Trekking with gorillas in Rwanda and other nature adventures

Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda is a hidden gem in East Africa with breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity and incredible wildlife, including the world’s largest living primate, the mountain gorilla. It’s a country of lush national parks, rainforest, majestic volcanoes, and lakes surrounding the vibrant capital Kigali. Nature-lovers can go on safari to spot the Big Five or focus on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see primates in the wild. Outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers can go hiking in the rainforest or savannahs, kayaking, cycling, and even caving. Rwanda is a relatively small country and easy to get around, plus a visit can be easily combined with other destinations like Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. If you’re keen to try trekking with gorillas in Rwanda or any number of other outdoor experiences, read on for our practical tips and advice.

A beginner’s guide to trekking with gorillas in Rwanda

Rwanda has some of the best gorilla experiences in the world in Volcanoes National Park. It’s home to more than half of the planet’s remaining mountain gorilla population, so it’s no surprise that people flock here to track and observe these critically-endangered primates up-close. Trekking with gorillas in Rwanda can be a life-changing experience. Seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, observing their behaviour, and watching them interact in family groups is a moving and rewarding experience. But a gorilla trek can be challenging and it’s important to understand what to expect from your experience.

Trekking with gorillas in Rwanda’s rainforest requires a decent level of fitness as you can be walking for several hours. You need to dress for the terrain, with good footwear, thick trousers and gaiters to protect your legs from stinging nettles – a gorilla’s favourite food! Each gorilla family is monitored so the guides generally know where to find them, which means you will very likely see gorillas on your trek – but contact with humans is limited to one hour per day, to ensure the creatures are not overexposed to people. Make the most of your limited time and spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in the wild.

Gorillas are not the only species you can see in Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to chimpanzees and 12 other species of primate, including the unique black-and-white colobus monkey. Take a Rwanda safari in Akagera National Park, which offers wildlife-viewing including lions and elephants as well as olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and rare golden monkeys. The country is home to over 700 bird species, making for fabulous birding opportunities.

The best time to visit Rwanda for nature experiences

Rwanda’s temperate climate makes it an ideal year-round destination, but the best time to experience it is during the dry seasons, typically from June to September and December to February. In the dry season, animals are more active and easier to spot as they gather around water sources, trekking conditions are easier, and the clear blue skies enhance the incredible landscapes and make for stunning wildlife photography.

Visiting during the rainy seasons has its benefits, too. From March to May and October to November there are fewer tourists, and you are likely to have a more intimate experience. The landscapes are lush, but you should be prepared for muddy trails and potential travel disruptions. Choosing to travel at this time helps spread tourism across the year, which alleviates pressure on the community and better sustains the local economy.

Other outdoor adventure activities to try in Rwanda

The best way to experience wildlife, meet local people and explore the spectacular landscapes is by choosing an active escape and trying some of the diverse experiences on offer. Go canoeing or kayaking on Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great lakes, where you can take a multi-day kayak expedition and camp out overnight on a small island, or go sailing then relax on the beautiful lakeshore at the end of the day.

There are multiple opportunities for guided or independent hikes in rural Rwanda. One of the most rewarding is to hike to the Kamiranzovu Waterfall, which will take you through brilliant green tea fields and higher into the forest, to enjoy the views northwest of Lake Kivu and into the Democratic Republic of Congo. Experienced hikers can challenge themselves with hikes to the summits of the Virunga Mountains, where the views are nothing short of spectacular.

Cycling enthusiasts will be in their element with the many nature trails. Choose a mountain bike or e-bike to explore the small tracks and trails that crisscross the landscape. If you don’t mind heights, experience the thrill of walking among the treetops on a suspended canopy walk, offering breathtaking views of the forest below.

Rwanda nature travel itineraries: our top trip ideas

Rwanda’s manageable size means you can fit a lot into most itineraries. Whatever you choose to do, it’s likely you will start your visit by flying into Kigali, and we recommend spending at least a day or two there to explore the country’s official and cultural capital.

For a classic wildlife and nature trip we suggest making your first stop Akagera National Park, about two-and-a-half hours from Kigali. You could take an afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema, followed by a sunset game drive before spending the night in a lodge or tented camp. If you have more time, take a full-day safari in Akagera, then leave early the following day for Nyungwe Forest National Park. Get up early for a chimpanzee trekking experience followed by an afternoon canopy walk over the forest. After a restful night, enjoy a nature walk and birdwatching tour in the morning, then spend the afternoon relaxing before another night in the forest.

Lake Kivu is a scenic three-hour drive away; there, we’d recommend relaxing on the lakeshore and visiting the nearby hot springs at Rubavu. Take a boat tour to Napoleon Island or go kayaking or hiking. Your next stop is Volcanoes National Park, visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village or the Musanze Caves on the way, if time permits. Stay overnight near the park, preparing for the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking. Make the most of your time with the gorillas before returning to Kigali for your flight home.

Rwanda’s conservation success stories

Rwanda has become a must-visit destination, thanks to its dedication to wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. The gorilla population is slowly increasing thanks to strict anti-poaching laws, and gorilla tourism is now vital to the species’ continued existence. Some of the former poachers are now rangers and guides, earning their livelihoods safeguarding the animals. By choosing responsible travel operators who use local guides, you are encouraging ongoing conservation and directly supporting the people who live and work there.

Rwanda is where primatologist Dian Fossey spent decades studying the native gorillas. Today you can visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn more from the staff who have taken up the reins and dedicated their careers to protecting gorillas.
Twenty years ago, Akagera National Park was on the verge of being irreparably degraded, and its transformation is a remarkable success story. Once threatened by poaching and habitat loss, it successfully reintroduced lions and rhinos, and animal populations have increased from fewer than 5,000 in 2010 to nearly 12,000 today. It’s now a prime spot for Rwandan safaris, where you may spot all of the Big Five as well as hyenas, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, impalas and more.

Nyungwe is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa but was once threatened by poaching, illegal mining and unsustainable agriculture. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its outstanding biological diversity. By collaborating with local communities and creating a sense of responsibility for conservation among residents, plus enhancing tourism offerings, the park has become ecologically healthy and financially self-sufficient.

Dos and don’ts when visiting Rwanda

Rwandans are gentle, friendly and welcoming, and engaging with local people as you travel around will give you a meaningful and enriching travel experience. Many people speak English, but make an effort to learn a few local words and do dress appropriately. In Kigali at least, this means dressing on the smarter side, not wearing ‘safari’ attire in town or shorts. Don’t bring plastic bags into Rwanda, which are banned as one of its many strong environmental initiatives.

While it’s 30 years on from the Rwandan genocide, the memory is still raw and any conversations on the subject should be approached with sensitivity. Do visit Kigali’s Genocide Memorial to learn more, including how the country is still healing from its loss.

Getting around: the best way to travel in Rwanda

You can undertake a self-drive trip around the country or choose a guided vacation. It has a well-maintained road network connecting its major towns, making car travel the most convenient way to explore the country, but smaller roads are often unpaved and can become challenging, especially during the rainy season.

You can rent a car or 4×4 from local agencies or arrange a vehicle with a driver through tour operators. In larger towns, taxis are available, though motorbike taxis, which are also common, may not be covered by travel insurance. Rwanda does not have a rail system, and the most widely-used public transport is shared minibuses. In Kigali, buses operate on a smart card system known as Tap&Go.

Rwanda travel advice

• Most travellers will need a visa, which you can obtain on arrival or online in advance. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
• A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for Rwanda and anti-malaria medication is advisable.
• Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, but it’s wise to carry cash for smaller vendors and tips. The local currency is the Rwandan franc (RWF).
• The official language is Kinyarwanda but English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

Make it happen

Are you interested in trekking with gorillas in Rwanda? Seek out this incredible experience and more wildlife adventures with help from our local experts – get in touch with them today!