Gorilla Trekking

Meet mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park with experienced local guides, tailored to your schedule.
Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda

Meet the Gentle Giants of the Virungas

Rwanda is one of only three countries where mountain gorillas live in the wild. Volcanoes National Park shelters habituated gorilla families that you can visit on a guided trek through bamboo forest and misty volcanic slopes.

It is a humbling encounter: silverbacks, playful youngsters and mothers with babies going about their day just metres away. Rwagasabo Safaris, founded in 2017 by Serge Placide, takes care of your permit, transfers and guiding.

  • Licensed Rwandan tour operator
  • Experienced and friendly local guides
  • Tailor-made around your dates and budget
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At a Glance

Gorilla Trekking Essentials

1 Hour with Gorillas

Time spent in the company of a habituated family.

Small Groups

A maximum of 8 visitors per gorilla family each day.

Volcanoes National Park

Around 2 to 3 hours by road from Kigali.

Year-round Trekking

Gorillas can be visited in every season.

Your Trek Day

How Gorilla Trekking Works

01

Early Briefing

We drive to the park headquarters at Kinigi, where rangers brief you and assign your gorilla family.
02

Trek the Forest

Walk through farmland, bamboo and montane forest with guides and trackers. Trek length varies.
03

Meet the Gorillas

Spend one magical hour observing and photographing the family from a respectful distance.
04

Return & Relax

Hike back with unforgettable memories, then transfer to your lodge or on to Kigali.
Permits & Booking

Secure Your Gorilla Permit

Gorilla permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and are limited each day, so booking early matters, especially in peak months: June to September and December to January.

Tell us your dates and group size. We check availability, secure your permit and plan your transfers and accommodation, so you can focus on the experience.

Check Availability

Your Permit Includes

  • Ranger guide fees and park entry
  • Pre-trek briefing
  • One hour with a gorilla family
  • Support for conservation and local communities
Permit rates are set by RDB and can change. Contact us for current pricing and availability.
Be Prepared

What to Pack & How to Behave

Packing List

  • Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
  • Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers
  • Light rain jacket
  • Gardening gloves for grip
  • Insect repellent and sunscreen
  • Camera (no flash) and spare battery
  • Water and energy snacks
  • A porter to help you and support local families

Trekking Etiquette

  • Minimum age to trek is 15 years
  • Keep about 7 metres from the gorillas
  • No flash photography
  • Do not trek if you have a cold or flu
  • Keep your voice low and move slowly
  • Never eat, drink or smoke near the gorillas
Why Us?

Why Trek with Rwagasabo Safaris

Expert Guides

Professional, friendly and experienced local guides.

Tailor-made Tours

Custom itineraries designed around your interests.

Safety First

Your safety and comfort are our top priority.

Responsible Tourism

We support conservation and local communities.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Treks range from an easy walk to a few hours on steep, muddy terrain at altitude. Moderate fitness is recommended. Tell us your fitness level and we will request a suitable gorilla family and suggest a porter.

Gorillas can be seen all year. The drier months, June to September and December to January, offer easier trails, but be prepared for rain at any time.

As early as possible. For peak months, book 6 to 12 months ahead. Permits cannot be reserved without payment, so send us your dates and we will check availability.

Permit rates are set by the Rwanda Development Board and can change, so please contact us for the current price and availability for your dates.

Gorilla families are assigned on the day, so you may trek with other visitors. For a private experience, ask us about booking out the remaining permits for a family.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is 15.

Please tell your guide. Anyone with a contagious illness may be refused by the rangers to protect the gorillas. Contact us before travel to discuss options.

Start Planning

Ready to Meet the Gorillas?

Tell us your dates and we will build your Rwanda gorilla trek around them.
Book a Tour
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