Rwanda Ape Trekking Safaris & Tours

Embark on Unforgettable Rwanda Ape Trekking Safaris & Tours

Embarking on Rwanda Ape trekking safaris & tours unveils a realm of natural wonders in this landlocked nation situated at the convergence of the African great lakes region and East Africa within the great rift valley. Despite its modest size on the African mainland, Rwanda captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Volcanoes National Park – Home to Majestic Mountain Gorillas

Nestled in northwestern Rwanda, approximately 120 kilometers from the capital city, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park stands as a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. Spanning 160 square kilometers beneath the watchful gaze of five volcanoes—Muhavura, Gahinga, Sabyinyo, Karisimbi, and Bisoke—this park hosts 11 mountain gorilla families available for immersive gorilla tracking experiences. Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest peak at 4,506 meters above sea level, adds to the park’s allure, while the Ruzizi River offers a scenic low point at 920 meters.

Nyungwe Forest National Park – A Pristine Montane Rainforest

Situated in southwestern Rwanda, on the borders with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nyungwe Forest National Park stands as a testament to the best-preserved montane rainforest in Central Africa. Established in 2004, this park covers an expansive 970 square kilometers, embracing a mosaic of rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps, and bogs.

Understanding Apes: Rwanda’s Pinnacle Primate Attraction

Apes, members of the superfamily Hominoidea, encompass captivating species such as orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and humans. In Rwanda, two illustrious apes take center stage in its renowned national parks: Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Mountain Gorillas – Majestic Giants of the Highlands

Gorillas, the largest living primates, are subdivided into species like the eastern gorillas, western gorillas, cross river gorillas, and the iconic mountain gorillas. In Rwanda, the mountain gorilla’s habitat spans the higher altitudes of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in Congo. Distinguished by thicker and longer fur, mountain gorillas thrive in colder temperatures.

Chimpanzees – Charismatic Denizens of the Forest

Chimpanzees, the second-largest living primates, are subdivided into four subspecies. Rwanda boasts the presence of the eastern chimpanzee, central chimpanzee, Cameroon-Nigerian chimpanzee, and West African chimpanzee. These captivating creatures are adorned with coarse hair, retaining coverage across their bodies except for the face, fingers, toes, palms, and soles of the feet. As they age, chimpanzees shed more hair, developing distinct bald spots.

Optimal Timing for a Rwanda Adventure

While Rwanda warmly welcomes tourists throughout the year, the prime months for an unforgettable experience are June to August and December to February. These periods promise ideal weather conditions. Even during the rainy seasons in March-May and September-November, visitors can still embark on mountain gorilla treks as the rain does not persist throughout the day.

Embark on Rwanda Ape trekking safaris & tours, immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of this East African gem. Whether captivated by mountain gorillas or charmed by chimpanzees, Rwanda invites you to witness the wonders of its remarkable ape kingdom.