Where To Do Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda?
Where To Do Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda?
Where To Do Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda? Rwanda which is often referred to as the “land of thousand hill,” is one of Africa’s most extraordinary safari destinations for gorilla trekking. famous for its beautiful landscapes, conservation success, Rwanda offers a memorable african safari experience. Tourists searching for a rare unique wildlife safari. contrary to other safari experiences that take place on the open savannah plains, gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes you to the misty mountain forests where you hike through the rich vegetation to have an encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas within their natural habitat.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is carried out in volcanoes national park which is part of the larger Virunga conservation area which spreads from Rwanda, Uganda and the democratic republic of Congo.
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Volcanoes national park known as parc national des volcans is situated in the north western province of Rwanda among the towering, mist shrouded Virunga mountains. The national park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Volcanoes national park is one of the oldest national parks in Africa and the ancient rainforest is the origin of african conservation as well as the greatest destination for gorilla trekking safaris, birdwatching and hiking tours among others.
Volcanoes national park was established in 1925 by the Belgian colonial authorities as part of the larger albert national park. it was gazetted to protect the endangered mountain gorillas from poaching. The national park was divided into the democratic republic of Congo’s Virunga national park and Rwanda’s volcanoes national park in 1960 after their independence.
In 1967, American primatologist Dr Dian Fossey came to the national park because of the insecurity in the democratic republic of Congo and made the forest into her home. She then established Karisoke research centre between mount Karisimbi and mount Bisoke to study the endangered mountain gorillas. Her conservation work brought the mountain gorillas to the world and contributed directly to their survival. Dian Fossey was killed by the poachers and was buried next to her favourite silverback Digit. Therefore, a hike to her grave and the remains of the Karisoke research centre is a strong reflection journey into her legacy.
Gorilla families in volcanoes national park
Volcanoes national park has 10 habituated mountain gorilla families where 8 permits are allocated to each group thus making 80 permits per day. Every group within the park has something different to offer in terms of size, dominance and character among others. These include;
· Susa gorilla family
· Sabyinyo gorilla family
· Amahoro gorilla family
· kwitonda gorilla family
· Agashya gorilla family
· Umubano gorilla family
· Karisimbi gorilla family
· Hirwa gorilla family
· Bwenge gorilla family
· Titus gorilla family
THE GORILLA TREKKING EXPERIENCE
Gorilla trekking experience in volcanoes national park is a more rewarding adventure one can have while on an african safari.
1. Briefing
The gorilla trekking experience starts early morning at the park headquarters in kinigi. Tourists come together for a briefing which is carried out by skilled park rangers. The briefing prepares the trekkers both mentally and physically for the trek.
Tourists are then divided into small groups of 8 people and are allocated a particular habituated gorilla family and a trained ranger. The skilled ranger explains the strict rules and regulations for the gorilla trekking and how to behave when the gorilla comes close such as remaining calm and avoid direct eye contact with the silverback gorilla. The briefing stage sets the pace for the whole african safari which emphasises respect for wildlife.
2. The hike
After the briefing, tourists are taken to the start point for the trek. Escorted by the park guides, trackers and at some point, the armed rangers, you will enter the dense forest in search of the gorillas.
While on the trek, you will go through the dense vegetation, bamboo forests, steep volcanic slopes and open clearings. The trek takes 1 to 7 hours depending on the location of the mountain gorillas. Some of the treks are easy and short while others may require more patience. The hike is more rewarding as it offers close encounter with nature and beautiful views of Rwanda’s famous landscapes.
3. The encounter
After many hours of trekking, there is an hour of anticipation when the rangers signal that the gorillas are so close. At that point, trekkers are told to move quietly and prepare for the most amazing and memorable moments of the Rwanda safari.
Once the gorillas are spotted, tourists are allowed to spend an hour observing them. The time is strictly regulated in order to reduce the disturbance and protect the gentle giants. While on the encounter, tourists will observe gorillas feeding on leaves, shoots and fruits, mother gorillas nurturing and grooming their infants, young gorillas playing, climbing and rolling on the floor of the forest and the dominant silverback keeping order and watching over his gorilla family.
Sometimes the gorilla may tend to approach you out of inquisitiveness. When this happens, stay calm, avoid sudden movements and follow the guides instructions to avoid more danger from the gorilla. This moment is frequently called an emotional, humbling and a life changing experience, making it a highlight of a Rwanda wildlife safari.
4. Return
Mountain Gorilla
After the one hour encounter, the guide signals the trekkers that its time to leave. It may feel like a brief encounter but the limitation is important for the conservation of the national park. tourists get time to reflect on the experience and share stories with other trekkers and as well appreciate the beauty of the forest as they go back.
The best time to visit volcanoes national park
Gorilla trekking within volcanoes national park can be carried out all year round although the dry season is considered to be the best time to visit. The dry months are June to September and December to February and are known as the peak months for tourists planning a rewarding african safari
The dry season is perfect because the trekking trails in volcanoes are less muddy and less slippery thus making the hike through the forest more easier especially on the steep volcanic slopes.
The rainy season is also unique and offers a different but rewarding african safari experience. This is in the months of march to May and October to November. During this season, the park has a bright green paradise with thick vegetation, flourishing plants and beautiful landscapes.
Gorilla trekking within volcanoes national park is a unique experience irrespective of when you decide to visit. Even though you choose the dry season for comfort or the rainy season for the rich beauty and fewer crowds, each and every season provides something unique.
