1-Day Gorilla Trekking Experience

Q: What is the minimum age requirement for gorilla trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is 15 years old. This rule is strictly enforced by park authorities to ensure safety and minimize disruption to the gorillas.

Q: Can I take pictures of the gorillas?

es, photography is highly encouraged! However, flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can distress the gorillas. Ensure your camera is set to a non-flash mode, and you may want to bring a lens with good low-light performance.

Transportation
Typically by private 4x4 vehicle or safari-style car
Maximum Altitude
2,500 to 3,500 meters
Fitness level
Moderate to High
Departure from
Kigali, Rwanda
Best season
June to September and December to February
Tour type
Private or group guided tour/day trip
Language
English and French
Difficulty
Challenging (due to unpredictability)
Minimum Age
15
Destinations
Musanze, Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Activities
Cultural Drumming & Dance Session, Gorilla Guardians Cultural Trek
Trip Type
Cultural, High Altitude, Nature Friendly

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

A 1-day gorilla trekking experience is an intense but highly rewarding trip, typically starting and ending in Kigali, Rwanda, due to its close proximity to Volcanoes National Park. The day is focused entirely on the journey to the park, the trek to find a gorilla family, and the return trip, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.

Highlights

Face-to-Face Encounter
Observing Natural Behavior
A Profound Connection
The Thrill of the Trek
Contributing to Conservation

04:30 AM :

Early Morning Pick-up & Transfer to Musanze

A driver-guide picks you up from your hotel or the airport in Kigali. You immediately begin the scenic 2.5-hour drive north to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze/Kinigi.

07:00 AM :

Arrival & Briefing

Arrive at the park headquarters in Kinigi village. You are welcomed with coffee/tea followed by registration and a mandatory briefing by park rangers on rules, safety, and the day's procedures.

08:00 AM :

Group Allocation & Start Trek

Trekkers are assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families based on fitness levels and preference, in groups of up to eight people. You then drive to the trailhead to begin the hike into the forest with your guides and trackers.

08:30 AM - 12:30 PM (Approx.) :

Gorilla Trekking Adventure

The trek duration varies significantly (from 1 to 6 hours or more) depending on the assigned family's location and movement. The hike can involve walking through dense, steep, and sometimes muddy bamboo forests.

Encounter (1 Hour) :

Observation Time

Upon locating the gorillas, you spend a strictly enforced maximum of one magical hour observing them, taking flash-free photos, and enjoying their natural behavior from a safe distance.

Afternoon :

Iby'iwacu Cultural Village Visit & The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Immerse yourself in Rwandan culture at the nearby Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village (formerly Iby'iwacu Cultural Village). Enjoy traditional dance, music, witness a mock king's ceremony, and learn about local traditions.

Explore the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

The campus features a museum dedicated to Dian Fossey's conservation work, interactive exhibits, and a 360-degree theater with gorilla footage.

04:30 PM :

Return to Kigali & Drop-off

Drive back to Kigali and drop off to your Hotel

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Gorilla Trekking Permit: One non-refundable gorilla trekking permit per person is included in the package price. This permit (valued at USD $1,500) grants access to the park, funds conservation efforts, and provides the experience with a habituated gorilla family.
Ground Transport: Comfortable round-trip transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle or PRADO from your accommodation in Kigali to the park headquarters in Kinigi and the art experience location in Musanze, with an English-French speaking driver/guide.
Snacks and Water: Packed Local snacks and bottled drinking water for the duration of the journey are usually provided.
Cultural Village/Museum Entry

Cost Excludes

International Flights & Visas: The cost of international airfare to and from Kigali International Airport (KGL), as well as any required Rwandan entry visas, are the responsibility of the traveler.
Accommodation: Pre- or post-safari accommodation in Kigali is not included in this specific one-day package but can be arranged at the time of booking with Bonnie's Tours.
Personal Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, which should cover potential trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage, is highly recommended and must be arranged by the traveler.
Tips & Gratuities: Tipping the park rangers, guides, driver, and porters is a customary way to show appreciation for their services. These voluntary tips are not included in the package price.
Porters: While highly recommended to assist with carrying gear and navigating challenging terrain, the cost to hire a porter (approx. $15 USD cash per trek) is an optional personal expense.
Personal Items & Souvenirs: Lunch and extra drinks beyond the provided water, Alcoholic beverages, Laundry services, Purchases of personal art or gifts from local galleries or workshops.
Trekking Gear: Personal packing items such as sturdy waterproof hiking boots, rain jackets, gardening gloves, and insect repellent must be brought by the traveler.

FAQs

Expand all

How much does the 1-day gorilla trekking tour cost?

The total cost of the tour varies by operator, but the most significant expense is the mandatory gorilla trekking permit, which currently costs $1,500 USD per person in Rwanda. The full package price includes transportation and guide fees, bringing the typical total cost closer to $1,800–$2,500+ USD depending on inclusions.

Is a 1-day trip enough time to see the gorillas?

Yes, a 1-day trip is highly efficient and covers all necessary logistics to ensure you see the gorillas. It involves a very early morning departure from Kigali, the trek itself, the guaranteed one hour of observation time, and a return to Kigali by evening.

What is the minimum age requirement for gorilla trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is 15 years old. This rule is strictly enforced by park authorities to ensure safety and minimize disruption to the gorillas.

What happens if I don't see any gorillas?

Seeing gorillas is virtually guaranteed. Expert trackers leave early every morning to locate the habituated families before the tourist groups arrive, ensuring a successful encounter. It is extremely rare for a visitor not to see them.

Can I take pictures of the gorillas?

es, photography is highly encouraged! However, flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can distress the gorillas. Ensure your camera is set to a non-flash mode, and you may want to bring a lens with good low-light performance.

Do I need to book my permit far in advance?

Yes, absolutely. Only 96 permits are issued per day in Rwanda, and they sell out quickly, especially during the peak dry seasons. It is crucial to book your trip and secure your permit at least 3 to 6 months in advance.

Should I hire a porter?

Yes, hiring a porter is strongly recommended. For a small fee (around $15–$25 USD cash), they carry your bag and help you navigate the difficult terrain. It’s a vital way to support the local community and makes the trek significantly easier.

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map