The Virungas Volcanoes Range – spreading across Rwanda, Uganda and The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – is home to the endangered mountain gorilla. Here, half of all the world’s existing wild population of gorillas live (about 300) in the thickly forested jungle on the slopes of six volcanoes. Visiting the gorillas in their natural habitat is a truly remarkable experience as guests may walk alongside a family of gorillas under the careful eye of forest rangers. Planning the right trip for this adventure is very important.
Why Rwanda?
Ndifo Safari recently escorted guests to the Rwandan area of this range, Volcanoes National Park. Of the areas where one can visit the gorillas, Rwanda is our stand-out recommendation. Accessing the gorillas here is the easiest of all three countries, with the best choices of accommodations and easiest gorilla treks. The Kigali Internation Airport is a smooth 3-hour drive from the park or for the adventurous, a brief 20-minute helicopter ride. Given Rwanda’s proximity to Tanzania, it reduces travel time between mountain trekking and the Serengeti safaris many guests like to add to this expedition. Many are shocked to know how easy it is to get between the two countries and be able to have both experiences.
Rwanda is a truly unique destination where Dian Fossey spent 20 years studying gorillas. Her work helped save them from extinction by bringing awareness to poaching. She was memorialized in the 1988 film ‘Gorillas in the Mist’. Many hike to her grave within the gorilla habitat inside the park (9,800ft above sea level) in conjunction with their trekking.
Visiting the Gorillas
Mountain gorillas live in groups of about 30, led by a dominant male called a silverback. The silverback, sometimes topping 400lbs, decides when the group moves to find food, when they sleep and eat. They follow him for everything they do. They build their nests on the ground or in trees using branches, leaves and other accessible plant materials. They all enjoy lounging in them.
The family we visited was the Agashya Family, made up of 2 silverbacks, 4 adult females, 1 black back, 1 sub-adult male, 2 juveniles and 5 infants. This family ranges on the flank along the valley between Sabyinyo and Bisoke volcanoes. As is required, we were allowed only one hour to be near and observe the family. The baby was especially friendly to us during our visit – many times close enough to touch. Humans must take great care to remain calm and still. Grunts are made to soothe them during the visit.
In addition to the gorillas, many guests trek golden monkeys and chimpanzees, and observe 180 bird species in one of Central Africa’s most bio-diverse destinations.
What to Expect
Because the gorillas live at elevations between 8,000 and 13,000 feet in thick jungle terrain, the trek can be strenuous at times. They can move around a range of up to 15 square miles. Finding the gorillas can range in time from 2-9 hours depending on their movement. Guests must be over 15 years old and physically fit enough to climb. Porters are available to assist as needed. The best time to go is June through September. Gorilla trekking booking must be done well in advance, since only a fixed number of permits to trek are issued annually. Ndifo Safari can make all bookings for all Rwandan mountain treks and all other safari activities.
Book your trip now: ndifosafari.com/rwanda