Trekking with Gorillas in Rwanda had long been on advisor Kylie Gorst's wishlist. Recently, she made it a reality.
Trekking with gorillas in Rwanda is a one of a kind experience for many wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers. The lush forests of Rwanda provide a unique opportunity to come face to face with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Rwanda is one of the few places on Earth where you can embark on a gorilla trekking expedition, which is where Travel Associates advisor Kylie Gorst recently went on a trip with Singita. She takes us through her experience below.
On arrival
Touching down in Kigali, Rwanda's bustling capital, marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey into the heart of gorilla territory. With its modern infrastructure, including an international airport and well-maintained roads, Kigali ensures easy and efficient access to Volcanoes National Park, the primary destination for gorilla trekking adventures.
Checking in: Singita Kwitonda
A 3-hour journey from the airport and just 1.2km away from the border of Volcanoes National Park, Singita Kwitonda Lodge is a top choice for luxury travellers after a one of a kind experience.
Named after a legendary silverback gorilla, the luxury lodge features eight villa-sized rooms, thoughtfully designed to merge with the surrounding landscapes. Each room is equipped with a private heated plunge pool, outdoor deck and large timber-framed windows that welcome the serene volcano views inside.
"Singita Kwitonda is undoubtedly one of the best properties I've ever experienced. Upon arrival, we were greeted with exceptional Singita service, where personalised welcomes instantly made us feel at home. Within hours, the staff felt like friends, adding a warm and welcoming touch to our stay."
Preparing for Gorilla Trekking
Preparing for a gorilla trekking adventure demands careful planning and a sense of adventure. Securing a day permit, priced at $1500 USD, is the initial step. Only 96 permits are allocated each day, so travellers must book well in advance. This can be organised back in Australia with your Travel Associates advisor.
The trek itself requires a moderate level of fitness and can be physically demanding. Depending on the time of year, you might be hiking knee-deep in mud (not to worry, Singita provides complimentary high-quality equipment for outdoor hiking and wet weather). Despite the challenging terrain, you are well supported, with a porter to carry your bag, a guide leading your group, and trackers and rangers on hand too.
The experience
Encountering gorillas in their natural habitat is a truly one of a kind experience.
Each group, limited to eight, is assigned a different gorilla tribe, offering a unique glimpse into their familial dynamics and behaviours. Safety protocols in place, including maintaining a minimum distance of 10 metres, and total visitation capped at precisely one hour, ensures the well-being of both gorillas and tourists.
"The moment we spotted the gorillas after a two-hour trek was beyond words. We had a family of 22 in our tribe, from silverbacks to mothers, teenagers, and two tiny babies. One even accidentally stepped on my foot! I'll never forget watching the baby gorilla swinging from a vine. Observing them in their natural habitat was an extraordinary experience I would recommend to anyone."
Embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda with Singita promises a truly unforgettable experience for luxury travellers seeking to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Africa.
