Our gorilla safaris in Rwanda offer the rare opportunity to see the endangered Mountain Gorillas in the picturesque surroundings of the Parc National des Volcans.
The trek through Rwanda’s misty, dense forest and traversing steep ravines is an achievement fully rewarded by the magical experience of observing gorillas at close range in their natural setting. In fact, for many visitors this close encounter is truly life-changing.
All tours are led by experienced guides who share a wealth of knowledge on the surrounding flora and fauna.
Click image to see a video clip filmed by Julie Roggow, from the Gamewatchers Safaris US office, showing the experience of coming face to face with a troop of gorillas.
Rwanda safaris can be combined with Kenya or Tanzania tours or even the stunning beaches of the Indian Ocean. We can tailor an itinerary to suit your exact requirements and budget. Contact us for more details.
Mountain Gorilla Treks
Mountain Gorillas are found in the high-altitude cloud forests of the Virunga Volcanoes, many residing on the slopes of three dormant volcanoes. They are very sociable, living in strong-bonded groups of 3 to 40 individuals, usually lead by one or two Silverbacks (dominant adult males).
Mountain Gorilla tours depart daily to find and observe family groups as they spend their day foraging for food, resting and nest-building. Treks start at the headquarters of the Park National des Volcans where you will be assigned an expert guide and a specific gorilla family group to track.
The family groups that are visited in this area include:
- Sabyinyo Group:10 individuals / 2 Silverbacks
- Amahoro Group A:15 individuals / 2 Silverbacks
- Amahoro Group B:7 individuals / 1 Silverback
- Susa Group:37 individuals / 4 Silverbacks
- Treize Group:10 individuals / 2 Silverbacks
The guide will give a briefing on the family group and then you will take a short drive to a base in the foothills where you will be joined by trackers, army rangers and porters who accompany the trek.
The ascent begins via the terraced farmland in the lower slopes, but as the landscape becomes steeper, the vegetation becomes thicker and entwined and the guides use their machetes to cut a path. At around 8000 feet, signs of the gorillas become evident such as damaged bamboo and, if very close, you may be aware of their distinct smell and sounds.
A trek to see Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat and to observe their social interaction and almost human qualities is one of the most moving and memorable wildlife experiences available.
