Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda-Gorilla Safaris, Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences on Earth. Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Rwanda offers the chance to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat, an encounter that is both humbling and deeply moving.

The Gorilla Trekking Adventure is exceptional giving you a chance to trek and explore the majestic Mountain Gorillas in their natural bamboo forest vegetation habitat.

Where to Trek Gorillas in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans)

Located in the northwestern part of the country, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s exclusive destination for gorilla trekking. The park spans over 160 km² and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which extends into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Volcanoes National Park is home to about 12 habituated gorilla families available for trekking.

Gorilla Trekking in the Park

Gorilla Trekking is the most prominent safari adventure done in the park and this offers you a chance to trek and watch the rare species of Mountain Gorillas in their natural forest vegetation habitat. The Gorilla Trekking Adventure includes you transferring you to the Park headquarters in kinigi where you are welcomed by park ranger guides who take you through precise briefing on conduct around the Mountain Gorillas then later you shall be led to the starting points where you leave from to enter the green forest to trek the Gorillas for a period of 3 to 5 hours. After a while, you shall meet the Gorillas and stay in their presence taking many photos to keep for a period of one hour. After trekking the Gorillas, you shall depart.

To Trek the Mountain gorillas in Rwanda, you are required to have a valid Gorilla Trekking Permit which costs US $1500 per person interested in trekking the rare species of Gorillas. The Permit is attained from the Rwanda Development Board.

Other things to do in the Park

Golden Monkey Trekking

Other than Gorilla Trekking, travelers on safari in Rwanda can go Golden Monkey Tracking in the forest vegetation. You shall proceed to the Kinigi Park Headquarters where you get briefed on the conduct around the Golden Monkeys then later he shall allocate you into groups of 8 with lead park ranger guides. You shall transfer to the starting points where you leave from to enter the forest, to track the Golden Monkeys for 2 to 4 hours.

Follow various trails from one point to another watching many Golden Monkeys as they jump from one tree branch to another. Take various photos to keep with you then after you shall proceed back to the lodge.

To Trek the Golden Monkey sin Rwanda, you are required to have a valid Golden Monkey Tracking Permit which costs US $100 per person interested in trekking the Golden Monkeys. The Permit is attained from the Rwanda Development Board.

Hiking Mount Bisoke (3,711 m)

Adventure to a crater lake on a dormant volcano.

  • Description: Day hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke

  • Highlights: Dense rainforest, panoramic views, crater lake at the top

  • Duration: ~6–8 hours round-trip

  • Cost: $75 USD for hiking permit (guide included)

  • Fitness Level: Moderate to challenging

Climbing Mount Karisimbi (4,507 m)

The tallest peak in the Virunga Range.

  • Type: 2-day overnight trek

  • Elevation Gain: Over 1,000 meters

  • Camping: Provided at ~3,700m elevation

  • Permit Cost: $400 USD (includes guides, porters extra)

  • Best for: Experienced hikers and adventure lovers

Nature & Birding Walks

Explore the lower forest and its rich biodiversity.

  • Birds: Over 200 species, including Rwenzori turaco and dusky crimsonwing

  • Other Wildlife: Bushbucks, chameleons, forest buffalo (rare)

  • Guide Required: Yes

Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village

A vibrant introduction to Rwandan culture.

  • Experience: Traditional dance, drumming, storytelling, and banana beer brewing

  • Community Involvement: Former poachers turned conservationists

  • Location: Just outside the park in Kinigi

  • Duration: 2–3 hours

Dian Fossey Tomb Hike & Karisoke Research Center

Walk in the footsteps of a conservation pioneer.

  • Hike: 2–3 hour trek to the former Karisoke Research Camp

  • Altitude: ~3,000 meters

  • Highlights: Dian Fossey’s grave, gorilla cemetery, conservation history

  • Permit Cost: $75 USD

  • Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections, muddy trails)

Best Time to Visit for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

  • Dry Seasons (Best for trekking)

    • June–September

    • December–February

  • Wet Seasons (Fewer tourists, lusher scenery):

    • March–May

    • October–November