Are you seeking an unforgettable journey to Africa, specifically Rwanda, to witness the magnificent gorillas and chimpanzees? Whether you reside in one of the 50 states or vibrant cities such as Los Angeles, Washington DC, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Las Vegas, a safari to Africa is an opportunity to reconnect with the natural wonders of the continent. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safaris from the USA will be the highlight of your expedition, allowing you to explore two remarkable national parks in Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Situated in the northeastern region of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park, also known as Parc des Volcans in French or Pariki Yigihugu yibirungu in Kinyarwanda (the local language), is home to the renowned mountain gorillas. As one of the oldest and most unique parks in Africa, it boasts an exceptional population of endangered great apes, including the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Additionally, the park is teeming with diverse bird species, monkeys, trees, forest hogs, bushbucks, and more. Volcanoes National Park forms part of the Virunga Conservation Area, encompassing five extinct volcanoes such as Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga (shared between Uganda and Rwanda), Karisimbi, and Mount Bisoke. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of observing these endangered primates in their natural habitat. As half of the world’s remaining gorilla population resides in East Africa, a journey from the USA to Volcanoes National Park allows you to contribute to their conservation efforts while creating lifelong memories.
Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in southwestern Rwanda, near the border with Burundi, is a haven for chimpanzee enthusiasts. Boasting approximately 500 chimpanzees, Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a remarkable opportunity to trek and observe these fascinating creatures. As one of the best-preserved montane rainforests in Central Africa, Nyungwe Forest National Park showcases an astonishing biodiversity. The park is home to over 1,050 plant species, 250 endemic Albertine Rift species, 200 orchids, 120 butterfly species, 85 mammal species, and 38 reptile species, among others. Embarking on a chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe Forest allows you to witness these remarkable primates up close, observing their playful behavior, feeding habits, and unique features that closely resemble our own. It is an experience that offers insight into the intricate lives of these fascinating creatures.
To ensure a successful gorilla or chimpanzee trek in Rwanda, obtaining permits is crucial. There are 80 gorilla permits available daily for Volcanoes National Park. Trek Africa Expeditions will assist you in the process of booking and securing these permits, guaranteeing your participation in the trek. Likewise, for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, there are 64 permits available each day. These permits can be booked in advance through Rwanda Development Board and Nyungwe Park Management. Our team will provide support in checking availability and booking your desired permits, ensuring a seamless experience.
Gorilla permits in Volcanoes National Park are priced at USD 1500 per person for all nationalities. However, there are special discounts available for those visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park and Volcanoes National Park during the months of May to November. By combining visits to both parks, you can enjoy a 30% discount on gorilla permits, with the cost reduced to USD 1050 per person. Furthermore, delegates visiting the country are eligible for a discounted permit fee of USD 1250 per person. For those seeking an extended gorilla experience, booking three consecutive days of gorilla treks in Volcanoes National Park offers an attractive package of USD 5000 per person. Trek Africa Expeditions will assist you in selecting the most suitable option, ensuring an affordable and memorable safari experience.
When planning your gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari, it is essential to secure a Rwanda visa, which can be obtained online or upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or any border point into Rwanda. Several airlines, including Rwanda Air, Ethiopian Airways, Qatar Airways, and Emirates Air, offer flights from the USA to Kigali International Airport. After arriving in Rwanda, you can spend a night in Kigali before driving to your chosen park or proceed directly to the parks based on your itinerary. Volcanoes National Park can be easily accessed by road, approximately a two-hour drive from Kigali city or the airport. Nyungwe Forest National Park can be reached by air, with flights available from Kigali to Kamembe International Airport. Alternatively, road transport is available, with a journey duration of approximately 5-6 hours from Kigali to Nyungwe. Throughout your safari, a range of accommodation options is available, catering to different budgets. From luxury resorts such as One & Only Nyungwe House and Nyungwe Forest Lodge to mid-range and budget lodges, there is a suitable lodging choice for every traveler.
With years of experience in organizing primate-focused safaris in Rwanda, Trek Africa Expeditions is your ideal partner for an unforgettable adventure. Our dedicated team of knowledgeable staff, guided by experienced professionals, ensures an authentic and enriching experience. As a highly recommended and reviewed tour operator on platforms such as TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings, we take pride in creating tailored itineraries that cater to your specific needs. Contact us today to explore our discounted packages, including gorilla and chimp trekking safaris, birding tours, cultural experiences, canopy walks, and more. Let us be your trusted guide in organizing a remarkable safari experience from the USA to Rwanda.