The park is the second largest park in Rwanda after Akagera national park and protects the steep slope of the mountain range covering over 160 sq.km which hosts the world’s remaining endangered mountain gorillas and with rich eco system of bamboo forest, wetlands and open grasslands. Volcanoes national park also has five volcanoes, 3 being shared by the neighboring countries of Uganda and DRC and 2 are found with in Rwanda hosted by Volcanoes national park. These are dormant volcanic mountains that make the Virunga massif including; Muhabura, Gahinga, Sabinyo, Bisoke and Karisimbi. Volcanoes national park is about 78 KM from Kigali city and it takes about 3 hours to drive from Kigali international airport to volcanoes national park.

Volcanoes national park hosts the famous mountain gorillas with a total number of 10 habituated gorilla families making gorilla trekking the key tourism activity in the park. Volcanoes national park also hosts other primate species apart from golden monkeys and gorillas. The park is also a home to chimpanzees as well as other species of monkeys including white colobus monkeys, golden monkeys, owl faced, blue and vervet monkeys. It also hosts olive baboons and nocturnal potto, bush babies and many bird species in addition to other forest wildlife. The major activity in Volcanoes National park is Gorilla tracking which is the major tourist activity in the country and remains the backbone of the tourism sector in Rwanda. There are other tourism sites at the edge of the park including Buhanga Eco-park, Folklore and Musanze caves also at the edge of the park anticipated to have formed after the volcanic eruption over 62 m years ago

Tourism activities in volcanoes national park;

Gorilla tracking;

Gorilla trekking is the key tourism activity in the volcanoes national park. Gorilla trekking is a must do activity while in Rwanda. You will have a chance to see the few mountain gorillas remaining in the world. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda costs $1500 for all categories of clients including FNR, FR, and Citizens. This activity takes between 2 to 6 hours depending on the movement of gorillas. Once you encounter with the gorillas, you will spend one hour with them while taking photos in close range. The ranger guide will brief you on the dos and don’ts before gorilla trekking and there after you will also be de-briefed and awarded a certificate.

Golden monkey tracking;

Volcanoes national park is also a home to golden monkeys residing in the bamboos forest. Golden monkey tracking is more/less similar to the search for gorillas but the difference is that the Golden monkeys leave less evidence of their presence and are a little more silent making it hard to see them. They are uniquely identified by their bright Golden fur as you watch them from a close distance as they play jumping from tree to tree. They feed on bamboo shoots, leaves, roots, insects and seasonal forest fruits. The rules are more less like gorilla trekking.it takes about 2 to 4 hours

Dian Fossey Hike

Dian Fossey was an American Zoologist and researcher who dedicated her entire life to protect and study the mountain gorillas having started way back in 1966 until December 1985 when she was hacked to death by poachers whom she had battled with for a long time. She dedicated her entire life studying the gorillas on a daily basis. After her death, she was buried at Kansoke Research Station which has become a tourist attraction since then. You will visit this center to learn about her life and her contribution to the conservation of mountain gorillas in the volcanoes national park.

Hiking

Volcanoes national park hosts 3 dormant volcanoes that facilitate mountain climbing. With their montane vegetation, it provides a beautiful scenery that can be explored while on the hike. These three volcanoes include Sabinyo, Bisoke and Karisimbi making hiking one of the best experiences in Volcanoes National park. Hiking takes place on the different mountains including Sabinyo, Bisoke and the Karisimbi which provide the great views of the entire Volcanoes National Park. The highest hike will be at mount Bisoke which stands at 3711 meters above sea level, the second highest is Mount Karisimbi.Standing at the peak of Sabinyo, gives you an opportunity to be in 3 countries at the same time including Uganda, Rwanda and DRC-Congo. On top of these mountains you will enjoy great views of the other 2 volcanoes of Muhabura and Gahinga and the Twin Lakes.

Birding

Rwanda is known to have the highest bird count on the continent despite its size. Some of the prime birding destination in Rwanda include Nyungwe national park and Akagera national park. Volcanoes National park also harbors forest birds of about 2000 recorded bird species. Some of these key bird species to look out for include; Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori double collared sunbird, ground robin, dusky crimson wing, and the red-faced woodland warbler among others.

Community visits;

Rwanda has several coffee growers most of them centered around Gisenyi near the shores of Lake Kivu.You will learn about coffee growing, harvesting and processing. You can also visit the UWACU communities and cattle keeping communities to learn about their ways of living, visit their soveniour shops and enjoy a series of entertainments.

Some of the accommodation in Volcanoes national park include;

• Da Vinci Gorilla lodge
• Amakoro Songa lodge
• Tikoreza volcanoes eco lodge
• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
• Amahoro guest house
• Bishops House Rwanda

Nyungwe national park is a home to over 1000 mammal species and bird species in total. It has over 85 mammals, 13 primate species and 29 of them are endemic making Nyungwe national park a birding paradise and Containing 200 endemic species of trees. It’s also known as the key chimpanzee trekking destination in Rwanda with at least 2 habituated chimp groups that facilitate the chimp trekking activity and also rare Canopy walk.

Nyungwe forest covers was established in 2004 and covers over 970 sq. km of Bamboo, rain forest, grassland and swamps. Nyungwe forest harbors over 85 mammal species, 13 primate species, several reptile and Amphibian species and 275 bird species. Nyungwe national park has rich diversity composed of endemic fauna and flora, montain vegetation grassland, rain forests, bamboo and swamps. Nyungwe national park is highly elevated rising up to over 6000 ft.

WHAT TO DO AT NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Chimpanzee tracking;

Nyungwe forest national park is considered the best place to do chimp trekking in Rwanda. Chimpanzees share close to 98% of human DNA whose behavior is pretty much like humans except a few elements of being wild that are not habituated fully.  It has at least 2 habituated groups and the biggest group has over 60 members and the small one with at least 30 members and can be tracked in close range without any interference. The activity takes between 2 to 4 hours and once you encounter with the chimps, you will be allowed to spend at least an hour with them while taking photos in close range. While on your chimp trekking, you will have a chance to see other primate species including; Rwenzori colobus monkeys, Silver Monkey, Golden Monkey, Red-tailed Monkey, L’Hoest’s Monkey, Vervet Monkey, Grey-Checked Mangabey, Olive Baboon, Dent’s mona Monkey, and Hamlyn’s Monkey.

Nyungwe Canopy Walk

Nyungwe forest is one of the biggest well reserved montane rain forest in the central Africa and this facilitates the Canopy walk which is a unique activity that is offered in Nyugwe national park in the whole of East Africa. It’s a 2-hour activity that lies 50 m above the forest giving the best spectacular views of the forest and the surrounding communities. For safety reason, children below 6 years are not allowed to participate in this experience. This walk is managed in 3 reception centers including Kitabi, Uwinka and Gisakura. The birds, monkeys and chimps are sometimes seen jumping over the trees as you stand above the forest.

Hiking at the forest;

Nyungwe national park offers you opportunity to hike on different 13 hiking trails which will take you between 1 to 8 hours depending on the distance of the trail. The longest is Bigugu trail which takes you about 8 hours. While on the hike, you will explore the forest diversity of fauna and flora, and its beautiful scenery, and each hike offers a different exception experience. You will also hike to the water falls which begins at Gisakura guesthouse and may take you 3-6 hours depending on the speed and the stopovers you have. The hike will take you through different interesting water streams through rough terrain towards the small waterfall giving you a unique experience of the wild.

Bird Watching;

Nyungwe forest has a total of over 300 bird species recorded and 29 of them are endemic making Nyungwe a key birding destination in Rwanda. The major species include; Rwenzori Turaco, the blue-headed sunbird, blue Turaco, regal sunbird, white bellied Robin Chat, Red Collared Babbler, Handsome Francolin, Crowned Hornbill, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, and Chapin’s Flycatcher among others. The guide will take you on this birding experience which lasts for about 3 hours

Accessing Nyugwe national park;

Nyugwe national park can be accessed by road from Kigali city which is about 230km approximately 5 hours’ drive. While on your way to Nyugwe from Kigali city, you will have an opportunity to see a lot of tourist attractions on the way which may include; National museum, Arboretum, Gikongoro genocide memorial center, Bisesero memorial center, Nyanza Kings palace and a lot of souvenir shops. You can as well organize charter flights with Rwanda air and fly into the park to shorten the road distance.

Where to stay in Nyungwe national park;

There are several accommodation establishments to stay in including; Nyungwe guest house, Nyungwe forest lodge, Nyungwe top view hotel, Gisakura family Hostel among others.

It hosts over 8000 animal species including lions, Buffaloes, Rhinos, hyena, leopard, Serval cats, bush pigs, hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, and giraffes, Antelopes, Warthog, among others. Primates like Olive Baboon, blue monkeys and bush babies are also found in this park. Being the biggest park, and with the variety of mammal species, it offers a range of tourism activities and one of the best parks that you should not miss out on your vacation in Rwanda. It also has over 500 recorded bird species including Shoebill Stock, the Papyrus Gonolek, African fish Eagle, Crowned, Herons, Open-Billed Stork.

The national park faced the challenges of poaching and encroaching during and after the genocide of 1994. After the war, communities settled near the park and were encroaching on it as their means of survival especially for firewood and timber. However, the government of Rwanda made efforts and restore the park and re introduced depleted species like lions and Rhinos in partnership with African Parks Network

Tourism activities in Akagera National Park

Game drives

The best way to explore the park is through game drive with a safari vehicle. Game drives are done during the day both early morning and in the evening and at night. Your safari guide will take you on a game drive and you will be able to view a variety of animals including Zebras, Buffaloes, Giraffes, Bushbucks, hyenas, leopard, Eland, Impalas, Sitatunga, Mangoose, side stripped Jackal, topis, schools of Hippos, crocodile, wild dog, warthogs and the re- introduced lions. You will have a chance to see common primate species including olive baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, bush babies normally sighted during the night game drives.

Boat Ride

You can do a boat ride on Lake Ihema and you will have a chance to view schools of hippos and   crocodiles that dominate the waters of this lake. While on the boat, you will be able to see other mammal species along the lake shores including elephants and Buffaloes among others. This boat ride also gives you an opportunity to see many bird species which include African fish eagle, Shoebill Stork, Kingfishers, African Jacana, and the Blue-headed coucal. The number allowed on this boat is strictly 11 people which is always enforced. This means that you need to make advance bookings not to miss out on the space. You can book directly through the visitor information office or through your reliable Tour operator. The boat trip costs $40 per person which lasts for 2 hours.

Spot fishing

Sport fishing is done as a sport on Lake Shakani.it involves catching fish like Nile perch, Tilapia and cat fish.  Normally the best and large catches are got in the morning and late in the afternoon. It’s no doubt that many guests would never want to miss on the spot fishing experience while on a trip to Africa. The experience costs only $20 per person and in some cases visitors are allowed to prepare and eat their catch. As a way to spice up this experience, visitors are subjected to a competition to catch fish and those who catch the largest fish prepare and eat the fish they catch. Some of the methods used to catch the fish include using live baits including worms, termites and other smaller fish species. Spinning method can also be used. Sport fishing can be done all around the year with chances of catching large fish species. However, it believed that the best results are got during the dry season when the water levels have reduced.

Bird Watching

With over 500 recorded bird species, the park provides an opportunity to the birders with an exclusive birding experience. Some of the bird species you are likely to see include Shoebill stork, African Fish Eagle, Double Toothed Barbet, red-faced Barbet, Ross’s Turaco and the long tailed Cistola.More bird species you are likely to see include; African open bill stock, Grey crowned crane, African darter, Augur buzzard, long toed and water thick knee, Sacred and Hadada ibis, Viellot’s black weavers, grey backed fiscals, fan tailed widow bird, cattle egret among others.

Guided nature Walks

You can visit the communities one of the best ways to appreciate the biodiversity of this park is through a guided nature walk before ending your trip. The guide will take you on a nature walk that takes between 2 to 3 hours. Forest trails have been established to give you a chance to watch the different wildlife species like Butterflies, birds and/or wild animals. the trails also lead you to the different water bodies with in the park as you will be guided by your guide the professional staff basing on your interest.

Community based tourism;

The neighboring communities surrounding Akagera national park practice cattle rearing. This gives you an opportunity to learn and participate in traditional activities including cattle grazing, cattle naming, milking and traditional milk storage methods. You can also learn how milk is traditionally preserved to make ghee, yoghurt and other dairy products. In addition, Rwanda has several coffee growers most of them centered around Gisenyi near the shores of Lake Kivu. You will learn about coffee growing, harvesting and processing. You can also visit the UWACU communities and cattle keeping communities to learn about their ways of living, visit their souvenir shops and enjoy a series of entertainments.

Some accommodation around Akagera national park include;

• Akagera game lodge
• Ruzizi tented camp
• Epic hotel and suites
• Akagera transit lodge
• Nyagatare diplomatic hotel
• Magashi lodge
• Karenge Bush camp

How to get to Akagera national park;

The park is about 120 km from Kigali which is about 2 ½ hours. Kigali city is about 10km from Kigali international airport. You will drive to park from Kigali international airport through Rwamagana and enter the park using the southern gate. You can also use services of Akagera aviation services and fly into the park.

Citizens of the East African Community member States that include Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi and South Sudan are issued with free of charge-entry visa on arrival at the Airport or other border points to stay in Rwanda for up to 6 months.

Also, visitors from countries that are members of the following International Organizations are given visas on arrival and these waivers last only 30 days. The organizations in question are Common wealth, African Union and La Francophonie thus the countries are United Kingdom, Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, Zambia, Egypt, Cameroon, Libya, Republic of Macedonia, Equatorial Guinea, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Comoros, Australia, Tunisia, Mozambique, South Africa, Guyana, Zambia, Dominica Republic, Papua New Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Belgium, Mauritania, Romania, Malawi, Switzerland, Solomon Islands, Greece, The Gambia, Antigua and Barbuda, Lesotho, Romania, Tonga, Gabon, Luxembourg, Tuvalu, Guinea-Bissau, New Zealand, Canada, Algeria, Mali, Pakistan, Eritrea, Liberia, Malaysia, Malta, Vietnam, Morocco, Maldives, Nigeria, Somalia, Namibia, Lebanon, Principality of Andorra, Cape Verde and Jamaica among others.

Citizens of Singapore, Angola, Sao Tome and Principe, Central African Republic, Qatar, Cote d’Ivoire, Haiti, Ghana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Chad, Benin, Seychelles, Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Senegal, Mauritius and Indonesia are offered 90 days visa free of charge on arrival at Kigali International Airport or land borders.

Travelers planning to visit concurrently the three countries of Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda for tourism purposes can apply for the East African Tourist and is valid for 90 days. This Visa can be obtained from the first country to be visited and will allow free entry in the rest of the countries.

Citizens from countries that are not exempted to visa-free entry into Rwanda have an option of applying for visas on-line or at the Rwanda Diplomatic Missions in their various countries of residence prior to departure.

Visa fees.

Single entry tourist visas cost $50, valid for 30 days and apply for selected countries.

The East African Tourist Visas cost $100, valid for 90 days and covers only three East African Community countries (Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda).

Single entry conference Visas cost $30 and are valid for 30 days.

Multiple entry business Visas cost $50 and are valid for a full year.

Extension of Visas.

Extension of Visas only applies for some classes and has to be applied for while the current visas are still valid. These applications have to be submitted to the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration Offices.

In the event of Visa expiry, a grace period of 5 days after the expiry date is provided to allow the visitor either renew the visa without penalty or leave Rwanda. If this goes beyond the grace period, he/she will be subjected to a penalty and the visa extension sometimes denied.

Requirements for applying for Rwanda Visa.

All travelers are required to hold valid passports with at least 6 months from the day of entry with at least one empty page. Citizens of Kenya and Uganda can present valid National ID Cards instead of passport to enter Rwanda.

Yellow fever inoculation certificate may also be required at the point of entry and in the event of any serious disease outbreak, particular requirements would be put out to the general public.

Visa applicants are required to have enough funds to cover their stay in the country, for the period of Visa validity. Evidence of funds may be requested for online, at the Rwanda Foreign Mission or at the point of entry (Airport or border point).

Travelers are advised to take caution when applying for Rwanda Visa and not be deceived by anyone parading as visa agent. There are currently no single affiliated Visa agents authorized to apply on your behalf. Some of these so-called agents are fraudsters while others sometimes mislead visitors on top of charging exorbitant prices (beyond the stipulated visa fees).

Mountains that make up the Virunga massif.

Karisimbi Mountain.

Mount Karisimbi is the highest and the most scenic volcano in the Virunga mountain network. The name is derived from a local Kinyarwanda word “Amasimbi” meaning snow; which can be only found during the dry months of June to September. It is a dormant stratovolcano, lying at the border between Rwanda and the democratic republic of Congo. It towers at approximately 4,507 meters, part of the Albertine rift at the western flank of the East African Rift. Surrounding Mount. Karisimbi are; Mount. Mikeno at the north, Nyiragongo to the west and Bisoke to the west.

Mount. Karisimbi also ranks as the 11^th highest mountain in the continent of Africa. The last Eruption happened in about 8050 BC. Situated in the area between Mount Karisimbi and Bisoke is Karisoke Research Centre, established by the late primate researcher; Dian Fossey who sacrificed her entire life for the sake of protecting and habituating gorillas.

Mount. Mikeno.

Mount Mikeno the second highest volcanic mountain in the Virunga chain; at 4,437, and 13^th highest in the continent of Africa, seating at the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is side by side with mount. Nyamuragira, Mount Bisoke, Nyiragongo, and Mount Karisimbi. The name Mikeno in a local dialect means “poor”, due to its harsh slopes which never favored the local population. Gorillas can be found at its slopes, with the trekking commencing at the Bukima petrol station.

Mount. Muhabura.

Spanning across the Republic of Rwanda and Uganda; this is the third highest mountain of the eight major mountains in Virunga massif. It towers 4,127 meters above sea level, at the western flank of the East African Rift. The largest portion of the mountain is at Mgahinga national park, whereas the other at Volcanoes in Rwanda. The name was derived from a local Kinyarwanda word meaning “The Guide”.

Mount. Bisoke.

Last erupted in 1957, mountain Bisoke counts as the fourth highest summit of the Virunga ranges. Mount Bisoke is a dormant volcano, located at the western side of the East African Rift and sprawling through the East African Rift; about 35 km northeast of Goma town and close to Lake Kivu.

Mount. Sabyinyo.

Mount Sabyinyo name’s translates to a “Tooth” in local Kifumbira dialect “iryinyo”. It is the oldest mountain range northeast of Lake Kivu in Rwanda and west of Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda. The peak is 3,669 meters above sea level and shared by Rwanda and the democratic republic of Congo. A portion of the Mountain can be found in Volcanoes national park in Rwanda; Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga national park in Uganda.

Mount. Gahinga.

This is an extinct mountain on the border between Rwanda and Congo; right between Sabyinyo and Muhabura mountains. Locals call it Mountain Rufumbira, meaning “small pile of stones”. The park has a tiny swampy caldera at 180 meters wide. The mountain rises at 3,473 meters above sea level.

Mount. Nyiragongo.

Regarded by many as “General Nyiragongo” the Nyiragongo mountain is by far one of the most renowned Mountains in the Virunga chain. It is one of the most active mountains in the world. The summit has a mark of a blazing lava lake, of which reaching it needs about 5-6 hours. The mountain rises at 3470, about 20 meters north of Goma town.

Mount. Nyamuragira.

The smallest of all the 8 major mountains at Virunga chain of Mountains; Mount Nyamuragira is located about 25kilometres north of Lake Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo and regarded as the most active mountain in Africa, with the most recent eruption occurring in April 2018. No offense in calling it Mount. Nyamuragira. The name means “herd of cows” derived from a verb; Kurangira Ngavu from Kifuru and Kishi languages.

Other attractions in the Virunga conservation area.

A true unique primate hub in the world. The endangered mountain gorillas are the prime attractions at the heart of the vast Virunga Chain of mountains. They live at the foothills, engulfed by lush forest cover with which the weather suits them. Only here do you find about 1060 Mountain Gorillas globally. The apes, which are our relatives with over 95% human DNA can be tracked in the different national parks spread in different countries; Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Volcanoes national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga national park on the Republic of Rwanda.

Other attractions include the Golden monkeys only found in Volcanoes and Mgahinga national parks in Rwanda, Birds, forest mammals, chimpanzees; though not open for trekking, and the Local Batwa communities residing outside the park.

Tourist activities in the park include among others; Gorilla trekking, Birdwatching, cave exploration, mountain hiking, guided nature walk, Golden monkey trekking and Cultural adventures.

It is now satisfactory that you know what it means to mention the word; Virunga chain of mountains; a chain with unique attractions, ranging from endangered mountain gorillas, bamboo trees and the cheerful golden monkeys.

Most significantly, it is a good idea that you listen to your park guide’s piece of advice while on a trek to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Each park ranger guide is equipped with a gun and the purpose is primarily to ensure visitors are safeguarded but this doesn’t mean that a mountain gorilla should be shot dead. Park ranger guides are well-trained on how to handle such matters as to when a gorilla charges that is why listening to what you tell you is very important.

It is Uganda, Rwanda and Congo’s obligation to ensure mountain gorillas are protected from any harm. For a long time that we have been organizing Uganda gorilla trekking safaris or Rwanda gorilla holiday safaris, such cases related to a gorilla charging against clients hasn’t been recorded.

All gorilla trekking adventures in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo are only done in already fully habituated gorilla family groups. Habituated groups underwent a process in which they were initiated to get used to human presence also popularly known as habituation. This takes about 2 or less years and other families even take less than the period planned for them to undergo habituated and they can be ready for trekking.

How gorillas charge?

There are many ways gorillas can show that they have charged against you. They can thump their chest several times, grunt loudly and / or release a strong smell. Gorillas have loud voices and when they charge, you can easily notice them throw vegetation at you. Once you notice such signs, then know that they are angry at you.

WHAT YOU CAN DO WHEN GORILLAS CHARGE AGAINST YOU?

Rarely do gorillas charge and the ones that charge are regarded as fake. Usually, they charge in order to give their group members time to locate to safer areas. In case the oppression continues, they can also attack with no fear. Therefore, here are some of the ways you can survive attack from gorillas or what you can do in case they charge.

Study how they behave.

A charged gorilla can shout loudly and can go ahead to thump its chest, the ground and throw vegetation at you then release a strong smell. However, when they get close to you with none of the above signs then they just want to socialize with you.

Look the opposite direction.

Even your park guide will remind you that once you come across a charged gorilla, never ever attempt to look directly to its eyes. You can choose to lower your head down and not have direct/straight eye contact which is a sign of challenging them. If you lower your head down, it is a sign that you have submitted to them. Note, mountain gorillas are stronger than humans-never try to challenge them to prove it.

Keep calm.

At that moment, it is of no doubt that you can be filled with fear. But don’t over react or be tempted to scream at a gorilla otherwise you will be worsening the situation at hand. Be humble, calm down and quiet.

Groom its hand.

In case a gorilla gets hold of your hand, begin to groom it. In the process, it can relax more and you can be in position to remove your hands.

Walk away but steadily.

Running away puts you at a higher risk of being attacked and the best is to simply walkaway one step at a time but without making any noise. In the process, you would have created a distance between you and the gorillas.

Observe all your guide’s instructions for safety.

Although you will be briefed on the same dos and don’ts, the park guide upon leading you through the jungles to look for a gorilla family will remind you of the same rules to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience.

Maintain a distance from gorillas at all times.

This is a standard rule ever trekker on gorilla trekking must observe. A distance of 8-10 meters must be kept away from gorillas once found in the wild. Don’t touch them otherwise such actions can mean to them as a threat and they can be forced to attack you in away to defend themselves.

What makes gorillas charge at you?

• Wearing brightly colored clothes-that is why it is recommended to wear those that blend with their natural habitat.
• Loud voice made by trackers/trekkers that is why you must keep your voices low.
• Sudden and unexpected movements while with gorillas.
• Meeting wild gorilla family.
• When you spend too much time with the family.
• Attempts to touch a gorilla.
• When you get close to a breastfeeding mother gorilla.
• Obstruction/surrounding a family of gorillas.
• Large number of people.

Mountain gorillas are social animals that work in groups of about thirty members per group. Every group is led by a single alpha male and an older silverback. The silverbacks trace their name from the silver stripe developed on their back as they mature. They are strong, shy and aggressive once threatened; they beat their chests angrily while grunting and roaring led by group leaders taking charge of the threat. Mothers fight around the clock to protect their babies. The groups are made up of old males (about 12 years old), younger males, juvenile females and infants. Like any other family head, the silverbacks are responsible for order, decision making, scheduling feeding trips, resting time and travels.

NOTE; Female mountain gorillas carry one or two babies at a time and can start producing at the age of ten i.e. bearing between two and six offspring in a lifetime.

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN UGANDA.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP and Mgahinga Gorilla NP are the two gorilla trekking spots in Uganda. Gorillas do not abide by the political rules and regulations when it comes to movement thus a number of them cross to the Congo and Rwandan side however, Bwindi remains a home to a multitude of them.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Commonly referred to as the place of darkness because of its dense treetops, Bwindi impenetrable forest is an old 128 square miles montane and lowland forest that was named UNESCO world heritage site due to its magnificent biodiversity.

Gorilla tracking in the park is carried out in Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo sectors, all the areas owning about eighteen families as of December 2018. Tracking permits have to be bought before tracking through Uganda Wildlife Authority or any legal tour agents. A company of UWA guides is a sure deal whereas eight people are permitted to track at ago and must be above fifteen years. Tracking happens any time of the day depending on the direction taken by the gorillas. Annual permits can also be secured in advance.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga gorilla national park covers three of the eight peaks of Virunga i.e. mount. Gahinga, Sabyinyo and Muhabura. Mountain Gorillas are the major attraction of this area much as there are other numerous fauna and flora. Nyakagezi is the only habituated gorilla group that can be visited by tourists in Mgahinga comprising of nine members; two female adults, one juvenile, two infants and four silverbacks.

MOUNTAIN GORILLA DESTINATIONS IN RWANDA.

Wonders appear on Rwanda’s adventure menu; over one hundred bird types and wildlife are restricted to Rwanda’s park. It is a theatre of dreams! Only 8 visitors are permitted to glance at each gorilla family per day under the guidance of tour guides who dedicate their time to respond to a number of questions.

Volcanoes N/Park.

Also known as Parc National des Volcans, the Volcanoes National Park is located in Rwanda’s northwestern region. It protects steep rain forested slopes of Virunga which are a home to rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The Virunga slopes offer a gigantic experience as one views the nature of almost quarter of the world’s total population of mountain gorillas.

Driving from Kigali international airport to the park takes three hours; dare not to miss the supernatural experience with the gorillas.

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN D.R. CONGO.

Swamps, steppes to the snowfields of Mount. Rwenzori (over 5,000m altitude), lava plains of savannah on Volcanoes slopes are just a few of blessings offered by the 790,000ha Virunga National Park. In addition to the above, 20,000 hippos and birds from Siberia spend their winter in the rivers nearby.

A good number of mammal species, birds, reptiles and amphibians contribute to the beauty of Virunga NP. No wonder, the park is considered Africa’s most bio diverse protected area having a third of world’s mountain gorillas. It also provides habitat to more than 4,000,000 people affected by conflict. AS your plan for your African adventure, you hope you are now well versed with best Places to see Gorillas in Africa

Mountain gorillas that are trekked/or visited by travelers across the four national parks first go through a process of habituation to reduce their wildness and make them used to seeing visitors from time to time. However, this doesn’t stop them from being animals thus can become protective when threatened. This is probably the reason why several guidelines were drafted by the relevant wildlife governing bodies (Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rwanda Development Board and Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature) in the three countries to protect humans and mountain gorillas alike. For this article, we shall focus on the reasons why gorillas fight each other;

Mountain gorillas live in groups or families comprising of a dominant silverback (the head or leader of the family), other subordinate silverbacks, Alpha/or adult females, black backs, juveniles and infants. The dominant silverback has the responsibility of protecting his family from intruders (external threats) and resolving in-family conflicts. When threats are detected, silverbacks start by beating their chests while groaning and stamping their feet on the ground to express strength and authority.

This also means aggressiveness and fighting, sometimes until death. They fight with their strong hands, legs and even teeth (sharp canine teeth) until penetrating the flesh of their opponents. Therefore, the following are the reasons why gorillas fight;

Gorillas fight to protect their family from intruders or external threats.

Mountain gorillas, especially dominant silverbacks usually fight when they encounter other gorilla groups or wild/unhabituated silverbacks. Each silverback of the respective groups has to fight, using teeth, hands and legs to show strength and gain confidence of respective group members. These fights cause injuries and sometimes death of opponents, and in some cases winners grab members of the losers.

To break away from their natural families/groups and start their own groups/families.

In typical gorilla groups, only the dominant silverback has the right to make decisions on where the group feeds and nests as well as the right to mate with females of the group. When other silverbacks are denied this opportunity, they resort to leaving (peacefully or after fights) to form their own groups/families. Fights usually come when the silverback planning to leave has to grab some group members to start a new group.

Fighting for mating partners.

Because only the dominant silverback has the right to mate with all the females of the group, attempts by other silverbacks to mate with the females bring about fights. In few and extraordinary cases do group leaders allow other silverbacks to mate with the females. All in all, mountain gorillas are generally gentle and peaceful animals that live harmoniously in their groups and become aggressive where need be.

Booking for gorilla safaris in the mentioned destinations will introduce you to these and more fascinating gorilla behavior.

Mountain gorilla trekking.

Mountain gorilla trekking is among a thousand reasons why Rwanda should be a must-visit travel destination. It is an amazing destination to visit for you to see mountain gorillas while in their natural habitat. Of the 1063 mountain gorillas that still live on earth, a significant population of them are confined within the bamboo forests of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Mountain gorillas are human closest relatives and they share over 95% of their genetic DNA with human beings and a trek to see them offers such a mesmerizing wildlife encounter of a lifetime.

Mountain gorillas exist only in the 4 parks and in Rwanda, they are trekked only in Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri region. Permits for trekking mountain gorillas in Ruhengeri Rwanda cost visitors US $1500 per person. This adventure is best conducted during the drier months of the years beginning from June to September or December to February.

Chimpanzee tracking.

Rwanda is one of East Africa’s primate paradises boasting of not only as a home to mountain gorillas but also as a home to diverse primates including chimpanzees. This makes it an exceptional destination that offers thrilling chimpanzee tracking experiences. Chimp trekking experiences in Rwanda are offered best in Nyungwe Forest National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park. While on a trek to see chimpanzees in any of these 2 protected areas, there is also possibility to view other species of primates including red colobus monkeys, pottos, L’Hoest monkeys, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, the red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, bush babies.

Canopy walk.

The first of its kind canopy walk in East Africa is done in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National Park. This extends about 200m long and the canopy walk is suspended about 50m from the ground, offering a distinct experience of its kind. On Nyungwe forest canopy walk, expect to come across different species of primates, birds, flora and beautiful forest canopy.

Golden monkey tracking.

Golden monkey tracking is one unique primate experience not to be missed on Rwanda holiday safari. This is provided in the country’s Volcanoes National Park/Parc National des Volcans and there exist 2 habituated golden monkey troops.

Big game viewing.

Rwanda is a complete big game and primate paradise in East Africa, offering unforgettable game viewing experience to holidaymakers. This landlocked country has Akagera National Park as its only savanna park where game drives are conducted. The park is blessed with big game species; buffaloes, rhinos, the elephants, leopards, lions plus antelope families like the roan antelopes; warthogs, the Masai giraffes, over 500 bird species.

Exploring country’s distinct history-Rwanda genocide 1994.

Rwanda isn’t only a wildlife safari destination but also an incredible place to explore unique history. Rwanda is known for its 1994 Rwanda genocide and its history can be experienced on a visit to any of the many genocide centres including Nyanza genocide centre, Murambi genocide centre, Kigali genocide site, Ntarama genocide site, Nyarubuye, Bisesero and Nyamata genocide sites.

Another historical experience not to be missed in Rwanda include Dian Fossey tomb trek. This offers in-depth learning on Dian Fossey legacy on mountain gorilla conservation and protection.

Other amazing reasons why you should visit Rwanda include cultural experience, Musanze cave exploration, birding, nature walks, volcano hiking or climbing, boat cruise, hiking through Congo Nile trail.

When to travel?

Rwanda is holidaymakers’ preferred destination because it is open all-year-round. It is known for its favorable weather and climatic conditions but it is best to visit it for a holiday during the dry season.

This is from June to September or December to February; these are most favorable for gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking or chimpanzee tracking and bird watching is best done during the rainy/wet season; from March to May or October to November.

However, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) listed mountain gorillas as “critically endangered” considering a number of factors that threaten to extinction. Interestingly, hope isn’t lost yet because according the current census, the population of these fragile primates began growing and their status upgraded to ‘endangered.’

Today, the new survey indicates a rise in mountain gorilla population to 1063 individuals. These rare and fragile apes range only within Uganda, Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Though their population is still low, the rise in their number is an indication of positive conservation efforts. The recent survey that was carried out on mountain gorilla population in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Southwestern Uganda and Sarambwe Nature Reserve in the DR Congo accounted for 459 mountain gorillas and this was an increase from the 400 as of 2011.

Another survey that was carried out from 2015 to 2016 indicated a rise in mountain gorilla population to 604 individuals within the Virunga Massif, a chain of 8 volcanoes that extend to Rwanda, Uganda and DRC. When all the results were combined, the mountain gorilla population today accounts for 1063, a remarkable increase from 680 as of 2008.

Survival of mountain gorillas in the wild has been and still being impacted by a number of factors or threats despite the gradual increase. For long, mountain gorilla population has continuously been affected by poaching, spread of human infectious diseases, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict and others. They remain threatened to extinction despite the great news in their population rise. This article therefore provides in-depth explanation as to why mountain gorillas have been

Habitat loss.

Most people live around the remotest areas where mountain gorillas exist. Too much pressure is exerted on mountain gorilla habitat as a result of high demand for land. Areas adjacent to gorilla safari parks are densely populated and locals are forced to clear part of gorilla habitat to carry out farming activities, settlement purposes. In the long run, the habitat is lost and making them homeless hence endangering their lives.

Mountain gorillas depend much on vegetation and feed less on insects. By encroaching on their habitat which puts their lives at danger. Most local residents also keep different livestock which bring about competition on limited resources.

Poaching/illegal hunting.

For the past 2 decades, about 50 mountain gorillas were killed and poaching still continues to be a major threat to the survival of these apes. This is one reason why mountain gorillas still remain endangered. While the traps set target small mammals especially forest antelopes, mountain gorillas in most cases get trapped in the process in the set wire snares.

Others hunt for mountain gorillas to extract their body parts for them to sell to researchers and others especially infants are traded as pets.

Human infectious diseases.

Human infectious diseases have continuously impacted on the lives of mountain gorillas. Their genetic DNA is 98% same to that of humans and this makes them susceptible to human infectious diseases. Like other creatures, mountain gorillas have their own diseases that are suffering from.

Addition of human infectious diseases like cold, flu puts them at higher risk. Other threats mountain gorillas still face that have made them endangered include war and instability, oil and gas exploration.