Overview
If you’re short on time but want to experience the thrill of seeing mountain gorillas, a 1 day gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an ideal choice. Located in Volcanoes National Park, this adventure is perfect for those on a tight schedule or business travelers with limited time. Starting with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport, you’ll head to the park for a briefing and then embark on a trek through the rainforest to encounter these majestic creatures. Although the trek can be challenging, the experience of seeing the gorillas up close makes it all worthwhile. This brief but exhilarating adventure is an unforgettable way to explore Rwanda’s wildlife.
Day Plan
Early Morning Pick-Up
Your day starts early at 4:30 am, when your guide picks you up from your hotel or the airport if you arrive at 4 am. You’ll travel for about two hours to Volcanoes National Park, arriving at the park headquarters around 7 am. Here, you’ll receive a briefing about the gorilla families and the day’s trek.
Trekking to the Gorillas
After the briefing, you’ll drive a short distance to the starting point of your trek. The hike through the rainforest can vary in length from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family and your fitness level. The trek can be categorized as short, medium, or long. Your guide will help determine which option best suits your preferences and abilities. As you hike, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the rainforest, with its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. Once you find the gorilla family, you’ll spend one hour observing and taking in the remarkable sight of these gentle giants.
Return and Transfer
After your hour with the gorillas, you’ll hike back to the park headquarters. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to Kigali. Depending on traffic and the trek’s length, you’ll return to Kigali by early evening.