Gorilla Trekking Volcanoes National Park: How is it Different?

Gorilla Trekking Volcanoes National Park: How is it Different?

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is, of course, different from doing it in Uganda or the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is an experience that brings travellers from all over the world, and the demand can be so high that permits sometimes sell out, leaving you wondering what makes it so special. At Rwanda Eco Company & Safaris, we help travellers understand what to expect before setting off on this remarkable journey. In this guide, we give you a rundown of what gorilla trekking in this specific park is like, including the terrain, weather, accommodation options, time spent trekking, and permit pricing, so you can plan your visit with a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

Where Is Volcanoes National Park?

Volcanoes National Park is in northern Rwanda, about a two and a half hour drive from Kigali, the capital city. It is part of the Virunga Mountains, a volcanic range shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The drive from Kigali is relatively straightforward, passing through Rwanda’s countryside and its familiar rolling hills. You can travel directly to Musanze or your lodge near the park, usually arriving with enough time to settle in before the following morning’s trek.

Read about Where to See Gorillas in Africa

What Is Gorilla Trekking Like?

Gorilla trekking Volcanoes National Park starts early. You report to the park headquarters in Kinigi at 7:00 a.m. for registration and a briefing before being assigned a gorilla family. You then head into the forest with park guides and trackers. The trek can take less than an hour or several hours, depending on where the gorillas are that morning. These are wild animals, and their location changes, so there is no fixed trekking duration.

The terrain is one thing worth preparing for. You may walk through muddy trails, climb steep slopes, and move through thick vegetation. The altitude can also make the trek more tiring than expected, even for travellers who are reasonably fit. Once you reach the gorillas, you spend one hour observing them. You may find them feeding, resting, grooming, or playing with one another. It is a relatively short time, but watching a gorilla family in its natural habitat is what makes the experience so memorable. Our in depth guide can keep you up to date with What To Expect on the Trekking Day.

What Is the Weather Like?

Volcanoes National Park has a cool, humid climate because of its altitude. It can rain at any time of year, even during the drier months, so waterproof clothing is useful regardless of your travel dates. The main dry periods are generally June to September and December to February. These months tend to provide less muddy trekking conditions, although the trails can still be slippery. The rainy seasons usually occur between March and May and again around October and November. The forest is particularly lush during these periods, but trekking can become more challenging.

You do not necessarily need to avoid the rainy season. It simply helps to arrive prepared with proper hiking boots, long clothing, and a waterproof jacket.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Volcanoes National Park?

The standard gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs USD 1,500 per person, with discounted permits available at USD 1,050 for eligible visitors during promotional periods. Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board and include one trek and one hour with a gorilla family. Discounted rates are subject to eligibility and availability, so confirm the applicable rate when booking.

At Rwanda Eco Company & Safaris, we can help you secure your permit and arrange your safari around your confirmed trekking date.

Read about Low Season Gorilla Permits in Rwanda.

Where Should You Stay?

There are several accommodation options around Volcanoes National Park, particularly in Musanze and near the park headquarters in Kinigi. You can choose from budget guesthouses, comfortable midrange lodges, and luxury properties overlooking the Virunga Mountains. The right choice depends on your budget and how much comfort you would like before and after the trek. We generally recommend staying in the area the night before gorilla trekking in volcanoes national park. Since the briefing starts at 7:00 a.m., this saves you from having to make an early morning drive from Kigali.

What Should You Pack?

What you pack for gorilla trekking Volcanoes National Park is much the same as what you would bring for Bwindi or Virunga in the DRC. Sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, long sleeved clothing, a waterproof jacket, and gardening gloves are useful for navigating forest vegetation. You can also bring a small backpack, drinking water, and a camera.

Porters are available to help carry your belongings and assist on difficult sections of the trail. Hiring one can make the trek more comfortable while supporting local livelihoods.

How Many Days Do You Need?

For gorilla trekking Volcanoes National Park alone, we recommend at least two days and one night in the Musanze area. Arriving the day before gives you time to settle in and prepare for the early morning start.

If you want to include golden monkey tracking, a conservation visit, or a hike, two to three nights would be more comfortable. You can also start your safari in Kigali with a city tour before heading north, depending on your arrival time and travel schedule.

At Rwanda Eco Company & Safaris, we organise private Rwanda safaris with a professional English or Fench speaking driver/guide and a private 4x4 safari vehicle. We can arrange permits, accommodation, transfers, and additional activities based on your itinerary.

Contact us to start planning your gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda.