Gorilla Trekking Tours from Kigali

Gorilla trekking tours from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, are a popular choice for visitors who want to experience the incredible mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. While the majority of gorilla trekking tours depart from the town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), which is closer to Volcanoes National Park where the gorillas reside, it is also possible to arrange tours from Kigali.

Here is a general outline of what you can expect when booking a gorilla trekking tour from Kigali:

Travel from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park:

The journey from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 2 to 3 hours by road. The tour operator will arrange transportation, usually in the form of a comfortable vehicle.

Accommodation:

Most tours include overnight stays near Volcanoes National Park to make it easier to start the trek early in the morning. There are various lodges and guesthouses available, ranging from budget to luxury options.

Gorilla Trekking Experience:

On the day of the trek, you will wake up early and head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Trained guides will provide information about gorilla behavior, safety guidelines, and the trekking process. After the briefing, you will be assigned to a gorilla group and start the trek.

Gorilla Trek:

The trekking duration can vary depending on the location of the gorilla group you are assigned to. It can range from 1 to 4 hours or more. Trekking through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park can be physically demanding, so it is important to be prepared with appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, and some level of fitness.

Gorilla Encounter:

Once you find the gorilla group, you will spend approximately one hour observing and enjoying their presence. You can observe their behavior, take photos (without flash), and simply immerse yourself in this unique wildlife experience. The time spent with the gorillas is strictly regulated to minimize disturbance to their natural habitat.

Return to Kigali:

After the gorilla encounter, you will trek back to the starting point and meet your driver for the return journey to Kigali. Depending on the tour package, you may have additional activities or visits planned along the way, such as cultural experiences or stops at scenic viewpoints.

It is important to note that gorilla trekking permits are required to visit the gorillas. And they need to be booked in advance through a registered tour operator. These permits have limited availability and are usually in high demand, so it’s advisable to book your tour well in advance.

Overall, gorilla trekking tours from Kigali offer a convenient option for those who prefer to stay in the capital city. While still getting the opportunity to witness the remarkable mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.