2017 Marked a Milestone in Mountain Gorilla Conservation

The year 2017 marked a major milestone in wildlife conservation: 50 years of dedicated efforts to save Africa’s endangered mountain gorillas. Spearheaded by the pioneering work of the late Dian Fossey and her Karisoke Research Center in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, these majestic animals—once on the brink of extinction—are now steadily increasing in number.

With DNA strikingly similar to that of humans, mountain gorillas evoke a deep emotional connection. Gorilla trekking is a profoundly moving, often life-changing experience. And there’s never been a better time to visit Rwanda—a country that not only protects these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat but is also regarded as one of the safest and most politically stable nations on the African continent.

Where to Go: The Virunga Mountains

The prime destination is the lush, mist-shrouded forests of the northern Virunga Mountains—a range spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Rwanda, the centerpiece is Volcanoes National Park, a stunning landscape of dormant volcanoes, crater lakes, and rich biodiversity. The park is home to golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and over 170 species of birds.

Gorilla Trekking: What to Expect

Planning a gorilla trekking safari in Volcanoes National Park is complex due to Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable tourism. Only eight visitors are permitted to track each gorilla family per day, with a strict cap of around 80 daily permits available. A single permit costs $750 per person (as of 2017), and trekkers must be at least 15 years old.

Travelers must also be vaccinated for yellow fever and should be in good physical condition, as treks can range from one to eight hours through steep and often muddy terrain. The journey begins at the base of the mountains and continues on foot through dense, misty forests where the gorillas live in thick vegetation.

Advance booking is strongly recommended. Permits can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board. For reservations, email reservation@rwandatourism.com, or contact us directly at info@gorillahabituationexperience.com for expert assistance in arranging your safari.

Getting There

Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is roughly a three-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park. Day trips from Kigali are possible, but we recommend organizing your journey with a trusted outfitter—we offer in-depth experience and a strong commitment to conservation.
Brussels Airlines provides flights from New York (JFK) to Kigali via Brussels, with round-trip fares starting around $960 (see brusselsairlines.com).

If you’re staying overnight in Kigali, we can assist with accommodations and transfer arrangements to your lodge.

Responsible Tourism and Conservation

“The overarching vision is to focus on high-end, low-impact eco-tourism rather than mass tourism,” says Deborah Calmeyer, Zimbabwean-raised CEO of bespoke travel company Roar Africa, which offers gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda and Uganda (starting at approximately $4,500 per person for a three-night experience in Rwanda).

“Controlled tourism is the key to successful gorilla conservation,” adds Praveen Moman, founder of Volcanoes Safaris. “Without connecting these remote forests of Africa to the outside world, extinction is far more likely.”

Volcanoes Safaris was among the first to introduce gorilla tourism in Rwanda. The company now owns and operates four luxury lodges in East Africa, including the renowned Virunga Lodge. Perched on a ridge with breathtaking views of the volcanoes and lakes, the lodge offers three-night safari packages starting at $4,663 per person.

In celebration of 50 years of conservation, Virunga Lodge unveiled the Dian Fossey Map Room on March 2, featuring an exhibit titled “Adventurers and Conservationists of the Virunga Volcanoes.”

Gorilla Etiquette: Respecting Their Space

Humans remain one of the biggest threats to gorillas, which is why strict trekking guidelines must be followed. Reputable safari companies work closely with expert trackers who are familiar to the gorillas.

“Reassurance is critical,” says Moman. “Trackers use specific vocalizations to let the gorillas know they’re friends, not foes.”