Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa: The Volcanoes Expert Travel Guide
How to Trek Gorillas In Rwanda from South Africa
Plan Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa – Volcanoes Expert Travel Guide. The Ultimate beginner’s guide to Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa Johannesburg or Cape Town
Embarking on a gorilla-trekking expedition in Rwanda from South Africa combines the thrill of African wildlife with seamless travel logistics. Beginning with a 3h 50 m direct flight from Johannesburg (JNB) to Kigali (KGL) via RwandAir, which operates two daily non-stop services, you’ll touch down in Rwanda’s modern capital ready to dive into the Virunga Mountains’ mist-shrouded forests. From securing your e-Visa online (government fee US$ 50 for a single-entry tourist visa) to arranging reliable ground transfers, every detail is optimized for maximum comfort and minimum stress.
Once in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park awaits, home to over 1,000 mountain gorillas across 10 habituated families. With permits priced at US $1,500 per person (peak season) and the option of a 30 % discount (to US $1,050) during the low season (November–May, when rains fall lightly), planning 3–6 months ahead ensures you lock in your preferred trekking date and avoid sold-out slots. A professional guide, tracker, and porter will accompany you, guiding your 1-hour encounter under strict rules, keeping at least 5 m away, no flash photography, and staying in small groups, to protect both you and these magnificent primates.
1. Flights & Entry Requirements
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
Airfare & Schedule
• Direct flights JNB ↔ KGL: RwandAir, 2 flights/day, 3 h 50 m
• Round-trip fares typically range US$ 341–$478; bargains as low as US$ 316 one-way have been found on Skyscanner.
Visa (e-Visa)
• Apply online via Rwandan immigration for a single-entry tourist e-Visa (30 days): government fee US$ 90.
• Passport validity: ≥ 6 months, ≥ 1 blank page; yellow-fever vaccination if required by origin country.
Health & Insurance
• Obtain comprehensive travel/medical insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
• Recommended vaccines: yellow fever (if applicable), routine immunizations, and malaria prophylaxis.
2. Gorilla-Trekking Permits
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
Cost & Categories
• Non-African international visitors: US$ 1,500/person (peak season, June–September & December–February).
• Discounted to US$ 1,050/person low season (Nov–May) when you book ≥ 2 nights in Akagera or Nyungwe NPs
• East African/Rwandan citizens: US$ 200; other African residents: US $500.
Booking Timeline
• Secure permits 3–6 months in advance for peak-season dates.
• Refund policy: non-refundable < 8 days before trek; partial refunds (25–75 %) apply 9–90 days out.
3. Best Time to Visit
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
Peak Season (Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb)
• Cooler, drier weather—easier trekking, but permits sell out fast and prices are highest.
Low Season (Nov–May)
• Lush scenery, fewer crowds, 30 % permit discount if staying in partner parks; trails can be muddier.
4. Sample 5-Day Itinerary
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fly JNB → KGL; overnight Kigali (city tour, dinner at local restaurant). |
| 2 | Transfer (2–3 h by road) to Musanze; lodge check-in. |
| 3 | Gorilla trek in Volcanoes NP; evening cultural visit to Gorilla Guardians Village. |
| 4 | Golden monkey trekking or Dian Fossey Hike; relaxation at thermal springs. |
| 5 | Return to Kigali; departure JNB. |
5. Packing & Preparation
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
-
Clothing: waterproof hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, rain jacket, gloves.
-
Gear: trekking poles, headlamp, binoculars, camera (no flash).
-
Essentials: insect repellent, sunblock, reusable water bottle, personal meds.
6. Accommodation Options
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
Luxury:
• Bisate Lodge – lavish villas, forest views, wellness spa.
• One&Only Nyungwe House (upcoming)
Mid-Range:
• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge – comfortable rooms overlooking the park.
Budget:
• Buhoma Community Campsite – basic tents, community-run.
7. Conservation & Community Impact
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
Every permit directly funds gorilla conservation and local communities—over 10 % of tourism revenue supports education, healthcare, and habitat protection in the Virunga region.
8. Insider Tips
“Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda from South Africa”
-
Fitness: moderate to high; daily hikes of 4–6 hours through steep, slippery terrain.
-
Guides: choose JimJam Safaris & Tours to handle your ground logistics.
-
Gratuities: US$ 10–$20/person/day for guide, US$ 5–$10 for porter.
2-Day Escorted Gorilla Trek Rwanda
Up-close encounters with majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park!. Expert guides, breathtaking views & unforgettable memories – all in just 2 days!
3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek Package.
The Most Accessible gorilla trekking itinerary in Volcanoes National Park. Meet the gentle giants in the bamboo jungle & visit the gorilla guardians’ village.
7-Day Rwanda Primates & Wildlife Tour
The complete Rwanda Safari adventure to the top national park. i.e, Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park.
Travel Advice From JimJam Safaris
We cater to all ages, budgets, interests, and fitness levels. Our team can assist with queries about Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda From South Africa tours, Accommodations, bookings, and Affordable Luxury destinations. We will respond to your Inquiry as soon as possible. Our team of friendly and service-minded Safari Consultants is available to assist you in making a private, personalized, tailor-made Safari Itinerary and to answer all questions you might have. Are you dreaming of the Wildebeest Migration? Gorilla Trekking in Africa? Honeymoon In Africa or Africa’s Big 5 Experiences? Start planning your affordable luxury African tours with the Affordable Luxury African Safari Company (JimJam Safaris & Tours Africa). We tailor-make African Safaris for First Timers, 7-Day African Safari Tours, African Bush Safaris, and Beach Vacations.