Rwanda Gorilla Holidays and Safaris

Embark on Rwanda Gorilla Holidays and Safaris: Exploring the Majestic Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda Gorilla Holidays and Safaris beckon you to an extraordinary journey in the enchanting Volcanoes National Park. This pristine park, known as “Parc National des Volcans” in French and “Pariki y’igihugu y’ibirunga” in Kinyarwanda, graces the northwestern part of Rwanda, nestled amidst the magnificent Virunga Mountains. Sharing its borders with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Volcanoes National Park is a sanctuary for some of the world’s most precious treasures – the Mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

Established in 1925, Volcanoes National Park was initially a small reserve encompassing Bisoke, Karisimbi, and Mikeno. Its primary purpose was to combat rampant poaching and protect the endangered Mountain Gorillas, making it the first national park in Africa.

Rwanda Gorilla Tours with Trek Africa Expeditions

Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in organizing unforgettable Rwanda Gorilla Tours to Volcanoes National Park. Our expertise extends beyond Gorilla tracking, offering a range of enriching experiences, including cultural interactions, nature walks, and more. We provide timely and accurate information on Gorilla Permit availability, transportation, accommodation, and meals, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure.

How to Reach Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is situated in Musanze, previously known as Ruhengeri, a small village conveniently accessible by public transport from Gisenyi, Kigali City, or the Kigali International Airport. The journey to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 2-3 hours, allowing for Gorilla tracking on the same day with a return to Kigali after the trek. For those aiming to trek Gorillas in one day, an early start is imperative to arrive at the National Park headquarters in Kinigi by 7:00 am. However, it’s worth noting that there is no public transport available from Musanze to the National Park headquarters at Kinigi.

Best Time to Visit

Rwanda’s Gorilla tracking can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, it’s essential to consider the season when planning your visit, as Rwanda experiences two distinct seasons. The dry season, from June to September and December to February, is generally preferred. During this period, the weather is drier, with occasional temperatures reaching 29 degrees Celsius. In contrast, the rainy season spans from March to May and from October to November.

While the rainy season may feature heavy downpours, it presents excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The dry season, though, is ideal for Gorilla tours, offering a reduced chance of rain during the trek and more favorable hiking conditions in the rainforest. Waterproof clothing is recommended year-round due to the unpredictable Equatorial climate. Keep in mind that the dry season constitutes a peak tourist season, potentially resulting in higher prices for accommodation and transportation.

Conversely, travelers on a budget may find the wet season appealing. During this time, hotels have lower occupancy rates, offering discounted rates for meals and accommodations. Additionally, the demand for Gorilla permits decreases, providing an excellent chance to see these endangered species without competition.

Safari Highlights

Embarking on Rwanda Gorilla Holidays and Safaris is a multifaceted adventure that offers a range of memorable experiences:

• Visit Genocide Memorial Site and Kigali Museum: Begin your journey with a visit to the Genocide Memorial site, a poignant tribute to Rwanda’s history. Explore Kigali Museum and delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Scenic Drive: Marvel at the picturesque landscapes as you journey through Rwanda’s lush hills, often referred to as the “land of a thousand hills.”
• Tracking Mountain Gorilla: The centerpiece of your adventure awaits as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience: tracking Mountain Gorillas. Spend a magical hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural habitat, drawing you into an unforgettable world of wonder and fascination.

Suggested 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Holidays and Safaris Itinerary

Day One: Arrival in Kigali International Airport and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, our dedicated driver/guide will welcome you to Rwanda. Your adventure kicks off with a complimentary tour of Kigali City, known for its lush green hills and often referred to as the “land of a thousand hills.” Explore captivating spots such as the craft market, Gisozi Genocide Memorial site, and Kigali Museum. Depart for Ruhengeri, the second-largest town in Rwanda, renowned for its stunning backdrop of five volcanic mountains, the Virungas. Arrive at your hotel late in the afternoon, where dinner and overnight accommodations await.

Drive Time: 2-3 hours

Day Two: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Rise early and savor a hearty breakfast, preparing for an extraordinary adventure. Head to the National Park headquarters to meet your knowledgeable ranger guides for the day. After completing the necessary park formalities, embark on a life-changing journey to track Mountain Gorillas. As you encounter these awe-inspiring giants, you’ll have the privilege of spending an hour observing them in their natural habitat. This breathtaking wildlife encounter brings you within seven meters of these magnificent creatures. The trek may be strenuous, lasting up to six hours or more at high altitudes, so being in good health is essential. Return to your hotel for lunch, followed by dinner and overnight accommodations. If time permits, visit the Iby I’wacu cultural village and immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Rwanda.

Day Three: Drive Back to Kigali International Airport for Your Departure

After a delicious breakfast, bid farewell to your gracious hosts and depart for Kigali. Enjoy some last-minute shopping in this welcoming African capital before heading to the airport for your international flight home.

Drive Time: 2-3 hours

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Rwanda Gorilla Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Rwanda Gorilla Holidays and Safaris to witness the Mountain Gorillas of Volcanoes National Park. This adventure not only offers you the chance to encounter these incredible primates but also allows you to contribute to their conservation. Through responsible tourism and education, we aim to ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at the beauty and significance of Mountain Gorillas.

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