Gorilla Trekking In The Land Of A Thousand Hills : Nestled in the heart of Africa is Rwanda, a small but mighty country with a fascinating history and incredible natural beauty. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. One of the country’s most popular attractions is gorilla trekking, which takes visitors deep into the lush forests of the Virunga Mountains to observe some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Getting to Rwanda
Rwanda is a landlocked country in East Africa, bordered by Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country is easily accessible by air, with the Kigali International Airport serving as the main point of entry. Several major airlines offer flights to Kigali, including Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and RwandAir.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwestern part of Rwanda and is home to the world-famous mountain gorillas. The park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which encompasses parts of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The mountain gorillas are critically endangered, with only around 1,000 remaining in the world. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is one of the best ways to see these magnificent creatures up close.
The trek to see the gorillas can take anywhere from 1-6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family, their movements, and the terrain. Once you find the gorillas, you will have one hour to observe and take photos before heading back. Gorilla trekking permits are required and can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board.
Accommodations in Volcanoes National Park
There are several accommodation options available near Volcanoes National Park, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses. One of the most popular options is the Virunga Lodge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and comfortable rooms with private decks. Other popular lodges include the Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge and the Bisate Lodge.
Culture and History in Rwanda
In addition to gorilla trekking, Rwanda has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. One of the best places to learn about Rwanda’s past is the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The memorial serves as a tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide, which claimed the lives of over 800,000 Rwandans. The museum offers a powerful and emotional look at the events leading up to the genocide and its aftermath.
Another popular cultural attraction is the National Museum of Rwanda, located in the southern city of Butare. The museum showcases the country’s history, culture, and traditions through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.
Conclusion
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an experience unlike any other. It provides a rare opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat and to support conservation efforts aimed at protecting them for future generations. But Rwanda has so much more to offer than just gorilla trekking. From its rich history to its stunning natural beauty, Rwanda is a country that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.
