Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda is easily the most popular tourist activity that tourists like to take part in. Rwanda is a top list destination among the few remaining places to see mountain gorillas. Given its size you will be surprised by how much you can see in the country. Mountain gorillas are situated in Volcanoes National Park. The primates thrive through the conservation because of its bio diverse nature and the hilly mountainous land scape, among the 8 series of the great Virunga Mountains, five are placed in the ecosystem. The vegetation cover of the forest region is a fit place for Mountain gorilla survival there are a number of plant and tree species that these gentle brown eyed species feed on including back of trees, dead soft wood, insects, fruits, to mention a few.
Mountain gorillas are herbivorous in nature and are characterized by their fur large bodies known to be the world’s largest living primates. They live in families of up to twenty members and are territorial, each of the gorilla families is led by a male adult silverback, the juveniles, black backs, are mostly female and children. Baby gorillas live under the care of their mothers up to the age of 2 years old. Mountain gorillas are a subspecies of the eastern gorilla-gorilla beringei they don’t survive in captivity but rather would live peacefully and roam through the forest. They nest on the ground and rarely feed in the same location twice!
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda is an adventurous activity to do while visiting Rwanda and Volcanoes National Park. It begins in the morning time with briefing from the park rangers on the does and don’ts while with the mountain gorillas. You will be distributed into groups of 8 per gorilla family and through the treks you will search for the majestic creatures’ location. Trekking time depends on how far the gorilla families have moved. These know no boundaries and can easily cross to another destinations implying that they can move to another destination while they come from the other. Gorilla activity begins at the park headquarters with check in with the park authorities. The start point of the trek may seem easy however it gets tougher along the tails. Trackers have machetes which are used to clear the bush. Rangers are very knowledgeable and will be in position to share knowledge about mountain gorillas and other living forest creatures. An hour is strictly allowed while with the gorillas upon meeting them.
In order to enjoy Rwanda Gorilla Tracking with ease, it is important to buy gorilla permits prior to the trekking time. Permits are purchased at USD$1500 per gorilla permit per person. There are strict rules and regulations governing the gorillas. For example, keeping 7 meter distance rule. People with communicable diseases like flu are not allowed to do the activity as these animals are prone to disease just like humans. Flash photography is prohibited. Hugging and holding gorillas is not allowed. These and many other rules are put in place for the protection of the gorilla species as well as humans.
There are available accommodation facilities around the conservation areas best fit for guest stay while on a visit to the park area. These range from luxury, midrange to the best budget. Example facilities include; Kinigi Guest House, Bisate Gorilla Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge to mention a few. In order to have a successful gorilla safari, it is important to book permits prior to the time of arrival. Travelers ought to have personal gaiters, hand gloves, warm clothes, insect repellents, huts, other items of personal nature.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda can be done all throughout the year but best during the dry season of December – February and June to September. During this time the rains are less and the trails are hiked with much ease. It is a time every traveller would like to come.