FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
The Virunga mountains in Rwanda are famous for to be a home of to over 40 mountain gorillas which is half of the world’s big population and some of these gorillas where discovered in the neighboring Bwindi Impenetrable Park. There are ten gorilla families that have been habituated for viewing by tourists and they are a must see. The mountain gorillas in Virunga move in a big group including babies, juveniles and the mothers.
Planning your Gorilla trekking safari.
The fact remain that gorillas can be tracked all around the year in Rwanda therefore as a tourist, feel free and ready for you expeditious safari. During the rainy seasons in the republic of Rwanda in April- May and November you are required to carry a rain jacket, walking boots and warm clothes. Its quiet hard to predict weather in Africa because it can rain anytime.
How and when to secure a Gorilla Permit.
Securing a permit, you need to use a reliable tour company which will arrange for you. The permits cost UD 750 and only 80 permits are issued each day for the different gorilla groups though the money seems to be a lot, it is very rewarding to see these gorillas.
Conditions required for Gorilla tracking
As a tracker, you must be physically fit since is the only way you will enjoy the hike as you move through the forest, searching for the gorillas. Some breaks are given as you walk along the walk which enables you to catch a breath. In case you feel so tired and you cannot continue you may hire a porter at a fee. During the walk, some gorilla groups are close and can be seen within 30 minutes though this depends on the one assigned guide.
What is expected on your Gorilla Safari?
You will require an early morning breakfast then head to the park head quarters in Kiningi village for briefing about the rules and regulations that govern gorilla trekking in Rwanda. After you have been assigned a gorilla group to track by the ranger you will be required to move to the forest and it is quiet strenuous although rewarding to you as a trekker.
What is required to be packed for your Gorilla Safari/ Tour
You will only enjoy your trek by packing the right safari/tour clothes which include Khaki clothes, jeans, long and short sleeved shirts, walking boots, sandals, Gloves, Rain jacket, sweater, socks and a safari hat. The trails are muddy sometimes or slippery and do need strong walking shoes. You will also need a walking stick to support you as you walk on the steep slopes of the mountain.
What is the best time to take photos when you are in the field?
Tourists/visitors who come to track gorillas want to remain with good memories. A camera is a must to carry and make sure that it is fully charged or have extra batteries. You must take magical pictures that will remind you of an adventurous safari you had in Rwanda. As a tourist, you will be kindly required to switch off your flash light when taking photos since it disturbs gorillas and they decide to walk away. Since these areas are rain forest, you need to take care of your camera and these needs to be protected. The park is known to have 10 gorilla families for tracking including; Agashya, Amahoro, Sabyino, Umubano, Susa, Karisimbi, Hirwa, Kwitonda, Bwenge as well as Uganda group of gorillas. All these gorilla groups are exciting thus take adventure with the Mountain Gorillas of Volcano National park in the Republic of Rwanda.
