MOUNTAIN GORILLAS ARE ONES OF THE WORLD'S MOST ENDANGERED APES, FOUND ONLY IN SMALL PORTIONS OF PROTECTED AFRO-MONTANE FOREST IN SOUTHWEST UGANDA, NORTHWEST RWANDA & EASTERN D.R. CONGO.
Where does gorilla trekking take place in Rwanda?Gorilla trekking takes place at Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, which is home to an estimated 175 individuals, of which 12 families have been habituated for tourism purposes and a few for scientific research purposes. Volcanoes National Park protects the Rwandan side of the transboundary protected area covering the Virunga massif. This connects up to Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and D.R. Congo’s Virunga National Park, creating an important wildlife corridor. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park starts at Kinigi, the location of the park's headquarters.
Which gorilla families can be tracked in Rwanda?The twelve mountain gorilla families that have been habituated for tourist gorilla trekking in Rwanda include; Umubano, Muhoza, Igisha, Agashya, Kwitonda, Bwenge, Karisimbi, Hirwa, Sabyinyo, Ugyenda, Susa and Amahoro. The family you track will be assigned by the rangers on the morning of your gorilla trekking day.
What is Kwita Izina?Rwanda plays host to an annual naming ceremony, ‘Kwita Izina’ based on the tradition of naming children in the presence of friends and family. The newborn gorillas since 2005 are honoured in the same way at an annual event close to the park boundaries. A celebration of the newborns and chance to thank the rangers, vets, conservationists, researchers and trackers for their dedication.
How are gorilla trekking permits secured?We secure your gorilla trekking permits as part of our services when you book your Rwanda flying safari with us. Please note that gorilla trekking permits can book up far in advance, especially in high season. Your safari consultant will advise on availability based on your proposed travel dates.
Learn about our Rwanda gorilla trekking destinationVolcanoes National Park
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