2-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Volcanoes National Park

2-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Volcanoes National Park

This 2-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari is designed for visitors eager to track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northern part of Rwanda. This park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which also includes Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Volcanoes National Park

Covering an area of 160 square kilometers, Volcanoes National Park is bordered by Mgahinga National Park and Virunga National Park. Besides mountain gorillas, visitors can also spot golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and hyenas. The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga range: Karisimbi, Sabinyo, Muhabura, Bisoke, and Gahinga. Mountain climbing is a popular activity here, especially on Karisimbi and Bisoke. For those interested in primate safaris, golden monkey trekking is also a highlight.

Despite the higher cost of a gorilla tour in Rwanda, many choose to visit Volcanoes National Park due to its proximity to the capital city, Kigali. Visitors often find that safari bookings are more straightforward in Rwanda, with well-maintained roads and easier access to the gorillas compared to parks in Uganda and the DRC.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

• Morning:
  • A guide from Abunda Discoveries Uganda will pick you up at your hotel or the airport.
  • Start your tour in Kigali by visiting the Gisozi Genocide Memorial Site to learn about the 1994 genocide.
  • Explore local markets and other attractions in Kigali.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal in Kigali before heading to Volcanoes National Park.
• Afternoon:
  • Embark on a 2-3 hour drive to Volcanoes National Park.
  • Along the way, take in the stunning mountainous landscapes of Rwanda, famously known as “The Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Day 2: Gorilla Tracking and Departure

• Early Morning:
  • Have a quick breakfast and prepare for the day’s adventure.
  • Depart for the Kinigi Park Headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking at 7:00 AM. This session will cover the rules and requirements for trekking.
• Gorilla Trekking:
  • After the briefing, you can hire a porter and choose from ten habituated gorilla families to track.
  • The tracking may take anywhere from 2 to 7 hours, depending on the location of your chosen gorilla group.
  • Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend one hour observing them and taking photos. Follow your guide’s instructions and remain calm, especially if a gorilla approaches you.
• Return:
  • After your hour with the gorillas, trek back to the starting point where your guide will be waiting.
  • Return to your lodge to refresh before your guide/driver takes you back to Kigali, either to the airport or your hotel.

What to Pack for Gorilla Tracking

• Hiking boots
• Thick cotton gloves
• A raincoat
• Light snacks and mineral water
• Face masks

Tips for a Great Gorilla Trekking Experience

• Be in good physical shape.
• Wear appropriate footwear for difficult terrain.
• Be prepared for rain.
• Consider tipping your guides and rangers (around $10 per person is sufficient, payable in local currency).

Safari Package Includes

• A 4×4 safari vehicle
• An English-speaking private driver/guide
• Gorilla trekking permits
• Daily drinking water
• Lunch en route
• Pickup and drop-off in Kigali
• City tour of Kigali

Safari Package Excludes

• International flights
• Visas
• Activities not included in the itinerary
• Personal expenses like tips, beverages, wines, and insurance.

At Abunda Discoveries Uganda, we assist clients with arranging and clearly planning their safaris. We secure gorilla tracking permits on your behalf to ensure a smooth trip. Our services include arranging accommodation and transportation with knowledgeable driver-guides. Get in touch today! Visit us at www.abundadiscoveriesuganda.com. 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Volcanoes National Park