Want to visit Uganda or Rwanda to see mountain gorillas and you are not certain about how much a gorilla safari costs? Knowing exactly how much a gorilla safari costs can be challenging, especially when it is your first time. Here we uncover facts about the cost of gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Our comprehensive covers several factors that often determine or affect the final cost of a gorilla trekking tour including the cost of gorilla permits, transportation, accommodation/gorilla safari lodges, and other expenses. Detailed breakdown of a gorilla safari cost When you think about embarking on a gorilla safari, you should have an idea of how much it is likely to cost. Please note, that the figure provided in this article is basically an estimate to guide you when planning your Rwanda gorilla safari or Uganda safari to trek mountain gorillas. Length of stay at the destination The cost of a gorilla safari generally varies depending on how many days you intend to spend in the destination trekking gorillas. All gorilla safari destinations in Africa favor as short as 3 days gorilla tour to 5 days gorilla safari and this can be in Uganda or Rwanda. On average, a midrange gorilla trip can cost USD 2400 per person and a luxury costs USD 4500-7000 per person. The cost of gorilla trekking covers the cost of purchasing a valid gorilla permit, meals, accommodation, and transportation, plus the rest of the other expenses aimed at making you realize a successful gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda/Rwanda. Cost of accommodation Accommodation is a must to be booked for you to have a successful gorilla safari in Uganda/Rwanda. Depending on the location you plan to engage in a gorilla trekking adventure, the lodges to book for an overnight stay may cost around USD 100 per night for a budget and a luxury can cost USD 3,000 per night. A midrange gorilla lodge facility may cost USD 1500 per night. The cost of accommodation always has a huge influence on the overall gorilla safari budget. Transportation cost Transportation to and from your gorilla safari destination must be planned for. Rental cars are the most reliable means of transportation for your connectivity to and from your respective gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda and Rwanda. A private tour vehicle to consider for your travel in Uganda and Rwanda can be hired at USD 150 to USD 250 per day. You can hire a car in Uganda/Rwanda for guided gorilla safaris in Rwanda/Uganda or for self-drive road trips. In the case of self-drive tours, you must inquire from your local tour operator if the cost of hiring a car covers the cost of fuel. Tour operator The cost of a gorilla safari also varies depending on the tour operator you intend to plan your trip with. The overall cost of a gorilla safari is never standard across the tour operators. Tour operators exist in 3 categories; budget, midrange, and luxury. Choose a local tour operator that is reliable and offers budget-friendly gorilla safaris like Mist Rwanda Safaris. Cost of gorilla permit The cost of a valid gorilla permit varies from country to country where gorilla trekking is done. A valid Uganda gorilla permit costs USD 800 per person and this was effected starting 1st July 2024 applying to all foreign nonresidents, USD 700 per person for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for Ugandans, Rwandan visitors, Kenyans, and Tanzanians (East African citizens). The Rest of Africa travelers with plans to visit Uganda/Rwanda to track gorillas need USD 500 to secure a valid gorilla permit. Summary: Foreign nonresidents USD 800 per visitor. Foreign residents USD 700 per visitor. East African citizens UGX 300,000 per visitor. Rest of Africa (ROA) USD 500 per person. The breakdown of the gorilla habituation permits; USD 1500 per visitor for all foreign nonresidents. USD 1000 per person for the foreign residents. UGX 750,000 per visitor for all East African citizens. Rwanda gorilla permits are open for booking at USD 1500 per person. Like Uganda permits, gorilla permits in Rwanda should be booked in advance. Contact Mist Rwanda Safaris not only to book a gorilla permit but to plan the entire gorilla tour to Uganda or Rwanda. Other expenses –especially on items to pack Where you are required to purchase items to be packed for your Rwanda gorilla tour or Uganda gorilla safari, such expenses also influence your overall cost of gorilla trekking. Often, the key items to consider for your gorilla trekking adventure besides permits include long-sleeved shirts, trousers (should be environmentally friendly), waterproof daypack, insect repellents, waterproof hiking or trekking boots, a camera, first aid kit, and many others. When to visit When you plan to travel to track gorillas also matters a lot and influences the cost of the gorilla safari in Uganda/Rwanda. The dry season for instance is considered as a peak season when the cost of accommodation and transportation often remain the same. It is hard to get discount offers during the peak dry months like it is during the low or off months of the year. The peak months of the year begin from June, July, and August to September then another phase starts from December, January to February. Where to visit to track mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda There are 2 parks to consider a must-visit for mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda alone. The gorilla safari destinations to consider visiting in Uganda include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks are lying in the far Southwestern end of Uganda, and are accessible about 8-9 hours’ drive in a 4x4 safari vehicle. This is for visitors with plans to begin their road trips from the heart of Entebbe city or Kampala capital city.  Connecting from Kigali to Bwindi/Mgahinga is also possible and involves crossing via the Katuna or Chanika border area. The road trip from Kigali to Bwindi/Mgahinga takes between 4 and 5 hours. A successful road trip from Kampala or Kigali to Bwindi/Mgahinga requires a 4x4 tourist vehicle. By air, you can also reach Bwindi/Mgahinga by flight starting from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) or Kajjansi Airfield. The flights take between 1 and 2 hours to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is another special destination for mountain gorilla trekking. Traveling from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri takes about 2-3 hours’ drive and still, you require a 4x4 safari vehicle.

Wondering if you need a visa to visit Rwanda? A visa is one of the essential requirements you need to visit Rwanda. Rwanda visas must be obtained by all citizens or travelers/tourists from countries not from visa-exempted states. In this article, we bring you detailed information about Rwanda's visa, cost, visa-exempted countries, how to obtain a visa, and why you need a visa to visit Rwanda.  Do I need a visa to visit Rwanda? Yes, you need a visa to visit Rwanda. A Rwanda visa is an essential entry requirement for tourists with plans to explore the different attractions in the Land of a Thousand Hills or if you are traveling for business or other purposes. A valid visa is needed for you to enter Rwanda as a visitor. Citizens of a Commonwealth state can access a free 30-day visa on arrival to Rwanda. How to apply for a Rwanda visa The Rwanda visa can be obtained online through https://www.migration.gov.rw/ . But first, you should know the application requirements which include the type of visa you need, fees, and more. Essential requirements for obtaining a visa for Rwanda include a valid passport, and a completed visa application form, for EATV Visa applications, you can fill out the EATV application form, avail the tour agency/company trip itinerary in case there is any, provide supporting documents like hotel reservation, flight itinerary, invitation letter. Visas can be booked or obtained online or directly from the embassy. For instance, those in the USA can visit and apply for visas through the Embassy in Washington D.C. You submit your application form in person or by post. When applying via the Embassy in Washington D.C, you need to include eligibility, validity, fees, type of visa, prepaid FEDEX self-addressed traceable return envelope, and applicant’s valid passport. Fees and duration per visa Tourist visas and family visas are valid for 30 days and available for single entry. The cost for this kind of visa is USD 50. Multiple-entry visas cost USD 70 and do not apply to tourists on Rwanda tours. Diplomatic visas valid for 30 days for single entry visas are available free of charge. Conference visas valid for a month for single entry visas cost USD 50. East African visa valid for 90 days for multiple entries cost USD 100 per visitor. Reciprocity –available as long-term visitor visas valid for up to 10 years. These are available for American citizens holding valid American passports and can be booked at USD 160. You can apply for this category of visa via the embassy of Rwanda in Washington D.C. Rwanda visa-exempted countries Citizens from East African Community states require a pass or entry visa free of charge on arrival. The pass provided can be valid for 6 months. Another category of visitors who may have a chance to have a 90-day visa at no cost on arrival falls in the following countries; Chad, Guinea, Benin, Angola, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone, Philippines, Singapore, State of Qatar, The Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Seychelles, Ghana, Haiti, Indonesia, Principe, Senegal, and Mauritius. Citizens from countries not visa exempted must apply for the visas through the Rwanda Diplomatic Mission of the country of residence or online before they depart for Rwanda safaris. Online applications also have the option of paying online or on arrival. You can contact your local tour operator for guidance to save time or talk to the visa authorities directly. What to do in Rwanda There are multiple things to do while in Rwanda provided you have access. Top things that attract visitors to Rwanda include mountain gorilla trekking. Gorilla trekking involves exploring mountain gorillas in the wild. Besides having a valid visa, you need a valid gorilla permit to engage in the exhilarating gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park. Each Rwanda gorilla permit as of 2024 costs USD 1500 per person. Chimpanzee tracking and Canopy walking in Nyungwe National Park are among the top exciting activities awaiting you on the Rwanda safari. Visitors can also take a wildlife safari to Akagera National Park in the Eastern Province of Rwanda. There is also a chance to be part of the Kigali City tour, MICE, business trips, cultural safaris,

How hard is a gorilla trek in Uganda/Rwanda? Gorilla trekking is generally a physically demanding adventure. However, what is interesting is that most visitors have had successful gorilla treks in Uganda and Rwanda. Multiple factors often influence the nature of a gorilla trek rendering it hard/difficult. They include the terrain of the park/destination, altitude, weather, length, and when you intend to travel to track gorillas, etc. The terrain A gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda is conducted in the mountainous areas also characterized by dense forests and slippery/muddy trails. The entire gorilla trekking adventure involves trekking via the natural rainforest with an experienced park ranger guide in search of mountain gorillas. As you trek through the forest, higher chances are that you can come across muddy trails that pose slight challenges. Elevation of the area All destinations where gorilla trekking is conducted in Uganda/Rwanda have varying altitudes. Overall, gorilla trekking occurs at an altitudinal range of 2500 to 3000 meters. A complete hike through the rainforest and steep slopes may come with altitude sickness, a good reason you must do adequate practice to familiarize yourself with tough elevations. Length of the gorilla trek A gorilla trek varies depending on how long it can take you. A normal gorilla trekking session can last for 2 to 6 hours and this depends on the location of mountain gorilla families and your speed of walking through the forest. The length of the gorilla trek may also be influenced by the nature of the habitat. Weather/when to visit When you plan to embark on the gorilla trek can impact the difficulty of the trekking adventure. Trekking gorillas around the rainy or wet season often poses a huge challenge for gorilla trekkers. The wet season usually comes with heavy rains and the ground can be left muddy or slippery while the vegetation can be dense. All these factors render a gorilla trek hard. Fitness level & age consideration for gorilla trekking If you are planning to go on a gorilla trek tour, be aware of the acceptable age limit and fitness level required. Your fitness level matters a lot for you to have a complete cycle of gorilla trekking. You need to be fit enough to undertake a gorilla trek and by standard, a minimum age limit for this adventure is 15 years and above. Anyone from 15 years can engage in a gorilla trek even the elderly. Visitors as old as 60 years have had successful gorilla trekking adventures in Uganda and Rwanda. The beauty of it is that there are favorable options to cater to elderly persons or tourists with fitness challenges. This includes the allocation of the easier-to-trek gorilla groups, and hiring porters and carriers or stretchers. Why the minimum age? The minimum age is set at 15 for a good reason. First, it is believed that anyone above fifteen years is grown up, mature, and fit enough. A gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda takes a good number of hours to make a round adventure. But as an individual, you can also make pre-preparations to acclimatize yourself with the high elevation, and on the actual trek, you won’t have any altitude sickness. You can do as much exercise as you can. Location of gorilla families in Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla families in Uganda are available for gorilla trekking in any of the five areas. They include 4 regions in Bwindi National Park that is Ruhija sector, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Rushaga area. In each of these sectors, there are already habituated gorilla groups to explore during a gorilla tour. Over 24 habituated gorilla groups exist and are open for trekking in Uganda alone. They include the Mucunguzi gorilla group, the Nshongi group, the Bitukura gorilla group, the Rushegura group, the Nkuringo gorilla family, the Mishaya group, Mubare, Katwe, Christmas, Habinyanja, Kutu, and more. Visitors on a gorilla tour in Mgahinga can only explore the Nyakagezi gorilla group. This is the only group that is open for gorilla tourism and a single trek attracts only 8 visitors per day. Tips to a successful gorilla trek Always be prepared for the tough terrain Gorilla trekking isn’t the usual nature walk in the savanna but a whole trek through the tropical rainforest. As you trek, expect to pass anywhere with no defined trails/paths. To be ready for your terrain experience, expect to come with strong and sturdy hiking boots to help you walk through the rough, slippery steep slopes and muddy ground. Safeguard yourself Carry a long-sleeved shirt, gardening gloves, and other essential safety gear because it is a long trek through the jungle with thorny and itchy plants, etc. Book a gorilla tour in advance. Contact your local tour operator (Mist Rwanda Safaris) to plan and book your gorilla vacation in advance. Booking a gorilla trip early allows you to prepare for your actual gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda or Rwanda. You can use the available time to exercise or practice to keep you fit for the actual trek with mountain gorillas.  Hire porters You need porters to assist you with heavy luggage and you concentrate on your trek. A gorilla trek with heavy luggage can be stressful considering the nature of the habitat and the general altitude of the park you visit for gorilla trekking. Porters are always present at the park offices where you get briefed about the rules and regulations for gorilla trekking. A porter can be hired for a single gorilla trekking session at USD 15-20 per person. Travel during the dry season While gorilla trekking is considered an all-year-round primate adventure, the dry season is the best period to consider visiting Uganda or Rwanda for you to have a successful gorilla tour. The dry season occurs twice a year with the longest dry months recorded around June, July, August, to September while the short dry months begin from December, January to February. Conclusively, gorilla trekking is generally challenging but with adequate preparation, you can have a trek with mountain gorillas without any disruptions. Visit Uganda and Rwanda to track mountain gorillas and return when filled with lots of lasting memories. Contact our team to plan and book a gorilla trek tour in advance.

Are you looking for the easiest gorilla group to trek in Rwanda? The Sabyinyo gorilla group family in Volcanoes National Park, Northwestern Rwanda is considered to be the easiest or simplest gorilla family to trek on the Rwanda gorilla safari. The Sabyinyo gorilla group roams around the slopes of the Sabyinyo Volcano Mountain. It is one group to visit, especially for those of you who have difficulty trekking through the jungle to search for mountain gorillas.  Group size The Sabyinyo gorilla group family has a composition of 13 which includes 2 silverbacks plus other family members. The word Sabyinyo is derived from the Kinyarwanda and is translated as ‘old man’s teeth.’ Sabyinyo group was established in 1992 following the death of the silverback of Group 13 causing other females like Gukunda, Ijisho, and Kampanga to join other families. The present Sabyinyo group then was formed with 4 females and 2 silverbacks. Its name was changed to Sabyinyo. During habituation, the Sabyinyo group comprised 3 silverback gorillas including Ruhennyi, Guhondo, and Ryango silverback gorillas. The Sabyinyo gorilla group family is the closest family to the Volcanoes National Park area. It is the most accessible gorilla family and is led by the powerful Guhonda silverback gorilla. The Guhonda silverback is one of the biggest male gorillas measuring over 220 kg. Getting to the Sabyinyo group home range takes about 2 hours. The group is comprised of fewer individuals compared to most gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. But a visit to explore the Sabyinyo gorilla family guarantees you epic encounters. The composition/size of the Sabyinyo group like other families is never the same. It keeps on varying due to death, birth, and emigration as well as migration. Therefore, do not be shocked when you are told of a different composition size on the actual gorilla trek. How many people can trek Sabyinyo ? Sabyinyo gorilla group can accommodate a maximum of 8 (eight) visitors and only single gorilla treks are available for each group as per the park authority standards. The 8 visitors translate to 8 gorilla permits available for booking by visitors with plans to track the Sabyinyo gorilla family group. How much is a gorilla permit for the Sabyinyo group A valid gorilla permit in Rwanda is open for booking at USD 1500 per visitor. The cost of the Rwanda gorilla permit covers the park entry fees, park guide fees, and the special one hour for up close and personal encounters. A gorilla permit must be reserved in advance and we recommend that you do so at least 2-6 months before the actual date you plan to explore the Sabyinyo gorilla family or any group in Rwanda. When to visit The best time to explore Sabyinyo gorilla family is around the dry season. The dry season occurs from June, July, August, to September then December, January to February. The two phases of the dry season offer favorable weather conditions for visitors to enjoy a smooth trek in the jungle as they search for a family of mountain gorillas in the wild. The dry months experience low or no rainfall amount with the forest floor kept relatively drier thus allowing you to immerse into the jungle less of disruptions. Where is the Sabyinyo group found? The Sabyinyo group is found in Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri, a spectacular protected area with 13 habituated gorilla families. Besides Sabyinyo, the 160 sq. km Volcanoes National Park also protects gorilla families such as the Hirwa gorilla family, Kwitonda, Susa B, Susa A, Umubano, Amahoro group, Rushegura gorilla family, Bwenge gorilla family, Ugenda, Agashya, Muhoza gorilla group, and others. What else to see in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda? In addition to the huge concentration of mountain gorilla population, Volcanoes National Park also offers refuge to other wildlife/faunal species. They include African forest elephants, golden monkeys (Cercopithecus Mitis Kandti), black-fronted duikers, bushbucks, buffaloes, spotted hyenas, bush pigs, and black and white colobus monkeys. Birds of interest in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Volcanoes National Park Rwanda provides refuge to over 200 bird species. They include the Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, dusty crimson wing, Archer’s ground robin, red-faced woodland, Rwenzori turacos, yellow-eyed black flycatchers, Grauer’s rush warblers, Masked mountain apalis, Rwenzori hill babblers, and Lagden’s bush shrike. Volcanoes National Park also shelters birds such as the Kivu ground thrush, olive-bellied sunbird, bat hawks, white-collared olive back, African swamphen, grey-backed fiscal, Bronzy sunbird, palm nut vultures, Narina trogon, and many others. What to do in and around Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Volcanoes National Park features lots of exciting experiences for visitors to enjoy on their Rwanda safari. They include gorilla trekking, volcano hiking, birding, golden monkey tracking, and cultural visits at Iby’Iwacu village. Accommodation options The safari lodges to book for overnight stays in and around Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri range from budget to luxury. The different accommodation alternatives to consider for overnight stay include Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Best View Hotel, Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Fravan Eco Resort, Amakoro Songa Lodge, Virunga Lodge, La Palme Hotel, Le Boubou Lodge, and others. Getting there Volcanoes National Park is accessible from the heart of Kigali in Rwanda within a 2-3 hour drive or 3-4 hour drive from Kabale or Kisoro. Visitors who cross from Uganda take the Katuna or Chanika border to connect to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. By air, you can also take a helicopter flight to Ruhengeri airport and you connect to the park where you can participate in numerous experiences. What to pack for a gorilla safari in Rwanda Top things to consider on your packing list for gorilla trekking in Rwanda include a valid gorilla permit, a sweater, long-sleeved shirts, gardening gloves, a rain jacket, long pants, waterproof hiking boots, an insect repellent, a safari hat, energy snacks, and bottled drinking water. In conclusion, Rwanda is comprised of 13 habituated gorilla family groups in Volcanoes National Park. The choice of gorilla group to be visited varies depending on the visitors’ preferences and your fitness levels. The easiest gorilla group to trek in Rwanda is the Sabyinyo gorilla family. Talk to your trusted local tour operator Mist Rwanda Safaris to plan and book an unforgettable gorilla safari to explore the Sabyinyo group or any of the Volcanoes National Park groups.

Welcome, fellow travelers! In light of recent events in Goma, it's natural to have concerns about travel safety in the region. However, Rwanda stands as a beacon of tranquility and safety amidst these circumstances, offering a warm invitation to explore its natural wonders and vibrant culture. 1. Safety and Stability: Despite the proximity to Goma, Rwanda remains stable and secure for visitors. The government has implemented measures to ensure the safety of residents and tourists alike, allowing for a peaceful and enriching travel experience. 2. Natural Beauty: From the lush rainforests of Nyungwe to the breathtaking landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda's natural beauty is unparalleled. Travelers can embark on unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures or immerse themselves in the country's diverse flora and fauna, all within a safe and secure environment. 3. Rich Culture: Rwanda's rich cultural heritage is showcased through its vibrant markets, traditional dance performances, and welcoming local communities. Visitors can engage with the warm-hearted Rwandan people and gain insight into their traditions while feeling assured of their safety. 4. Responsible Tourism: Rwanda's commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that visitors can explore the country with confidence, knowing that their experiences contribute to the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. Conclusion: In conclusion, while recent events in Goma may raise concerns, Rwanda stands as a testament to safety and serenity in the region. Travelers are encouraged to embrace this opportunity to discover the beauty and warmth of Rwanda while feeling secure in their exploration of this remarkable destination. Pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and embark on an unforgettable journey to Rwanda – a land of peace and wonder. Remember, your safety is our priority as you explore the beauty of Rwanda amidst current events in Goma.

What type of gorillas live in Rwanda? Are gorillas in Rwanda different from those in Uganda and Congo? Mountain gorillas are the only type of gorillas in Rwanda. They are part of the 1063 endangered mountain gorillas that exist on the planet Earth today. About 380 mountain gorillas are found in Rwanda alone with about 13 habituated gorilla families all available for tracking. Brief facts about gorillas in Rwanda Gorillas in Rwanda can only be spotted in the wild. Not any of them can be found at the zoo. They are large and live in groups of about 2-10 members or more. In each of the gorilla group families, there can be a mature adult male also referred to as a silverback gorilla. The silverback is the leader of the entire gorilla group and a family can have other females, males, infants, and blackback gorillas. Mountain gorillas largely depend on the fruits and leaves. On each day, a gorilla can eat up to 18 kg of food. The silverback leads the rest of the members in search of what to eat in the day. Mountain gorillas in Rwanda live harmoniously with other wild animals. They include golden monkeys, bush pigs, black-fronted duikers, bushbucks, spotted hyenas, buffaloes, black and white colobus monkeys. In addition to mammals, the park also provides refuge to over 200 bird species including the yellow-eyed black flycatchers, strange weavers, Archer’s ground robin, Rwenzori turacos, Collared apalis, white-faced whistling-duck, Knob-billed duck, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, black-crowned waxbill, and common stonechat, etc. Where to see gorillas in Rwanda? Gorillas in Rwanda live in Volcanoes National Park, the only National Park where they are trekked by tourists on Rwanda gorilla tours. Volcanoes National Park is found in the Northwestern part of Rwanda and is reachable within a 2-3 hour’ drive from the heart of Kigali. At Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, there are 13 habituated gorilla families to be trekked by tourists on the Rwanda gorilla safari. The gorilla families to track on the Rwanda gorilla tour in Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri include Susa A gorilla group, Karisimbi gorilla group (Susa B), Amahoro gorilla group, Sabyinyo gorilla family group, and Umubano. Other habituated gorilla groups to track in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda include the Kwitonda group, Sabyinyo, Igisha group, Bwenge, Hirwa, Muhoza, Ugenda, Group 13 (Agashya), and Pablo. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is set along the Virunga Mountain range/region or Virunga Conservation Area. This region is comprised of other two parks including the Virunga National Park in Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Mountain gorillas thrive in the different areas in Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri. They spend most of their time in the varying altitudes between 2500 and 4000 meters. On a guided gorilla trekking adventure, expect to spend about 2-6 hours. Due to the long hours of trekking through the jungle and high elevation, you need a porter to assist with heavy luggage. Having the porter carry your luggage can allow you to concentrate on your gorilla trekking adventure without distractions. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park starts from Kinigi with an early morning briefing about gorilla trekking rules and regulations. The briefing session is always conducted by a professional park official or tourism warden. A number of other exercises are done in addition to the rules and regulations. They include allocation of gorilla groups to visitors and each group comprising 8 tourists gets a chance to track only one habituated gorilla family. The park official also takes the initiative to allocate park ranger guides to lead you on the entire gorilla trekking adventure. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is done by visitors with valid gorilla permits. Each of the Rwanda gorilla permits is open for booking at a given cost. Gorilla permits A single gorilla permit for trekking mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park costs USD 1500 per visitor. The cost of a gorilla permit applies to tourists on a plan to explore mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. What else should you take for gorilla trekking in Rwanda? Aside from obtaining a valid gorilla permit in Rwanda, visitors on gorilla tours to Volcanoes National Park also need to take with them several other essentials. They include long-sleeved shirts, a waterproof daypack, long pants, long trousers, a sweater, a rain jacket, gardening gloves, and waterproof hiking boots. You also require a torch, toiletries, insect repellents, bottled drinking water, a spare battery, a pair of socks, energy-giving snacks, and more. When to go to see gorillas in Rwanda? The best time to visit Rwanda to see mountain gorillas is around the peak dry months of the year. When planning a successful tour to see gorillas in Rwanda, the dry season is the best time to consider for your gorilla trekking adventures. Each year, there are two useful phases of dry season Volcanoes National Park experiences. They include the longest dry months which start from June, July, August, to September then the second phase of the dry season runs from December, January, to February. Visiting Rwanda during the dry season is advantageous in that you can trek free from the disruptions from dense vegetation and heavy rains, which result in muddy grounds/trails. The entire expedition requires early preparation, including packing for your gorilla safari. Where to stay Budget, midrange, and luxury accommodation options are all available for visitors' overnight stays in and around Volcanoes National Park. They include Five Volcanoes Boutique Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Best View Hotel, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Sambora Kinigi Lodge, Muhabura Hotel, and Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge. Getting to Volcanoes National Park to see gorillas in Rwanda Access to Volcanoes National Park is possible by road or by air. Using road transportation, it can take you between 2 and 3 hours to drive from the heart of Kigali to Volcanoes National Park Ruhengeri. Visitors around Kisoro or Kabale can cross via Chanika or Katuna to Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri.

Which is the hardest gorilla group to trek in Uganda? If you are interested in the hardest gorilla group family in Uganda then consider visiting Nkuringo group. Nkuringo is notably the hardest gorilla family to trek in Uganda. Nkuringo group is found in the Southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Southwestern Uganda. It lies at an altitude of 2161 meters. Nkuringo group takes its name from the Rukiga word meaning “round hill.” It was launched in 2004. It has 15 members which include two silverback gorillas. Nkuringo is part of the habituated gorilla families in the Nkuringo sector/region. Nkuringo was originally spotted at the Nkuringo hill. Gorilla trekking in Nkuringo began in April 2004. This was after undergoing through habituation that began in 1996. The Nkuringo group ranges around the Kashasha River Valley below the Nteko ridge. The Nkuringo gorillas could range around the park area. Around 2008, Nkuringo comprised 18 members including one silverback gorilla. The longest silverback gorilla died at 49 years on 27th April 2008. Two silverbacks were left behind including Rafiki and Safari. The two silverback gorillas took control of the Nkuringo group. Safari took over the Nkuringo group leadership and within the same period around November, Katungi and Muhozi twin babies were recorded. Katungi later died at 1.5 age due to sickness and around 2020, Rafiki was killed by poachers. Fitness levels for trekking Nkuringo group Nkuringo gorilla group requires some level of fitness/stamina to be able to make a round gorilla trek as you explore more about mountain gorillas. It is an ideal group to explore, especially by the energetic trekkers or hikers. Other gorilla families in the Nkuringo sector Additional gorilla groups to expect to find in Nkuringo region in Nkuringo sector in Christmas, Posho, and Bushaho gorilla groups. Bushaho gorilla groups is an interesting gorilla group to explore during gorilla tours in Uganda. It is found in the Nkuringo region, headed by the Bahati silverback gorilla group. As of 2021, the Bushaho gorilla group comprised 12 individuals. The group features a silverback, a blackback (Kaheru), and five adult females including Kaitesi, Buzuru, and Nyankumu. Christmas gorilla group Christmas gorilla group is comprised of 6 members including one silverback gorilla, 2 adult females, juveniles, infants, and a sub-adult female (Guma). Posho gorilla group Posho gorilla family by July 2021 comprised 14 individuals. The group underwent the habituation process in the Nkuringo region in Bwindi National Park. It is led by a Magara silverback gorilla. Gorilla trekking in Nkuringo region Gorilla trekking in the Nkuringo sector involves exploring the habituated gorilla families. Nkuringo is lying at the southern end of the park and each of its groups is trekked by a maximum of 8 (eight) guests. A normal gorilla trekking adventure takes between 2 and 6 hours depending on how quick/fast you can hike, the location of gorilla families, and the nature of the habitat. When you come across a family of gorillas in Nkuringo, expect to spend a maximum of one hour face-to-face with these large apes. Utilize this session to take pictures and observe how the gorillas behave in the wild. A valid gorilla trekking permit is essential for you to be allowed to explore the Nkuringo group. Each gorilla permit costs USD 800 per person and should be booked in advance about 2-6 months before the actual date when you plan to visit gorillas. Nature walks/hiking The Nkuringo sector is an enriching hiking sector when it comes to hiking or nature walks. The region features some of the finest trails worth conquering on the Uganda hiking tour. They include Ivy River trail which is 4 hours trek starting from Nkuringo through a 12-km long path to Nteko Village. You will also spend another 5 km as you descend to the Ivy River and back. Kashasha River trail Spend about 6-7 hours as you conquer the Kashasha River trail. The hike is characterized by breathtaking landscapes and visitors navigate via the mist-shrouded valleys. The trek through the trail takes you via the meandering Kashasha River. The trail connects back to the Nkuringo sector or you can proceed to the Buhoma region. Along the Kashasha River trail, you can come across some interesting sightings including bush pigs, monkeys, duikers, and colorful butterfly species. Birds to sight in Bwindi Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda is comprised of 360 bird species. These include Albertine rift endemic bird species and resident birds; the brown-capped weaver, regal sunbird, black bee-eaters, mountain masked apalis, bar-tailed trogon, handsome spurfowl, Grauer’s broadbill, Lagden’s bushshrike, black-billed turaco, yellow-chinned sunbird, red-throated alethe, stripe-breasted tit, Kivu ground thrush and more. Where to stay Accommodation options in and around the Nkuringo region include Gorilla Heights Lodge, Albertine Gorilla Campsite, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Guesthouse, Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, and Bweza Gorilla Lodge. Getting to the Nkuringo sector Nkuringo is accessible by car, starting from Kampala/Entebbe city, and from Kigali, within 4-5 hours. From Kigali, you can drive via the Katuna or Chanika border, and a 4x4 safari vehicle is essential for your road trip. By air, take a flight from Entebbe Airport to Kisoro Airstrip and drive to the Nkuringo sector.

The five Virunga Volcanoes in Rwanda make up part of the 8 Virunga Mountain ranges. They are located in Volcanoes National Park in Northwestern Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park derives its name from the available Virunga Volcanoes in the region. Overall, the Virunga Volcanoes are found in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The five Virunga Volcanoes are formed due to volcanic eruptions along the Great East African Rift Valley are  a. The 5 Virunga Mountains in Rwanda have varying heights and they require different lengths of time for climbers or hikers to enjoy a round hike. The 5 Virunga Volcanoes in Rwanda include Karisimbi Volcanoes (4507m), Muhabura Volcano (4127m), Sabyinyo (3669m), Gahinga Volcano (3474m), and Bisoke (3711m). Around the steep slopes of the five Virunga Massifs in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, there are montane ecosystems, alpine, grasslands, thickets, and bamboo forests. Some of the five Virunga Mountains fall both in Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga National Park (Uganda) areas. 5 Virunga Volcanoes in Rwanda Muhabura Volcano Mount Muhabura rises at a height of 4127 meters and is a spectacular Virunga Volcano on its own way. Muhabura is one of the Virunga Mountain ranges that lie between Uganda and Rwanda. It is found at the end of the Virunga Massifs and is an ideal hiking spot in the Virunga region. Muhabura Volcano can be hiked from Uganda and Rwanda. Hikers can spend about 6 to 8 hours and upon reaching the summits, expect to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Twin Lakes –Burera and Ruhondo. Getting to the summit of Muhabura requires some fitness level. Karisimbi Volcano Mountain Karisimbi Volcano Mountain (4507m) is a dormant volcano and is the tallest of the 8 Virunga Massifs. In Africa, Karisimbi is the 5th tallest and requires about 2 days for you to have around hike with the first hike taking you up to the elevation of 3700 meters. Karisimbi Volcano lies close to Mt. Mikeno and Nyiragongo Volcanoes in the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It is also close to Bisoke Volcano in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. When it comes to volcano hikes, Karisimbi Volcano should be a must-visit on Rwanda safaris. Visitor hikes to the summit of Karisimbi involve exploring the magnificent vegetation or flora at the lower slopes and enjoying great views of wild animals as they roam around, especially monkeys and bird species. Gahinga Volcano Gahinga Volcano features among the 5 Virunga Volcanoes in Rwanda and is situated between Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Mount Gahinga (Mgahinga) is set at the height of 3474m and is where Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park takes its name. Gahinga lies between Sabyinyo and Muhabura Volcano Mountains. Mt. Sabyinyo Sabyinyo Volcano Mountain is a dormant Virunga Volcano and is lying at the elevation range of 3669m. It is lying in the Virunga protected areas including Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga National Park. Mt. Bisoke Bisoke Volcano Mountain is one of the hiked Virunga Volcanoes and is at an elevation of 3711m. It is situated at the Rwanda border with the DRC, featuring the spectacular Crater Lake. Hiking to and from Bisoke Volcano can take a day and climbers are guaranteed incredible sights of birds, flora, and other features upon reaching the summits. Virunga Volcano Names and meanings in local languages (Kinyarwanda) Sabyinyo Volcanoes derives its name from ‘Sabyinyo’ a local word meaning “old man’s teeth” which refers to its jagged rim. Muhabura –a local word meaning “guide”.Visoke/Bisoke –means a watering hole referring to the Crater Lake at its summits. Gahinga volcano derives its name from the Kinyarwanda word ‘Gahinga’ meaning ‘small piles of stones’. The best time to go for Virunga Volcano hiking Virunga Volcano hikes can be enjoyed at any time of the year. However, the ideal period to get there for climbing adventures is around the dry season/months. It can be during long dry months from June, July, and August, to September or short dry months from December, January, to February. The dry months are the best because of the low rainfall amount received and the ground is also kept relatively drier for climbers to conquer the high elevation of the Virunga Volcanoes in Rwanda.The dry months are slightly better than the rainy months due to the heavy rains. But there are other safari activities to engage in even during the wet or rainy season. The rainy months usually occur from March, April, May, and October, to November. What should you take for your Virunga Volcano hike? Essentials to consider on your packing list for the Virunga Volcano hiking tour in Rwanda include a pair of socks, a rain jacket/a poncho, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy and waterproof hiking boots, insect repellents, camping gear, a camera, adequate drinking water, snacks, and long pants, gardening gloves, and first aid kit. Where to stay on Virunga Volcano hiking adventure in Rwanda On the Virunga Volcano hiking tour in Rwanda, visitors can choose from the numerous lodges or camps for their overnight stay. The lodges/accommodation options available range from budget to luxury. They include One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Mountain Gorilla’s Nest Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Amakoro Songa Lodge, Sambora Kinigi Lodge, Muhabura Hotel, and Bisate Reserve. Getting there To explore the Virunga Volcano Mountains in Rwanda, you have to travel to Volcanoes National Park. Volcanoes National Park is found in Northwestern Rwanda and is the most accessible from the heart of Kigali capital city. Getting to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda takes between 2 and 3 hours through the scenic route characterized by rolling hills. Hikers can also reach the park from Kisoro/Kabale town via the Chanika or Katuna border which is a 3-4 hours’ drive. Climbers can also travel by air and you set off from Kigali Airport to Ruhengeri Airport located in Ruhengeri, a short distance to Volcanoes National Park. In addition to exploring the Virunga Volcano Mountains, visitors also have a lot of wildlife and birds to explore. Volcanoes National Park is where mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, plus 200 bird species all thrive. The park is most popular for gorilla trekking, birding, golden monkey tracking, and Virunga Volcano climbing.

Rwanda is one of the best destinations to visit in Africa to explore the diversity of bird species in their habitat. Over 703 bird species make Rwanda a birder’s paradise. They include over 29 Albertine Rift endemic birds and these range in varying habitats. Top birding destinations in Rwanda include Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park, Lake Kivu, Gishwati Forest, and others. Birds in Rwanda and their destinations Each of the destinations in Rwanda has unique birds to be identified on the birding tour. Here is a full checklist of birds per Rwanda birding destinations; Birding in Volcanoes National Park Birds to identify on bird watching in Volcanoes National Park. Over 200 birds live in Volcanoes National Park making it a special birding spot. The checklist of Volcanoes National Park birds includes the red-billed duck, African pygmy-goose, knob-billed duck, white-faced whistling-duck, Rwenzori turacos, Rwenzori batis, Strange weavers, blue-billed teal, Egyptian goose, helmeted guineafowl, Nahan’s partridge, Rameron pigeon, speckled pigeon, rock pigeon, white napped pigeon, afep pigeon, dusky turtle dove, lemon dove, and emerald-spotted wood-dove. Additional bird lists include purple-breasted sunbird, Abyssinian ground thrush, Grauer’s swamp warblers, Dusky crimson-wing, Rwenzori apalis, blue-spotted wood dove, African green pigeon, red-chested cuckoos, bare-faced go-away birds, Klaas’s cuckoos, olive long-tailed cuckoos, yellow-throated cuckoos, swamp nightjars, montane nightjars, African swift, little swift, scarce swift, and alpine swift. Volcanoes National Park also offers refuge to birds such as red-chested fluff tail, gray crowned cranes, three-banded plovers, African jacanas, African open bill, reed cormorant, African woolly-necked stork, African open bill, striated heron, black-headed heron, Goliath heron, palm-nut vultures, brown snake eagle, white-backed vultures, lappet-faced vultures, African cuckoo hawks, crowned eagles, hooded vultures, bateleur, African fish eagles, augur buzzards, Shelly’s crimson wing, Kivu ground thrush, and Rwenzori nightjar. Akagera National Park birding destination A total of about 525 bird species exist across the different birding sites in Rwanda. These survive in the lakes, wetlands, and woodlands. The different birds to encounter on Akagera National Park birding tour include papyrus canary, Carruthers’s cisticola, shoebill stork, papyrus gonoleks, red-faced barbet, Bennett’s woodpeckers, whited winged and broad-tailed warblers, miombo wren-warblers, and fork-tailed drongo. Other bird species include sooty chat, bare-faced go-away bird, African fish eagle, verreaux’s eagle, black-headed gonoleks, malachite kingfishers, goliath heron, African fin foot, African darters, common moorhen, and more. Birding in Nyungwe Forest National Park Nyungwe National Park is lying in the far southern province of Rwanda. It provides refuge to the diversity of forest and Albertine bird species. Over 310 bird species are inhabited in the various habitats of Nyungwe National Park Rwanda. They include Rwenzori turacos, Grauer’s rush, Masked mountain apalis, strange weaver birds, Rwenzori double-collards, Archer’s robin-chat, stripe-breasted tit, Congo peacock, Kungwe apalis, yellow-eyed black flycatchers, red-collared mountain babblers, Albertine owlet, white-tailed blue flycatchers, great blue turacos, white-bellied crested flycatchers, Doherty’s bush shrikes, tropical boubou, grey-backed fiscal, and red-rumped. Nyungwe Forest National Park also shelters other birds such as bar-tailed trogon, red-collared babblers, Kivu ground thrush, dwarf honey guide, Rockefeller’s sunbird, stripe-breasted tit, red-throated alethe, regal sunbirds, and Rwenzori nightjars, etc. The various trails to explore on the Nyungwe birding tour include Bigugu which is a 7 km long trail, Kamiranzovu trail, Karamba trail, Isumo waterfall trail, and others. Gishwati-Mukura National Park Birding Birds to explore during the birding tour in Gishwati-Mukura National Park include regal sunbird, grey crowned cranes, mountain yellow warblers, Abyssinian ground thrush, handsome francolins, black-faced Apalis, Rwenzori turacos, Rwenzori batis, red-throated alethe, Grauer’s swamp warblers, strange weaver birds, white-necked raven, blue-headed sunbirds, and others. Lake Kivu Beyond recreational excursions like boat rides, Lake Kivu is home to diverse bird species of birders’ interest. The birds that are supported in Lake Kivu include the pied kingfishers, white-breasted cormorants, osprey, blue-spotted wood-dove, Ross’s turacos, black crakes, and other water bird species. Wetlands Birding in the wetland areas in Rwanda. About 10% of Rwanda is comprised of wetlands and marshes. These are some of the useful birding sites in Rwanda. They offer refuge to several birds including papyrus canary, papyrus yellow warblers, white-backed ducks, lesser jacanas, white-winged swamp warblers, papyrus gonoleks, Red-chested sunbird, African fish eagle, blue-napped mouse birds, and many others. Birding in Kigali Kigali is more than a city. It is an outstanding birding destination, home to diverse bird species. The birds of interest on the Kigali birding tour include the grey-headed bush shrikes, African swamphen, white-collared olive back, grey-crowned cranes, bat hawks, and black-headed weaver birds. When to visit Rwanda for birding safaris Rwanda is open for birding at any time of the year. However, the best months of the year to consider for you to enjoy the best of Rwanda bird-watching excursions include December, January, February, then June, July, August, to September. These months are characterized by low rainfall and the bird habitats are kept relatively drier making it easier to navigate in search of birds in their varying habitats. Birding tours during the wet or rainy season allow you to enjoy your vacation less of crowds. It is also an ideal period to explore more about the migratory birds, and many resident species the wet season being the breeding season. What to pack for birding tours in Rwanda Essentials to pack for a birding tour include sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, toiletries, cameras, a pair of binoculars, field guide books, extra batteries for the camera, a first aid kit, a tin of insect repellent, and others. Conclusively, birding in Rwanda offers birders a lifetime opportunity to spot the diversity of birds in their habitats. Birding tours can be done together with other experiences including gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, hiking, and cultural tours.