01/4/22

Is gorilla trekking experience worth the money?

Is gorilla trekking experience worth the money? Yes, gorilla trekking experience in Africa is absolutely worth the money or cost. To most tourists who have taken part and time to participate in gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, they have described this primate adventure as a priceless experience, magical, thrilling, lifetime or life-changing experience.

Regardless of the high costs, the strenuous hikes, and the long time spent searching for mountain gorillas, gorilla tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo still stand out as Africa’s best wildlife experiences worth taking part in. To some travelers who have not been on gorilla safaris in Africa, they have raised countless questions such as ‘Is gorilla trekking experience worth the money?

Gorilla trekking in Africa is an outstanding wildlife experience any traveler shouldn’t miss out. Tourists on gorilla safari experience that actual magical feeling of being in the African jungles and the opportunity to have a face-to-face with massive gorillas- witnessing how these unique creatures are so close to humans. There are only 4 National Parks in the world to visit to see mountain gorillas- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for tourists on gorilla safari in Uganda.

Volcanoes National Park is the only Rwanda National Park to visit to see gorillas when you visit Rwanda. Lastly, Virunga National Park in D.R. Congo also protects some of the world’s impressive creatures. Visiting any of these 4 National Parks for gorilla trekking guarantees you an authentic experience and value for your money.

Understanding the worthiness of gorilla trekking experience

Gorilla trekking permits

The cost of gorilla trekking permits does vary from one gorilla destination to another with Uganda presently issuing her gorilla permits to eligible gorilla trekkers at USD700 per person (for Foreign Non-Residents), US$600 (for Foreign Residents), and 250,000 Uganda Shillings (per citizen in East Africa Community). In Rwanda, gorilla trekking permits are available for booking by persons above 15 years at USD1500 per tourist on Rwanda gorilla safari. Unlike Uganda and Rwanda, the D.R. Congo issues out gorilla trekking permits at only USD450 per visitor per day.

The cost of a gorilla permit includes a long list of things such as the cost for gorilla protection and conservation considering the fact that these are endangered species, research activities, paying for staff (guides, trackers & other park officials)/scientists/conservationists/vet doctors involved in the day to day monitoring and other conservation activities. Besides, a portion of what tourists on a gorilla safari pay for gorilla permits is given back to local communities to finance most of the local projects.

Time spent with gorillas- is it really worth it?

There is only one (1) hour the park official allows tourists to spend with a habituated family of gorillas in the wild. A number of things are done during the one hour including taking pictures, learning in-depth about how gorillas behave as explained by an experienced park guide and others. Viewing gorillas is strictly for one hour and this is done to help reduce any chance of spreading infectious human diseases such as measles, colds, flu, cough to these endangered species. Note, mountain gorillas have up to 98% DNA similar to that of humans making them very susceptible to most infectious diseases.

Gorilla trekking permits- Uganda

Foreign non-residents on Uganda gorilla safari can book for gorilla permits at US$700, Foreign residents US$600, and citizens in East Africa UGX250,000. This makes Uganda a budget-friendly gorilla destination in Africa.

Rwanda gorilla permit prices

To trek mountain gorillas in Rwanda, gorilla permits are a must to carry and each permit costs US$1500 per person. This is obtainable via a ground tour operator or direct with Rwanda Development Board- booking permits in Rwanda or Uganda should be done early before the actual date of visiting any of the destinations for gorilla trekking.

Congo gorilla permit prices

D.R. Congo home to both Eastern Lowland gorillas and Mountain gorillas is open for gorilla safaris. It is low-cost gorilla destination with permits costing up to US$450 per person per day.

Number of trekkers per gorilla family

A maximum of 8 visitors are accepted to participate in gorilla trekking adventures in Uganda, Rwanda or DRC. Finding a gorilla family all requires some physical wellness since it all involves hiking through the forest for some good hours about 2-6.

Where can I go to enjoy the gorilla trekking experience?

There are only 4 outstanding places to enjoy a close encounter with mountain gorillas in the wild. They include two parks in Uganda- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park & Bwindi Impenetrable National Park; in Rwanda, the one place to see gorillas is only Volcanoes National Park while visitors on Congo safaris can visit the Virunga National Park. Besides gorilla tracking, there is a number of other tourists activities to do while on a wildlife safari in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.

Is gorilla trekking adventure safe?

Yes, gorilla trekking is one of the very few safest adventure experiences Africa has to offer the world. During all gorilla trekking exercises, visitors are accompanied by armed park guides who lead to and from the search to see mountain gorillas. However, Uganda and Rwanda are currently the two places notably safer and secure for this life-changing experience since Congo is still recovering from the long insecurities.

What to carry for gorilla trekking 2022?

With coronavirus at hand, the need to protect mountain gorillas is high. Besides observing the set gorilla rules, there is a need to also pack well starting with hand sanitizer, at least 2 masks, a negative PCR test certificate, long pants, insect repellents, gardening gloves, sturdy hiking boots, camera free from a flashlight, daypack, long-sleeved shirt, snacks.

When to go gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is an open safari activity all year-round. But, the dry season is noted for its favorable trekking conditions since it is when there are low or no rains experienced in most of the habitats. When does the dry season occur in Uganda, Rwanda or D.R. Congo? There are 2 drier spells or seasons that occur each year and they are experienced from June, July, August to September or December, January, February.

12/31/21

Volcano Hiking In The Virunga Conservation Area

Volcano hiking in the Virunga Conservation Area: The Virunga Conservation Area (VCA) is also most famous as the Virunga Massif, an area shared by 3 countries- Uganda, Rwanda and D.R. Congo. The VCA covers 3 National Parks of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park in the D.R. Congo and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

The Virunga Region/Massif is composed of 8 volcanoes and they are distributed in the 3 African states- Uganda, Rwanda and D.R. Congo. Volcano hiking in the Virunga Conservation Area offers enthusiastic hikers a great opportunity to climb through any of the 8 chain volcanoes. Two of the 8 Virunga Volcanoes are still active (Mt. Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira in Congo), while 6 are inactive.Gorilla Trekking Africa

Virunga Conservation Area is famous for its distinct tourist attraction sites and other than a chain of 8 mountains, the area is known for rare golden monkeys and endangered mountain gorillas. There are many reasons why tourists confine to Virunga Conservation Area including gorilla trekking, volcano hiking, golden monkey tracking, birding, and others. Virunga region also features unique Albertine bird species that thrive within the Virunga protected areas such as Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Virunga National Park, and Volcanoes National Park.

The 8 Virunga Mountains include Mount Nyiragongo, Mikeno, Nyamuragira volcanoes all set in the D.R. Congo. Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke is found at the border of D.R. Congo and Rwanda; Mt. Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo are set at the border of Uganda and Rwanda.

  • Mount Nyiragongo (3470m)
  • Mount Nyamuragira (3058m)
  • Mount Bisoke or Visoke (3711m)
  • Mount Mikeno (4427m)
  • Mount Gahinga (3474m)
  • Mount Sabinyo (3645m)
  • Mount Muhabura (4127m)
  • Mount Karisimbi (4507m)

 

  • Mount Muhabura (4127m)

Lying at the border between Uganda and Rwanda, Mount Muhabura is the 3rd highest volcano in the Virunga region. The beautiful volcanic mountain features steep slopes and hiking to its summits requires some level of stamina. At the summits 4127m, hikers have an excellent view of other Virunga volcanoes, surrounding Lakes such as the Twin Lakes- Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera.

  • Mount Karisimbi

Mount Karisimbi (4507m) is the tallest of all the 8 Virunga Volcanoes in the Virunga Conservation Area. Rising up to 4507m, Karisimbi Volcano is an amazing spot for hikers on Rwanda safaris and takes hikers about 2 days or more to have full exploration on this scenic volcano. At the summits of Mt. Karisimbi, visitors get to enjoy mesmerizing views of the world’s powerful volcano- Nyiragongo volcano mountain. The best time to enjoy hiking through Mount Karisimbi is during the dry season- June, July, August.

  • Mt. Nyiragongo

Found in the D.R. Congo, Mount Nyiragongo (3470m) is notably one of the world’s most active volcanoes. This Virunga volcano mountain has experienced multiple eruptions with the most recent one recorded in May 2021. The volcano boasts of one of the world’s largest Crater/Lava Lake, offering an unforgettable view of it that glows at night with smoky/fire-like fumes.

  • Mount Nyamuragira

Mt. Nyamuragira is arguably Africa’s most active volcano with a record of several volcanic actions. Nyamuragira volcano is 3058m and it is set within the D.R. Congo.

  • Sabyinyo volcano

Mount Sabyinyo (3645m) straddles within 3 countries- Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. The word “Sabinyo” is translated as an Old Man’s teeth considering its indented summit. Mt. Sabyinyo features a lush forest in the surroundings and while on a hike, there is also a possibility to keep an eye on distinct Albertine birds.

  • Gahinga (3474m)

Mount Gahinga 3474m is one of the amazing hiking spots in the Virunga Conservation Area. The volcano mountain features distinct volcanic caves, unique vegetation cover and it is a dormant volcano. It takes hikers just a day to hike Mount Gahinga.

  • Mount Bisoke/Visoke (3711m)

Mount Bisoke also known as Visoke volcano is famous for its beautiful Crater Lake on its summit. The volcano features distinct vegetation zones including bamboo forests and montane vegetation.

  • Mount Mikeno

Found within the D.R. Congo, Mount Mikeno is one of the dormant volcanoes in the Virunga Conservation Area. The volcano rises 4427m and it is the 2nd tallest volcano in the Virunga region. It features very steep slopes and offers the most challenging hiking experiences.

When to go for volcano hiking in the Virunga Conservation Area

Volcano hiking in the Virunga Conservation Area is perfectly done during the dry season of the year. The 2 dry seasons experienced in VCA run from June to September/December till February. The two drier seasons are record low rainfall with the ground kept relatively drier making hiking the volcanoes easier.

What to carry for volcano hiking in the Virunga Conservation Area?

The important items to carry for a volcano hiking adventure in the Virunga Area include sturdy hiking boots, a camera, a daypack (waterproof), comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, plenty of drinking water, and more.

03/19/21

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy In Uganda

Gorilla tracking is Uganda’s leading and most fascinating travel activity in the pearl of Africa.

Uganda is home to the largest population of mountain Gorillas in the world with more than half of their entire population. The mountain Gorillas are habituated and made used to the presence of human beings in their different groups.

It is important to note that since the Gorillas live in a government protected area, you will need to acquire a permit from Uganda Wildlife Authority to be able to rack them in Bwindi Jungle and Mgahinga National Parks. The Gorilla permit therefore becomes an authorization for you to meet these forest giants for the time agreed.

Over 19 habituated gorilla families live in the Bwindi impenetrable forest and one Gorilla group lives in the Mgahinga gorilla Park in the neighboring district. This brings the total number of gorilla groups to 20 attracting thousands of travelers from all over the globe daily. You must be wondering what happens in case you book and you change your mind on the agreed date and you are unable to track the gorillas or you want to reschedule.

Uganda Wildlife Authority has a policy that guides cancellations for gorillas that guides them. And here are some of the terms and conditions that guide the decision to cancel or change your tracking dates.

In case you are unable to track because of illness after arriving, 50% of the permit cost will be refunded to them. The warden in charge at the park will have to provide evidence that the visitors was not feeling well and could not track the Gorillas.

Travelers who cancel their plans in a period of 90 days are refunded with 75% of the permit cost. Canceling between 45 to 90 days means a 50% refund and below hat period you will be refunded 25% and no refund for cancellation in the last one week of 7 days.

Gorilla Habituation in Bwindi National Park

Gorilla Habituation in Bwindi National Park

Cost of The Gorilla Permit

A gorilla permit costs 700USD per permit in Uganda for Nonresidents, 600 for foreign residents and 250,000Ugx for East African citizens. These prices changed recently in July for conservation purposes of the most endangered apes in the high mountains of Kigezi. Uganda is apparently the best place to go gorilla trekking in Africa since it has the highest number of Gorilla families giving you high chances of meeting the Gorillas. Gorilla habituation is another activity that requires all participants to have gorilla permits, a permit for gorilla habituation in Uganda s is at 1500USD per permit and the guests will be allowed to spend 4 hours with the Gorillas participating in the habituation of these gentle giants.

Where/When to get Gorilla permits in Uganda

Gorilla permits are issued by only the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the government body that runs all protected areas in Uganda. The permits can be acquired through any trusted local tour operator or directly from UWA reservations through their contacts. We however recommend booking through your local Ugandan travel agency to make the process less stressing as you think about coming to Uganda. Gorillas can be visited anytime all year round in Uganda. The permits are always available since the weather favors the activity all the time.

Chance of Meeting the Gorillas in the Jungle

So many travelers keep wondering on the chance of them meeting the Gorillas in the forest since they are wild and keep moving from one point to another to feed. The park has trackers that move to the forest before the guests are led into this thick vegetation in search for the Gorilla. The trackers follow the Gorillas starting from the point where they spent the previous night. Once they get to where the Gorilla family is, they use radio call to connect to the team leading the guests to the exact point where the Gorillas are.

Some of the Gorilla families are found to live near the park headquarters and are easy to track by the visitors.

Minimum Age for tracking the Gorillas

Tracking Gorillas is for adults of 15 years and above. The argument here is that kids of 14 years and below may not be in position to make proper judgement on what to do when a mountain gorilla comes close to them. Children may run away, cry or scream loud when a gorilla gets closer to them. An exception to this is when the child’s birthday turning 15 is the tracking date and/or if the parents prove to the authorities that their child is mature enough to behave before the wild animals. The parent is then asked to sign an agreement to take responsibility of anything that may happen during the tracking.

Access to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla Park

Being tropical rain-forests, access to both parks is some times impossible without a 4×4 vehicle. Rain is expected at any time in the gorilla habitats and neighboring areas, and the roads are in terrible state. Like in any other national parks in East Africa, a successful safari requires a strong 4×4 car, and among the models recommended or guided or self drive safari in East Africa include Toyota Prado, Land cruiser V8, VX, GX, Nissan Patrol and many others.

03/2/21

Gorilla Tour cost inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions in a gorilla safari cost

It’s wise to understand the inclusions and exclusions in a gorilla tour cost before confirming any trip.  What is excluded and included in a gorilla tour quite is one of the frequently asked questions by most travelers booking gorilla safaris in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Upon any confirmation of any gorilla safari package, a traveler is given a quote by the contacted travel operator. With no doubt, a gorilla tour quote is often expensive compared to other wildlife experiences.  In most cases, the total cost of a gorilla safari is normally huge compared to other wildlife experiences but the thrilling feeling that comes with a close encounter with gorillas is worth the penny. African Jungle Adventures brings you detailed inclusions and exclusions of gorilla tour cost in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo,

Gorilla safari in Mgahinga National park Uganda

Gorilla safari in Mgahinga National park Uganda

  • Mountain gorilla permit

The number one inclusion in your gorilla safari cost is the gorilla permit. Depending on which country you will be trekking gorillas from, you must have a gorilla permit to allow you visit and interact with these endangered species. In Rwanda, a single gorilla permit cots $1500 paid by all travelers while in Congo, a gorilla permit costs $450 for foreigners and $400 for nationals. In Uganda, a single gorilla permit costs $700 for foreign nonresidents, $600 for foreign residents and UGX 250,000 for Ugandans and east African citizens. Upon booking, travel operators must ensure gorilla permits are available on a travelers desired date.

  • Park Entrance Fees

More so, your gorilla safari quite entails park entrance fee to the respective gorilla park. Unlike in savannah parks where travelers are asked to pay park entrance fees, clients visiting gorilla parks are not asked to pay entrance fees. The entrance fees to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks is inclusive in the gorilla safari quote.

  • Conservation fee

Your gorilla safari quote will also entail conservation fee in the respective gorilla national park. The conservation fee is majorly to facilitate personnel who ensure the well-being of the endangered mountain gorillas in the jungle. These people include the gorilla doctors, conservationists, park rangers, tourism police and park wardens who together ensure safety and well-being of the endangered mountain gorillas hence promoting sustainable gorilla safaris in Africa.

  • Full-time English speaking guide

Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed by a professional driver guide from African Jungle Adventures. A traveler will not pay the driver guide unless if he or she wants to tip. Therefore, the driver guide will be paid by the company part of the money paid by a client. A driver guide is given a daily allowance depending on the number of days on a trip. The amount of a driver guide’s allowance varies between companies.

  • Accommodation and meals

Unless you are doing a private tour or self drive in Uganda, your safari quote also entails accommodation and meals throughout the trip. Various budget, midrange and luxury lodges and hotels have been established in all gorilla national parks in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If you book through African Jungle Adventures, we reserve the best accommodation services for you at negotiated prices. The cost of accommodation services depends on the standard on the lodge and the quality of services offered. However, travelers are assured that both categories of gorilla lodges in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo offer excellent food and sleeping services.

Bisate Lodge Rwanda

Bisate Lodge – Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

  • Transport to and from the airport

Your gorilla safari quote also entails transport to and from the airport or the hotel. The driver guide will pick you up on the starting day and drop you off at the end of the tour without asking you for transport money. We guarantee you safe and comfortable transfers in our 4X4 safari vehicle.

Other inclusions in a gorilla safari quote include miscellaneous, bottled drinking water and government taxes.

Exclusions in a gorilla tour cost

The following are exclusions in your gorilla safari cost in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These include:

  • International flights and Visa fees

The cost of your international flight to your desired gorilla country is not inclusive in the permit cost. You will therefore pay for your flight separately in addition to your gorilla sari quote. Similarly, travelers pay for their Visa fees in the respective countries. If you are visiting East Africa, applying for an East African Visa which allow you to move freely in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo is best option.

  • Alcoholic beverages

Premium and alcoholic beverages are also not inclusive in your gorilla safari quote. Travelers are only served with soft drinks free of charge to accompany food in all lodges and hotels. Travelers are therefore reminded to bring extra income for the alcoholic beverages in case they want to take some.

  • Driver/guide tip

Tips are also not inclusive in your gorilla safari quote. Whereas its not mandatory, tipping on a safari is highly recommended. The amount to tip is the choice of a traveler depending on the quality of services he/she will have received from the driver guide. Tipping is a sign of appreciation which encourage service providers in this case driver guide to work harder and better.

  • Porter’s fee

If you hire a porter, you will pay him/her separate from the gorilla tour quote. Porters are local people who help to carry traveler’s baggage to and from gorilla trekking, Hiring a porter costs between $15 to $20 dollars for a full day.

  • Extra activities not in the itinerary

A traveler will also pay for any extra activity he/she adds in the itinerary.

Conclusively therefore, in-depth understanding of gorilla safari inclusions and exclusions is advisable for all travelers visiting for gorilla safaris in Africa.

08/1/20

Top Five Incredible Places To Visit In East Africa 2021/2022

East Africa is a region with a diversity of unmissable places to visit endowed with fabulous things to see. Visiting East Africa is therefore a better way to marvel at the vast incredible plains of the savannah beaming with abundant wildlife, scenic views of mountain ranges, wafer falls, and many more. Here are the five incredible places to visit while in East Africa;

5. Masai Mara Kenya

Masai Mara is without doubt one of Africa’s most famous safari destination. The game reserve is 1510sq km with breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife, and endless plains. This large game reserve is situated in Narok County in southwestern Kenya along the Tanzanian border with Serengeti national park. Masai Mara is renowned for its exceptional populations of lion, leopards, cheetahs, and elephants.

Masai Mara is popular for the annual migration of the wildebeest, zebra, Thompson’s gazelle, and other antelope species every year from Serengeti in what is termed the ‘great migration’. The reserve beams with incredible wildlife including the big cats, big five, antelopes, and over 450 bird species.

Masai Mara has a number of exclusive attractions which visitors view while at the reserve including Ol kinyei conservancy with its unspoiled terrain rolling with hills, swamps, streams among others. Mara triangle found along Mara River favors plenty of wildlife acting as an open door for both entrance and exit of the wildebeest migration. Mara Triangle is one of the richest locations at Masai Mara offering the best experiential game drives at the reserve.

Other attractions at the reserve include Lemek Conservancy, Olare Orok Conservancy, Mara North conservancy, Mara River, and Ol Choro Oiroua.

Visitors at the reserve enjoy unforgettable experiences which include: Game drive, Sky diving, balloon trip, Fly camping, walking safari, picnic view, cultural tour, horseback safari, seeing the wildebeest migration, and many others. It is from these unforgettable experiences that visitors travel far and wide to this land of spectacular wildlife viewing.

4. Serengeti National Park Tanzania

Located in northern Tanzania, Serengeti national park is one of the best-known wildlife sanctuaries in the world covering an area of 14763 sq km. The park has the greatest concentration of plains game in Africa as well as home to the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth- the great migration of wildebeest and zebra. Aside from the wildebeest and zebra, Serengeti national park is home to other impressive wildlife including lion, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, and birds. The park also beams with elusive wild game species especially the black rhino and bat-eared fox which are frequently viewed while on safari in Tanzania.

Serengeti national park can be divided into three parts:

  • The central part (Seronera Valley) also called Serengeti, renowned as the land of endless plains.
  • The second part- the western corridor is marked by Grumeti River has more forests and dense bush.
  • The third and last part is the north (Lobo area) which meets with Kenya’s Masai Mara and is the least visited section while on safari to the park.

Similarly, Serengeti national park is blessed with a variety of attractions including wildlife, bird species, wildebeest migration, Grumeti River, Seronera River valley, Olduvai Gorge, Moru Kopjes, Retina Hippo pool, and many others.

Once a visitor gets to Serengeti national park, there are a number of activities that make his or her trip memorable. Some of these interesting activities include game drives one of the fabulous opportunities to view the game and its wonders. The great experience of Serengeti can be fully executed through several game drives that take a visitor close to the gates of nature, viewing animals and other wildlife at the different sections of Serengeti national park. Game drives at the park are subdivided into four major forms:

Morning game drives are the most common and most rewarding at the Serengeti national park. At this time, most of the animals are lively and active, especially during the dry season.  The early morning drives are well stocked with true African wilderness experiences. The big cats sunbathing and mission hunting is very incredible.

The afternoon game drive usually done after lunch is the second form of the game drive often done during transit on the first day when transferring from Arusha to Serengeti via Ngorongoro. It is the best en-route game drive at the park. Sometimes, this game drive is not rewarding with big cats as compared to the morning because during this time they are already hiding and taking shelter due to the hot sun.

Full day game drive is the third form of game drive which rewards visitors with the feeling of excitement towards the beauty at the park with a lot of animals to be seen like lions, wildebeest, giraffes, buffaloes and many more.

Night game drives although not common can be arranged at the park request but come with extra fees. They are a great adventure for viewing nocturnal animals at the national park. Nocturnal animals Serengeti National Park includes cats (Leopards, Lions, etc), Birds like nightjar, wood owls among others.

Access to the park and during game drives requires a strong 4×4 car, preferable Land cruiser, Nissan, or Land Rover. Some tracks are almost impassable during the rainy season and some areas flood. If you choose to self-drive in Tanzania, there are many car rental companies in Arusha, Dar-es-salaam, Mwanza, and Moshi where you can rent a strong 4×4 land cruiser to self-drive in Serengeti National Park. Such companies include 4×4 Tanzania, First Car Rental, Road Trip Africa, and many others.

Other activities include; bird watching, hot air balloon safari, historical site seeing, wildebeest migration viewing, cultural encounters among others. With so many truly spectacular natural wonders within relatively close proximity, it is no surprise that Tanzania’s Serengeti national park is such a popular first-time safari destination in East Africa.

3. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Situated in the land of a thousand hills, Volcanoes national park is located in northwestern Rwanda covering an area of 160 sq km. With surrounding views of volcanic peaks, the park is an ideal destination for luxurious gorilla safaris alongside other wildlife species. Volcanoes national park is home to mountain gorilla an iconic endangered species, golden monkeys, spotted hyena, buffaloes, black-fronted duiker, bushbuck, and about 178 bird species.

The park is home to 10 habituated gorilla families which can be tracked by interested visitors to the park. Volcanoes national park rewards visitors with a number of activities to the park ranging from mountain gorilla trekking, to golden monkey tracking, hiking, cultural tours, nature walks, and many more.

The park has elusive attractions located both inside the park and around such as Mount Bisoke, Mount Karisimbi, Musanze caves, Dian Fossey grave site, twin lakes, Iby’Iwacu cultural village, and many others. Amidst all these attractions, visitors to the park believe that coming face to face with a great silverback is truly one of the most exciting wildlife experiences on earth which in my opinion each visitor ought to experience in East Africa.

2. Kidepo Valley National Park

Lying in the rugged, semi-arid valleys, is Kidepo valley national park between Uganda’s border with South Sudan and Kenya. Kidepo is Uganda’s most isolated national park but also the most magnificent teeming with Africa’s finest wilderness. From Apoka, in the heart of the park, a savannah landscape extends far beyond the gazetted area towards horizons outlined by distant mountain ranges.

The park contains one of the most exciting faunas of any Ugandan national park. It contains many species including the greater and lesser kudu, eland, cheetah, lion, leopard, spotted hyena, elephants, Burchell’s zebra, bush duiker, Defassa waterbuck, bush pig, Kavirondo and an extensive list of around 475 bird species.

Kidepo valley national park has a number of areas of interest such as; Apoka tourism centre, Narus valley, Kidepo valley, and Kanangorok hot springs, Mount Morungule, Namamukweny valley, Lamoj hills, Lonyili mountain, and Matheniko Bokora reserve.

The park boasts several activities such as game drive, birding, nature walks and cultural encounters. Travel to this off-the-beaten-path destination in Uganda to enjoy excellent photographic opportunities as well as viewing the most exclusive wild game.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The Bwindi impenetrable national park lies in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the rift valley. This impenetrable forest which dates back over 25000 years contains almost 400 species of plants and protects an estimated 400 mountain gorillas. The region also provides shelter to a further 120 mammals, including several primate species such as forest baboons, forest chimpanzees. Other animals include forest elephants, forest antelopes, and around 350 species of birds. The neighboring towns have an impressive array of luxury lodges, rustic Bandas, campsites, restaurants craft stalls, and guiding services.

The park has several areas of interest such as the Buhoma sector, Nkuringo sector, Rushaga sector, and Ruhija sector which are trailheads for gorilla tracking at Bwindi impenetrable national park. Nyundo north of Buhoma on the Congo border offers wonderful guided hikes along the hill crests and rivers to discover waterfalls, glorious views, and the traditional lifestyle of the Kigezi people.

The major activity at the park is gorilla trekking which takes place in the four sectors fore-mentioned starting at 8:30 am daily. Visitors embark on a forest trek lasting a few hours up to a full day depending on the location of the gorillas. Tours are limited to a maximum of eight people and visitors spend a maximum of one hour in the company of gorillas.

Other activities at Bwindi impenetrable national park include; birding, nature walks, mountain biking, and cultural tours. The chance to sight half of the world’s mountain gorillas makes viewing exciting and trekkers have splendid photographic moments at Bwindi.

In conclusion, with the above five incredible places, each visitor is in a position to enjoy legendary safaris across frontiers. However, note, for those going for self-drive adventures, access to all those parks requires a strong 4×4 vehicle because some areas are inaccessible especially in the wet season.

06/4/20

Top 6 East African Adventures

Top 6 Things to Do in East Africa in 2021

The combined East African safari adventure including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania offer plenty of activities and attractions for a lifetime adventure experience. Safaris to East Africa are basically designed to make your encounter in the region of Africa memorable.

East Africa is part of the African continent which comprises of 5 countries including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi and each country with different activities and attractions that you can enjoy on your adventure holiday.

East Africa’s destinations offer a variety of safari attractions including wild places, physical features, water bodies, birds, primates like mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, Golden Monkeys and Vervet monkeys among others depending on what the traveller wants to enjoy in East Africa.

6. Climb Mountain Rwenzori to Margarita peak

Mountain Rwenzori is the highest block mountain in Uganda and third highest in Africa after Mountain Kilimanjaro and Mountain Kenya. Mountain Rwenzori is located in western Uganda on the Uganda -Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border spanning the districts of Kasese, Kabarole and Bundibugyo.

Mountain Rwenzori is a UNESCO heritage protected by mountain Rwenzori National park managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority, it is also known as “the mountains of the moon” due to the 6 mountain ranges on it including mountain Stanley with the highest peak Margarita, mountain Baker, mountain Gessi, mountain Emin, Mountain Speke and mountain Luigi di savoia.

Rwenzori trekking is an ideal safari activity during your adventure safari in East Africa, as you move up to snowcapped margarita peak the highest peak of 5,109 meters above sea level which offers you the ultimate hiking adventure.

Over 7500 travellers each year visit mountain Rwenzori to explore the highest peak margarita, which can be done either in the shortest hiking trip of 4 days mountaineering or longest hiking trip of 7 days mountaineering which can be complemented with gorilla trekking, wildlife tours, birding among others.

Rwenzori Mountain is a world heritage site that heritage that offers the opportunity to see nature at its best. The plants vary from tropical rain forests, bamboo forest, montane vegetation and the scenery is truly fascinating. Snow and glaciers and the special and breathtaking experience when you go higher to the mountain.

Go to the Rwenzori mountaineering services headquarters where you will be briefed about the whole hike, start the hike from Nyakalengija through Bakonzo settlements on mountain Rwenzori National park gate where you get registered before entering the park. You start the trail trek through the thick tropical with dense bushes.

The bush is home to various animals like elephants, chimpanzees, monkeys like L’Hoests, black and white, duiker, three-horned chameleon among other that you watch on your way to climb mountain Rwenzori

5. Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

Uganda is the famous destination in the world for gorilla trekking in Africa and the whole because of the highest population of mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas are found only in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic of Congo in the whole world.

In Uganda gorilla trekking is done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National park located in southwestern Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National park is home to over 500 mountain gorillas half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas which attracts a big number of travellers each year to Uganda.

Gorilla trekking is done in the 4 sectors in Bwindi impenetrable National park with 18 gorilla families in Buhoma sector in the northern part, Ruhija in the eastern part, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National park and Mgahinga National park with 1 gorilla family, making it 19 habituated gorilla families for trekking in Uganda.

Experience the breathtaking and memorable experience of gorilla trekking as you encounter the endangered species physically in their natural habitats. Enjoy 1 hour in the presence of the mountain gorillas for observations and photography then return back.

The gorilla trekking destinations of Bwindi impenetrable National park and Mgahinga National park can be accessed by air transport means from Entebbe airport to Kihihi airstrip and Kisoro airstrip then drive to the trekking sector. Bwindi and Mgahinga National parks can also be accessed by road transport in 4×4 wheel vehicle with a guide or on a self-drive for 8-9 hours drive and 9-19 hours drive respectively from Entebbe airport via Masaka-Mbarara Ntungamo Kabale to Kanungu and Kisoro.  Due to clear signage on the roads to Bwindi and Mgahinga gorilla parks, even travellers on self-drive safaris in Uganda can easily make it to the park without much hustle.

4. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is done in Volcanoes National park in the north-west of Rwanda in Musanze district formally known as Ruhengeri. It is approximately 2-3 hours drive from Kigali airport to Volcanoes National park.

Volcanoes National park covers an area of 160 square kilometres consisting of a tropical forest, bamboo forest, shrubs and so on that shelters mountain gorillas, many bird species and other wild animals. Volcanoes National park consists of 10 habituated gorilla families that are tracked throughout the year, though the most recommended time for trekking is in the months of January, February, June, July, August and December when there is little rainfall and the roads are less slippery.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda all starts with briefing in the morning by the ranger guides on the rules and regulations of trekking gorillas and group allocation then later head out to the forest to search for the gorillas in their natural habitats. A maximum of 1 hour is allowed in the presence of the mountain gorillas to learn about their characters, physical appearances and takes photos and videos with them.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda currently costs 600 US dollars for foreign nonresidents, 500 US dollars for foreign residents and 250,000 Ugandan shillings for East African residents but starting 1st July gorilla trekking will cost 700 and 600 US dollars for foreign non-residents and foreign residents respectively.

However, you can also check-in at Kigali airport and trek mountain gorillas in Uganda.

3. The great wilderness migration (Masai-Mara and Serengeti National parks)

The great wilderness migration is the largest mass movement of the wild mammals from the plains of Serengeti National park in Tanzania crossing through Mara River to Masai-Mara National park in Kenya. The major animals crossing here are the wildebeests, Zebras, Elands, Gazelle which are always stalked by the lions, crocodiles, hyenas which are ready to eat them.

The great wilderness migration is an amazing adventurous experience which allows you see hundreds and thousands of wildebeests accompanied by herds of zebras, buffaloes, impalas, giraffes to look for food and water during the dry seasons depending on where they are.

During this great journey, the wild animals walk over 1000 kilometres where they attempt to avoid predation from the lions, cheetahs, hyenas and crocodiles in the rivers, diseases among others but over 250,000 animals die during this yearly circle and thus referred to as the great migration to those that survive during the migration.

However, the movement of the wildebeests is hard to understand because they cover huge areas but you can plan your trip to see them by finding out where they will be at each month of the year. Enjoy the great wildebeest migration that happens all year around and with each circle offering a unique wild life experience.

It is a great spectacular nature safari option to travellers who love nature and wild life that can be done on your adventure holiday in East Africa.

2. White water rafting in Uganda

White water rafting is one of the best things to do in Uganda, it is done on River Nile in Jinja on Kayunga road at Kalagala falls. Jinja is located in the south-east of Uganda approximately 87km from Kampala on the shores of Lake Victoria near to the source of the Nile.

White water rafting can also be done on Murchison falls in Murchison falls National park located in the north-west of Uganda.

The powerful volume of water creates horrible rapids that provide unforgettable rafting experience. There are over 4 companies offering day trips and then night camping and meals. White water rafting is done guided by the safety team just in case of an accident.

Each person is given a paddle and the guide keeps instructing you on how best to use it to enjoy the activity and to ensure you are safe. There is different grading of the rapids ranging from 1-5 where you choose to go in the middle of the falls up to the grade of your choice.

1. Ngorongoro crater exploration

The Ngorongoro crater is the world’s largest volcanic caldera with a diameter of about 18km covering an area of 260 square kilometres. Ngorongoro was once a mountain as high as Kilimanjaro Mountain and about many years ago it blew its self to bits covering Serengeti in ash and a crater formed in the mountain forming the Ngorongoro crater.

Ngorongoro crater in the Ngorongoro conservation area in north Tanzania is the most known and visited with the highest concentration of big five game including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, Rhinos and other wild animals like zebras, wildebeests, cheetahs, flamingos among others which are seen down on the plains of the crater.

There are over 400 bird species that are found here including water birds like storks, herons, cranes, savannah birds like ostrich and kori bustard, forest birds like turacos, hornbills and prey birds like eagles, vultures among others.

You can as well do game drives in the Ngorongoro crater while on your safari in Tanzania because it is allowed unlike walking safaris are not allowed in the crater. At the top of the crater, there is a terrace offering one of the most panoramic and breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro conservation area.

There is no recommended period to visit the crater because the animals do not leave the caldera and can be spotted at any time of the year.

Therefore East Africa safari on your adventure holidays in Uganda, Rwanda Kenya and Tanzania rewards you with breathtaking and memorable experiences.

03/24/20

Explore Uganda in 12 Days

Tips to enjoy 12 Days in Uganda – Guided or Self-Drive Tour

Uganda is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa, it receives millions of tourists every year to different national parks for different tour activities.

Because Uganda has over 10 national parks and game reserves, a few days tour package may not allow fully explore what this “Pearl of Africa” has to offer.

A trip of 10 to 12 days is long enough for you to visit all Uganda’s most popular and interesting destinations such as; the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga for gorilla tracking experience, Kidepo Valley National Park, Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls for savannah game viewing experience and birding, Rwenzori mountain hiking, local community and cultural tours among others.

To book a Uganda safari, you must do it early enough for best deals on accommodations, car rentals and airfares. And some activities like gorilla tracking are on high demand throughout the year, you are thus advised to book your gorilla trekking permits in advance before they are sold out. Chimps and gorilla permits can be booked through tour operators or Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Follow the link below for a details plan for a proposed 12 day Uganda safari with recommended hotels, lodges and campsites for budget, mid-range and luxury travellers.

Best Uganda Safari

The tour can be taken at any time of the year.

 

03/22/20

14 Day Uganda Tour, Sample Itinerary

Tips for a successful Two Weeks Safari in Uganda

Uganda is popularly known as the true “Pearl of Africa”, regarded to be one of the best safari destinations in Africa!

To start with, Uganda is a landlocked country, located in East Africa, boarded by Kenya in the East, DR Congo in the West, Tanzania in the south and the South-Sudan Republic in the north. The country is famous for inhabiting half of the world’s last remaining population of the critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Shoebill: Birding Safari in Uganda

Shoebill: Birding Safari in Uganda

Uganda is gifted by nature, with beautiful savannah national parks, game reserves, beautiful mountains, snow-capped Mount Rwenzori, impenetrable forests such as Bwindi and Mgahinga where we find the endangered mountain gorillas.

Planning a safari in Uganda, there are many tourists activities to do as a tourist basing on your interests, time and budget and among the tourist activities in Uganda include the following;

Gorilla Trekking

Uganda is among the safest gorilla safari destinations in Africa. With half of the world’s mountain-gorilla population, Uganda currently has close to 20 habituated gorilla groups in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular tourists activities in Uganda, and almost 90% of the safari packages include gorilla trekking experience besides other tour activities such as game viewing, mountain climbing and cultural encounters.

To go gorilla trekking in Uganda, one is required to book a gorilla permit from Uganda Wildlife Authority or tour operators at US$700 each, and bookings must be done in advance because they are on high demand throughout the year!

Baby Gorilla Swinging on Tree in the Jungle

Baby Gorilla Swinging on Tree in the Jungle

Game Viewing

Game viewing safaris are conducted in savannah national parks such as Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Park among others. A 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof is highly recommended, together with a professional ranger guide obtained from the Park headquarters. The pop-up roof offers you an excellent opportunity for game viewing and photographing.

Pop-up Land cruisers for game viewing

Pop-up Land cruisers for game viewing

Mountain climbing

You can climb Mount Rwenzori, Elgon, Muhabura, Moroto, Molungore in Kidepo, Kaguru rock and many others.

Boat Cruise

Enjoy a fantastic boat cruise along the Kazinga channel in Queen Elizabeth N.P, Lake Mburo and River Nile while on a safari in Uganda. Its another chance to explore more of aquatic mammals, reptiles and birds.

Karamajongo Cultural Encounters

Karamajongo Cultural Encounters

Cultural encounter

Uganda is endowed with a diversity of cultures, such as the Batwa trail, Batwa experience, Bagishu cultures and Karamajonjs in Norther Uganda among others.

Here is a sample Itinerary for 14 days Uganda safari where you will experience all the tourists’ activities above.

14 Day Gorillas and Wildlife

01/18/20

Chimps & Other Primates Tours in Rwanda

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is done in Nyungwe National park located in the southwestern part of Rwanda bordered by Burundi in the south and Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west.

Nyungwe National park covers an area of 970 square kilometres with a rain forest, bamboo, grassland and swamps kind of vegetation which inhabits 13 primate species including over 400 chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, colubus monkeys, velvet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, olive baboon, silver monkeys among others.

Nyungwe National park can be accessed from Kigali-Nyanza-Huye then finally to Nyungwe, the distance may take 5-6 hours drive. It can also be accessed by air to Kanombe airport using the services of Akagera aviation.

Where chimpanzee trekking is done in Nyungwe National park?

Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National park is carried out in Cyamudongo area and others in Uwinka area of Nyungwe forest and all with about 400 chimpanzees.

  • Cyamudongo forest

Cyamudongo forest is a small forest with only 19 square kilometres but the best home for chimpanzee trekking than any other part in Nyungwe forest. It was connected to Nyungwe forest but after it was destroyed and became isolated but still part of Nyungwe.

Cyamudongo forest is home to a big group of chimpanzees and many other primates like L’Hoest’s monkeys, Rwenzori colubus monkeys, velvet monkeys, several bird species, butterfly species and many endemic species of flora and fauna. It is also unique for other plant species like Orchid blue chertiae which is not found elsewhere in Nyungwe.

Chimpanzee trekking can also be done around Uwinka area because there is a group near Uwinka reception centre with over 40 individuals in the group and quite difficult to trek.

Other places to see Chimpanzees in Rwanda

Besides Nyungwe National park being the well-known destination for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda, chimpanzees can also be viewed and trekked from Gishwati Mukura National park, the newest Rwanda tour destination located in the western side of the country. Gishwati Mukuru National park is home to several habituated chimpanzees just in case one misses permits for Nyungwe National park.

Chimpanzee tracking experience

Chimpanzee tracking is an exciting experience that involves travellers to move through the forests in search of the habituated chimpanzees in their natural habitats. Chimpanzees are popular primates that attract tourists to Rwanda just like the Gorillas in Volcanoes National park in northwestern Rwanda.

Chimpanzee trekking is a park activity that involves following trails after early morning briefing by the ranger guides on the dos and don’ts of chimpanzee trekking. Follow trails with the rangers as you head to the forests in search for the chimpanzee in their natural environment, on the encounter with the chimpanzees, you are required to view the chimpanzees, watch their behaviours, feeding, take pictures and videos in only one hour and vacate the forest. This marks the breathtaking and unforgettable memorial experience for the visitors.

When to go chimps trekking?

Chimpanzees are normally seen early in the morning meaning you have to wake up early in the morning by 6:30 visitors should be at the park headquarters.

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda can also be done in the months of January, February, June, July, August, September and December because these are dry months, also known as the peak season. They experience little or no rainfall making the trekking areas less slippery and reachable during the trekking time.

Rwanda Chimpanzee trekking fees

Foreign non-residents pay 90 US dollars

Foreign residents pay 60 US dollars

Rwandans pay 5000 Rwf

Students who are foreign residents pay 30 US dollars

Rwandan students who are citizens pay 2500 Rwf

East Africa community foreign residents pay 60 US dollars

Nationals from the East African community pay 10 US dollars

East Africa community students pay 5 US dollars

Chimpanzee trekking rules and regulations

Keep a distance of 8 meters from the presence of chimpanzees, however much habituated they are, chimpanzees are wild animals and can be dangerous when you come close to them.

Trekkers above the age of 15 years are allowed to trek the chimpanzees because young people normally have infectious diseases that can be transferred to chimpanzees.

Do not trek chimpanzees when you have a cold or cough because the chimpanzees easily get affected.

Do not eat and drink while with the chimpanzees.

The visitors should keep their voices low when trekking chimpanzees because the noise scares them away and other wild animals and miss a chance of encountering with them.

Chimpanzee trekking only allows a maximum of 6 members per chimpanzee group every day.

Do not use flash cameras while taking pictures and videos because they destruct the chimpanzees making them charge.

Do not litter rubbish and leftovers in the forests which makes the chimpanzees sick.

What to carry for chimpanzee trekking?

Some of the elements required when going for chimpanzee trekking include;

  • Trousers and long-sleeved shirts/blouses

Wear the long-sleeved shirt to protect you from the strong shrubs as you move through the forest in search of the chimpanzees.

  • Hiking boots

Help to ease the movement of trekkers especially in the muddy and slippery areas.

  • Rain jacket

Travellers are always advised to carry a rain jacket going to trek chimpanzees just in case of rain.

Garden gloves help to protect you from the harsh trees and insect bites as you hike through the hard trails.

Wear a hut to protect you from the direct sun and in case of rain.

Carry cameras to take pictures and videos of the chimpanzees in their natural inhabits.

Carry extra lenses and batteries in case the batteries of the camera are finished to continue taking the memorable pictures with chimpanzees.

Other things to do in Nyungwe National Park

Besides chimps tracking, Nyungwe national park has more to offer to tourists, and these include;

  • Birding:

The park has over 300 bird species and among the frequently spotted species include White-tailed Crested Flycatcher, Rwenzori Nightjar, the Handsome Francolin, Kivu Ground Thrush, Great blue and Rwenzori Turaco, Dwarf Honeyguide, the Red- Throated Alethe, and montane Double Collared Sun.

  • Canopy walk:

This was introduced in 2010, and its the only one we have in East Africa! It is a 90 meters long walk on top of Nyungwe Jungle, extremely interesting and rewards you with a face to face interaction with many bird species, primates and butterflies. To take part in the Canopy walk adventure, you are required to pay US$60 for foreign non-residents!

  • Black and White Colobus monkey tracking:

Nyungwe National Park has large troops of Black and white colobus monkeys, ranging between 400 and 600 individuals. It’s another amazing experience in Nyungwe Jungle! To take part in colobus monkey tracking, you are required to pay US$60 for foreign non-residents!

  • Guided Forest walk:

There are many hiking trails in Nyungwe National park. Choose one in your ability to hike! Some of them include Isumo Waterfall Trail, Bigugu Trail, Ngabwe Trail, Kamiranzovu Marsh Trail, and Igishigishigi Trail among others.

  • Community Tours:

Tourist can visit local communities surrounding Nyungwe National Park, visit them in their fields, homesteads or coffee plantations. You can take part in local activities such as milking cows, harvesting coffee and digging among others.

01/14/20

All About Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda

In the whole world, there are over 1000 habituated mountain gorillas and these are found in only three countries in the world, Bwindi Impenetrable National park and Mgahinga National park in southwestern Uganda, Volcanoes National park in northwestern Rwanda and Virunga National park in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rwanda has become the most visited country for gorilla trekking and other primate species like golden monkeys.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is carried out in Volcanoes National park in the northwestern part of the country also part of the eight Virunga Mountains. The Virunga Mountains include Karisimbi, Sabinyo, Muhabura, Bisoke, Gahinga, Nyiragongo, Mikeno and Nyamuragira Mountains.

Volcanoes National park is located in Musanze former Ruhengeri, 110 km approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Kigali airport. The park borders Virunga National park in Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga National park in southwestern Uganda.

Volcanoes National park is also well known as the base for the female American conservationist Dian Fossey who played a big role in the protection of mountain gorillas, Dian Fossey had research centred called Karisoke between the mountains of Karisimbi and Bisoke where she was later buried after being killed by angry poachers on 26th December 1985.

Volcanoes National park covers an area of 160 square kilometres with bamboo and rain forest type of vegetation that harbours the endangered mountain gorillas, besides the huge population of mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National park also harbours golden monkeys, primate species, bird species among others.

Gorilla trekking is currently the most captivating activity in Rwanda with currently 10 gorilla families habituated for trekking and 8 gorilla permits allocated to every group making the availability of 80 permits every day. The gorilla groups were 11 in number but the one group called Hirwa migrated to southwestern Uganda in Mgahinga National park.

Each gorilla group is unique in its own way, be it character, size, and each group is led by a huge silverback or silverbacks. Below are the gorilla groups in Rwanda;

  • Susa family

Susa family normally referred to susa A is the oldest and biggest gorilla group in Rwanda with over 29 members, 3 silverbacks and 2 twins. Susa family was the gorilla group that Dian Fossey studied while she was at Karisoke research centre between mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke before she was killed by the angry poachers.

Susa family deprived its name from river susa that flow through where the group inhabits.

Susa group is normally the hardest group to trek because they tend to move high in the mountains making it so hard for the trekkers to reach them.

Susa gorilla group is commonly known for its twins born to impano and byishimo.

  • Kwitonda family

Kwitonda family is the second biggest gorilla group with about 28 members.

Kwitonda stays in the areas between mount Sabinyo and Mount Gahinga and the most popular group for tourists to visit.

The gorilla group deprived its name from the silverback that came from the Democratic Republic of Congo due to the pressure from others gorilla families and formed a one kwitonda, later was taken over by the young silverback Akarevuro, but later kwitonda was found dead at the age of 40 and was known for his humble character. It leaves in the slopes of Mount Muhabura.

  • Sabinyo family

Sabinyo family currently has 13 members and 2 silverbacks living in the slopes of Mount Sabinyo. The group came into existence after the death of a dominant silverback where the family split from “amavubi” a Kinyarwanda word meaning wasps and formed another gorilla family and changed the name to Sabinyo family.

Sabinyo family was led by the dominant silverback which was the oldest, strongest and biggest compared to other silverbacks.

This group is well known for its giant silverback known as the Guhonda which is the biggest silverback in the park.

  • Karisimbi family

Karisimbi family is initially called Susa B because it separated itself from the Susa family with 15 members with 1 silverback called Nyagakangaga, the group stays in the slopes of Mount Karisimbi the highest mountain in the Virunga ranges.

The Karisimbi family is also a hard group to trek because it stays in the high mountains of karisimbi with 4507 meters above sea level.

For the trekkers who want to test their physical fitness, they are recommended to visit the Karisimbi gorilla family.

  • Amahoro family

Amahoro is a Kinyarwanda word meaning peace, therefore the group is characterized by its humble and peaceful characters. The family stays in the slopes of mountain Bisoke with 17 members including the Ubumwe the head silverback. Ubumwe is a Kinyarwanda word meaning togetherness.

Amahoro family is also a hard to trek group because of the terrain of the land in which they stay which can be so hard to climb.

Trekkers humble and peaceful in character are recommended to visit the Amahoro family.

  • Umubano family

Umubano family was formed from Amahoro family after silverback Charles and Ubumwe had endless battles, Charles was forced to break off and formed his own group and named it Umubano.

Umubano family has 13 members and 2 silverbacks, they stay in the same area with Amahoro family.

  • Agashya family

Agashya family was initially called group family but recently changed its name to Agashya family. Its name was got from the 13 members of the family that it had.

The family was led by the dominant silverback known as Nyakarima who was later overthrown by a silverback called Agashya. The name Agashya means News, and the group was named after the silverback Agashya.

The family has 27 members and 1 silverback also staying in the slopes of Mount Sabinyo.

  • Ugenda family

Ugenda family is made up of 11 members and 2 silverbacks, the name “Ugenda” means mobile which relatively describes the group’s behaviour.

Ugenda family is always moving, they have never settled in one place. The family inhabits in the slopes of mount Bisoke.

  • Bwenge family

Bwenge family comprises of 11 members with 1 silverback. Bwenge literally means wisdom in English, Bwenge left his group and was joined by other female members then later formed its group and was named Bwenge. Bwenge family stays in the slopes of Mount Bisoke

  • Titus family

Titus family was named after the silverback, Titus, was born during times of Dian Fossey when she was still conducting her research at Karisoke Research Centre. The whole of Titus family was killed by poachers and Titus was the only one that managed to survive the poachers. Titus formed his group and named it Titus.

Currently, Titus family resides in the slopes of Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke.

Gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking all starts with travellers arrive at Volcanoes National park’s headquarters at Kinigi in Musanze for briefing at 6:30 am by the ranger guides on the rules and regulations guiding gorilla trekking.

At exactly 7am, the visitor joins other trekkers to search for the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural environment after being allocated the gorilla groups to trek.

Some groups may be near and others may be far which may require some physical fitness to hike to reach them. Some travellers may take hours to find them and others may take a few hours to find them depending on which gorilla group you are allocated to.

There are always higher chances of spotting mountain gorillas, rangers are sent in the forest very early in the morning to find out where they made their nests the previous night and they are able to communicate with the ranger guides that are directing the trekkers so as to find the gorillas easily.

The hiking process passing through the in passable trails of the park and climbing since Volcanoes National park is situated in the Virunga regions, the experience is rewarded when you encounter with the gorillas and you will forget all you went through to reach them.

Travellers are entitled to only one hour in the presence of mountain gorillas and you can leave the forest.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is managed by Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and all payments are made from RDB offices in Kigali town.

Gorilla trekking permits

Gorilla trekking permits are acquired from Rwanda Development Board, each permit costs 1500 US dollars for all, foreign nonresidents, foreign residents and East African residents.

The Rwanda gorilla trekking permits are so expensive compared to Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo gorilla permits as a way of conserving the mountain gorillas. Since gorilla trekking permit is expensive, the gorillas are visited by not more than 80 people on a daily basis hence protecting their natural environment.

The permits being on higher demand, visitors are advised to book their permits at least 3 months in advance.

Rules and regulations for gorilla trekking

  • Only 8 members are allowed to visit a certain gorilla group which limits the number of visitors that may transfer diseases to the primates.
  • Always wash hands before heading out to these endangered species.
  • Do not go on a gorilla safari with cough, flu or any contagious disease that may be transferred to the gorillas.
  • Do not leave rubbish in the forests like leftovers, empty water bottles which may cause gorillas to catch diseases.
  • Always keep your voices low when searching for the gorillas and when in their presence to avoid scaring them away.
  • Keep 7 meters away when with the mountain gorillas because when visitors come close to the gorillas they can easily charge.
  • Do not eat and drink in the presences of gorillas.
  • Flash photography is not allowed when taking pictures and videos of the gorilla which may destruct their peace and cause them to charge.
  • Always turn away from the gorillas when you feel the urge to cough or sneeze to avoid spreading diseases to the gorillas.

Gorilla trekking gears

Wear long trousers and long shirts/blouses to protect you from the harsh branches in the forests.

Hiking boots

Gardening gloves

Rain jacket

Wear a hat

Warm sweaters

Insect repellant