One-Day Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: Is It Possible?
If you’re short on time but dreaming of a face-to-face encounter with endangered mountain gorillas, you may be wondering: is it really possible to do gorilla trekking in just one day in Rwanda? The answer is yes and Mandari Travel is here to show you how.
Where Does Gorilla Trekking Take Place in Rwanda?
All gorilla trekking in Rwanda is done in the stunning Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest of the country near the town of Musanze. This lush montane forest is home to over 10 habituated gorilla families and offers one of the best chances in the world to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
The park is approximately a 2.5–3-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital making it logistically feasible for a day trip.
Is One-Day Gorilla Trekking Doable?
Yes a one day gorilla trek is possible if:
- You are already in Kigali or arrive early
- You depart Kigali by 4:30 AM to reach the park by 7:00 AM
- You are prepared for a full but rewarding day of travel and trekking
This is a great option for travelers on tight schedules, business visitors, or those doing a stopover in Rwanda.
Do You Need a Gorilla Permit?
Yes. A gorilla trekking permit is mandatory and currently costs USD $1,500 per person (as of this writing). Permits must be booked in advance and are limited to protect the gorillas and enhance your experience.
Mandari Travel secures your permit and handles all logistics, so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork.
What Does a One-Day Trekking Schedule Look Like?
Here’s a sample itinerary for a one-day gorilla trek:
- 4:30 AM – Depart Kigali with your Mandari Travel guide
- 7:00 AM – Arrive at Volcanoes National Park for registration and briefing
- 8:00 AM – Begin trekking to find your assigned gorilla group
- 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM – Return from the forest (duration varies)
- 1:30 PM – Drive back to Kigali
- 4:30–5:00 PM – Drop-off at hotel or airport
The total time trekking can vary depending on the location of the gorilla group, ranging from 1 to 6 hours.
What to Pack for the Trek
- Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots
- Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Gloves for protection and grip
- Snacks and water
- Passport (required at check-in)
Why Choose Mandari Travel?
At Mandari Travel, we specialize in crafting safe, personalized gorilla trekking adventures even on a tight schedule. With private transportation, professional guides, and complete permit handling, we make your one-day trek smooth and unforgettable.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with friends, we’re ready to help you make the most of your Rwandan adventure.
Email: info@mandaritravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
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