Rwanda is commonly known as the land of a thousand hills. This gives it its unique and gorgeous appearance. Aside from stunning scenery, since Rwanda is home to a large number of animal species that hide in volcanoes, mountains, and rain forests, it’s one of the best destinations for wildlife traveling. Three important things to know before going on a Gorilla and Wildlife safari in Rwanda. Look at this list to learn more about gorilla and wildlife watching in Rwanda
Travelers from all corners of the world visit Rwanda in hopes that they will be able to see Gorillas. It is such an amazing experience, but there is so much more to do. Plus, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, other species of primates are waiting for you, also there’s a huge variety of birds, which makes it a good place to start birding.
Aside from all the fun Rwanda Tours being offered, part of what is earned from entrance fees is destined for the conservation of wildlife and another part to improve the lives of locals in nearby towns.
All About a Gorilla and Wildlife Safari in Rwanda
Where to find mountain gorillas in Rwanda
The last two populations of mountain gorillas live scattered in the forests between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Due to all the preservation work being done, populations are rising, they have gone from 600 to a little over 1,000.
In Rwanda, the best place to find them and help the preservation efforts in Volcanoes National Park, Akagera and Nyungwe Forest National Park, a great place for wildlife viewing.
Permits and Prices
Both Rwanda and Uganda limit the number of people that get to enter the park to look at the gorillas. Only 100 permits are allowed per day, and they cost $1500 per person on top of the price of the tour. If you are traveling in the low, season from November to May the permit costs $1050. Those visiting Rwanda for seminars and conferences can get a gorilla permit at $1275 USD per person.
This is so that wildlife and fauna suffer the least amount of impact while still allowing people to meet these gorgeous animals.
These usually need to be asked for by the government months in advance. So gorilla trekking in Rwanda is not something you can decide on at the last minute. There are only 96 permits extended daily.
These might be extremely pricey tours, but they are definitely worth the trouble.
Fitness level needed
One thing that you have to keep in mind when considering this tour is that the hikes can get challenging. You are not going on pretty, plain trails. You are getting yourself into the heart of the forest. So you need to have a certain level of strength.
You also need to keep in mind that this is more of an adventure trip that takes you along tropical climates. This means that it might rain, there might be tons of mud and there will certainly be bugs.
I’m not saying all of this to talk you out of going, because I think it is an amazing adventure, but you need to be aware of these things so that you can decide if this is something you are going to enjoy.
These are what I consider to be three of the most important things that you need to know when considering a Gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda. Have you been there? What did we miss?
