When Is the Best Time of the Year to See the Gorillas in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that draws wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to witness the majestic mountain gorillas up close, knowing the best time of the year to see gorillas in Rwanda can greatly enhance your adventure. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the ideal seasons for gorilla trekking, where to trek, how to book permits, accommodation options, and why Rwanda is a top gorilla trekking destination.

Best Time to See Gorillas in Rwanda: Dry Season is Prime

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, specifically from June to October and December to March. During these months, Rwanda experiences mild rainfall, making trekking conditions easier and safer. The trails in Volcanoes National Park are more accessible as the vegetation is less dense, allowing for clearer gorilla sightings and excellent opportunities for photography.

Why Choose the Dry Season?

• Easier Trekking: Trails are less slippery and more navigable.
• Better Gorilla Visibility: Sparse vegetation improves chances of spotting gorillas quickly.
• Comfortable Weather: Mild rainfall and pleasant temperatures make the trek enjoyable.
• Ideal for Photographers: Less dense foliage allows clearer, unobstructed photos of mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking in the Wet Season: April, May, and November

The months of April, May, and November constitute the wet or rainy season in Rwanda. Although trekking during this time is possible, it presents some challenges:

• Thick Vegetation: The rain encourages rapid plant growth, making trails more difficult and gorilla sightings less clear.
• Shorter Treks: Mountain gorillas tend to stay closer to food sources during wet months, which can result in shorter trekking times.
• Higher Physical Demand: Trails may be muddy and slippery, requiring good hiking boots and physical stamina.

Despite these challenges, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is possible year-round with a high chance (about 99%) of spotting the gorillas, thanks to excellent park management and guiding services.

Where Is Gorilla Trekking Done in Rwanda?

The sole destination for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park, located in the far northwest of the country. This park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and features diverse montane vegetation, including bamboo forests and open grasslands. Volcanoes National Park is part of the famed Virunga Mountains, which also extend into Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park.

Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park

• Visitors meet at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices at 7 a.m. for a mandatory briefing on safety guidelines and trekking protocols.
• Groups of 8 trekkers are allocated to different gorilla families.
• Treks can last from a few minutes to six hours, depending on gorilla locations.
• Visitors spend one hour observing the gorillas, following strict rules to protect both guests and wildlife.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda

To secure a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda, booking in advance is crucial due to high demand and limited daily permits. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Choose Your Travel Dates: Confirm your preferred trekking dates.
2. Check Permit Availability: Contact a reputable tour operator like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris to verify permit availability through the Rwanda Development Board.
3. Make Payment: After confirmation, pay for the permits securely.
4. Receive Your Permit: Upon payment, a scanned copy of your permit will be emailed to you, confirming your booking.

Booking permits early guarantees your spot and helps avoid disappointment.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Cost?

The cost of a gorilla permit is a major consideration in your safari budget:

• USD 1,500 per person for foreign non-residents.
• USD 500 for foreign residents.
• USD 200 for East African citizens.

This permit allows a one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Additional costs may include transport, accommodation, guiding fees, and other safari services.

For example, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris offers a 3-day Rwanda Gorilla Express Tour starting at approximately USD 2,375 per person (sharing basis).

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Accommodation options around Volcanoes National Park cater to a range of budgets:

Luxury Lodges

• Sabinyo Silverback Lodge
• Bisate Lodge
• Virunga Volcanoes Lodge
• Five Volcanoes Hotels
• Mountain Gorillas’ Nest Lodge

Prices range from USD 300 to USD 1,000 per night. These lodges provide luxury amenities and spectacular views of the Virunga volcanoes.

Mid-Range Lodges

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Lebambou Gorilla Lodge
• Davinci Lodge

Budget Accommodation

• Kinigi Hotel
• Hotel Muhabura
• Gorilla Solution Lodge
• Villa Gorilla
• Virunga Hotel
• Faraji Hotel
• La Palme Hotel

Camping is also an option for those seeking a closer-to-nature experience.

All accommodations follow strict health and safety protocols aligned with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health and WHO standards.

How to Access Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is best accessed by road, approximately 2-3 hours from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The scenic drive passes through the famous “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offering chances for sightseeing and photography.

Your driver-guide will provide a briefing at your hotel before setting off to the park for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris?

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris is a trusted operator specializing in gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda and Uganda. They offer:

• Expert planning and booking services aligned with Rwanda’s safety guidelines.
• High ratings and reviews on TripAdvisor.
• Eco-friendly safaris supporting conservation and local communities.
• Additional safari options such as chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 game drives, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural tours.
• Customized itineraries including popular African safari destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Feel free to contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris for detailed information and to book your unforgettable gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda.

Conclusion: Plan Your Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda for the Best Experience

If you’re wondering when is the best time of the year to see gorillas in Rwanda, the answer is during the dry seasons—June to October and December to March—for the most comfortable and rewarding trekking experience. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round due to excellent park management and gorilla habituation.

Remember to book your gorilla permits early, choose suitable accommodation, and partner with experienced tour operators like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris for a safe and unforgettable journey into the wild heart of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.