Altitude for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Altitude for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: What You Need to Know

Are you dreaming of a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda and curious about the altitude? Rwanda is a premier destination for trekking mountain gorillas, with Volcanoes National Park being home to these incredible creatures. This park is part of the larger Virunga mountain range, which also includes Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The altitude for gorilla trekking in Rwanda ranges from 2,500 to 4,500 meters above sea level. Volcanoes National Park features gentle terrains with marked trails, though the trek can be physically demanding. Depending on the location of the gorillas, the hike can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day, up to 6-7 hours. It’s important to prepare by being in good physical shape for this adventure.

Where Does Gorilla Trekking Take Place in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda occurs at Volcanoes National Park, located in the far northwest of the country. This park is home to endangered mountain gorillas and is known for its rich vegetation, including bamboo forests and open grasslands. Trekking in Volcanoes National Park takes place once a day, with only eight visitors allowed to visit a specific gorilla group.

Visitors begin their day at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices, where they receive a briefing on safety protocols and the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking. Afterward, you’ll be divided into groups and assigned a specific gorilla family to track. Depending on where the group is located, the trek can range from a short walk to several hours. Once you encounter the gorillas, you’ll be able to spend an hour with them, taking in the remarkable experience.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

To book a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, you’ll need to secure a permit through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in advance. After confirming your travel dates, contact Trek Africa Expeditions so we can check the availability of permits for your selected dates. Once permits are confirmed, we will send you an invoice for payment. After receiving the payment, we will immediately secure your permits and send you a scanned copy for your records.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Cost?

The cost of gorilla trekking in Rwanda includes the price of the gorilla permit, as well as additional services such as transport, accommodation, and guiding. The prices for the gorilla permits are as follows:

• USD 1,500 for foreign non-residents

• USD 500 for foreign residents

• USD 200 for East African citizens

These permits allow you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. In addition to the permit, you’ll also need to cover transportation, lodging, and the services of your guide.

For example, our 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda starts at USD 2,700 per person for two people sharing, and prices vary for solo travelers and small groups. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your preferences and group size.

When Is the Best Time to Book a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. During these months, the weather is milder, and the trails in Volcanoes National Park are easier to navigate. The vegetation is also less dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas and take photographs.

While you can trek year-round, the rainy season (April, May, and November) tends to bring heavier rainfall, resulting in more challenging conditions and longer treks. However, gorilla sightings are still highly likely, and the treks tend to be shorter, as the gorillas don’t travel as far for food during these months.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious safari retreats. Some top luxury lodges include Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, and Virunga Volcanoes Lodge, with prices ranging from USD 300 to USD 1,000 per night.

For mid-range options, you can stay at places like Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or Davinci Lodge, which offer comfortable stays with great access to the park.

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are several affordable options, including Kinigi Hotel, Hotel Muhabura, Gorilla Solution Lodge, and Villa Gorilla, which provide basic accommodations and camping options.

All lodges in Volcanoes National Park are equipped to host tourists, with safety protocols in line with Rwanda’s health and safety guidelines.

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is easily accessible by road. The drive from Kigali to the park takes about 2-3 hours, passing through Rwanda’s picturesque “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Your driver-guide will take you on a scenic route with stops for photographs and sightseeing along the way.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted local operator specializing in gorilla trekking and other wildlife safaris in Rwanda and Uganda. Our expert team is dedicated to providing unforgettable, eco-friendly safari experiences that support conservation efforts and local communities. We also offer safaris in other popular East African destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, and Congo DRC, partnering with top-rated local operators to ensure the best possible service.

We’re passionate about sustainable tourism and preserving nature, which is why we carefully design our tours to respect the environment and local cultures. We’re also proud members of TripAdvisor, with excellent reviews from our satisfied clients.

Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda and make lasting memories with these incredible creatures!