Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorilla. It is located in the north of Rwanda, among the soaring peaks of the Virunga Mountain range on the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. This 160 sq km region is home to 340 of the 1000 gorillas left in the world. It is a 3-hour drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park. One could opt for a chopper, which takes about 20-30 minutes to the park. Gorilla trekking starts at the Kinigi headquarters, where debriefing of the group is done before driving to the starting point of the trail. Treks can be done in groups or exclusively, where the trekkers are accompanied by porters and a guide. In case one is unable to hike, $200 is paid for a stretcher up the hike.
Gorilla trekking is for all ages. A number of 10 gorilla groups are accessible to visitors. The gorillas are assigned in groups; for example, some of the groups include the Kwitonda group, the Amahoro family group, and the Hirwa family group, which has the rare twin brothers, Isango Gakuru and Isango Gato. Gorilla ages start from 0-3 years, referred to as babies; 3-6 years, known as juveniles; and 6-8 years, when they become adults.
These mountain gorillas are guarded 24/7 by trackers. Visitors are given 45 minutes to 1 hour to observe the magnificent primates. Other animals that may wander in this dense vegetation include buffaloes and elephants. The mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park have over 200 species of plants to eat.
DEBRIEFING BEFORE TREKKING IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
During the gorilla encounter, trackers use a unique vocalization to communicate to the gorillas as a form of greeting or reassurance that they mean no harm.
When approaching the gorillas, it is advised to stay a 7 m distance from the gorillas to avoid transmission of diseases since we have a close genetic relation to them.
How to behave when in close contact with a gorilla?
- Stay calm.
- Avoid staring at the gorilla.
- Remain down, no movement.
- Avoid taking flashy pictures.
- Don’t imitate the gorillas by beating your chest.
- Walk back if a baby gorilla comes towards you, as the mother would not appreciate it.
WHAT TO BRING WHEN GORILLA TRACKING
- Gaiters to protect you from thorns. In case you didn’t buy one, check with your lodge, as they usually provide them.
- Long-sleeve top and trousers to protect you from stinging nettles as you pave through dense bushes.
- Hiking boots to ease walking through the thick mud.
- Raincoat, as it is likely to rain, especially in the forest.
- Waterproof bag for your camera
- Gardening gloves
BEST TIME TO VISIT GORILLAS IN Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla tracking in Rwanda can be done throughout the year, but the dry season starts from mid-May to October. This is because these periods offer perfect weather for hiking.
BUDGET GORILLA TRACKING
The safari is divided into three categories:
- Budget Safari
- Midrange (moderate) safari
- Luxury Safari
BUDGET SAFARI
Transportation under the budget safari package includes a luxury safari van, i.e., a drone or rooftop van.
Accommodation under budget ranges from $50 to $100.
MIDRANGE SAFARI
Transportation under the midrange safari includes a 4×4 safari Land Cruiser vehicle.
Midrange accommodation facilities range from $120 to $250.
LUXURY SAFARI
Transportation under a luxury safari includes a 4×4 safari Land Cruiser vehicle.
Luxury accommodation ranges from $250 and above.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN Volcanoes National Park
Tourism is a source of employment for porters and guides and helps the locals improve their standards of living.
Money from visits is also used to build infrastructure like schools and clinics that help the masses.
Mountain gorilla trekking supports conservation, especially of these rare, endangered mountain gorillas.
EXTRA TIPS
- Hiking sticks are given at the beginning of the hike, so no need to bring
- Tuck trousers into socks to avoid red ants crawling into your trousers.
- Carry as little as possible.
- Carry an extra battery and memory card.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MOUNTAIN GORILLAS in Volcanoes National Park
8 year old female gorillas are called “mature” because they are of age to give birth, while 8 year-old male gorillas are known as “black backs.” The males become mature at the age of 12 years, when they now become silverbacks. Gorillas eat 15% of their body weight every day. Mountain gorillas are strictly herbivorous, bamboo being their favorite meal.