Category: Visit Rwanda

How is Gorilla Tourism Important to Uganda and Rwanda?

Gorilla tourism plays a crucial role in the economies of Uganda and Rwanda by generating significant revenue and creating employment opportunities. It also serves as a powerful tool for conservation, raising awareness about the need to protect mountain gorillas and their natural habitats. Through well-managed tourism programs, visitors can enjoy the unique experience of observing these magnificent animals in the wild while simultaneously supporting local communities and contributing to the long-term preservation of gorilla ecosystems.

In Uganda, gorilla tourism is centered around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both of which attract visitors from around the globe. In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park stands out as a premier destination for gorilla trekking. The revenue from these tourism activities has been instrumental in funding conservation efforts, improving local livelihoods, and fostering community development.

By embracing responsible tourism, visitors not only help ensure the long-term survival of mountain gorillas but also contribute to preserving the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of these East African nations. Gorilla tourism has become a powerful force for conservation, education, and community empowerment, underscoring the urgent need to protect these magnificent animals and their habitats for future generations.

What is Gorilla Tourism?

Gorilla tourism is the practice of visiting mountain gorillas in their natural habitats, primarily within protected areas such as national parks. This form of tourism allows visitors to observe and learn about these majestic animals their behavior, social structures, and the environments in which they live. It is carefully regulated to ensure the safety and well-being of both the gorillas and the tourists.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Visitors typically embark on guided treks or hikes into the forests, led by experienced guides and trackers who monitor and locate gorilla groups. These treks offer a rare and unforgettable opportunity to witness the gorillas’ natural behaviors, such as feeding and social interaction, in the wild.

Beyond providing a unique wildlife experience, gorilla tourism plays a critical role in conservation. It generates essential revenue that supports the protection of gorilla habitats, funds conservation initiatives, and contributes to the well-being of local communities. It also promotes community development and raises global awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species.

By supporting responsible and sustainable tourism practices, visitors help ensure the long-term survival of mountain gorillas and the preservation of their fragile ecosystems.

How Helpful is Gorilla Tourism in Uganda and Rwanda?

Economic Benefits of Gorilla Tourism

Gorilla tourism has brought substantial economic benefits to both Uganda and Rwanda, primarily through revenue generated from gorilla trekking permits, tourism-related infrastructure, and associated activities. This form of tourism has created numerous employment and income opportunities for local communities, including roles such as guides, trackers, hospitality workers, and small business owners.

A significant portion of the income from gorilla permits is reinvested into conservation efforts, including habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and scientific research. In addition to direct revenue, gorilla tourism has spurred the growth of local economies by driving the development of infrastructure, such as lodges, campsites, restaurants, and transport services.

Mountain Gorilla

Moreover, it has encouraged cultural exchange and mutual understanding between international visitors and local communities. Overall, gorilla tourism has become a vital pillar of the tourism industries in both Uganda and Rwanda, supporting economic growth, community development, and conservation while offering visitors an extraordinary and life-changing wildlife experience.

Conservation Impact of Gorilla Tourism

Gorilla tourism has had a profoundly positive impact on conservation in both Uganda and Rwanda. The revenue generated from gorilla trekking permits and related activities is reinvested into vital conservation initiatives, including habitat protection, anti-poaching efforts, scientific research, and community-based conservation programs. These efforts have contributed significantly to stabilizing and in some areas, increasing the population of mountain gorillas.

Tourism revenue has enabled governments, conservation organizations, and local communities to implement effective strategies such as gorilla monitoring and tracking, veterinary care, and the deployment of anti-poaching patrols. The presence of tourists in gorilla habitats also acts as a natural deterrent to poaching and illegal land encroachment, adding an extra layer of protection.

In addition to direct conservation actions, gorilla tourism fosters greater awareness and global support for the protection of mountain gorillas. Importantly, it inspires local communities who benefit economically from tourism to take an active role in safeguarding these animals and their habitats. This sense of ownership has reduced human-wildlife conflict and discouraged environmentally harmful practices.

Through the combined efforts of governments, NGOs, and local communities, sustainable conservation plans have been developed and implemented, ensuring the long-term survival of mountain gorillas.

Community Development Through Gorilla Tourism

Gorilla tourism in Uganda and Rwanda has been a key driver of community development, delivering both economic and social benefits to local populations. The revenue generated from tourism has created a wide range of jobs and income opportunities in areas such as guiding, tracking, hospitality, and local crafts. As a result, many communities near gorilla habitats have seen improved livelihoods and reduced poverty levels.

Batwa Cultural Dancers

In addition to employment, gorilla tourism has spurred significant infrastructure development. Investments have been made in roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and clean water systems, enhancing the overall quality of life in rural areas. Many tour operators and conservation organizations have adopted community-based tourism models that include revenue-sharing schemes, community-managed tourism initiatives, and support for local entrepreneurs.

These efforts have not only provided direct financial benefits but have also increased access to education and healthcare and empowered communities to play an active role in conservation. The projects have encouraged cultural exchange between tourists and residents, helping to preserve traditional customs and promote mutual understanding.

Importantly, as communities see the tangible benefits of tourism, they have become more committed to protecting gorilla habitats. This sense of ownership has led to greater support for conservation efforts and a decline in activities such as poaching and illegal land use.

Awareness and Education Through Gorilla Tourism

Gorilla tourism in Uganda and Rwanda has significantly enhanced awareness and education about mountain gorillas and their natural habitats, both among international visitors and local communities. Guided treks and educational programs offer valuable insights into gorilla behavior, social structures, and the environmental threats these endangered animals face.

Tourists are accompanied by knowledgeable guides and trackers who share information about the ecology of the gorillas, conservation challenges, and the broader impact of human activities on wildlife. These firsthand experiences deepen visitors’ understanding of the need for conservation and responsible tourism, fostering a strong sense of environmental stewardship.

Local communities have also benefited from targeted education and training programs that build awareness of conservation principles and provide practical skills to participate in tourism and conservation efforts. These initiatives empower community members to become active contributors to protecting gorilla habitats.

In addition, tour operators and conservation organizations produce educational materials such as brochures, documentaries, and community workshops to further promote biodiversity awareness. Revenue from tourism has supported outreach and education initiatives in schools and communities, instilling conservation values in younger generations.

Sustainable Tourism Through Gorilla Tourism

Gorilla tourism in Uganda and Rwanda has become a leading example of sustainable tourism, where environmental conservation, community well-being, and economic development are all carefully balanced. This form of tourism has led to the adoption of responsible practices that prioritize the protection of mountain gorillas and their habitats while ensuring that local communities benefit economically.

Strict tourism guidelines are in place to minimize the impact on gorillas, including limiting the number of visitors per day, maintaining a safe distance to reduce stress and prevent disease transmission, and enforcing time limits during visits. Additionally, eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators are encouraged, with many adopting practices such as reducing waste, sourcing supplies locally, and supporting community-based tourism initiatives.

The revenue generated from gorilla tourism has enabled governments and conservation organizations to invest in essential conservation efforts. Local communities have also reaped the benefits through job creation, income generation, and increased opportunities for cultural exchange.

Many tour operators have received eco-certifications and sustainability awards in recognition of their efforts, and there is ongoing collaboration between the tourism industry and local governments to implement and strengthen sustainable tourism policies.

International Cooperation

Gorilla tourism in Uganda and Rwanda has become a powerful platform for international cooperation, uniting governments, conservation organizations, and tour operators from around the world in a shared mission to protect mountain gorillas and their habitats. This collaboration has led to the development of transboundary conservation initiatives, joint research programs, and the exchange of best practices in sustainable tourism management.

International organizations such as the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and the International Gorilla Conservation Programme (IGCP) have played pivotal roles in supporting these efforts. They provide technical assistance, funding, and facilitate cooperation among governments, local communities, and the tourism industry.

The tourism industry has also benefited greatly from international collaboration. Global tour operators work together to promote gorilla tourism, develop innovative travel products, and deliver high-quality, responsible travel experiences. This cooperation not only boosts the tourism sector but also raises global awareness about the importance of conserving endangered species.

Moreover, international cooperation in gorilla conservation has contributed to regional peace and stability. Shared conservation goals have fostered cross-border collaboration between Uganda and Rwanda, bringing communities and governments together.

What’s the Best Time for a Gorilla Safari in Uganda and Rwanda?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which usually fall between June and September and again from December to February. These months provide the most favorable conditions for trekking, with generally dry weather, clearer trails, and easier access to the gorilla habitats. Trails are less muddy, hikes are safer and more enjoyable, and visibility is better for photography and spotting gorillas.

Although gorilla trekking is available year-round, the rainy seasons from March to May and October to November bring heavier rainfall. While these months offer fewer crowds and lush scenery, trails can become slippery and access to the parks more challenging.

For tailored advice and professional assistance in planning your safari, consider working with Experiya Tour Company to ensure a smooth, memorable, and responsible gorilla trekking adventure.

Gorilla Trekking Visit Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park and Akagera Safari in One Week

Volcanoes National Park and Akagera Safari: One Week Rwanda Adventure

Rwanda delivers an extraordinary wildlife experience that combines mountain gorilla encounters with classic African safari adventures. You can explore both Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park in one incredible week, witnessing some of Africa’s most magnificent creatures while supporting conservation efforts that have transformed this remarkable nation.

Day 1-2: Arrival and Kigali Exploration

Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital city. You arrive at Kigali International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the city center. Spend your first afternoon exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which provides essential context for understanding Rwanda’s remarkable transformation. The memorial educates visitors about the country’s history while honoring the memory of those lost during the 1994 genocide.

Dedicate your second day to discovering Kigali’s cultural attractions. Visit local markets like Kimironko Market, where vendors sell fresh produce, traditional crafts, and colorful fabrics. Take a city tour that includes stops at local coffee shops – Rwanda produces some of the world’s finest coffee beans. You can also explore art galleries showcasing contemporary Rwandan artists and dine at restaurants serving both traditional Rwandan cuisine and international dishes.

Day 3-4: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking

Early on day three, you depart Kigali for Volcanoes National Park, located in Rwanda’s northwest region. The journey takes approximately two hours through Rwanda’s stunning countryside, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” You check into your lodge near Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), the gateway town to the park.

Your gorilla trekking adventure begins before dawn on day four. You arrive at the park headquarters in Kinigi by 7:00 AM for mandatory briefing sessions. Park rangers assign you to one of several habituated gorilla families based on your fitness level and preferences. Each group receives detailed instructions about gorilla behavior, safety protocols, and photography guidelines.

The trek itself varies dramatically depending on which gorilla family you track. Some families stay close to the forest edge, requiring only a 30-minute hike, while others venture deep into the mountains, demanding several hours of challenging terrain navigation. You push through dense bamboo forests, navigate steep volcanic slopes, and cross muddy streams while following your experienced guide and armed rangers.

Finding the gorillas creates an indescribable moment of magic. You spend exactly one hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Adult silverbacks weighing up to 400 pounds move with surprising grace through the forest. Mothers tenderly care for their playful infants, while adolescents swing through trees and occasionally approach within arm’s reach of visitors. The emotional impact of making eye contact with these intelligent creatures leaves most visitors speechless.

After your gorilla encounter, you return to the park headquarters to receive your tracking certificate. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby Musanze Caves or exploring local communities through cultural village walks, where you interact with local families and learn about traditional Rwandan life.

Day 5: Travel Day and Akagera Arrival

You depart Volcanoes National Park early morning for the journey to Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda. This scenic drive takes approximately four to five hours, crossing through Rwanda’s central highlands and descending into the eastern savanna landscape. The dramatic change in scenery provides excellent photo opportunities as you transition from volcanic mountains to rolling grasslands dotted with acacia trees.

You arrive at Akagera National Park in the afternoon and check into your safari lodge. Akagera represents one of Africa’s greatest conservation success stories. Once decimated by cattle ranching and human encroachment, the park has been restored through a partnership between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks. Today, it thrives as Rwanda’s only savanna ecosystem, protecting diverse wildlife across 1,122 square kilometers.

Take an evening game drive to introduce yourself to Akagera’s landscape. You might spot zebras grazing near the entrance, warthogs scurrying through the grasslands, or baboons chattering in roadside trees. The park’s rolling hills and scattered lakes create a distinctly beautiful African savanna setting.

Day 6-7: Akagera Safari Experience

Your full safari experience begins with an early morning game drive. Akagera supports over 8,000 large mammals, including all of Africa’s Big Five. You search for lions lounging under acacia trees – these predators were successfully reintroduced to the park in 2015 after a 15-year absence. Leopards, though more elusive, hunt throughout the park’s diverse habitats.

The park hosts substantial elephant herds that migrate between different areas depending on seasonal water availability. You observe these magnificent giants feeding along Lake Ihema’s shores or bathing in seasonal swamps. Buffalo herds, sometimes numbering in the hundreds, graze across the park’s grasslands and create dramatic wildlife photography opportunities.

Akagera’s antelope diversity impresses every visitor. You encounter topi, impala, bushbuck, and eland throughout your drives. Waterbuck frequent areas near the park’s numerous lakes, while oribi and duiker prefer woodland edges. The recently reintroduced black rhinos remain more challenging to spot but represent the park’s conservation crown jewel.

Your afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema provides a completely different wildlife perspective. Hippos grunt and splash in the lake’s shallow areas while Nile crocodiles bask on muddy shores. The lake attracts over 500 bird species, including fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and colorful bee-eaters. You might spot shoebill storks, one of Africa’s most sought-after bird species, in the lake’s papyrus-lined channels.

Evening game drives offer opportunities to spot nocturnal species becoming active. Hyenas begin their nightly hunts, while genets and civets emerge from daytime hiding spots. The park’s night sounds create an authentic African wilderness soundtrack.

Your final morning in Akagera begins with another early game drive, maximizing your chances of spotting species you might have missed. Many visitors experience their best wildlife sightings on departure day, as animals often concentrate near water sources during early morning hours.

Conservation Impact and Practical Considerations

Your visit directly supports Rwanda’s conservation efforts. Gorilla permit fees fund park protection, anti-poaching operations, and community development programs. Akagera’s success demonstrates how effective management can restore degraded ecosystems while providing sustainable tourism revenue.

Pack layers for varying climates – Volcanoes National Park requires warm, waterproof clothing for mountain conditions, while Akagera demands lightweight safari gear for hot savanna weather. Bring sturdy hiking boots, comfortable walking shoes, and quality binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing.

This week-long combination showcases Rwanda’s incredible biodiversity and conservation achievements. You experience intimate encounters with endangered mountain gorillas and witness classic African safari wildlife, all while supporting local communities and conservation initiatives that ensure these natural treasures survive for future generations.

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Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo

Explore the Enchanting Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo

In the heart of Rwanda’s highlands, nestled at the base of Mount Muhabura, lie two stunning natural gems Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. These breathtaking twin lakes stretch across the northern part of the country, near the Uganda-Rwanda border, and just a short distance from Musanze town. Their location near the iconic Volcanoes National Park, famously known as the “home of mountain gorillas,” makes them a must-visit for travelers looking to unwind after a morning of trekking.

With deep blue waters surrounded by steep hills and the majestic Virunga volcano chain, the twin lakes create a dramatic and peaceful landscape, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The Geological Story Behind the Lakes

Long ago, Rwanda’s largest river the Nyabarongo flowed northward toward the region of Ndorwa, which was historically Rwandan territory but now lies within Uganda. However, powerful volcanic eruptions reshaped this landscape forever.

The eruption of Mount Muhabura, now a dormant volcano, caused lava flows to block the natural river channel. As a result, the Nyabarongo River changed its course, now flowing southeast to merge with the Akanyaru River and eventually forming the Akagera River. This geological transformation created the twin lakes, now known as Burera and Ruhondo. Scientists refer to them as lava-dammed lakes due to their volcanic origin.

Today, these lakes cover a combined surface area of approximately 2,800 hectares, with just a narrow 1-kilometer strip of land separating them. Their volcanic history not only shaped the landscape but also enriched the surrounding environment, making it fertile and ecologically diverse.

Scenic Beauty and Tranquil Surroundings

Visitors often fall in love with the lakes serene atmosphere. The calm, deep-blue water reflects the surrounding green hills and distant volcanoes, offering stunning views at any time of day. You will notice the heavily terraced hills around the lakes, cultivated with crops like potatoes, beans, and maize, adding to the area’s picturesque charm.

The shores of Burera and Ruhondo offer incredible opportunities for sightseeing, especially during afternoon or evening visits. After an adventurous morning tracking gorillas or golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, the lakes provide a peaceful place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Travelers can also combine their lake visit with a cultural experience at Ibya iwacu Cultural Village or a tour of the nearby Musanze Caves. These combinations make for a full day of exploration blending wildlife, culture, and natural beauty.

Ideal for Bird Watching and Nature Exploration

In addition to scenic beauty, Burera and Ruhondo are excellent destinations for bird watching. The lakes, along with the adjacent Rugezi Swamp, form one of Rwanda’s seven Important Birding Areas (IBAs). This lush wetland habitat attracts a variety of bird species, including migratory and endemic ones.

Bird enthusiasts can expect to spot species such as the Grauer Swamp Warbler, Papyrus Gonolek, and the White-winged Swamp Warbler, among many others. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious traveler with a love for nature, this region offers exceptional avian diversity in a tranquil setting.

Activities on the Water: Boat and Canoe Trips

To fully appreciate the twin lakes, many visitors choose to take a boat or canoe ride across the water. Local guides often lead these excursions, sharing insights about the lakes formation, surrounding communities, and wildlife. These rides offer up-close views of the hills, waterfalls, and a number of islands scattered throughout the lakes.

You can choose between traditional dugout canoes hand-carved from single logs or motorized boats, depending on your preference. Either way, gliding across the still water with volcano peaks looming in the distance creates an unforgettable experience.

For those interested in exploring the islands, boat rides provide access to hidden corners of the lakes rarely seen from the shore. Some islands host small settlements, while others remain untouched, offering ideal stops for photography and quiet reflection.

Local Life and Fishing Culture

The twin lakes also offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of people living in the highlands. Local fishermen continue to use age-old methods, crafting their own wooden canoes from single tree trunks and relying on handmade fishing nets or simple hooks. Watching them at work, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours, adds a meaningful cultural layer to your visit.

Fishing not only sustains families in the area but also forms part of the lakes’ identity. As you interact with locals or observe their traditional techniques, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the balance between nature and community in this region.

Comfortable Lakeside Stays

Thanks to growing tourism in the region, visitors now have a wide selection of accommodation options around the lakes. From eco-lodges to boutique guesthouses, travelers can enjoy overnight stays with sweeping views, fresh air, and the soothing sound of water lapping against the shore.

Many lodges feature restaurants serving locally sourced meals, cozy rooms with modern comforts, and warm hospitality from staff who take pride in sharing Rwanda’s natural wonders. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, you will find places that cater to your needs while preserving the natural ambiance.

Getting There

Reaching the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo is easy. From Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by road to reach Musanze. From Musanze town, the lakes are only a short drive away, with scenic roads winding through rural landscapes and terraced fields.

Because the lakes sit near many major attractions in the Northern Province, they fit naturally into most Rwanda itineraries especially for those heading to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking.

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What is Known Most About Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda?

What is known most about Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda?

Volcanoes National Park is a very well-liked tourist destination, but have you ever wondered what is known most about this National Park? Because it is the only place in the world where gorilla trekking is a celebrated activity, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most well-known tourist destination. Mountain gorillas enjoy spending time on the slopes or base of the five mountains that make up the 160 km2 Volcanoes National Park. These well-known mountains include Karisimbi Mountain, Bisoke Mountain, Gahinga Mountain, Muhavura Mountain, and Sabyinyo Mountain, all of which are frequent hangouts for mountain gorillas. The diverse plant zones create the finest feeding grounds for mountain gorillas because they only consume leaf. The ideal food for mountain gorillas is bamboo. In Volcanoes National Park, a variety of activities can be planned with Experiya Tour Company , but in order to really enjoy them, you’ll need a well planned schedule that leaves enough time for you to enjoy this African Safari.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

The pinnacle of all Rwandan tourist attractions is Volcanoes National Park’s gorilla trekking. To
participate in this illustrious adventure, everyone needs a gorilla trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board. There are around 13 gorilla trekking families in Rwanda that are open to tourists, however only 8 gorilla permits per family are made available to the public each day. By the 1980s, mountain gorillas that roam freely in the Virunga region were in danger of going extinct due to poaching, snare-setting, trophy hunting, and other factors. In the entire world, there were just approximately 250 mountain gorillas left. One of the survivors of the arid circumstances that afflicted the Earth about 25000 years ago are gorillas.

Gorilla Family in Volcanoes National Park

American philanthropist Dian Fossey created a friendship with the remaining mountain gorillas in order to save them. She conducted her mountain gorilla studies in Karisoke, Rwanda, and as a result, gorilla habituation and gorilla trekking were formed. Before going gorilla trekking, you should stay in Rwanda for at least a day to take in the sights and prepare for your next adventure. For a start, you can reserve a 2-day gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda.

Bird watching in Volcanoes National Park

The only way to fully experience birding in Rwanda is to go to Volcanoes National Park. A variety of birds , including Albertine endemics, have a home thanks to the forest’s ideal settings. This park is home to over 90 different bird species, 13 of which are endemic . The topography is mostly made up of steep volcanic hills and is strategically located within the Virunga volcanic series. The Albertine Rift has several resident birds that are higher up, such the gorgeous Francolin, Rwenzori Turaco, Arche’s Robin-chat, and Shelley’s Crimson wings, and many others.

Golden monkey trekking in Rwanda

Cercopithecus Mitis Candits is the scientific name for golden monkeys, and if you’re looking for adventure, golden monkey trekking in Rwanda offers it all. Even though these fascinating monkeys have developed a limited tolerance for human contact, they are constantly moving around in the jungle. The golden monkeys are physically larger than other monkey species and have golden brown hair. Golden monkeys, one of the most endangered animals in the world, live in the Virunga region. Watch out for various primates along the way, including blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, and black and white colobus, and many others.

Mountain hiking in Volcanoes National Park

A day climb up one of the well-known Rwandan mountains is an awesome way to test your fitness. Five mountains in Rwanda offer stunning vistas of a dense canopy of forest. Karisimbi, Bisoke, Gahinga, Muhabura, and Sabyinyo are a few of these mountains. According to the height, these mountain gorilla feeding areas are made up of several vegetation zones, such as Neoboutania between 2400 and 2500 meters, Arundinaria between 2500 and 3200 meters, and Hagenia-Hypericum between 3200 and 3600 meters. Mountain gorillas will occasionally travel to the slopes of these volcanic mountains when the ground provides less food. Several primates that enjoy the pleasures of the forest’s greenery can be seen during the trip.

Kigali City Tour on way to Valcanoes National Park

The greatest way to experience the commercial side of the Land of a Thousand Hills is on a trip of Kigali. Even though Kigali is not a part of the Volcanoes National Park, spending some time off to see the city’s varied attractions is excellent. The Rwandan government erected memorials as a consolation for these days of ignorance following the 1994 massacre. The Gisozi Genocide Memorial , St. Families Church, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial are a some of the memorials. We listen to the horrifying tales of ignorance as people spray-painted the names of some of the victims of Rwanda’s 100 days of evil on the walls. There are several depictions available to show what occurred to the genocide victims. Many things, including photographs of rooms and wooden sculptures, contain lies.

Dian Fossey Grave

In Volcanoes National Park, people found the remains of the heroic mountain gorilla hero Dian Fossey. She dedicated her entire life to mountain gorilla conservation by engaging in gorilla life research. The number of mountain gorillas has decreased to roughly 250 during the 1970s and 1980s.

Dian Fossy Grave

She realized that people were the greatest threat to the remaining mountain gorillas , making it essential to educate others about these primates. A great deal of hostility from the community and others who profited from gorilla souvenir sales met her efforts to conserve gorillas.

Unidentified assailants murdered Dian Fossey at her house in 1985, and she requested that people inter her bones among the gorillas. In her honor, people established a foundation, and some of her works still exist. A stop at the Dian Fossey burial during every safari in Rwanda contributes to the protection of the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Even if the population of mountain gorillas has grown throughout time, many more must still defend their lives from people.

What is the cost of gorilla trekking and golden Monkey permit in Rwanda?

Permits for tracking gorillas in Rwanda cost $1500 per person per excursion. 13 gorilla trekking families have purchased gorilla licenses from the Rwanda Development Board so far. The authorities make only eight permits per family per hike, out of the 13 gorilla families, available for public booking each day. This cap on population arises from efforts to keep mountain gorillas free of human encroachment. During the gorilla habituation process, we allow a maximum of 8 humans to be present with any family’s gorillas. More people going on gorilla treks could result in more people trampling the forest that supports the mountain gorillas. A Rwanda golden monkeys permit is currently $100 per person, per hike, per day.

What to pack for tour trip to Volcanoes National Park

Binoculars to get a better look at the noteworthy sights of Volcanoes National Park.

Devices that can shield you from unexpected downpours of rain.

A camera without a flash in case you want to go gorilla trekking because this frightens the mountain gorillas.

Garden gloves to shield your hands from nettles that can bite. For carrying your possessions while navigating volcanoes in a national park, use a lightweight waterproof bag.

Wear warmers, especially early in the day when temperatures are low and the sun has not yet risen.

Boots for tracking that have a surface that can endure slick terrain caused by rain falling on the region’s delicate volcanic soils.

Energy snacks to munch on when hiking in Volcanoes National Park to search for mountain gorillas, birding, trekking with golden monkeys, and so much more.

Accommodation options in Volcanoes National Park

On your safari to Rwanda, you may be able to reserve accommodations that are close to Kigali or the Volcanoes National Park. They can be luxury, middle-of-the-road, or budget facilities. Hotel Mille Collines, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Volcanoes Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Village, Best View Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Gorilla Volcanoes Hotel, Kinigi Guest House, and Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge are some of the lodging options in Volcanoes National Park.

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

Even though Volcanoes National Park has perpetually humid weather, you can engage in its activities at any time. Gorilla trekking, which is available all year long, is the most taxing. Sometimes the gorillas eat from the hillsides and so you have to be with some level of fitness to overcome all barriers. This is not a difficult task if you have the correct gorilla trekking equipment .

For gorilla trekking, the drier months of June through September and December through mid-January are preferable. Frequent inspections keep the trails’ vegetation more cut, and less soggy ground makes the trail routes more visible this time around.

How to reach Volcanoes National park

By Vehicle is the primary mode of transportation between Kigali Airport and Volcanoes National Park. From Kigali, the drive to Musaze, the location of Volcanoes National Park, takes roughly three hours. By Chartered Flight, Akagera Aviation may offer charter helicopter service to Volcanoes National Park.

Summary of things to do In Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking

Golden Monkey trekking

Hiking Mountain

Bird watching in Volcanoes National Park

Dian Fossey Visit

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