Exploring Rwanda’s Breathtaking Gorilla Trekking Adventures
Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is not only a land of majestic landscapes but also a sanctuary for one of the world’s most impressive megafauna – the mountain gorilla. Trekking to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat is often described as a life changing experience, for good reason.
A Life-Changing Encounter
The highlight of any visit to Rwanda is the chance to embark on a gorilla trekking expedition in the Volcanoes National Park. The anticipation builds from the previous evening when you get your hiking gear ready and perhaps attend a talk at your lodge, to learn more about mountain gorillas and their protection. Early the next morning, theory melts into reality when you encounter these magnificent animals up close.
Your guide will take you to the park headquarters and speak to the park rangers about getting you into an appropriate group. Groups are formed based on your ability. Older and less fit guests are assigned gorilla families closer to the bottom of the mountain, and those who are fitter might be assigned a group that will trek deep into the thick forest and up the steep mountain side. Gorillas move over a large range and so having a group close by is not always guaranteed. If you have difficulties walking, porters are available to carry you up the mountainside.
Trackers who leave the gorilla families at their nest site late each afternoon head out at sunrise to catch up with their group, so their location is known. Your guide will drive you to the start of the trail, together with the park ranger. You may pay for a porter to carry your bag. Even if you don’t need the assistance, hiring a porter is a good way to support the local community.
As you hike through the dense bamboo forests, guided by experienced trackers, the anticipation builds with every step. And then, when you catch your first glimpse of a gorilla family going about their daily lives, the sense of awe is overwhelming. Watching these incredible creatures interact with each other, play, and care for their young is a truly humbling and unforgettable experience. My first sighting was of four huge silverbacks and a black back that sauntered straight past me, as if I didn’t exist. (Play the video at the end of this newsletter for that memorable first sighting). I spent one hour with the Agashya Family which numbered around 25, including a newborn, a blackback and four silverbacks. The time flew by and I wished I had bought two permits, one for the next day too!
Conservation and Community Impact
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is not only about tourism; it also plays a crucial role in gorilla conservation. The revenue generated from permits directly funds gorilla conservation projects and supports local communities. By providing sustainable livelihoods and promoting conservation education, Rwanda is ensuring that both gorillas and people can thrive together for generations to come.
Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure
If you’re considering a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda, it’s essential to plan ahead. Permits are limited and in high demand, so booking early is advisable. Additionally, be prepared for a challenging hike, as the terrain can be rough and the altitude high. However, the reward of standing face to face with a mountain gorilla in the wild makes every step worth it.
Embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda is not just a journey into the heart of Africa’s wilderness; it’s a chance to connect with nature in its purest form and play a part in ensuring the survival of an endangered species. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the misty mountains of Rwanda behind.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help and advice in planning a trip of a lifetime.
Happy travelling,
Diana and the Leopard Team
P.S. In 2022, The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, dedicated to gorilla conservation, opened just outside Volcanoes National Park. Here you’ll find the Conservation Gallery exhibition space with a desk displaying some of pioneering gorilla conservationist Dian Fossey’s original typed field notes (the basis for her book “Gorillas In The Mist”), from 1969. There are also photos of Rwandan conservation heroes, as well as of the many of the creatures that live in the forest. This modern, environmentally-sustainable research and education center also has a laboratory where gorilla-related research currently takes place, as well as classrooms and student accommodation.
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