Embarking on a gorilla safari in Rwanda requires meticulous planning, and Trek Africa Expeditions stands as your premier safari operator, offering invaluable insights into Rwanda Gorilla Safari Booking Information. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, acclaimed as the premier gorilla tracking destination in Africa, sets the stage for an unforgettable journey, demanding careful preparation before venturing into its lush wilderness.
Issued by the Rwandan government through the Rwanda Development Board, gorilla permits are made available to registered tour operators, including Trek Africa Expeditions. Securing your Rwanda gorilla tracking permit involves booking through a local tour operator, ensuring a seamless process.
Permits can be obtained from the main offices of the Rwanda Development Board in Kigali or Musanze. Tour operators, like Trek Africa Expeditions, facilitate the process, providing scanned copies for your records after payment. While permits are available year-round, advance booking is essential due to limited daily availability (88 permits daily).
With an age limit of 15 years and above, gorilla permits are individual, ensuring a maximum of 88 tourists can witness mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park each day. The permit includes park entrance and one hour of captivating mountain gorilla viewing.
The cost of a Rwanda gorilla permit is $1500 USD, and while permits are non-refundable, they can be transferred to a later date. A critical point of clarification is that permits do not encompass a park extension beyond their validity.
Habituated mountain gorillas pose no threat, but wild gorillas encountered on trails can be dangerous. Armed personnel accompany treks for added safety. While the desire to touch or feed gorillas may arise, strict guidelines prohibit such actions for both safety and wildlife conservation.
Wearing appropriate attire for gorilla tracking is crucial, and guides recommend suitable clothing. Transport to the trekking point involves a 4×4 safari jeep facilitated by your safari guide. In case of physical limitations during tracking, porters can assist on a sedan chair for an additional fee.
Proceeds from gorilla permits contribute to the national park and communities, with 15% of each permit supporting local development. Communities themselves pay to see mountain gorillas, fostering a sustainable approach to tourism.
While no safari lodges are within the park, various lodging options, ranging from budget to luxury, are available nearby. Trek Africa Expeditions can provide tailored recommendations based on your preferences and budget.
Volcanoes National Park offers more than just gorilla trekking. Golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, and the Dian Fossey grave hike broaden your wildlife adventure.
Rwanda’s dedication to gorilla conservation is evident in the steady growth of the gorilla population. The park remains open year-round, with ideal trekking conditions during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February.
While rain during trekking can’t halt the experience, you might be granted a shelter break. Volcanoes National Park is home to various wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, golden monkeys, duickers, and diverse monkey species.
Adhering to Rwanda’s plastic restrictions, it’s advisable to carry at least 2 liters of water in reusable canisters. After gorilla viewing, the return is mandatory, though those seeking extended forest time can request a longer hike.
In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, the captivating mountain gorillas thrive, with an estimated 300 individuals. The trek’s difficulty depends on the gorilla family’s location, and with armed guards, the park remains safe for all.
Through Trek Africa Expeditions, your gorilla trek is crafted with expertise and a focus on conservation. Trackers and guides employ early morning strategies to locate gorilla families, ensuring a unique, once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
With an unwavering commitment to responsible tourism, Trek Africa Expeditions ensures your journey aligns with sustainable practices. Your participation directly contributes to gorilla conservation and community development, making each trek a meaningful adventure. Embark on a Rwanda gorilla safari with Trek Africa Expeditions – where conservation, adventure, and unforgettable memories converge.