Gorilla Tracking at Volcanoes National Park: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience with Otter African Safaris
Nestled in the breathtaking Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is one of the world’s premier destinations for gorilla tracking. This extraordinary experience allows you to step into the dense, misty forests and come face to face with the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. At Otter African Safaris, we craft unforgettable journeys that bring you closer to nature, adventure, and conservation.
Why Choose Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla Tracking?
Volcanoes National Park is home to over a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. With its lush landscapes, towering volcanoes, and rich biodiversity, this park offers an unrivalled experience for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers alike. Tracking gorillas here means embarking on an exhilarating trek through bamboo forests, moss-covered trees, and rugged terrain, all leading to a magical encounter with these gentle giants.
The Gorilla Tracking Experience
Your journey begins early in the morning at the park headquarters in Kinigi, where you will be briefed by expert guides and assigned a gorilla family to track. With the guidance of experienced rangers, you’ll venture into the jungle, navigating through dense foliage and steep slopes. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location.
Once you find the gorilla family, you are allowed to spend a precious one hour observing them up close. Watch as they interact, play, groom each other, and exhibit their intriguing social behaviours. The dominant silverback, towering and powerful, keeps a watchful eye over his troop, while the playful juveniles swing from branches and curiously observe their human visitors.
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
Gorilla tracking is not just about adventure—it’s also about conservation. The strict permit system, limited to a small number of visitors per day, ensures that human interaction remains minimal and does not disrupt the gorillas’ natural behaviours. The revenue generated from these permits plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, funding anti-poaching patrols, habitat protection, and local community development.
At Otter African Safaris, we emphasize responsible tourism practices, ensuring that our guests follow ethical guidelines such as maintaining a safe distance, avoiding direct eye contact, and refraining from using flash photography.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Tracking
Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park is available year-round, but the best times to visit are during the dry seasons:
- June to September – Ideal for trekking, as the trails are drier and more accessible.
- December to February – Another excellent period with favourable conditions.
Essential Packing List
- A sturdy pair of hiking boots
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against insects and thorny plants
- A waterproof jacket (weather can be unpredictable)
- Gloves for gripping branches during the trek
- A good camera (without flash) to capture the magic
- Plenty of water and some snacks
How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure
At Otter African Safaris, we handle everything from securing your gorilla permits to organizing seamless transportation and comfortable accommodations. Whether you prefer a luxury lodge with stunning views of the Virunga Mountains or a cosy mid-range stay immersed in nature, we tailor your experience to your needs.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wild and witness the incredible mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Contact Otter African Safaris today to start planning your gorilla-tracking adventure at Volcanoes National Park!
