Highlight: 1994 genocide against the Tutsi
Overview
Rwanda is one of the top destinations for gorilla trekking, offering a unique opportunity to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This experience is one of the most memorable wildlife adventures in the world. Here are some key details about gorilla trekking in Rwanda:
Where to Go
- Volcanoes National Park: Located in the northwest of Rwanda, this park is home to the famous mountain gorillas. It is part of the Virunga Mountain range, which spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Volcanoes National Park is the primary location for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
- Trekking: The trek can vary in difficulty depending on the location of the gorillas on any given day. Rangers lead the treks, and visitors are assigned to a specific gorilla family group. It can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours to reach the gorillas, depending on how far they are.
- Guides: You’ll be accompanied by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the gorillas’ behavior and the surrounding flora and fauna.
- Gorilla Viewing: Once you find the gorillas, you’ll be given an hour to observe them. It’s an incredible experience to see these majestic creatures in their natural environment, often interacting with each other and sometimes moving closer to the group of trekkers.