Set off on an extraordinary adventure with our Rwanda Road Trip Gorilla Tours, where you’ll delve deep into the heart of this captivating nation, exploring its breathtaking natural wonders and immersing yourself in its rich culture. The highlight of this remarkable journey is a thrilling trek to encounter the awe-inspiring Mountain Gorillas in the renowned Volcanoes National Park. Get ready to unlock the secrets of Rwanda, a land often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and let its profound history move your soul. Scroll down to explore the day-to-day route, complete with insightful travel tips to enhance your experience.
During your Rwanda Road Trip Gorilla Tour, you’ll spend two nights in the cozy embrace of a hotel nestled in the heart of Volcanoes National Park. On an average travel day, expect to spend approximately 5 hours on the road, including well-deserved stops for photographs and picnics. The road conditions are generally favorable, characterized by smooth asphalt, occasionally interrupted by potholes and speed bumps. It’s important to note that Rwanda enforces a maximum speed limit of 60km/h. For hassle-free offline navigation, consider downloading the Maps.me app on your smartphone before embarking on your journey.
If you’re dreaming of an encounter with the majestic Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, securing your Gorilla tracking permit is of paramount importance. It is strongly recommended to reserve these permits well in advance, as the Rwanda Development Board issues them only upon full cash payment (pre-booking is not an option). The cost of Gorilla Permits is USD 1500 per person per trek, with no seasonal discounts available. Trek Africa Expeditions, your trusted partner, can facilitate the acquisition of these permits once you’ve confirmed your trip with us. To do so, we’ll need the full names corresponding to your passport, nationality, date of birth, passport number for all individuals participating in the tracking, your preferred start date, and alternate dates in case your first choice is fully booked. It’s important to note that the minimum age for Gorilla tracking is 15 years old.
The enchanting Volcanoes National Park is conveniently located in the quaint village of Musanze, formerly known as Ruhengeri. It is easily accessible by public transport from Gisenyi, Kigali City, or the Kigali International Airport. The drive to Volcanoes National Park typically takes 2-3 hours, making it feasible to embark on Gorilla tracking on the same day and return to Kigali after the trek. To ensure you arrive at the National Park headquarters in Kinigi by 7:00 am, an early start is essential. It’s worth noting that there is no public transport available from Musanze to the National Park headquarters in Kinigi.
The allure of Rwanda for Gorilla tracking knows no seasonal boundaries; it’s an experience that can be savored throughout the year. However, for optimal conditions, consider planning your journey during the drier seasons, spanning from December to early March and from June to September. December to March ushers in a lengthy dry season, with temperatures occasionally soaring to 29 degrees Celsius. In contrast, the months of March to mid-May and July to September are characterized by rainfall. While Rwanda boasts favorable weather year-round, the dry season is particularly appealing. It offers a higher likelihood of rain-free treks through the lush rainforest, providing ideal hiking conditions. It’s prudent to pack waterproof clothing, even during these drier months, as the Equatorial climate can be unpredictable. Keep in mind that this period also marks the peak tourist season, potentially leading to higher prices for accommodations, car rentals, and other services.
On the flip side, travelers on a budget may find the wet season enticing. During this period, hotels often have low occupancy rates, translating into discounted rates for meals and lodging—an advantage worth considering. Furthermore, the demand for Gorilla permits diminishes, ensuring an exclusive and less crowded Gorilla tracking experience.
Prepare to embark on a transformative journey with our Rwanda Road Trip Gorilla Tours. Contact us today, and let the adventure begin as you explore the wonders of Rwanda, uncover its rich culture, and create cherished memories during your unforgettable encounter with the Mountain Gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.