Why Your Next Holiday Should be a Lake Kariba Safari
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Experiencing the Big 5 from Land, Water and Sky
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A Hidden Wilderness: Exploring Hwange National Park
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What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
You’ve watched the film Gorillas in the Mist more times than you can count and fantasised about coming face-to-face with these mighty primates in their own hood. But when it comes to deciding what to pack for gorilla trekking in Africa, it can be overwhelming. That’s […]
RwandaYou’ve watched the film Gorillas in the Mist more times than you can count and fantasised about coming face-to-face with these mighty primates in their own hood. But when it comes to deciding what to pack for gorilla trekking in Africa, it can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in! Our team of Travel Experts have travelled all across our magical continent to experience its many treasures first-hand, so that they can guide you to experience only the very best. Therefore, we’ve done the work for you and compiled the ultimate list of what to pack for gorilla trekking! So, channel your inner Dian Fossey explorer spirit, and let’s start packing for your gorilla trekking adventure!
Strap on your hiking boots, we’re going gorilla trekking!
Ultimate List of What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is a very specific experience and therefore requires a very specific packing list. If you’re visiting Africa for a gorilla trekking adventure, you will more than likely head to Rwanda or Uganda.
Because you will be trekking up steep forested slopes, having the right gear and clothing is paramount so that nothing will hold you back from meeting the eyes of your gorilla cousins. Here’s what you should definitely pack for gorilla trekking in Africa.
Ready to meet these majestic gorillas in Africa?
1. Long-Sleeved Shirts and Jerseys
Long-sleeved shirts and jerseys are your best bet to protect your arms from scrapes as you weave your way through the lush rainforest. It will also be best to opt for breathable fabrics as you will be working up a sweat during the hike.
2. Long Pants, Preferably Waterproof
Like your arms, your legs will appreciate a layer of protection from the branches. Go for a waterproof material to keep you dry in this high humidity climate.
3. Quality Waterproof Hiking Boots
Your feet will do most of the work, so ensure you’re set up for success by packing high-quality waterproof hiking boots. Also, look for boots with adequate ankle support and try to walk in your boots before the trip if you’re going to buy a new pair for the occasion.
The dense rainforest gorillas in Rwanda call home
4. Gaiters to Protect Boots
Gaiters are like sleeves that help protect your hiking boots from dust and debris, as well as prevent it from going into your shoes during the hike.
5. Rain Jacket
You’re going to the rainforest, so you better be prepared for some precipitation. A good rain jacket will help keep your layers dry so that you don’t end up soaked and shivering.
6. Thick Gardening Gloves
Gardening gloves? Yes, you read that right! Although you won’t be pruning rose bushes, you will use your hands to go up and down steep forested hills, so it’s better to protect your hands.
7. Sunscreen
Even when the sun hides behind clouds, you should never underestimate its strength. Therefore, it’s essential to regularly apply a high-factor sunscreen.
8. Wide-Brimmed Hat
Keep cool and protected with a wide-brimmed hat that will shield your face, ears and neck from the sun.
A hat is a must when considering what to pack for gorilla trekking
9. Sunglasses
Avoid squinting and protect your eyes from the bright sun with a good, comfortable pair of sunglasses that fits properly and won’t slide off when you look down during your hike.
10. Insect Repellent
Keep the pesky bugs at bay by applying insect repellent before and during your gorilla trekking excursion.
11. Camera and Extra Memory Cards
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one that only a few people on earth will ever get the opportunity to do. So, you want to ensure you capture every moment to relive it later! And, of course, to show your friends and family back home. However, just note that you will not be allowed to use flash photography when taking pictures of the gorillas.
12. Walking Stick
A walking stick is a must on your gorilla trekking adventure to help keep your balance and grip in the uneven, steep terrain. Most lodges provide their guests with walking sticks.
Your walking stick will become a trusted companion during gorilla trekking
13. Backpack
You’ll spend quite some time out there in the rainforest, so ensure you have a comfortable backpack to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, sunblock, and any other items you wish to take along. Simply ask you Travel Expert if your lodge of choice also provides you with a backpack.
14. Other Logistics
To go gorilla trekking, you first need to obtain a permit. This can cost anything from 700-1,500 USD, and all these funds go directly to safeguarding these endangered primates and their rainforest home. But don’t worry, if you book your gorilla trekking adventure through a trusted travel agency like Rhino Africa, we’ll take care of the admin for you. And as the World’s Leading Safari Company, we can safely say we’re the best in the biz!
Let’s Start Planning Your Dream Gorilla Trekking Adventure
We’ve welcomed over 180,000 delighted travellers to the African continent. We tailor every holiday we plan to your specifications, and we don’t do copy and paste here at Rhino Africa! Contact our Travel Experts today, and let’s start planning!
When Is The Best Time to Visit Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking, Big 5 safaris, rainforest and mountains – Rwanda has it all! When deciding on the best time to visit Rwanda, you need to look at its different seasons and what to expect. The “Land of a Thousand Hills” is a few degrees south of the […]
RwandaGorilla trekking, Big 5 safaris, rainforest and mountains – Rwanda has it all! When deciding on the best time to visit Rwanda, you need to look at its different seasons and what to expect. The “Land of a Thousand Hills” is a few degrees south of the equator and therefore enjoys warm weather all year-round with little variation in temperature. It’s a high-altitude country – starting at 1,000m above sea level – which means cooler, more comfortable conditions than its low-lying neighbours. However, it’s also a high-rainfall country, which accounts for the lush rainforests its primates and birds love so much. But this can make gorilla trekking trickier at certain times of the year. Therefore, it’s easiest to decide when is the best time to visit Rwanda by looking at how the wet and dry seasons affect your must-have Rwandan experiences.
The magical Volcanoes National Park, Image Credit: Bisate Lodge
Unique Wildlife, Scenery and Culture
Rwanda is a lush mountainous country and famous for its endemic primates. Hiking through the forests and observing a mountain gorilla family in the wild is possibly one of the most moving wildlife encounters you’ll ever have. Yet there’s so much to this fascinating Great Rift Valley country that’s often lost to the headline-grabbing gorilla.
In addition to the primates of the western mountains, Rwanda has a resurgent Big 5 national park. Therefore, you can expect incredible birdlife rich with endemics, scenic lakes and mountain ranges crisscrossed with hiking trails. And what’s more, a turbulent past defines Rwanda’s fascinating present as one of the safest, cleanest, and friendliest nations on the planet.
In this article, we describe Rwanda’s rainfall patterns and their impact on your in-country experiences. We cover the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking as well as the best time for chimpanzee trekking and a classic Big 5 safari.
June to September: The Long Dry Season
By mid-May, the rain starts to ease off in Rwanda. And come June, the sun is out and the dry season has officially started. Lasting until September, the dry season still gets its fair share of rain, especially in the higher-altitude rainforests. However, these are usually short showers, with the sun soon returning. Judging by the slight rise in average daily temperatures, these four months are therefore akin to summer. The average maximum temperature is around 28ºC and the evenings are a cool 16ºC.
Let us plan your perfect Gorilla Trekking adventure in Rwanda
This longer drier season is the best time to visit Rwanda for its major attractions. Your high-altitude gorilla trek – which can be up to eight hours each way – is considerably less taxing as the pathways dry out and visibility improves.
Your Big 5 safari in the east also benefits from drier conditions as the wildlife congregates near permanent water sources and the bush thins out for better sightings. Elsewhere, Lake Kivu in summer is a glorious place to unwind while the birdlife is always amazing, no matter when you visit. And of course, Rwanda’s cultural and historical attractions are equally fascinating whether it’s rainy or sunny.
October and November: The Short Wet Season
The short wet season in Rwanda features spectacular thunderstorms that pass quickly to reveal beautiful cloud-studded skies, vivid forest colours and soft, saturated light. In other words, this is an excellent time for photography. Birding is also particularly good at this time as the brief rains bring many plants into flower, and migrants arrive to bolster the already impressive species count.
Rwanda’s lush landscape, Image Credit: Bisate Lodge
Gorilla trekking and primate walks can be more challenging when it rains, although the sub-surface remains firm. However, with the rain and cloud cover, your photos will come out just that bit more special. And your Big 5 safari won’t be too much affected by the rain as the showers are short and the resulting greenery is exceptionally photogenic. Furthermore, the tea and coffee plantations, dramatic scenery and cultural attractions retain their appeal regardless of the weather.
December to February: The Short Dry Season
December sees a significant drop in rainfall, ushering in the short dry season. It’s still quite wet with frequent showers but nowhere near the boggy deluges of the wet season. As a result of the ground drying up underfoot, gorilla trekking becomes easier.
Meet Rwanda’s warm-hearted people
Drier, warmer, sunnier conditions generally favour all of Rwanda’s incredible attractions. For this reason and because it’s less busy, we consider this short dry season one of the best times to visit Rwanda. During this season, you can enjoy the whole country, from primate trekking, Big 5 safaris, birding, relaxing by the lake and absorbing the cultural phenomena.
March to May: The Long Wet Season
Rwanda’s big rains arrive in March, peak in April and taper off in May. Provided you’ve got good rain gear – and if you’re visiting an equatorial country, that’s pretty much essential – the rainy season can be one of the best times to visit Rwanda.
Gorilla trekking continues year-round and is often at its most rewarding, with a tough, mud-bound hike making the experience much more visceral. Furthermore, gorilla permits are easier to obtain, and many lodges offer green season specials.
See chimpanzees in their natural habitat, Image Credit: Nyungwe Forest Lodge
Chimpanzees are easier to track during this long wet season as they drop to lower altitudes to feast on the ripening fruit. Birding is understandably excellent with the national bloom, breeding and migratory arrivals. And towards the end of the wet season it’s calving time so expect to see plenty of wobbly newborns on your Big 5 safari.
And finally, Rwanda’s incredible scenery, culture and fascinating history are on full display and accessible all year round whether it’s bucketing down or a cloudless day.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking continues throughout the year regardless of the rain. However, the best time to visit Rwanda for a gorilla trekking is either of the two dry seasons. The long dry season runs from June to September and the short dry season from December to February. The dry seasons are generally considered best for trekking as the pathways firm up underfoot making the hike easier and conditions generally more comfortable.
The rainy seasons also produce exceptional experiences if you’re prepared for a more difficult hike along muddier pathways. The light and the effect of the rain on the gorillas play their part for a magical experience.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda for Chimpanzee Trekking
Unlike the gorilla families that find one spot for the day, chimpanzees are much more mobile. Subsequently, they’re slightly easier to find in the wet season when they descend from the forest canopy heights to gorge on the ripening fruit in the understorey level.
During the drier months, while hiking conditions improve, it’s more hit-and-miss as they disperse into the thickly forested slopes. As a result, the big rainy season from March to May is the best time to visit Rwanda for chimpanzee trekking.
We know the best places to stay in Rwanda
What Is Your Best Time to Travel to Rwanda?
Hopefully, you’ve got enough time to explore the whole country, not just the justifiably limelight-stealing gorillas. In fact, even when disregarding the gorilla activity, we believe Rwanda is an essential African country to visit.
The best time to visit Rwanda for a greatest-hits experience is the dry season from June to September, when walking conditions are at their best. It still rains all year round, however, so if you’re well-prepared, any time of year has its share of special sights and experiences.
Book Your Visit to Rwanda Today
If you’re sold on Rwanda and have gorilla trekking at the top of your bucket list (as it should be!), contact our Rhino Africa Travel Experts today. As the World’s Leading Safari Company, we’re in the prime position to give you the best advice and service to make the most of your time in this beautiful, amazing country.
A Gorilla Trekking Adventure of a Lifetime
African explorers are inquisitive and adventurous by nature. And I, myself, am no different! So when the opportunity to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in the mountains of Rwanda presented itself. I grabbed my passport quicker than it takes me to reach the bottom […]
Rwanda
African explorers are inquisitive and adventurous by nature. And I, myself, am no different! So when the opportunity to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in the mountains of Rwanda presented itself. I grabbed my passport quicker than it takes me to reach the bottom of my first G&T on a sunset game drive!
Spending time with gorillas in their natural habitat is such a unique experience because it’s something that simply has no equivalent. You would never imagine just hopping off your game drive vehicle for a quick splash in the river with a herd of elephants, yet a gorilla trekking experience gets you up close and personal with these majestic creatures. This very intimate experience is what sets gorilla trekking apart from anything else and what makes these encounters so incredible.
Gorilla trekking up the Virunga Mountains may seem rather daunting, but porters and guides are on hand to assist you and ensure you are perfectly taken care of. The actual hike to find the gorillas can range from 30min to over 4hours, depending on where they are, so having some level of fitness does make the overall experience much more enjoyable. Early in the morning, you arrive at the park’s headquarters and each group is assigned a specific gorilla family in the region. From there, your gorilla trekking adventure begins.
Our Gorilla Trekking Encounter
We were fortunate in that the Amahoro gorilla family (which we were assigned to) were fairly close to where we started hiking. After only 50 minutes of moderate hiking, before we had time to even feel tired, our guide informed us that we were close.
As if on cue, a silverback gorilla came out of nowhere, walking down the path we had stopped on. He gently tapped us while ambling past us as if to say “sorry, but I’d like to get through please” and disappeared as quickly as he arrived. What an exhilarating introduction to our experience! Fast forward to a quick hop over one or two shrubs and under one or two hanging trees and around a corner to one of the most incredible sightings of my life, an entire family of gorillas of all shapes and sizes.
We stumbled into an amazing view. Two adult gorillas and a handful of infants were gathered together, completely unbothered by our presence as they played. The silverback acknowledged us but was completely content with our presence. He actually walked right up to me at one point and just sat down and ate. My heart might have been racing, but at no point did I feel scared or nervous as our guides were incredible in making sure we were safe.
Mere metres away, infants played together and their human-like interactions were astonishing. From eating to grooming and everything in between, just being able to watch them made me smile and laugh throughout. One of my most memorable moments was watching a young male practice his ‘chest thump’ while his father watched on. Each time louder than before. I could almost sense that he was doing it to impress his father. Their interactions back and forth mirroring those of a young boy looking for his father’s approval.
After spending an hour watching this incredible family, it was time to head back. However, it seemed that the family had exactly the same idea. So what should have been a simple trek down the mountain, following the path, turned into a family affair of negotiating thick forest foliage and gorillas too. I loved this, it felt authentic and exciting and allowed us to spend a little longer than the normal 60min with these amazing creatures.
Reflecting on Magical Mountain Moments
Eventually, we made it back to our base camp. As we prepared to depart to the vehicles I could not help but look back at the misty mountains around us, and reflect on what had just happened. In this moment, the entire gorilla trekking experience truly dawned on me and I was overcome with emotion. The intimacy of our encounter was intense and knowing how so few people in the world actually get to experience anything made me realise the enormity of what had just happened. Gorillas in the mist may be one thing, but gorillas in their own environment are so much more.
It’s hard to think of a more impactful moment on an African safari than taking part in a gorilla trekking experience. To me, it represents the ultimate African travel experience for someone who wants to go beyond the traditional safari. While engaging with other people on their experience, it was evident that each gorilla trek was different for everyone. But one thing that was common throughout was that it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that none of us will ever forget.
If you are planning your next African adventure, a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda should be at the very top of your list. And, as the experts of African Travel, the Rhino Africa team are on hand to guide you as you bring your next dream African holiday to life. Contact Rhino Africa today to start planning.
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