September 16, 2025 | Bujo Safaris
Gorilla Trekking is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in Africa, offering visitors a chance to create unforgettable memories. Every year, thousands of travellers visiting Rwanda come to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda is done in the Volcanoes National Park, which is part of the greater Virunga Mountains, where mountain gorillas live.
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s prime gorilla trekking destination, located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, covering an area of about 160 sq km, and is home to the world’s largest mountain gorillas and other animal species such as the golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, giant forest hogs, bushbucks, duikers, spotted hyenas, black-fronted duikers, bush pigs, side-striped jackals, mongoose, serval cats, genets, tree hyraxes, bats, several primates such as vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and colobus monkeys.
The park also consists of a variety of bird species such as the Ruwenzori turaco, handsome francolin, Archer’s ground robin, dusky crimsonwing, red-faced woodland warbler, collared Apalis, strange weaver, Ruwenzori double-collared sunbird, Kivu ground thrush, Ruwenzori batis, Shelley’s crimsonwing, Grauer’s swamp warbler, white-tailed blue flycatcher, mountain masked Apalis, blue-headed sunbird, yellow-eyed black flycatcher, lagden’s bush shrike, African long-eared owl, black kite, paradise flycatcher, cinnamon-chested bee-eater, and crowned hornbill.
Many people planning a gorilla trekking safari ask how long gorilla trekking takes and the time it usually begins. It is important to understand the exact time the gorilla trekking experience begins, the trekking process, the costs of a gorilla trekking permit, the best time to embark on a gorilla trekking safari and all you need to know about gorilla trekking in Rwanda, and this article takes you through all of it.
Officially, gorilla trekking begins in the early morning hours, usually at 7:00 am to 8:00 am. Therefore, Visitors on a gorilla trekking safari are expected to be at the park headquarters in Kinigi, where registration and briefing happen before embarking on the actual gorilla trekking. The briefing usually starts at 7:30 and is done by the park rangers, who highlight the rules and regulations to follow while trekking to the mountain gorillas.
After the briefing, groups depart between 8:00 am and 8:30 am to start the actual trekking into the dense forest. During this time, gorillas are most active, feeding before they rest in the afternoon, and therefore, it is the perfect time. Visitors planning a gorilla trekking safari are encouraged to book nearby accommodation facilities to avoid inconveniences on the gorilla trekking day.
Actual Gorilla Trekking: After the briefing, Visitors embark on the actual gorilla trekking expedition with the help of the ranger and guide who provide help in clearing the way with a machete and leading the way in search of mountain gorillas. Once the gorillas are found, visitors are allowed to spend 1 hour in their presence as they watch them up close and learn more about their behaviours and lifestyle.
The length of a gorilla trekking experience depends on the location of the assigned gorilla family. Some gorilla families can be found within 1 or 2 hours of walking, while others may take four to six hours or even longer. The Gorilla Trekking Experience includes hiking through thick forests and sometimes climbing hills.
On average, a gorilla trekking experience lasts between 2 to 6 hours, including the actual 1 hour that is spent fully in the presence of mountain gorillas as you observe the young ones play, see the adults feed, and take memorable photographs.
A gorilla Trekking permit costs USD 1500 for foreign non-residents, USD 500 for foreign residents, USD 200 for East African citizens and USD 200 for Rwandan citizens. While the costs seem to be expensive, the costs include park entry fees, professional guides and rangers, tracking team support, one full hour with the gorillas, security during the trek, conservation contribution, community support, briefing and orientation session. Visitors are always advised to book their gorilla trekking permit in advance to secure the availability of these permits.
Rwanda boasts a variety of accommodation facilities near Volcanoes National Park that offer various choices for every traveller. These accommodation facilities range from Luxury to more affordable facilities, depending on the choice and preference of the traveller. Some of the accommodation facilities are;
Bisate Lodge: One of Rwanda’s most famous luxury lodges, located near Volcanoes National Park. It offers spacious villas, breathtaking views of the volcanoes, world-class service, and a strong commitment to conservation and community development. Staying here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Singita Kwitonda Lodge: Another luxury choice, with private suites, plunge pools, and elegant design. It sits on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, offering direct views of the mountains and is a perfect base for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel: A popular choice for those looking for comfort without spending too much. It has modern rooms, a swimming pool, and good dining options. The lodge also has well-trained personnel who work as chefs, guides and drivers.
Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge: Built with eco-friendly materials, this lodge offers a warm and natural feel. It is located close to the park headquarters, making it very convenient for trekkers.
Hotel Muhabura: A historic and affordable lodge in Musanze town. It offers basic but comfortable rooms and has a restaurant serving local and international meals.
Kinigi Guest House: Located near the park, this guesthouse is affordable and often used by budget travellers who want easy access to the trekking starting point.
Embarking on a gorilla trek requires preparedness to ensure that one enjoys a safe and successful gorilla trekking experience. Some of the packing list include lightweight waterproof hiking boots, breathable long-sleeved shirts, breathable long trousers, light rain jacket, poncho, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, cotton t-shirts, quick-dry socks, lightweight sweater, fleece jacket, scarf, backpack, drinking water, energy snacks, garden gloves and an insect repellent.
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