Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from the Netherlands

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda from the Netherlands for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, Rwanda is a must-visit destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience: gorilla trekking; a lifetime experience. This activity allows visitors to get up close and personal with one of the world’s most fascinating and endangered species: the mountain gorillas.

Located in the Virunga Mountains that stretch across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the mountain gorillas are a critically endangered species with fewer than 1,000 individuals left in the world. Rwanda is home to about a third of these gorillas, and the country has established several protected areas where visitors can observe them in their natural habitat.

Booking a gorilla trekking permit from the Netherlands

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a well-managed and regulated activity that requires visitors to obtain a permit in advance. The permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and cost $1,500 per person, which may seem steep but is well worth the price for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. The permits are in high demand and limited to a maximum of eight visitors per gorilla family per day, so it’s important to book well in advance to secure a spot.

The gorilla trekking experience typically starts early in the morning, with visitors meeting their guide and other trekkers at the park headquarters for a briefing on the rules and guidelines. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, and they will provide information about the gorillas’ behavior, habitat, and conservation status. They will also assign visitors to a gorilla family based on their fitness level and trekking experience.

The trek to find the gorillas can take anywhere from one to four hours, depending on the location of the family and the difficulty of the terrain. Visitors should be prepared for a strenuous hike that may involve steep slopes, thick vegetation, and muddy trails. It’s essential to wear comfortable hiking shoes, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts to protect against scratches and insect bites. Trekkers may also want to bring a walking stick, gloves, and a backpack with snacks and water.

When the gorilla family is located, visitors will spend one hour in their presence, observing them from a safe distance of about 7 meters. The gorillas are habituated to human presence and are generally indifferent to the visitors, which allows for a rare and intimate wildlife encounter. Visitors can watch them eating, playing, grooming, and interacting with each other, and can take photos and videos to capture the moment.

After the hour is up, visitors will hike back to the park headquarters, where they will receive a certificate of gorilla trekking as a souvenir. The certificate is a testament to the conservation efforts of Rwanda and the successful partnerships between the government, the local communities, and the conservation organizations that work to protect the mountain gorillas.

In addition to gorilla trekking in Rwanda from the Netherlands, Rwanda offers other wildlife and nature experiences that are worth exploring. Visitors can go on a safari in Akagera National Park, home to the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos), as well as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. They can also hike to the top of Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi, two of the eight volcanic peaks in the Virunga Mountains, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

To travel to Rwanda from the Netherlands, visitors can take a flight from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Kigali International Airport, which takes about 8 hours with a layover. They will need a valid passport and a visa, which can be obtained online on on arrival.

Contact us for a Gorilla trekking in Rwanda from the Netherlands safari today or Customize a gorilla safari. Our contacts +250781441853 or send an email at info@universalventuresrwanda.com.