1. What are the must see safari highlights in Rwanda?
- Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park: seeing gorilla troops up close, with expert guides.
- Golden Monkey Tracking inVolcanoes National Park.
- Chimpanzee tracking in places like Nyungwe Forest and Gishwati-Mukura National Park.
- Akagera National Park: Big savannah-type wildlife, possibilities of seeing the “Big Five” (after reintroduction of rhinos, lions, etc.).
- Scenic landscapes: The Virunga volcanoes, lush forests, tea plantations, rolling hills, Lake Kivu.
2. Where can i see gorillas in Rwanda?
Rwanda is an ultimate destination to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, a breathtaking experience of montane forest and mist-shrouded volcanoes in the country's north-west. This is where Rwanda's habituated gorilla families live and where you can experience one of Africa's most moving wildlife encounters. You will set out early in the morning in small groups, accompanied by expert guides and trackers, to find one of the 12 fully habituated gorilla families. Once located, you are permitted exactly one hour to quietly observe and photograph them these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The reward—coming face to face with a family of gorillas in the wild—is nothing short of life-changing.
3. When is the best time of the year to visit Rwanda on safari?
Dry seasons are generally the best: June to September is especially favorable — trails are less muddy, visibility is better, easier walking for gorilla treks.
A short dry spell in December–February can also work well.
The rainy seasons (March-May and November) do bring more rain and possibly more difficult trekking conditions, but also lush landscapes, abundant birdlife, fewer tourists, and a different, often rewarding experience. Rwanda is all year round travel destination.
4. What is the cost of a gorilla permit?
Gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1500 per person. Trekking can be physically demanding (walking through rough, steep, sometimes muddy forest terrain). Permits are limited and on high demand, especially in peak season, it’s strongly recommended to reserve permits 3 - 6 months in advance. Therefore, travel in Rwanda should be booked well in advance.
5. Can children go gorilla trekking?
The minimum age for a gorilla trekking permit is 15 years old, as the trek may be too difficult for younger children. The age restrictions are also put in place for safety reasons, as children may end up disturbing the gorillas unnecessarily.
6. How do we book?
First contact our team of travel experts who will help you plan your trip and will provide a quotation. You can use our simple online Booking Enquiry form or email us on info@imagetravelltd.com or call one of our Specialists on +44 7836 210052. If you choose to proceed with a booking we will check availability at the hotels, camps and lodges and hold bookings provisional where possible. A binding contract between you and Image Travel comes into existence once we have accepted your booking by issuing an invoice and a deposit has been paid by you. The deposit of 40% of the invoice must be paid on receiving our invoice, and the remainder 60 days before commencement of our services. Payments can be made by debit / credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) via our secure online payment system. Alternatively, payments may be made by bank transfer.
7. How Does Tipping Work on a Uganda Safari?
Tipping is an appreciation gesture to acknowledge the excellent service from your safari team, from approximately $15 to $20 per person per day for your guide and a 10% tip is standard for restaurant bills in cities. It is best to tip in cash using either US dollars or Kenyan shillings, which are both widely accepted for gratuities.
8. Do i need visas for safari in East Africa?
Rwanda Visais required it can be obtained or purchased upon arrival at the airport. Details on how to obtain your various travel authorizations as well as an accommodation confirmation will be delivered to you in plenty of time before your departure.