Rwanda Gorilla Tracking & Wildlife Safaris

Rwanda Gorilla Tracking & Wildlife Safaris: A Journey of Natural Wonders

In the heart of East Africa, Rwanda stands as one of the remarkable countries where gorillas can be encountered, alongside Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If you seek the thrill of gorilla tracking and wish to immerse yourself in the beauty of this region’s wildlife, then Rwanda is your destination of choice. In Rwanda, this adventure unfolds in the captivating landscapes of Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park, and Trek Africa Expeditions is your premier safari operator to guide you through this awe-inspiring journey.

Volcanoes National Park is the focal point of your gorilla tracking adventure, offering a unique opportunity to witness the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This park is home to over 300 mountain gorillas, forming 11 habituated gorilla families that welcome tourists with open arms. Let Trek Africa Expeditions be your trusted guide on this incredible journey.

Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, presents a diverse landscape. With its woodlands, swamps, low mountains, and savannah, it is a sanctuary for an array of wildlife. The southern part of the park features Lake Ihema, where hippos and crocodiles thrive.

Attractions and Things to Do in Akagera National Park:

• Boat Trips: For a unique safari experience, consider embarking on a boat trip on Lake Ihema. Drift through the picturesque landscape, where you’ll find yourself amidst hippos and crocodiles. Bird enthusiasts will find this boat trip to be an absolute must, with outings available at 7.30am, 9am, 3pm, and 4.30pm. Private trips can also be arranged upon request.
• Fishing: Lake Shakani in Akagera National Park is an ideal spot for sport fishing. Spend a relaxing day by the lake, fishing from its shores, and later, enjoy cooking your catch over an open fire at your campsite. Be sure to bring your own fishing equipment.
• Behind the Scenes: Gain a deeper understanding of Akagera through a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of the park headquarters. Here, you will meet the dedicated employees who play a vital role in park management while learning about their conservation efforts and exciting developments.
• Night Drives: Experience the park’s wildlife from a different perspective during guided night drives, starting at sunset. This is your best opportunity to spot nocturnal creatures, including lions and leopards, two of the most coveted sightings in the wild. The park’s safari vehicle accommodates up to seven guests for these captivating night drives.
• Walk the Line: Step into the shoes of Akagera’s fence attendants, who walk a segment of the 120-kilometer perimeter fence each day to ensure it remains intact and operational. This walk along the park’s exterior, which begins at the park entrance, spans approximately seven kilometers and leads you into the hills. Upon reaching the end, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views in all directions. The walks, led by freelance community guides, take around two hours.
• Community Cultural Experiences: Collaborating with local communities, Trek Africa Expeditions offers various cultural experiences for you to explore. Discover the art of milking cows and traditions related to cattle and milk on a farm in the Eastern Province, or spend time with artisans crafting banana beer and honey, gaining insights into local production. The revenues generated from these visits are shared with the communities you have the chance to meet.
• Camping: For travelers planning camping safaris, it’s advisable to bring your camping equipment. For more information on what to pack, feel free to inquire with Trek Africa Expeditions.

Top Activities & Attractions in Volcanoes National Park:

• Mountain Gorilla Tracking: Your Rwanda gorilla tracking and wildlife safaris must include an encounter with these majestic creatures. Volcanoes National Park is home to 10 habituated gorilla families available for trekking. It forms part of the great Virunga Massif, shared with Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. All gorilla permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board.
• Golden Monkey Trekking: Another must-do activity in Volcanoes National Park is the trek to observe the golden monkeys, a unique and extraordinary experience for every traveler. Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the only places where you can witness golden monkeys in their natural habitat.
• Volcano Climbing: Beyond the wildlife, Volcanoes National Park is also known for its three extinct volcanoes. Travelers have the opportunity to hike to the summits, where they’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, Kigali city, the Virunga volcanoes, and local communities. The most popular volcano for hiking is Mt. Karisimbi, and the experience is well worth the journey.
• Musanze Caves: When visiting Volcanoes National Park, be sure to explore the Musanze caves. Experienced guides will lead you through these mysterious underground passages, sharing the secrets, history, and fascinating facts about Rwanda.
• Cultural Tours: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting places like the Iby’wacu Cultural Village. Other activities include bird watching, exploring the Twin Lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo, and much more.
• Karisoke Gorilla Research Laboratory: For those with a keen interest in primate research, Rwanda hosts the prestigious Karisoke Gorilla Research Laboratory, established by the world-renowned primatologist Diana Fossey.

Choosing the Optimal Time for Your Rwanda Adventure

Rwanda warmly welcomes tourists throughout the year, yet the best months to visit are often during the dry season. This season, typically occurring between June and August and from December to February, is ideal for travelers. However, it’s crucial to be aware that European summer holidays take place from June to late September, which can lead to high demand for gorilla permits and accommodations. To secure a seamless journey, advanced bookings are highly recommended.

Embark on your Rwanda gorilla tracking and wildlife safaris with the assurance of secured gorilla permits through Trek Africa Expeditions. Your Rwanda adventure awaits, and we are here to make it unforgettable. Contact us today to begin your journey.