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Your Timeless Journey Awaits...

Rwanda's Gorillas Await: Journey into the Heart of Wildlife Wonder

A mind expanding experience

A visit to Rwanda and trekking to see the Mountain Gorillas stands out as one of the most remarkable wildlife encounters I have ever had. It’s rare to experience something that profoundly shifts your perspective of life and your place in the world. Being just two meters away from a majestic Silverback Mountain Gorilla, gazing into its eyes, felt like a glimpse into the essence of humanity itself.

Every moment spent in the presence of these incredible creatures was pure magic, and the consensus among those I know who’ve shared in this experience echoes the sentiment. These encounters become cherished memories, etched into the highest peaks of our minds.

Beyond the awe-inspiring gorillas, Rwanda itself left an indelible impression on me. It’s a country characterised by its cleanliness and inspiration – a privilege to have experienced firsthand. ~ Marco van Embden

Why trek in Rwanda
  • Witness endangered mountain gorillas, directly contributing to conservation.
  • Navigate lush landscapes, showcasing Rwanda’s biodiversity, from dense forests to volcanic mountains.
  • Interacting with gorillas in their habitat fosters a deep connection, cultivating appreciation for wildlife and conservation.
  • Engage with local communities, opening an opportunity for cultural understanding and supporting sustainable tourism.
  • Permit fees protect habitats, ensuring the survival of these creatures.
  • Supports responsible tourism, minimising environmental impact.
  • Expert guides offer valuable insights into gorilla behaviour, ecology, and conservation for an educational experience.
  • Gorilla trekking aids local economies, providing employment and supporting community development.
  • The experience offers a new perspective on nature and humanity.
What to Expect on Your Gorilla Trek Day
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Wilderness Bisate

Read through the essentials for encountering the majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, including details on trekking logistics and insights into gorilla conservation and a detailed breakdown of the trek day.

The guide covers:

  • Pre-Trek Preparation: Learn what to expect and what you will need for a comfortable experience.
  • Trek Day Schedule: Insights into the flow of the day.
  • Hiking Tips and Porters: Trek difficulty, the importance of porters, and Holly’s photography tip for an enhanced experience.
  • Gorilla Interaction: What your time is like with the gorillas, safety measures, and gratuities for the dedicated team.
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Where does your permit fee go?

Your permit isn’t just a ticket; it’s a lifeline for these majestic creatures, the land and its people. Here’s where your investment goes: Your trek is not just a journey—it’s a commitment to conservation. With each step, you are making a difference, securing a brighter future for these endangered icons.

Find Out More »

Our What-to-Wear Guide

Preparing for an adventure, like a gorilla trek in Rwanda, can be all consuming – especially when it is time to start packing. Our favourite part of the research is looking at what real people (as in, not styled for a photo) wear on their travels. This makes for more attainable and practical outfit inspiration. Have a look at our detailed trek outfit planner.

View Our Guide »

Women walking in the field in Rwanda to go gorilla trekking

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Credit: The Culture-ist

Kigali's Bustling City Guide

Explore Rwanda’s captivating capital, Kigali, beyond the allure of gorilla trekking. From its dynamic arts scene to its poignant history and vibrant markets, Kigali offers a tapestry of experiences. Immerse yourself in the city’s remarkable transformation post-genocide at the Genocide Memorial, stroll through bustling markets for unique souvenirs, and indulge in the diverse culinary delights.

View Our Guide »

Rwanda Travel Seasons

The optimal times for gorilla trekking are the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is favourable, providing better trekking conditions. Trekking outside these periods is possible, but be prepared for more challenging experiences due to rainfall and muddy paths.

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Real Trips, Real People, Real Memories

Our trip inspiration is inspired by trips taken by real travellers who have trusted us with creating their dream African itinerary.

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Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Milestone Celebration Trip: Trekking & Safari

A trip to Africa is an excellent way to celebrate a milestone birthday in style! For this vibrant, active couple from Los Angeles, they wanted their trip to Africa to be characterised by uber-luxury, Singita style. Our expert travel manager put together a combination of Rwanda and Singita Tanzania lodges, bringing together tented and homestead style accommodation for a varied, exciting holiday experience.
View Trip Inspiration »

Sabyinyo cc Culbert

Sabyinyo cc Culbert

Ultimate Primate Encounter: Apes, Chimps & Monkeys

Discover the haunting beauty of Rwanda’s dense rain forests, the open-hearted warmth of its people and the life-affirming presence of its mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and other primates. Rwanda is renowned for its gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park, but the country is also home to chimpanzees as well as a host of monkeys.

View Trip Inspiration »

Trekking in Rwanda vs Uganda vs Congo

Planning on where to go, when and what to pack is vital information, you need before you head to East Africa for this incredible experience. For the answer to which one is better, or rather, best suited to you, let’s compare!

Read All About It »


In this article
  • Introduction
  • Why trek in Rwanda
  • What to Expect on Your Gorilla Trek Day
  • Where does your permit fee go?
  • Our What-to-Wear Guide
  • Kigali's Bustling City Guide
  • Rwanda Travel Seasons
  • Trip Ideas
  • Trekking in Rwanda vs Uganda vs Congo

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