Where to See Gorillas in Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking Guide. Rwanda, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences in the world  gorilla trekking. Seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and Rwanda is one of only three countries where this is possible. If you’re wondering where exactly to see gorillas in Rwanda, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Volcanoes National Park: The Heart of Gorilla Trekking

The only place to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans), located in the northwestern part of the country in the Virunga Mountains. This park shares a border with Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park.

Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 habituated gorilla families that are available for trekking. These groups have been gently acclimated to human presence by researchers and park rangers over years of careful conservation work.

What Makes Volcanoes National Park Unique?

1. Accessibility

Volcanoes National Park is just a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. This makes it one of the most accessible gorilla trekking destinations in Africa. Unlike Uganda, where travel to the gorillas can require a full day on rough roads, you can fly into Kigali and reach the park comfortably on the same day.

2. Conservation Success

Rwanda has gained international praise for its conservation efforts. Through sustainable tourism, the mountain gorilla population in the region has slowly increased. According to the latest census, there are now over 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild, with a significant portion living in Volcanoes National Park.

3. Gorilla Families

Each gorilla family you may encounter is unique. Some are large with over 20 members, including silverbacks, infants, and playful juveniles. Popular families include:

• Sabyinyo Group – Known for being relatively easy to track.

• Amahoro Group – Famous for its peaceful silverback.

• Susa A Group – One of the largest and most fascinating, originally studied by Dian Fossey.

How to Book a Gorilla Trek in Rwanda

To see gorillas in Rwanda, you need a gorilla trekking permit, which must be secured through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or a registered tour operator. As of 2025, the cost of a permit is:

• $1,500 per person for international tourists

• Discounted rates available for East African residents and citizens

The permit allows you one hour with a habituated gorilla family. Treks begin early in the morning and can last from 1 to 6 hours depending on where the gorillas are located that day.

It’s highly recommended to book your permit at least 3-6 months in advance, especially if you’re planning to travel during the peak dry seasons (June–September and December–February).

What to Expect on the Trek

Your trek begins at the Kinigi Park Headquarters, where you’re assigned a gorilla group based on your fitness level and interest. Local guides and trackers lead you through bamboo forests, steep hills, and lush jungle terrain. The altitude can reach up to 3,000 meters, so a reasonable level of fitness is helpful.

When you finally reach the gorilla family, you’re allowed a magical hour to observe and photograph them — a moment often described as humbling, emotional, and deeply moving.

Trekking tips:

• Wear sturdy hiking boots

• Carry gloves, a rain jacket, and a walking stick

• Bring water and snacks

• Hire a local porter (helps with your gear and supports community livelihoods)

Where to Stay Near Volcanoes National Park

There are a variety of accommodations catering to different budgets in the nearby town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri). Options range from luxury eco-lodges to budget guesthouses:

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

• Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

• Budget: Amahoro Guest House, Fatima Hotel

Most lodges can assist with transport and trekking logistics, making your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Responsible Tourism and Conservation

Your visit directly contributes to gorilla conservation. A portion of every permit fee goes to park maintenance and anti-poaching efforts. Moreover, 10% of the permit fee supports local communities, helping to build schools, health clinics, and roads. Trekking in Rwanda is not just a personal adventure,  it’s an act of sustainable tourism.

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