What happens on a Gorilla Trek in Rwanda?
Volcanoes Park is not only a home to the endangered mountain gorillas but also other species including golden monkeys, and several bird species. As you are travelling to the park, here’s what you can generally expect during a gorilla trek.
Visitors are divided into small groups, each assigned a specific gorilla family to track. Groups are usually formed based on trekking difficulty preferences and fitness levels. Gorilla trekking usually starts early in the morning. You’ll meet your guide and possibly armed guards at the park headquarters who will lead you into the forest in search of the gorillas.
The duration of the trek can vary widely depending on the location of the gorilla family you’re tracking. It can range from 1 to 6 hours or more, involving hiking through dense vegetation and steep terrain. Once the gorillas are located, you’ll spend a precious hour observing them in their natural habitat. Visitors are usually allowed to spend up to one hour in close proximity to the gorillas, although this can sometimes be shorter or longer depending on circumstances.
You’ll have the opportunity to observe the gorillas as they feed, play, groom, and interact with each other. This is an incredible chance to witness their behavior up close and capture photos.
Depending on your itinerary and preferences, you may have the option to engage in additional activities such as visiting the Dian Fossey Tomb, Ellen De Generis campus, exploring nearby villages, or participating in community experiences.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while contributing to their conservation efforts. It’s an experience that’s both exhilarating and deeply rewarding for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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Photo credit Wilderness Bisate
