Gorilla Families in Rwanda. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to approximately 12 habituated mountain gorilla families that are available for trekking by visitors. Each family offers a unique experience, with varying group sizes and characteristics.
Gorilla Families in Rwanda
The park hosts around 12 habituated gorilla families, including:
Susa A: Known for its large size and historical significance, as it was studied by Dian Fossey. This group is considered one of the more challenging treks due to its location in the higher elevations of the park.
Sabyinyo: Led by the powerful silverback Guhonda, this group is one of the most accessible, often found on the lower slopes of Mount Sabyinyo, making it suitable for those seeking a less strenuous trek.
Amahoro: Meaning “peace” in Kinyarwanda, this group is known for its gentle demeanour. The trek to Amahoro can be moderately challenging but rewarding.
Agashya: This group is known for its dynamic nature and has a history of moving across different areas, offering a varied trekking experience. Each group offers a distinct experience, and the allocation to a particular group is typically done by park authorities on the day of the trek, considering factors like fitness levels and group sizes.
Duration of Gorilla Trekking
The duration of a gorilla trek in Rwanda can vary significantly. Trekking Time: The hike to locate a gorilla family can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the group’s location on that day. Time with Gorillas: Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour observing them. Overall Experience: Including briefing and the trek itself, the entire experience can last between 2 to 8 hours.
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth $1,500?
The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500 per person. While this is a significant investment, many travellers find the experience invaluable due to conservation efforts. A substantial portion of the permit fee goes towards the conservation of mountain gorillas and their habitat. Community Support: Funds also support local communities, providing education and infrastructure, which fosters a positive relationship between residents and wildlife conservation.
Unique Experience: Observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a rare and profound experience that few other wildlife encounters can match. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, neighbouring Uganda offers gorilla trekking permits at a lower cost, though the experience may differ in terms of terrain and accessibility.
Rwanda Visa Fee Upon Arrival
Travellers to Rwanda can obtain a visa upon arrival:
Single Entry Visa: Valid for 30 days at a fee of $50.
Multiple Entry Visa: Valid for 90 days at a fee of $70.
Citizens of countries with visa waiver agreements, including members of the African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie, may enter Rwanda without a visa.
Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Physical Preparation: Engage in regular exercise before your trip to handle the potentially strenuous hike.
Proper Gear: Wear sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing, and bring rain gear, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
Health Precautions: Ensure you’re in good health, as gorilla trekking can be demanding, and maintaining a safe distance from gorillas is crucial to prevent disease transmission.
Respect Guidelines: Follow the instructions provided during the pre-trek briefing to ensure both your safety and that of the gorillas.
Embarking on a gorilla trek in Rwanda is not just a wildlife encounter; it’s a contribution to the preservation of a critically endangered species and their ecosystem.
