Gorilla Trekking and Volcano Hiking in Rwanda

Wondering if it is possible to combine mountain gorilla trekking and Volcano hiking in Rwanda? When you think about combining gorilla trekking safaris and hiking adventures in Rwanda, often most adventure seekers are left wondering if this option can be available. Everything is possible provided that you plan and book your Rwanda safari holidays with an expert on the ground.

Combining gorilla trekking and volcano hikes allows you enjoy two great adventures in Volcanoes National Park, Ruhengeri in Northwestern. Let us explore more about combining gorilla trekking and volcano hiking in Rwanda.

Gorilla trekking and volcano hiking in Rwanda combo options

One best ways to have unforgettable combined gorilla trekking and volcano hiking in Rwanda is by booking across-cutting Rwanda safari packages. These often include gorilla safaris and volcano hiking tours incorporated into a single trip. Interestingly, we have multiple options in line with this including the following;

3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari

4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

4 Days Rwanda Gorillas & Bisoke Volcano Hike

8 Days Rwanda Safari

Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is where all mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda can be enjoyed. About 12 habituated families of mountain gorillas are open for visitors on safaris in Rwanda to explore during the gorilla trek. These include among others Hirwa, Sabyinyo, Karisimbi, Susa A, Umubano, Pablo, Titus, Amahoro, Kwitonda, and others. A maximum of one group is visited per day and only trekkers with valid gorilla permits can have a chance to visit one family of mountain gorillas.

A single gorilla permit for Rwanda costs USD 1500 per person and obtaining one for your Rwanda gorilla tour is safe and quicker through the local tour operator; Maranatha Tours and Travel. Talk to our team now to secure your Rwanda gorilla permit and also plan the whole gorilla trekking safari. We are available 24/7, simply send us an email at info@adventureugandasafaris.com.

Gorilla trekking is without doubt the most memorable primate adventure. The highest population of tourists on Rwanda safari holidays comes mainly to see the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. This primate adventure is in high demand and not to miss it, we recommend that you plan and book your gorilla tour in advance. This can be done at least 2-6 months before the actual date of traveling up to Volcanoes National Park to begin your trekking expedition.

About a third of the world’s 1063 endangered mountain gorillas survive in the jungles of Volcanoes National Park alone. It is in Volcanoes National Park where the renowned primatologist –Dian Fossey spent up to 18 years researching more about the unique mountain gorillas.

Treks with Rwanda mountain gorillas begin from Kinigi where Volcanoes National Park offices are located. The day gorilla trek begins with a briefing, allocation of gorilla groups, and park ranger guides. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is under the strict management and supervision by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

Volcano Hiking Adventures in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park still features as the best place for you to enjoy a combined gorilla trekking and volcano hiking in Rwanda. Up to 5 of the Virunga Volcanoes exist in Rwanda and specifically, they are in Volcanoes National Park. The majority of these volcanoes are trekked in Volcanoes National Park and this park takes its name from these natural wonders.

The five volcanoes to explore on a hiking tour in Rwanda include Karisimbi (4507m), Mount Bisoke (3711m), Muhabura Volcano (4127m), Sabyinyo (3674m) and Gahinga Volcano (3474m). The popularly trekked volcanoes here include Karisimbi, Bisoke, Gahinga, and Muhabura. Combining volcano hiking and gorilla trekking is a great deal any adventure seeker shouldn’t miss on a safari in Rwanda.

A complete trek through Karisimbi lasts for about 2 days and includes one day hiking to the top and the second day, you return. Bisoke Volcano (3711m) involves exploring its spectacular crater which measures 400m in diameter. Overall, this takes 4 hours to hike to the top and two hours to descend back to where you began your journey. Muhabura volcano (4127m) takes about 6-8 hours for you to have a round trek and some fitness level is required for you to achieve a successful hike.

How much does it cost to combine gorilla trekking and volcano hiking in Rwanda?

The cost of gorilla trekking and volcano hiking safari combo varies depending on numerous factors. The determining factors include the cost of gorilla permits, accommodation, transportation, lifestyle (are you a luxury, midrange, and budget traveler?), length of stay in Volcanoes National Park, additional activities besides trekking gorillas and hiking the Virunga Volcanoes, etc. Talk to the local expert to plan and book your safari holiday in Rwanda.

What to pack for gorilla and volcano hiking safari

Essential items to have for a gorilla and volcano hiking tour include sturdy hiking boots, gardening gloves, long lightweight pants, long-sleeved shirts, a camera, snacks, a daypack, a walking pole, adjustable gaiters, safari hat, insect repellent, and more.

Additional activities to do

Besides gorilla trekking and volcano hiking, there is also a chance to engage in golden monkey tracking, birding, and cultural tours in Iby’Iwacu Village.

Accommodation

Places to stay in Volcanoes National Park include luxury, mid-range, and budget lodges. The list of lodges to consider for a night stay before or after trekking gorillas or hiking volcanoes include Kinigi Guesthouse, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Le Bambou Mountain Gorilla Lodge, La Palme Hotel, Muhabura Hotel, and others.

Best time to go to enjoy a combined gorilla trekking and volcano hiking.

A visit to Rwanda for gorilla trekking or hiking adventures can be done at any time of the year. But the best time to enjoy your adventure is during the peak dry months that is June, July, August to September December, and January to February. There is also the possibility of traveling during the off-months of the year and you experience the best of Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris and volcano hiking adventures in Volcanoes National Park.

How to plan a successful combined gorilla trekking and volcano hiking in Rwanda

• Plan and book your Rwanda safari holiday with the local tour operator Maranatha Tours and Travel | info@adventureugandasafaris.com.
• Know when to travel for gorilla and volcano trekking in Rwanda.
• Pack well for your gorilla trek tour and volcano hike.
• Be fit – both gorilla and volcano trekking require some level of fitness.
• Book your trip early, do not wait till the last minute.