Trekking to Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda

Rest up

After a restful night in a nearby hotel or resort where you may experience the cultural traditions of neighboring communities, you'll rise early and arrive at the foot of the Virunga Mountains. Here, you'll meet your guide and receive a route, as well as the name of the gorilla family you're about to observe.

All signed up

Each person must have a preregistered, government-regulated permit to enter into the Virunga Mountains to see the gorillas: $1500. Permits are limited per day; these fees go directly to the organization that studies, protects and coordinates the daily treks.

Time to move

Depending on your physical ability, you'll be grouped for an easy, moderate, or semi-strenuous hike into the rainforest. You'll also have the option to hire a porter for a small fee. This is highly encouraged as it supports the local community, and some porters may be former poachers who can assist you on the muddy, steep, and uncertain trails. With a walking stick in hand, you are ready to go.

Connect with nature

Imagine emerging from a eucalyptus and bamboo forest, drenched in rain and covered in mud, only to find a 400-pound silverback gorilla perched by a tree. That wet hike was undoubtedly worth the hike!

During your observation, you'll maintain a respectful distance, marveling at the beautiful creatures as fog settles in the hills behind the gorilla. You'll watch as their fingers pick at leaves on a branch, nibbling away – they're just like you and me.

Soon enough, you'll continue your journey, accompanied by your guides who may lead you to a clearing where adolescent gorillas play. They wrestle, bounce around on tree limbs, roll down hills, and do it all over again. A watchful older gorilla sits just off to the side of their "playground" and strips leaves from a branch, munching away. You'll still maintain your distance; your guides are skilled in looking out for your safety, understanding gorilla behavior, know their personalities and even interpret their grunts. You'll hold your breath as you witness these majestic creatures thriving in their natural habitat – an exhilarating experience.

Your time with the gorillas is limited since they're exposed to humans for only a brief period, and you still need to return to your starting point.

Legacy

You have now followed in the footsteps of Dian Fossey and Jack Hanna. You are an explorer; you have surrounded yourself in the beauty of Rwanda’s precious natural land and you have encountered, observed gorillas in their home and have a new appreciation for the conservation of these animals. You are wet, you are muddy you are tired from a long hike in and out of the rainforest and your heart is full.

Visit The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund for behind-the-scenes tour with experts, further education and understanding of Dian Fossey’s conservation efforts

Have lunch or dinner after your trek in the nearby town of King. Support local cafes, stop and shop for local goods: hand-weaved baskets, jewelry, souvenirs, wood carvings.

Stay at the One & Only Gorilla's Nest for a truly luxurious experience.