Planning a Gorilla Trekking Expedition in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda requires a permit booked months in advance, usually through the Rwanda Development Board or a licensed tour operator. You will fly into Kigali, spend a night there, and transfer to Volcanoes National Park for your trek, which typically takes about 4 to 6 hours total.
- Secure your permit immediately. Permits cost $1,500 per person per trek. These are strictly limited to 96 per day. Book these 6 to 9 months in advance via the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) website or a registered safari operator.
- Arrange ground transport. Kigali to Volcanoes National Park is a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. Arrange a private 4x4 vehicle with a driver through your lodge or a tour agency; public transport is not reliable for early morning trek briefings.
- Acclimatize in Kigali. Arrive in Kigali at least 24 hours before your trek. Use this time to finalize your permit paperwork and pick up any last-minute gear like gaiters or gardening gloves.
- Attend the morning briefing. Arrive at the Kinigi park headquarters by 7:00 AM. You will be assigned a gorilla family based on your fitness level; ensure you are honest about your hiking ability during this check-in.
- Do I need to be a professional hiker?
- No, but you should have a moderate level of fitness. Trekking can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on where the family moved overnight.
- Can I get a refund if I don't see the gorillas?
- The RDB has a very high success rate, but if you don't see them due to unforeseen circumstances, refunds are generally not provided.
- Are there age restrictions?
- Yes, you must be at least 15 years old to participate in a gorilla trek.