Gorilla trekking in Rwanda for a solo traveler is a great idea that brings you the absolute satisfaction of an African Safari. Rwanda which is at times called the home of a thousand hills gives you a glimpse into the look of Switzerland in case it is one of the places you hope travel.
As you plan that solo Rwanda trip to do gorilla trekking, you need pre-travel information. This gives you confidence and excitement about what the unknown encounter with gorillas in the forest.
What must you know about Rwanda Gorilla trekking Safari As a Solo Traveler
To gain access to the gorilla trekking forest of Virunga Forest, you need a permit. Each gorilla permit in Rwanda is sold for $1500. This price supports the conservation of mountain gorillas which are some of the remnants of the ice age era.
At the moment about 800 mountain gorillas are serving in the wild. Rwanda is one of the 3 lucky countries in the world to give mountain gorillas a natural home.
A gorilla trekking permit is on the top list of this safari requirements because only 8 gorilla permits are sold per day per trek.
Advance purchase of a gorilla permit lowers your chances of getting on the waitlist hoping that someone will not show up and you take there place. Waiting list is a gambling decision and risky for your lifetime gorilla trekking safari experience in Africa.
Apply For a Rwanda Visa before Arriving for Gorilla Trekking Safari
Some countries do not requires to have Visas to Rwanda but those that need it is best to purchase your Visa in advance. This is because of the long procedure you go through while applying for a visa at immigration on arrival at Kigali Airport.
Even if you use the online Visa application while at the Kigali Airport, it may consume a lot of your time. Sometimes internet service is too slow for you to down load this application
Give no chance to anything that would ruin the beginning of your gorilla trekking safari.
Book Advance Accommodation For Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari overnight
Much as Rwanda has the possibility of a one day gorilla trekking experience, it is a risky attempt. You are not sure of the time of returning from gorilla trekking to catch up with your flight check in and departure time.
You need to spend at least a night in accommodation close to the Volcanoes National Park. Gorilla trekking requires you to be at the ranger station as early as 0700hrs which means early morning waking up.
To catch up with time, it is best to overnight in accommodations closer to Volcanoes National park where you can walk to the briefing point.
During the peak seasons, lodges close to the park get sold out which slims the chances of a person getting a last minute comfortable room. Gorilla trekking safari is not only about seeing the mountain gorillas but the entire experience is what travelers want.
Pack The Right Gorilla Trekking Gears
Gorilla trekking is indeed a special African safari experience which requires you to have special attire. Pack gorilla trekking gears that will make it comfortable for you while in the wilderness.
Some of the must pack gorilla trekking gears include tracking boots, garden gloves, long sleeved camouflaged shirt and trousers, Sound proof camera insect repellants, a pair of stocking Click For More Details
At the ranger station in Volcanoes national Park, some gorilla trekking gears can be hired but for you to feel more comfortable, carry your own wear.
Do Some Physicals Before Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda
Mountain gorillas live in a volcanic surrounding that requires you to follow them up to the steep slopes. It may be quite disturbing to take the trails that take you to the gorillas feeding area. For this reason in order for you to fully make memories on gorilla trekking experience, you need some fitness.
Even if you are not physically fit, you can still hire porters to carry you through the journey or a sedan chair for those who have physical disabilities.
It is not compulsory for you to do fitness so you do not have to stress in case you are not comfortable. Just plan you gorilla trekking safari to Rwanda.
Carry Some Hard Cash before travelling for your Gorilla trekking tour to Rwanda
Using hard cash is the main form of exchange in Rwanda. Although credit cards may be used in some places, it is not a common form of exchange because of the lengthy procedure of getting money from them.
In case you want to pay for any service, you need to use cash and in Rwandese Franks. Travelling solo is interesting but you do not give any chances for mistakes because it may ruin your trip.
Do not Litter In Rwanda for whatever Reason
Rwanda has strict rules on any garbage disposal. Make sure you do not throw anything through the windows but keep it in the car until you get to a dumping pit. Charges are placed against anyone who committees this crime or imprisonment for any offender.
As a solo traveler on a gorilla trekking safari, you need to obey these rules to enjoy your trip.
In case you have any infection volunteer to stay behind as gorillas are easily susceptible to human infections.
Do not litter the forest because this changes the environment for the Mountain gorilla.
A void feeding the primates in the world because they are wild animal that must look for own food.
When with the gorillas during gorilla trekking stand in a distance of about 8 meters from them.
Try not to chew while in front of the mountain gorillas.
Do not touch the gorillas because they are wild animal however tempting and adorable they look.
In case you wish to ease yourself while in the forest ask the ranger to dig a hole for you and you burry all feces beyond recognition.
Leave with nothing from the forest but only photos and memories of your gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda.