The Magic of Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Is there anything more incredible than walking through the lush green jungles of Rwanda’s national parks and coming across a family of mountain gorillas? From the playful juveniles to the large silverback males, these are truly special creatures that are sure to make a lasting impact on your psyche. 

Have you considered including a gorilla trekking experience in your Rwanda safari holiday? Rwanda offers some of the best opportunities for viewing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In this article, we’ll explain what makes this wildlife encounter so magical.

Impressive Creatures

While you may have seen gorillas in dozens of nature documentaries, there is nothing quite like viewing these magnificent animals in person. They are one of the largest living primates in the world and their muscular physiques are truly impressive. Mountain gorillas are known for having intelligent, quizzical faces and thick black hair to keep them warm. 

As humans share around 98% of our DNA with gorillas, you’ll definitely see some fascinating similarities. Whether the gorillas are eating, playing, or simply sleeping when you come across them, you are sure to be completely enchanted by them.

Explore the Volcanoes National Park

All gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place within the Volcanoes National Park, home to a wide range of other animal species, hundreds of plants, and a diverse array of landscapes, including volcanoes and caves. 

Your hike through the national park should provide you with many breathtaking views and amazing photo opportunities, so be sure to pack your camera and keep your eyes peeled. The park is also where Dian Fossey conducted her pioneering research, which inspired the iconic movie ‘Gorillas in the Mist’.

A Rare Experience

Did you know that mountain gorillas are listed as an endangered species by the IUCN? Getting to see them in their natural habitat is something that not many people have the opportunity to experience. 

Only 8 people are permitted to visit the gorilla families each day so that the animals remain mostly undisturbed by humans. If you have the opportunity to book a gorilla trekking experience during your Rwanda safari, you should definitely go for it! This is the sort of experience that you will speak about for many years to come and allows you to make unforgettable memories with your travel companions.

Supporting Conservation

The fee you pay to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda goes toward conservation efforts, ensuring that the mountain gorillas enjoy a safe, natural habitat for many years to come. Poaching was once a major problem in Rwanda, but with the last gorilla poaching incident happening over twenty years ago, it is safe to say that the country’s anti-poaching efforts have been successful. Unlike many other types of wildlife encounters, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is completely sustainable.

Are you interested in booking an unforgettable Rwanda safari? At Tailormade Africa, we create custom safari packages for you and your travel companions. Contact us today to find out more. We look forward to helping you plan your dream holiday!