Have you been passionate about meeting creatures that are more like human beings with a DNA almost equal to that of humans? Here is a chance to make your dreams come true. These giant creatures can be found in East African region majorly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Rwanda.
The three countries host four giant popular national parks within which these gorillas find their belonging; Bwindi Impenetrable national park (Uganda), Mgahinga national Park (Uganda), volcanoes national park (Rwanda) and Virunga national park (Democratic Republic of Congo). It is a must rather than an option to acquire a gorilla permit in order to engage in this famed expedition. Get a permit worth 1500$ to Rwanda and you will never forget this adventure in the land of a thousand miles!
In the northwestern corner of Rwanda is where you find the volcanoes national park, home to twelve (12) gorilla families. These are fully habituated with a few others kept entirely for research purposes. Each family has at least one silverback (adult male), a number of females and young ones. Gorillas are one of the most social animals planet earth has ever had.
Only eight people are allowed to trek each gorilla family on a daily basis rendering the activity intimate and unobtrusive. In Rwanda, only ninety six (96) permits are issued per day. This means that in order to avoid disappointments on the last minute, you should book your permit in advance and as early as possible. Booking can be done both online and through any authorized tour agents.
Before being allocated a specific gorilla family group to trek, visitors meet at Volcanoes national park headquarters – Kinigi station for briefing on the rules governing the expedition an exercise which starts at 7:30am. Bwenge, Igisha, Susa, Sabyinyo, Agashya, Amahoro, Kwitonda, Hirwa, Ugyenda, Muhoza, Umubano and Karisimbi are the habituated gorilla families available in Rwanda for daily trekking.
Why should you pay 1500$ for a gorilla permit in Rwanda?
You need to know that over 20% of the revenue earned from gorilla permits is given back to gorillas through the implementation of various conservation programs. Furthermore, the park prioritizes the neighboring communities in as far as employment is concerned in the effort to bring about economic development. This on the other hand creates love and bond between natives and nature hence reducing poaching and human-wildlife conflicts.
In effort to create peaceful co-existence between people and wildlife, local farmers are compensated in case gorillas destroy their crops. Money from tourism is directed towards constructing schools, health centers and roads.
Best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Trekking mountain gorillas in Rwanda is something that can be done any time of the year; however, acquisition of trekking permits is easier during the months of March and April stretching to the beginning of May or November. It is advisable to secure your permit in advance (at least six months before) to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.
Price of Gorilla Permits in Rwanda.
Rwanda is the next to Uganda in terms of having the most number of gorillas in addition to boasting twelve habituated gorilla families/groups traced in the mighty lush Volcanoes national park.
Gorilla permits obtained from the Rwanda Development Board head office in Kigali or Ruhengeri town close to the park go for 1500$ each. The process of obtaining the permit can be done by your tour operator, and most importantly you can use them to organize the entire trip. The fee involves one hour access to a particular family of gorillas exclusive of accommodation, ground transport and meals.
To avoid being disappointed on last minute, you are advised to book gorilla trekking permits online or through credible operators four to six months before your visit.
