Words and photography by Dylan Clements
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences on Earth. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure offers travelers the rare chance to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat within the Volcanoes National Park. My trip to Rwanda was nothing short of extraordinary, and this guide shares my personal journey and provides practical tips to help you plan your own adventure.
Getting to Rwanda
We flew from Chicago to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, with KLM. The first leg of the journey, from Chicago to Amsterdam, was on a newer plane with a modern business class layout. The flight from Amsterdam to Kigali, however, was on an older aircraft with a more dated business class design—not ideal, but the excitement of the trip made it easy to overlook.
When we arrived in Kigali, our guide was waiting to greet us. They escorted us to a small VIP lounge, where our immigration formalities were handled quickly and smoothly. It was such a thoughtful touch and a great introduction to the warm hospitality Rwanda is known for.
Kigali Marriott Hotel
Our First Night in Kigali
After landing in Kigali around 8 PM, we headed to the Marriott Kigali Hotel for our first night in Rwanda. It was a great option after a long journey—the restaurant was still open for dinner, and the bar stayed open late, so we could have a cold beer and settle in.
We were pleasantly surprised when the hotel upgraded us to the Presidential Suite, which was a fantastic way to start the trip. The suite was spacious and comfortable, giving us plenty of room to relax and recharge for the days ahead.
The next morning, we started the day with a buffet breakfast that included a mix of western dishes and local Rwandan options. Feeling rested and ready, we met our guide and began our five-day adventure through Rwanda.
Our First Stop: One&Only Nyungwe House
Our first stop on this incredible journey was One&Only Nyungwe House, a stunning luxury retreat nestled in Rwanda’s lush Nyungwe Forest. It set the tone for the adventure that followed, offering a perfect mix of relaxation, nature, and cultural immersion.
You can read all about our stay and the experiences we had at One&Only Nyungwe House in an article that will be released soon.
Volcanoes National Park
Arriving from Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park
We opted for a 40-minute helicopter ride from One&Only Nyungwe House to Volcanoes National Park, avoiding a 7-hour drive that would have cost us an entire day of exploring. The flight was not only efficient but also provided stunning aerial views of Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, making the journey a highlight in itself.
Upon arriving at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, we were greeted with a vibrant tribal dance performance and refreshing welcome drinks. This warm and celebratory reception immediately set the tone for the incredible experiences that awaited us.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
What Is Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking involves hiking through lush forests to observe mountain gorillas in their natural environment. In Rwanda, this incredible experience takes place in the Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest of the country. The park is home to several habituated mountain gorilla families, making it one of the best places in the world for this activity.
Getting ready to gorilla trek in Rwanda
Why Choose Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?
Rwanda’s well-organized and accessible trekking experience makes it a top choice for adventure enthusiasts. The country is renowned for its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and strong conservation efforts. Plus, Kigali’s international airport is just a few hours’ drive from the park, making it convenient to reach.
The drive from Kigali to the park is smooth and comfortable, with well-maintained roads. Along the way, you can enjoy passing through local villages and observing residents as they go about their daily lives. Rwanda is also incredibly clean—perhaps the cleanest place I’ve visited in my travels to over 80 countries. Not only is Rwanda clean, but it is also incredibly safe. The people are warm, welcoming, and truly beautiful, making the experience even more special.
Another reason Rwanda stands out is the government’s commitment to sustainability. Gorilla trekking permits, priced at $1,500 as of 2023, directly support conservation programs and local communities, ensuring the long-term protection of these magnificent creatures. While permits in Uganda are cheaper at $500 USD, the treks there are more rigorous, and the walking trails are less established, which ultimately led us to choose Rwanda for our adventure.
We spent our time in Rwanda at the One and Only Gorillas Nest
Where We Stayed: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Staying at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest was a real highlight of the trip. As this was a once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list adventure, we wanted to do it right, so we chose one of the top two luxury options at Volcanoes National Park. The other option, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, offers more direct views of the park and private plunge pools, but we felt the serene setting and intimate feel of Gorilla’s Nest were the right fit for us.
Nestled at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park, the lodge is surrounded by massive eucalyptus trees and perfectly manicured gardens. It’s quiet, remote, and feels like the kind of place designed for both adventure and unwinding.
Our bedroom at the One and Only Gorillas Nest
The Accommodation
With only 21 rooms and suites, the lodge feels private and exclusive. Our room was a standout—big windows that let in the forest views and a sleek, understated design that mixed modern luxury with subtle nods to Rwandan culture.
The private deck became my favorite spot to relax. Sitting out there with a drink, watching the trees sway, was about as good as it gets. Inside, the attention to detail was impressive—heated floors, ridiculously comfortable bedding, and every little amenity you could think of.
The bathroom deserves special mention. The soaking tub was the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day. Pairing that with the forest views made it a place you didn’t want to leave.
Bathroom at One and Only Gorillas Nest
Verandah in our suite at the One and Only Gorillas Mist.
The service at the One and Only Gorillas Nest was the best we have received in Africa.
The Dining Experience
The food at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest was top-notch. Every meal was fresh, flavorful, and a great mix of local Rwandan dishes and international options. Breakfast was solid—think fresh fruit, pastries, and eggs made to order. But dinners were where they really stepped it up.
Grilled meats, perfectly cooked sides, and even traditional dishes like plantains and ugali made every meal feel like an event. And they had an impressive wine list to go with it, which was a nice surprise in such a remote spot.
A lot of the ingredients at the One and Only Gorillas Nest are grown on site.
Freshly made meals at the One and Only Gorillas Nest.
Meals at One and Only Gorillias Nest
Sample dinner menu at One and Only Gorillas Mist.
Bar at the One and Only Gorillas Nest
The Facilities
The lodge’s infinity pool is a centerpiece—it’s positioned to overlook the forest and feels incredibly private. After a trek, kicking back poolside with those views and the sounds of nature was perfect.
There’s also a spa, which offered a great way to relax and recharge.
For those who enjoy staying active, the lodge features a great gym setup. Personally, I found that exploring the impeccably maintained gardens was the perfect way to unwind and stay active when I wasn’t out trekking.
Swimming pool at One and Only Gorillas Nest.
Firepit at the One & Only Gorillas Nest.
Billards in the library at One & Only Gorillas Nest
Gym with forest views.
Cultural Experiences
One of the most memorable evenings at the lodge was a traditional Rwandan dance performance by a local tribe. The energy, vibrant outfits, and rhythmic drumming created an electric atmosphere. To our delight, we were invited to join the dancers at the end, making it a truly unforgettable moment.
Rwandan dancers at the One and Only Gorillas Nest.
Rwandan dancers at One and Only Gorillas Nest
As a Clements Travel client, you can enjoy exclusive Virtuoso benefits at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, including:
- Room upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast for two guests per room
- A $100 USD equivalent resort credit for spa services or dining
- Early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
One&Only also gifted us beautifully hand-carved walking sticks for our treks, which added a thoughtful and practical touch to the journey.
A gift from the hotel. Hand carved, locally made trekking sticks.
Preparing for the Trek
Booking the Permit
A gorilla permit is a mandatory pass required to trek into the forest and spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family. These permits are limited to ensure sustainable tourism and conservation, so securing one well in advance is essential.
Clements Travel can assist with obtaining your gorilla permits, making the process smooth and hassle-free.
Packing Essentials
Here’s what I packed to ensure a successful trek:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation
- A face mask (to protect gorillas from human-transmitted illnesses)
- A comfortable daypack
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation
- A comfortable daypack
- Snacks and a reusable water bottle
- A good camera or even a smartphone, like an iPhone, to capture the moment—no zoom lens is necessary, as the gorillas are often right in front of you
The team at One & Only Gorillas Nest went above and beyond to ensure we were fully prepared for the trek. Knowing the terrain could be muddy and challenging, they provided hiking boots, gaiters (which I hadn’t even thought to pack), ponchos, hats, and backpacks. I had brought the wrong type of hiking boots, but the lodge had a suitable pair ready for me to use, which made all the difference.
One and Only Gorillas Nest team.
When we returned, we were treated to soothing shoulder massages and given comfortable flip-flops while our muddy boots were taken away for a thorough cleaning. The attention to detail and exceptional service made the entire experience truly enjoyable.
Meeting point at the start of the gorilla trek.
My Trekking Experience
The night before our trek, the resort staff provided us with a detailed briefing about what to expect. They also gave an engaging introduction to the gorillas, sharing fascinating insights about their behavior and conservation efforts. The day of the trek began with an early morning briefing at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. The rangers were knowledgeable and friendly, explaining safety protocols and providing useful insights.
Starting the gorilla trek.
At a central meeting point, participants were divided into groups based on their trekking preferences. Some opted for longer, more challenging treks to visit gorilla families further away. I chose a shorter trek, which only required about an hour of hiking before we found the gorillas. Then, we set off into the misty forest. The hike was both challenging and exhilarating. The trails led us through dense vegetation, over streams, and up steep inclines. Along the way, our guides pointed out unique flora and fauna, enriching the journey.
We were treated to a massage on return from our gorilla trek.
The porters were incredibly helpful, making it easier to navigate difficult parts of the trek. Many porters are ex-poachers who have transitioned to sustainable livelihoods by assisting tourists, contributing to conservation efforts and local development.
Finally, we reached a clearing where a gorilla family was peacefully going about their day. Watching these gentle giants up close was a surreal experience. It was fascinating to learn that the gorillas actually enjoy visitors. In fact, during the time the park was closed due to the pandemic, the gorillas ventured down to the local village seeking human contact. At one point, a gorilla brushed past my leg—a humbling and exhilarating moment I’ll never forget. The juveniles played energetically, while the silverback exuded a calm yet commanding presence. I wanted to make the most of my hour with the gorillas. I divided my time evenly—spending the first half capturing photos and videos to preserve the memories. For the last half hour, I put my camera away and simply enjoyed being in their presence, absorbing the incredible moment. Spending an hour with them was a privilege I’ll always treasure. One of the couples we met enjoyed the experience so much that they booked another gorilla trek and did it again the very next day.
Our guide surprised us with a bottle of champagne at the end of the trek.
After the trek, our guide surprised us with a bottle of champagne—a delightful and celebratory touch to an already incredible experience.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking
The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are considered the best time for trekking. However, we visited in April and found the weather perfect—not too cold or hot. While the dry season had not started yet, the conditions were not too wet, making it a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The rainy seasons also have their charm, with fewer visitors and lush green landscapes.
Tips for a Memorable Trek
- Respect the Gorillas: Follow your guide’s instructions, maintain a safe distance, and avoid sudden movements. Listen to the guides—they are with the gorillas every day and have invaluable knowledge to share.
- Be Present: While taking photos is tempting, spend time simply observing and appreciating the moment.
- Support Local Communities: Purchase handmade crafts from local artisans to give back to the community. Also, consider bringing a bit of spending money to buy souvenirs from the local people at the national park. Supporting these communities financially helps them avoid resorting to poaching and contributes to conservation efforts. This also includes tipping your porter, around $20USD is sufficient as a tip.
- Its important to note, people need to be 15 years or older to undertake a trek to the mountain gorillas.
The Genocide Museum and Hotel Rwanda
On our final day, we arrived back in Kigali early, which gave us the opportunity to visit the Rwanda Genocide Museum. This moving and educational site serves as a memorial to the victims of the 1994 genocide, offering insight into the events that shaped Rwanda’s history while emphasizing the importance of education and reconciliation.
After our powerful connection with the Rwandan people during our tour, we felt it was important to visit the museum to learn more about the country’s past and the resilience of its people.
We enjoyed a beer and a dinner a the iconic Hotel Rwanda before our flight.
For dinner, we decided to visit the Hotel Rwanda, known for its pivotal role during the genocide when it sheltered over 1,200 people during one of the darkest periods in Rwanda’s history. Today, the hotel stands as a symbol of hope and resilience, as well as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit.
Our tour guide operated modern safari vehicles which made the trip comfortable and safe.
The Tour Company We Used
For our trip, we partnered with a locally owned tour company, licensed by the Rwandan government. Working directly with them allowed us to avoid the significant markups often added by international companies, many of which use the same local operators. By going direct, we saved thousands of dollars—up to $5,000 compared to quotes from larger companies.
They met us at the airport and dropped us off at the end. Everything in between was taken care of with great detail.
Since this trip, we’ve continued to work with this company for other clients, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Their professionalism, value for money, and attention to detail have been unmatched.
We couldn’t have wished for a better guide than Richard, who was a true professional. His encyclopedic knowledge of Rwanda, gorillas, and other wildlife made the experience even more enriching. He was patient, engaging, and made sure every part of the journey was seamless.
The vehicle we traveled in was a new Toyota Safari vehicle, designed for comfort and sightseeing. The large windows offered panoramic views of the stunning Rwandan scenery, adding to the overall experience.
Looking Ahead: A Future Safari in Rwanda
While gorilla trekking was the main focus of this trip, next time we visit Rwanda, we’d love to experience a safari. The national parks here seem much less crowded than those in Kenya or Tanzania, but they still offer incredible wildlife.
You can spot animals like elephants, buffalo, zebras, waterbucks, and elands, along with antelope species such as impalas, reedbuck, duikers, oribis, and bushbuck. There are also plenty of primates, including olive baboons and vervet monkeys, which makes the parks even more diverse.
Rwanda is also a fantastic destination for birdwatching, with its lush vegetation attracting a wide variety of birds. Speaking of the landscape, we found Rwanda’s scenery particularly beautiful—there’s something about the rolling hills and greenery that feels so unique compared to other safari destinations.
A safari in Rwanda seems like the perfect way to enjoy incredible wildlife without the crowds, and it’s definitely on our list for next time.
Ready to Plan Your Adventure?
At Clements Travel, we focus on delivering luxury gorilla trekking experiences in Rwanda that are seamless and stress-free. From securing your gorilla trekking permits to booking exclusive accommodations like One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, we handle every detail so you can focus on the adventure.
Getting a gorilla trekking quote with us is quick and free, making it easy to start planning. Whether you’re looking for luxury gorilla trekking in Rwanda, eco-tourism adventures, or a truly unique sustainable wildlife experience, we’ve got you covered.
For me, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park was unforgettable. Hiking through the forest, coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas, and knowing my visit was directly supporting conservation efforts made it a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Staying at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest added a level of comfort and style that elevated the entire experience.
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and top-tier luxury, Rwanda is the place to be. Start planning your gorilla trekking journey in Rwanda with Clements Travel today and make it a trip you’ll never forget.