Rwanda as a country borders Uganda in the north, Democratic Republic of Congo in the west, Burundi in the south and Tanzania in the east. It was famously known after the 1994 against the Tutsi; But it later gained a name - land of thousand hills due to the breathtaking scenery it harbors.
Rwanda is comprised of only four national parks including Nyungwe forest national Park, Gishwati-Mukura National Park, Akagera National Park and volcanoes national Park. Surprisingly, among all, it's the only volcanoes national Park where one can travel for a gorilla trekking experience which is located in the northwestern parts of the country. The park volcanoes cover an area of 160 square kilometers and it shares borders with Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In addition, the park is home to more than 12 habituated gorilla families available for trekking and to be involved in the experience you need to have a valid gorilla permit. All activities start at the park headquarters with a short briefing from the park ranger guide who will be fully armed and later lead you in the field in search of gorillas. Only three hours are recommended during trekking that is one in search of gorillas, one in presence with them and one moving back to the office to meet your driver.
Getting any family will be more fun and the amazing experience you will encounter. See gorillas grooming each other, climbing trees, showing emotions of joy, happiness, or sadness, communicating and many more. On the other hand, each family is led by one dominant male called the silverback and it is differentiated from others by its silver grayish color on the back.
Other primates can also be spotted like the vervet monkey, golden monkey and the red- tailed monkey plus beautiful butterflies, and birds with their sweet melodies that will make your safari more colorful. There is only one shift which is done in the morning to each gorilla family which means that the trekking permits are limited hence need for prior booking.
What to carry on a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda?
For the best gorilla safari, you are encouraged to carry your binoculars to observe the distant objects, cameras to take photos for remembrance while back home, rain gears like raincoats and good waterproof hiking shoes since the walk consists of short hikes, the energy-giving snacks like biscuits and cookies to your gorilla trekking experience.
Best time for gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda.
Most travelers still wonder what could be the best time to go for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Here is your answer, Rwanda is having two seasons; the rainy and dry season. The big number normally consider the dry season to be the best since the trails are dry giving easy accessibility to all corners hence viewing numerous wildlife. Rainy season also becomes great since parks and lodges offer discounts on most of the activities hence a good chance for budget travelers. Therefore, there is no best time to travel it just depends on one's choice.
Visit volcanoes national Park for the best experience of gorilla trekking. You can access it by road from Kigali international airport which will take you about 2 hours’ drive. In addition, for any inquiries about gorilla trekking in Rwanda, our experts are always available to help you.
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