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How to Plan Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda During the Winter Break

If you’re dreaming of a winter break safari with mountain gorillas, Rwanda is the perfect destination. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place at Volcanoes National Park, home to around 400 mountain gorillas and the famous research site of Dian Fossey, featured in the 1988 film Gorillas in the Mist.

This guide will take you through the steps to plan your winter gorilla safari in Rwanda, from permits and packing to accommodation and additional activities.

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1. Research Your Destination

Before planning your safari, familiarize yourself with:

• Languages: Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Swahili

• Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF); credit and Visa cards are accepted in some places, but local cash is useful for small purchases

• Travel Rules: Plastic bags are banned in Rwanda

• Transport: Modern roads and reliable tour operators make travel convenient; 4×4 safari vehicles are typically used to reach Volcanoes National Park

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2. Gorilla Permit Costs and Booking

Gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s top safari activity and requires a permit, which covers the majority of your safari costs.

Tips for Booking:

• Book via a reputable tour operator for convenience and secure permits

• Provide passport details for permit issuance

• Payments are made directly to company accounts, not individuals

• Permits are valid only on the assigned date and are non-refundable

High season: Winter break corresponds to Rwanda’s dry season—ideal for trekking but requires early booking due to high demand.

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3. Gorilla Trekking Policies and Guidelines

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) enforces strict rules to protect gorillas:

• Minimum age: 15 years old

• Group size: Maximum 8 visitors per gorilla family

• Distance: Stay at least 7 meters away from gorillas

• Duration: 1-hour viewing limit

• Health precautions: Sick visitors should not trek

• Behavior: No eating, drinking, smoking, flash photography, touching, or direct eye contact

These guidelines ensure a safe and responsible encounter with the gorillas.

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4. What to Pack for Your Winter Gorilla Safari

Proper clothing and gear are essential for comfort and safety:

Clothing & Gear:

• Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trekking pants (neutral colors)

• Comfortable, waterproof, ankle-high hiking boots (broken in before the trip)

• Warm sweater, raincoat, and gaiters

• Gloves for trekking through vegetation

Other Essentials:

• Refillable water bottle

• Sunscreen and sunhat

• First aid kit and toiletries

• Waterproof daypack

• Camera, extra batteries, storage, tripod, waterproof bag

• Binoculars for spotting gorillas, golden monkeys, and birds

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5. Accommodation Around Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda offers a range of lodging options for different budgets:

• Luxury: One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Bisate Lodge

• Mid-Range: Mountain View Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Five Volcanoes Hotel

• Budget: Hotel Muhabura, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Booking early is recommended, especially during the winter break peak season.

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6. Additional Activities in Rwanda

Besides gorilla trekking, Rwanda offers:

• Chimpanzee trekking and habituation in Nyungwe Forest

• Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park

• Canopy walk and forest hikes in Nyungwe National Park

• Game drives and bird watching in Akagera National Park

• Cultural experiences: Kwita Izina baby gorilla naming ceremony, visits to local communities

• City tours: Kigali City sightseeing and boat trips on Lake Kivu

• Historical tours: Rwanda Genocide Memorial Sites

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7. Getting to Volcanoes National Park

• From Kigali International Airport, Volcanoes National Park is a 2–3 hour drive

• 4×4 safari vehicles are typically arranged by tour operators

• Early arrivals allow for a Kigali city tour before heading to the park

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8. Why Book Your Winter Gorilla Safari with Us

• Years of experience organizing Rwanda and Uganda gorilla safaris

• Assistance with permits, transportation, and accommodation

• Flexible packages for all budgets

• Guidance for combining Rwanda and Uganda gorilla trekking

• Personalized support to make your winter break safari safe and unforgettable