This is a Gorilla trekking experience with a kingly treat; once in a lifetime adventure. It is one way of maximizing your travel experience with each passing hour. This activity is only offered in the continent of Africa where the Apes have adapted to the high altitude places. The Gorillas live around the Virunga chain of mountains which spans through Uganda, The Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Rwanda. Talking of a luxury Gorilla trekking experience, we will take you to Rwanda-“the land of a thousand Hills”
Rwanda; “the land of a thousand hills” is a beautiful tiny landlocked country, neighbored by the Republic of Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Uganda, and the Republic of Tanzania. The Luxury experience starts at Kigali; the capital city which is one of the smartest and cleanest cities in the continent of Africa.
The mountain Gorillas reside in 160 square kilometres of Volcanoes National Park in the northwestern part of Rwanda. This rainforest cover features 5 of the eight volcanic mountains of the Virunga ranges. These are; Mt Sabinyo, Mt Muhabura, Mt Gahinga, Mt Karisimbi and Mt Bisoke. You will access the park on a 4WD through a route marked by rolling hills, fast-growing towns and dotted homesteads. Two to three hours is the travel time with a warm welcome by the local natives of Musaze village.
There are about 10 habituated Gorilla families at Volcanoes National Park, and you will trek one of those. The trekking experience starts very early in the morning with a pre-trekking briefing for about 30 minutes by the experienced ranger Guides. They brief on the trekking dos and don’ts, assign a Gorilla group to trekkers and accompany them for a 1-8 hour trek. When you meet the Apes, you have an hour to watch them, take photos, ask the ranger guides questions, and relax. The hike is tedious but worth each effort and sacrifice.
Gorillas are shy but social creatures, huge in size, and are the most powerful in the primates’ world. Science says they possess a 98% human DNA, and a very social family structure led by an alpha male- a silverback. They feed on roots, fruits, stems, leaves, and certain insects.
Cost of Luxury Gorilla Trekking
Except for the accommodation, transport, and other services that might affect the travel cost; the trekking permit, which is complimentary is at 1500$ per person, aged 15 years and above. The permit can be purchased from the Rwanda development board, or through your tour operator organizing the travel experience. The cost covers the entrance fee, payment to the ranger guide, and a contribution to the communities living by the park. The trekking permit is for one-time use, and it is presented during the pre-trekking briefing session. We choose the best accommodation facilities in the park, with all the required necessities for a memorable experience.
Best time to go Gorilla trekking
Go Gorilla trekking in the dry parts of the year; in the months of June to September, and December to March when there is no/little rains that can inconvenience the hiking experience with plenty mud, abrupt down pour and more. What you need to book your trip at least six months in advance so as to secure excellent accommodation facilities, and amazing atmosphere. Gorilla trekking takes place in the morning hours of the day, deep in the lush Jungle guided by an expert ranger guide and porters who help with your bags, cameras and any other support you may require during the trekking experience.
What to carry for the Trip
Making a selection of what to carry on a safari is one big task when you don’t know where you are heading. But what about if we told you all that is needed is relevant packing? Depending on how long the trip lasts, you will need a Valid Gorilla trekking permit, waterproof hiking boots, warm clothes, a passport for identity, insect repellants, a professional camera, Binoculars (optional), long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, hand gloves, a hut to protect your head from heat or any other thing, water, yellow fever vaccine certificate if you are from the red-listed countries and more. Keep the packing easy and simple.
In conclusion, visit the Republic of Rwanda for a memorable Luxury Treat. A reunion with your cousins the Gorillas in their untouched territory. Spend the nights in classic lodges, and travel with the best. Get your booking done on time and wait for the day to explore the land of a thousand hills.
