma road offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and Lake Kivu, making the journey to the park a memorable experience in itself.
From Uganda (Kabale/Bwindi National Park/Mgahinga National Park): If you’re traveling from Uganda, the scenic 3-4 hour drive via the Katuna or Cyanika Border will bring you directly to the Volcanoes National Park, allowing you to explore two of Africa’s most unique regions in one trip.

Ready for the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Experience ? Start your adventure today! Reach out to us at to book your unforgettable trek and explore the wonders of Volcanoes National Park.