Gorilla Trekking Tours & Safaris in Rwanda
Rwanda has stood the test of time, building a broken history into one of the fastest developing countries in africa. Every Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park directly contributes to improved community welfare and champions wildlife conservation.
Overview
Rwanda offer a rare and thrilling opportunity to encounter the Dian Fossey's closest friends, the mountain gorillas. Standing close to the majestic male silverback awakens a feeling most have not experienced in their lives - an excitement so big you'll want to scream, tangled with a refrain from overshadowing him in his natural habitat. In Rwanda, the home to this magical experience is Volcanoes National Park.
Most Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Rwanda begin in Kigali and travel north to Volcanoes - the country's only gorilla home. Here, armed park rangers will guide you through the bambo covered terrain and volcanic slopes in search of a gorilla family. Beyond Gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is home to Africa's easiest golden monkey trekking experience.
Our Custom Gorilla Tours in Rwanda
Safari packages that have stood the test of time in Rwanda. These have been chosen and recommended by hunderds of travellers who either want the exact experience or want it tailored to their needs.
Key Highlights
Impact Gorilla Encounters
Trek through the bamboo forest of the virunga Mountains and come face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family. What sets our Gorilla Trekking Tours in Rwanda apart, is what they stand for - an opportunity to positively impact local community.
An Experience for Everyone
Volcanoes National Park is one of the world’s premier gorilla trekking destinations, but it excels in one unique aspect where it offers the lowest difficulty level for the experience. Here, you'll access the mountain Gorillas faster than in Ugandan National Parks like Bwindi and Mgahinga. This can make or break a safari especially for older people who can't hike steep volcanic landscapes.
More than Gorilla Trekking
Choose from a variety of activities after your Gorilla safari. Track Chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park, go for a Game Drive in Rwanda's Akagera, or relax after a boat cruise on Lake Kivu.
Sustainable Tourism
We are committed to responsible travel practices that support local communities and help protect Rwanda’s precious wildlife for future generations.
The Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
A gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda is more than just a trip—it’s an unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most endangered and awe-inspiring creatures. While the price may seem high at first glance, the chance to meet mountain gorillas in their natural forest home is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many travelers describe as truly priceless. Walking through the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park and standing just meters away from a silverback is a moment that stays with you forever.
Gorilla Trekking Permit
At the heart of every Rwanda gorilla trek is the gorilla permit. This permit allows you to enter Volcanoes National Park and spend a magical hour with a habituated gorilla family. Currently priced at USD 1,500 per person, the permit is issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and plays a vital role in conservation. Your permit fee directly supports the protection of mountain gorillas and helps preserve their fragile forest habitat for future generations.
Other Costs to Consider
In addition to the permit, your Rwanda gorilla trekking tour includes several key elements that shape your overall safari experience:
Accommodation
Stay in a lodge that matches your travel style, from luxury boutique retreats to comfortable mid-range or budget-friendly lodges near Volcanoes National Park.
Transportation
Enjoy smooth and reliable transfers between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park in a private or shared safari vehicle, making your journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Meals
Savor freshly prepared meals throughout your safari, thoughtfully planned to keep you energized for trekking days and relaxed evenings.
Park Fees and Professional Guides
Your tour includes all park fees and experienced local guides who ensure your safety and enrich your experience with deep insights into the gorillas and their environment.
A Rough Cost Guide
As a general idea, a 3-day Rwanda gorilla safari with two nights at a mid-range lodge near Volcanoes National Park usually costs between USD 2,920 and USD 3,650 per person, depending on your lodge choice, travel season, and any extra activities you choose to include.
Why Travel with Nturo Safaris?
At Nturo Safaris, we go beyond simply arranging gorilla permits and lodge bookings. We carefully plan every detail of your Rwanda gorilla trekking journey to create a smooth, meaningful, and unforgettable experience. From personalized itineraries to expert guiding and reliable transport, we make sure your safari feels effortless from start to finish.
​
We are deeply committed to responsible tourism, ensuring that your adventure supports local communities and contributes to long-term gorilla conservation.
Transparent Pricing You Can Trust
We believe in clear, honest pricing with no hidden surprises. Our Rwanda gorilla safari packages are designed to give you a full picture of what’s included, so you can plan your dream gorilla trek with confidence.
​
For a deeper breakdown, explore our Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Trekking in our blog, or contact Nturo Safaris for a personalized quote tailored to your travel style, budget, and schedule.
More to Discover in Rwanda Beyond Gorilla Trekking
Rwanda’s tourism appeal goes far beyond its world-famous mountain gorillas. This compact yet incredibly diverse destination offers a wide range of experiences that showcase its wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage. From rainforest adventures to scenic lakeshores and authentic village encounters, Rwanda invites travelers to explore deeper and stay longer. These experiences can be thoughtfully woven into a personalized Rwanda safari itinerary for a richer journey.
Volcanoes Region Experiences
The Volcanoes region offers more than gorilla encounters. Visitors can track playful golden monkeys, explore the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, hike to Dian Fossey’s final resting place, or enjoy cultural performances and storytelling at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village.
Nyungwe Primate Adventures
In southern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park protects one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Chimpanzee trekking here offers thrilling encounters with lively primates, along with opportunities to spot colobus monkeys and other rare forest species.
Big Five Safaris in Akagera
Akagera National Park delivers classic savannah safaris and is home to Rwanda’s Big Five. Game drives reveal elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and rich birdlife across lakes, wetlands, and rolling plains.
Cross-Border Safari Extensions
Rwanda pairs perfectly with neighboring Uganda for travelers seeking a Uganda discovery safari. Combine gorilla trekking with boat safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or a search for the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
Cultural Discovery
Rwanda’s vibrant traditions add a meaningful layer to any safari. Engage with local communities, explore artisan workshops, learn traditional dances, and enjoy authentic Rwandan cuisine.
Natural Landscapes & Scenic Escapes
Rwanda’s scenery ranges from misty volcanoes to peaceful lake shores. Relax along Lake Kivu, hike through tea plantations, discover hidden waterfalls, and admire panoramic views across the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Booking & Planning Your Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Planning a Rwanda gorilla trekking safari is the first step toward one of Africa’s most exclusive wildlife experiences. With limited permits, seasonal availability, and detailed travel logistics to consider, expert guidance is essential. At Nturo Safaris, we manage every aspect of your journey with precision and care, ensuring a seamless, well-coordinated safari from initial inquiry to your return home.
Essential Planning Considerations
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Gorilla trekking permits are strictly regulated and available in limited numbers each day. During peak seasons, they can sell out months in advance. Early booking is therefore critical to secure your preferred trekking date. Nturo Safaris handles all permit arrangements on your behalf, guaranteeing availability and eliminating administrative stress.
Selecting the Right Safari Itinerary
Choosing the appropriate itinerary is key to a rewarding safari experience. Whether you prefer a concise gorilla trekking tour or a comprehensive multi-day journey combining primate tracking and wildlife safaris, Nturo Safaris offers expertly curated Rwanda gorilla trekking packages. For travelers seeking broader experiences, we also provide seamless extensions into Uganda via Kigali.
Flights & Accommodation Arrangements
Your journey begins with an international flight into Kigali International Airport. Nturo Safaris assists with carefully selected accommodations near Volcanoes National Park and other destinations, matched to your travel style, comfort expectations, and budget. Every lodge and camp is chosen for quality, location, and service standards.
Packing for the Forest Environment
A successful gorilla trek requires appropriate preparation. Essential items include durable hiking boots, rain protection, layered clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a high-quality camera. We provide a comprehensive packing guide to ensure you are fully equipped for Rwanda’s rainforest conditions.
A Seamless Safari Experience
Once all arrangements are confirmed, you can travel with confidence. Our professional safari guides and operations team oversee all logistics, provide expert interpretation, and lead you safely through the forest, delivering a refined and enriching gorilla trekking experience.
Why Choose Nturo Safaris?
Proven Regional Expertise
Nturo Safaris brings extensive local knowledge and years of experience designing tailor-made gorilla trekking safaris across Rwanda and Uganda. Our deep understanding of wildlife, landscapes, and conservation ensures every itinerary is crafted to the highest professional standards.
Bespoke Safari Design
Every traveler is unique. We take a consultative approach, carefully listening to your preferences and objectives to design a personalized safari itinerary that reflects your vision—whether focused on luxury, adventure, culture, or romance.
Commitment to Responsible Tourism
Sustainability is central to our operations. Nturo Safaris actively supports conservation initiatives and local communities, ensuring that your journey contributes positively to Rwanda’s natural heritage and cultural preservation.
Exceptional Value and Service Quality
We offer a refined balance of quality, authenticity, and value. Our safari packages deliver superior service and carefully curated experiences without unnecessary costs, ensuring meaningful returns on your travel investment.
Trusted by Discerning Travelers
Our guests consistently commend our professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail. Their positive feedback reflects the standards of excellence we uphold in every gorilla trekking safari we design.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Thanks to Rwanda’s mild and welcoming climate, gorilla trekking is possible all year round. However, understanding the seasonal differences can help you choose the perfect time for your adventure and get the most out of your experience in Volcanoes National Park.
-
Dry Seasons (June to September & December to February): These months are considered the best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. With lighter rainfall and drier forest trails, hiking conditions are more comfortable and easier to navigate. The vegetation is also less dense, which can make it slightly easier to spot gorilla families as you trek through the rainforest. Because these months offer ideal trekking conditions, they are also the busiest time of year. Gorilla permits and lodges tend to sell out quickly, so early booking is strongly recommended if you plan to travel during the dry season.
-
Wet Seasons (March to May & October to November): The wet or “green” seasons bring heavier rainfall, which can make trails muddy and slippery, requiring a bit more effort and sturdy hiking shoes. However, the rainforest becomes lush and vibrant, creating a beautiful and atmospheric setting for your gorilla trek. Gorilla sightings remain excellent during these months, and you’ll often enjoy fewer crowds on the trails. Many lodges also offer lower rates in the low season, making this a great option for travelers seeking better value and a quieter, more intimate experience.
What to Consider When Planning Your Trip
Gorilla trekking is available year-round in Rwanda, so the best time to go ultimately depends on your travel style and priorities.
-
If you prefer easier trekking conditions and clearer trails, the dry seasons are ideal.
-
If you value fewer tourists, lower prices, and a more peaceful forest experience, the wet seasons may suit you better.
-
No matter when you travel, be prepared for occasional rain and pack waterproof gear.
So, When Is the Best Time?
In general, the most popular and practical months for gorilla trekking in Rwanda are June to September and December to February, when rainfall is lighter, trails are more manageable, and visibility in the forest is better.
For a deeper breakdown, explore our month-by-month guide on the best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or contact Nturo Safaris for personalized travel advice tailored to your schedule and preferences.