From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch

Rwanda is a land of lush greenery and is home to one of the most magnificent creatures on Earth, the endangered mountain gorilla. If you’re planning a visit to Rwanda and want to experience the vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the incredible opportunity to safely interact with these gentle giants, then the From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch is an unmissable experience for you. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with all the vital details about this tour, answer some frequently asked questions, and give you an insight into what you can expect on this incredible excursion.

What is the From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch?

The From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch is a full-day guided tour that takes you deep into the mountains of the Northern Province of Rwanda to the Volcanoes National Park, which is home to several families of mountain gorillas. This exclusive tour will provide you with an opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures, and see them in their natural habitat. You will receive a briefing by an experienced guide who will explain the details of the trek, and then lead you through the lush greenery that covers the mountainside. The trek can be challenging, but the experience of being in such close proximity to these amazing animals is worth every step.

What can you expect on this tour?

On the From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch, you can expect a thrilling adventure. You will be picked up from your hotel in Kigali and transferred to the Volcanoes National Park. After a briefing, you will embark on the trek, which can take between 1-4 hours depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find them, you will have an hour of interaction, during which you can observe, take photos and be mésmerized by these beautiful animals, without using a flash, which is prohibited. The tour also includes a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a traditional community where you can learn more about the local customs, traditions and dances of the people living in the region. The tour includes a delicious buffet lunch, transportation to and from your hotel, and park fees to the Volcanoes National Park.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts for a full day. You will be picked up from your hotel in Kigali at around 5:00 am and driven to the Volcanoes National Park. After the trek and cultural village tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel by approximately 6:00 pm.

What should you bring on this tour?

When packing for the tour, don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, a light raincoat or poncho, long-sleeved shirts and trousers for the trek, security money a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, a camera, and enough memory cards or batteries.

What is the price for the From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch?

The price for the From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch is reasonable and includes park fees, transportation, trekking fees, and a buffet lunch. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is worth every penny. Please visit the link for current prices and availability.

What if you have a physical limitation?

If you have any physical limitation or disability, it is advisable to discuss this with the tour operator before booking so that they can make the necessary arrangements and provide you with the right assistance. The tour operators do not recommend this tour for individuals with existing medical conditions that might compromise their safety during the hike or interaction with gorillas.

Are there any other options for gorilla trekking?

Yes. If you have more time and want to maximise your gorilla trekking experience, you can choose the 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Tour From Kigali with Overnight Stay, a popular tour package that includes trekking two different gorilla families on two different days, and spend the night at a nearby lodge or safari tented camp, taking time to enjoy the culture and local scenery.

Final Thoughts

The From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers an unforgettable adventure into the wilds of Rwanda. After the trek, you will not only have encountered mountain gorillas but also appreciate the beauty and conservation effort that has gone into protecting them. It is highly advisable to book this tour in advance to secure your spot as it is a highly sought-after experience. If you love wildlife, nature, and adventure, then this tour should be at the top of your bucket list.

From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch – FAQ’s

If you are looking for an adventure of a lifetime, trekking with mountain gorillas in Rwanda is a must-do activity. Rwanda is one of the three countries in the world where you can trek mountain gorillas in the wild, and it offers the most convenient access through its capital city, Kigali.

If gorilla trekking is on your bucket list and you’re planning to book a day trip from Kigali, you might have some questions. Here are the most frequently asked questions about the ‘From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch.’

1. What is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is an activity that involves hiking or trekking into the forest to search for mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This is an incredible opportunity to get up close to these magnificent creatures, watch them play, eat, and interact with their family members.

2. Where is the gorilla trekking experience located?

The gorilla trekking experience is located in the Volcanoes National Park, which is roughly 2-3 hours driving distance from Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.

3. What is the best time to go gorilla trekking?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During these months, the hiking trails are dry and easier to hike, and the chances of rain ruining your trek are lower.

4. How fit do I need to be to go gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding activity, and it requires a moderate level of fitness. You will be hiking over steep terrain, rocky and muddy trails for an average of 4-6 hours per day. Therefore, it’s important to be prepared and fit enough to undertake this activity.

5. How long does the trek take?

The duration of the gorilla trekking experience depends on the location of the mountain gorilla family you are visiting. The length of the trek can range from 1-3 hours, but on average, it takes 2-3 hours.

6. What is included in the ‘From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch’ package?

The ‘From Kigali: Gorilla Trekking Day Trip with Lunch’ package includes the following:

• Round-trip transportation from your Kigali hotel to the Volcanoes National Park
• Gorilla trekking permits
• A professional English-speaking guide
• Lunch and bottled water provided in the park

7. How much does the gorilla trekking day trip cost?

The cost of the gorilla trekking day trip varies depending on the tour operator and the season. On average, it can cost between $200-$500 for one person.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Rwanda?

Yes, visitors to Rwanda require a visa. You can apply for a visa online in advance or upon arrival at Kigali International Airport.

9. What should I wear for gorilla trekking?

It’s essential to wear comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. This will provide protection against stinging nettles or thorns in the jungle. It’s also important to bring a waterproof jacket, as it can rain at any time in Rwanda, even during the dry season.

10. Can I take photos during the trek?

Yes, you are allowed and encouraged to take photos during the trek. However, it’s essential to follow the guidelines and regulations set by the park authorities. The use of flash is prohibited when taking photos of the gorillas.

Gorilla trekking day trips from Kigali are an awe-inspiring and once-in-a-lifetime experience. By following these guidelines and planning ahead, you can make the most of your trek and cherish unforgettable memories.