A gorilla expedition in Rwanda is quite a unique experience that fits its huge price tag. One of the questions that arise every time we discuss gorilla treks in Rwanda, is the huge cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda. Many people are left wondering whether the experience is worth the price tag given the fact that Rwanda’s neighbor charges almost less than half the price.
Rwanda has the cleanest city on the African continent. It is also one of the least corrupt countries in Africa. They have heavily invested in their road network as well as luxury accommodation. The country that has come from ruins to glory in less than 2 decades. The debate for the price of the gorilla trekking permits can be postponed to another day. For those who have already made up their mind to trek gorillas in Rwanda, here are some of the tips that will make your gorilla expedition in Rwanda smooth.
Book Your Permits in Advance
Rwanda gorilla expeditions are limited to less than one hundred people daily. To be among the few people who trek gorillas in Rwanda, you will need to book in advance to secure the permission that allows you to trek gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. That permission is well known as a gorilla trekking permit.
Gorilla permits are fond of selling out therefore booking your permit early enough will save you from great disappointments. It is often recommended to book the permit anywhere between three months to six months before your gorilla trekking date.
Pack Appropriately
Gorilla trekking is a unique trekking experience that is relatively different from the usual mountain treks. The main goal is to encounter the mountain gorillas, it is not actually to trek. The trekking is merely a secondary option. Therefore when packing your gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda, always consider that.
You will not need many things besides steady hiking boots, a waterproof backpack to carry your electronics, refreshments, and insect repellent. The rest of the things are merely luxuries that can be foregone in case you wish to travel light.
Follow the Guidelines
Every gorilla trek starts with a briefing where guidelines are communicated. It is very tempting to get familiar with the mountain gorillas. People are fond of seeing them behind the glass in zoos but during the gorilla trekking experience, you will have a face-to-face encounter with the mountain gorilla without any glass in between.
Many people would wish to take selfies with the mountain gorillas but you ought to stick to the guidelines issued by rangers before the trek. Ignoring these guidelines will save not only your life but also the lives of other trekkers. It with such reasons that toddlers are not allowed to go gorilla trekking regardless of their fitness levels.
Among the guidelines is the requirement to maintain a distance of at least 7 meters (about 21 feet) and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises. This helps minimize stress on the gorillas and ensures a positive experience for everyone.
Ensure That Your Camera/Phone is Charged
One of the reasons people go gorilla trekking is to have a one-on-one encounter with the mountain gorillas. This moment can better be preserved through photography. No worse disappointment than reaching the gorillas only to find that you forgot to charge your gadgets.
Power supply can be unreliable at times more so in the forest. It is recommended that you carry a power bank to ensure that your gadgets are charged regardless.
Respect Local Customs and Wildlife
Rwanda has a dark genocide history with a lot of tribal sentiments. Consider being cautious with their culture since many wounds have never healed. Avoid discussing the genocide if you can. Do not engage in political debates and also keep most of your opinions to yourself.
Plan for Altitude
If you are not an experienced trekker, consider preparing your body for a high-altitude area. Gorilla trekking is not an individual activity therefore the experience of other trekkers directly depends on you.