Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda

Parc National des Volcans | Rwanda

Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda is centred on the Parc National des Volcans - representing the Rwandan section of the Virunga Volcanoes. The Virungas are home to 3 extinct and 6 active volcanoes – jagged mountain peaks are linked by swathes of fertile forest, often shrouded in mist: one of East Africa’s most memorable and stirring sights.

The Virungas are home to around 350 mountain gorillas, and the chance to track habituated groups in the wild is the reason that most travel to this area. However there is a wealth of other wildlife in the park and a number of fantastic experiences on offer that warrant a stay of several days...

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Gorilla Trekking | Parc National des Volcans | Rwanda

Additional Information

Gorilla Tracking

The sense of adventure is palpable as you begin your trek in search of the park’s hairy inhabitants. Trekking can be exhausting work – not only is the ground underfoot often wet, but you also have to contend with altitudes in excess of 2500m above sea level. But every step is worth the effort. Getting up close with these gentle giants is truly exhilarating! Once you’ve reached your troop, you will have one magical hour to spend with them – don’t spend all of it behind the lens of your camera!

Inside the Park

Other activities on offer inside the Parc des Volcans include: tracking the rare Golden Monkey in the wild; hiking up Bisoke Volcanoe for a challenge andone awesome view; a hike to the grave of Dian Fossey (see below); general nature walks.

Dian Fossey

The Park National des Volcans is perhaps best known to the outside world for American primatologist Dian Fossey and the study into gorilla behaviour she undertook here. Fossey was brutally murdered in 1985, but Gorillas in the Mist, the film made about her life and work, generated exceptional interest in gorilla tracking and conservation. It is possible to visit her grave on a separate trek into the park.

Local Activities

A Visit to the Twin Lakes
You will have the opportunity to discover the impressive landscape at the twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo. The two lakes used to be connected until a lava eruption at Mt. Sabinyo divided them into two. A hike to the lakes will give you an introduction to traditional sustainable farming methods with African vegetables and fruits. At the lakes you will meet some local fishermen and see how they make a living from the lake. You can even have a fishing competition with children from the adjacent villages! Take to the water in a traditional canoe to Birwa Island and meet those living on the island for a hosted lunch.
Duration: 5-6 hours

Orphanage visit
Here you will meet the nuns and teachers looking after orphans from the 1994 genocide, as well as the chance to meet and play with the children. Of all ages, they always enjoy entertaining visitors and this project is often supported by our clients after their return home.
Duration 2 -3 hours

Dutere Imbere - Meet the Batwa
Traditional Rwandese dances accompanied by beautiful voices expect you at the Batwa community. Enjoy half an hour performance and afterwards experience their basic way of living by visiting their huts. The Batwa is the third ethnic group of Rwanda – today numbering around 22-25,000 – and originally lived as hunter-gatherers in the high mountain forests. As the forests were felled and parks established the Batwa were displaced. This group now lives at the foot of Mt. Gahinga. Complete the day with a beautiful stroll downhill through fields and villages back to Ruhengeri.
Duration: 1-2 hours

Itabaza Ry’ Amahoro - Crafts made of banana-leaves
Traditional crafts made of banana leaves are a very special Rwandese souvenir you can take home, especially when you create them on your own. This opportunity is provided to you by a small community near Musanze (Ruhengeri). Friendly locals are willing to show you the mysteries of producing baskets, shoes, bags, mats or even chairs. Not only that you can take your self-created craft home, the community also provides a huge assortment of products to buy.
Duration: 2-3 hours