Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Frequently Asked Questions
We’re all about making things easy for you when it comes to exploring Rwanda and Gorilla Trekking. In this Frequently Asked Question section, we’ve gathered answers to your most common questions. If you’re still curious or need help, don’t be shy—just reach out. Your adventure with us should be hassle-free and fun! Ready to book your adventure? Let’s get started!
Do I need a visa to visit Rwanda?
Yes, most visitors to Rwanda need a visa. However, citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport. You can check the visa requirements for your country on the Rwanda Immigration website.
How do I obtain a visa to visit Rwanda?
To obtain a tourist visa for Rwanda, you can apply online or through the nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate. The online application process is straightforward, and you will receive an electronic visa that allows you to enter the country. Rwanda can also get the visa on.
What are the entry requirements for Rwanda?
In addition to a visa, visitors to Rwanda must also have a valid passport. It is also recommended that you be vaccinated against other diseases such as malaria, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid.
What is the best time to visit Rwanda?
The Rwanda has a favorable weather condition all year round but more people prefer to visit Rwanda during the dry season, which runs from June to September and from December to February. During these months, the weather is mild and sunny, with little rainfall.
What are the most popular tourist attractions in Rwanda?
Accordion ContentSome of the most popular tourist attractions in Rwanda include:
- Volcanoes National Park: Home to the endangered mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rwanda. Visitors can go on gorilla trekking tours to see these magnificent creatures up close.
- Akagera National Park: Rwanda’s largest national park, Akagera National Park is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Visitors can go on game drives, boat trips, and walking safaris to explore the park.
- Nyungwe National Park: Nyungwe National Park is home to a dense rainforest that is home to a variety of chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and other wildlife. Visitors can go on chimpanzee tracking tours, canopy walks, and nature walks to explore the park.
- Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre: The Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre is a powerful and moving museum that tells the story of the Genocide against the tutsis in 1994. Visitors can learn about the history of the genocide and pay their respects to the victims.
Where to go for gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking safaris is a must-do on every Rwanda safari. The endangered mountain gorillas are by far the looked-for attractions on any of the Rwanda safaris or an African safari in East Africa. The Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is perfectly conducted only in Volcanoes National Park.
How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda
For you to be part of the gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you must have a valid gorilla trekking permit. In Rwanda, each gorilla trekking permit is issued at USD 1500 per person and the cost covers key aspects like an experienced park guide, one hour of a magical encounter with gorilla in Volcanoes National Park, and park entry fees.
Is gorilla trekking/tourism sustainable?
For long Rwanda gorilla tours has been and is still sustainable. A portion of gorilla trekking fees is used to support local community projects and the main goal is to ensure that they embrace gorilla conservation and tourism. This move is one way to ensure these endangered species exist today and in the future. About 10% of the total revenue collection from gorilla trekking tourism is given back to local communities to support different local projects.
Is Rwanda safe for gorilla trekking safaris?
Rwanda is safe not only for tourists going on a gorilla trekking but also for other trips. For tourists on gorilla trekking, there are safety measures that all trekkers must observe including maintaining a safety distance of 7 meters, use flash-free camera for taking pictures, keep low your voices, no visiting gorillas if you are sick/ill, cover the mouth when coughing or noise when sneezing, maximum time to stay with gorillas is strictly one hour and others.
The best time to go on a gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
The dry season is the most preferred time to visit Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. This is from June, July, August to September, or December, January to February of every year. Other months (wet/rainy months) are also open for gorilla trekking in Rwanda that is from March, April to May; October to November.
Where to stay in Volcanoes National Park
Choosing the right accommodation for an overnight stay plays an important in achieving a memorable gorilla trekking safari. Volcanoes National Park is a complete safari destination and trekkers have all categories of lodges- budget, midrange and luxury.
- The budget accommodation options: Muhabura Hotel, Villa Gorilla Hotel, & Kinigi Guesthouse.
- Midrange lodges: Ndaza Escape, Ingagi Park View Lodge, Sambora Kinigi, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Best View Hotel, Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, Garden Place Hotel, La Palme Hotel, and more.
- Luxury/high-end lodges include: One & Only Gorillas Nest, Bisate Wilderness, Singita Kwitonda & Kataza House, Sabyinyo Wilderness, Virunga Lodge, The Bishop’s House, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, and Amakoro Songa Lodge.
How do I book my gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda?
Booking a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda is now more convenient than ever before for all visitors. Reach out to Hope Tours Africa for all bookings for Rwanda trips: +250788602524 or email: info@hopetoursafrica.com
How to get to Volcanoes NP for gorilla trekking safari?
Volcanoes National Park is found in Northwestern Rwanda and getting to this park is possible by road or air. By road: visitors can start their road trips from Kigali city center using a pre-booked 4×4 safari vehicle and this takes just 2-3 hours’ drive. There is also an alternative of crossing from Uganda through the Katuna or Chanika border to Volcanoes National Park. By air: take helicopter flights from Kigali airport to Musanze airstrip and connect to Volcanoes N. Park. The helicopter tours to Volcanoes NP are arranged by Akagera Aviation which also organizes flights to Akagera NP and other protected areas in Rwanda.
What should you pack for a gorilla trekking in Rwanda safari?
Here are the must-have items for your gorilla trekking experience. Carry sturdy and waterproof hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brim hat, hardy gloves, rain jacket/poncho, sweater, valid passports, gorilla permits, cameras free of the flashlight, insect repellents, and more.
How do I get around Rwanda?
The best way to get around Rwanda depends on your budget and itinerary. If you are traveling on a budget, you can use public transportation such as buses and minibuses. If you have a higher budget, you can hire a private car and driver. Taxis and moto-taxis are also available in most towns and cities.
What is the currency of Rwanda?
The currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan franc (RWF). You can exchange currency at banks, hotels, and currency exchange bureaus.
What are the safety tips for traveling in Rwanda?
Rwanda is a relatively one of the safest countries to travel in the world, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
What languages are spoken in Rwanda?
The native language spoken in Rwanda is Kinyarwa but a bigger number of people speaks English mainly in places like hotels, restaurants and touristic attractions same as French and Swahili
Are there any health requirements for visiting Rwanda?
Yes, before planning your visit to Rwanda, it’s important to be aware of specific health requirements. We strongly advise consulting your local travel clinic or healthcare provider to obtain the latest details regarding necessary vaccinations and health safeguards. Typically, a yellow fever vaccination is a mandatory requirement. Additionally, it is highly recommended to consider vaccinations for typhoid, hepatitis A and B, tetanus, and diphtheria. it is crucial to take anti-malarial medication and use mosquito repellents as proactive measures to safeguard your health.