Can I Combine Chimpanzee Tracking with Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

Rwanda is a breathtaking country known for its lush landscapes, rich biodiversity, and some of the most memorable wildlife experiences in the world. Among the country’s premier wildlife experiences, chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking stand out as the most sought-after activities for visitors. While these two adventures are distinct in their focus, combining both of them in one trip can be an extraordinary and enriching experience.

But is it possible to track both chimpanzees and gorillas in Rwanda? In this article, we will explore the logistics, benefits, and considerations of combining these two iconic activities, as well as tips to make your dream wildlife safari a reality.

Understanding Chimpanzee Tracking and Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Before delving into how you can combine these two activities, it’s important to understand what each entails.

Chimpanzee Tracking

Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda typically takes place in two main locations:

• Kibale National Park: Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale is home to a thriving population of chimpanzees. Kibale is one of the best places in East Africa to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The park’s dense forests provide an ideal environment for chimpanzees, and trekkers have the opportunity to learn about the behaviors and social structures of these fascinating primates.
• Nyungwe Forest National Park: Another prime location for chimpanzee tracking, Nyungwe is famous for its biodiversity. While it’s slightly more challenging to track chimpanzees here due to the rugged terrain, the park offers a beautiful rainforest ecosystem.

Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda involves a guided trek through the forest in search of a troop of chimps. Once found, trekkers spend an hour observing the chimpanzees in their natural environment, watching them interact with each other, forage, and play.

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is the highlight of Rwanda’s tourism industry and takes place in Volcanoes National Park in the Virunga Mountains. Rwanda’s mountain gorillas are part of a critically endangered population, and trekking to see them in the wild is a truly rare and extraordinary experience.

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the dense forest to locate one of the habituated gorilla families. Visitors are allowed one hour to spend with the gorillas, observing their social behaviors, interactions, and their serene presence. The trek to reach the gorillas can range from a relatively easy walk to a strenuous hike, depending on the location of the group that day.

Is It Possible to Combine Chimpanzee Tracking and Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to combine both chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking in Rwanda, and it’s an excellent way to experience the country’s rich primate biodiversity. Rwanda is a relatively small country, and while both tracking experiences occur in different parts of the country, they are not so far apart that it would be impractical to do them on the same trip.

The two activities are often combined as part of a multi-day wildlife tour. The typical combination involves tracking chimpanzees in Kibale National Park and trekking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. The two parks are about a 5-6 hour drive apart, making it feasible to experience both in a relatively short period of time.

The Logistics of Combining Chimpanzee Tracking with Gorilla Trekking

To successfully combine these two adventures, careful planning is required, especially in terms of transportation, permits, and accommodation.

Transportation

Traveling between the two parks involves either driving or flying.

• By road: The most common and cost-effective way to travel between Kibale National Park (where chimpanzee tracking is done) and Volcanoes National Park (where gorilla trekking takes place) is by road. The journey can take anywhere from 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. A private safari vehicle is usually the most convenient and comfortable mode of transport for such a long journey. Some tour operators will include this in a combined wildlife safari package, where they provide a knowledgeable driver-guide to accompany you.
• By air: Alternatively, Rwanda has a small domestic flight network, and it’s possible to fly between Kigali International Airport, Nyungwe, and Kisoro (near Volcanoes National Park). Though flying offers a quicker way to travel between the parks, it’s also more expensive than driving and might not always be available for the smaller routes.

Permits and Booking

For both chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking, you will need to obtain permits in advance. Gorilla trekking permits are more expensive than chimpanzee tracking permits, but they must be booked early due to their limited availability.

• Chimpanzee tracking permits: The cost of chimpanzee tracking permits is lower compared to gorilla trekking permits. They typically cost between $90 to $150 USD per person, depending on whether you are tracking chimpanzees in Kibale or Nyungwe.
• Gorilla trekking permits: A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 USD per person per trek. Given the high demand for these permits, it’s essential to book them months in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.

It’s important to note that both permits are limited in number each day, so securing both for the same time frame can require some coordination. Working with a local tour operator can help manage your permits and ensure that you get the best dates for both experiences.

Accommodation

Accommodation options are available close to both Kibale and Volcanoes National Park, ranging from budget lodges to luxury camps. The tour operator can assist you in booking your accommodation based on your preferences. Staying in the vicinity of the parks allows for easy access to the trekking activities each day.

The Benefits of Combining Chimpanzee Tracking and Gorilla Trekking

Combining chimpanzee tracking with gorilla trekking offers several benefits:

A Comprehensive Wildlife Experience

By participating in both activities, you gain an in-depth understanding of Rwanda’s unique primate species. Chimpanzees and gorillas are both highly intelligent and social animals, but they exhibit different behaviors and live in different types of environments. Tracking both species allows you to witness their distinct characteristics and gain insight into their natural habitats.

Maximizing Your Time in Rwanda

Since Rwanda is relatively small and easy to navigate, combining these two activities makes the most of your time in the country. You will experience two of the top wildlife encounters in Africa, all while enjoying the stunning landscapes and pristine wilderness areas.

Supporting Conservation Efforts

Both gorillas and chimpanzees are critically endangered species, and the fees paid for permits contribute directly to conservation programs aimed at protecting these animals. By participating in both chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking, you are contributing to the preservation of Rwanda’s wildlife, ensuring that future generations can experience these incredible creatures in the wild.

Practical Tips for Combining Both Activities

• Physical Preparation: Both chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. While gorilla trekking typically involves steeper hikes, chimpanzee tracking can also be strenuous depending on the forest terrain. Ensure you’re in good physical condition to fully enjoy both experiences.
• Allow Adequate Time: It’s advisable to allocate at least 7-8 days for a combined chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking tour. This gives you time to enjoy both activities without feeling rushed.
• Pack Appropriately: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a camera to capture your experiences.

Conclusion

Combining chimpanzee tracking with gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an extraordinary way to experience the country’s incredible primate wildlife. With proper planning and the assistance of an experienced tour operator, it is entirely feasible to enjoy both activities in a single trip. By doing so, you’ll not only gain unforgettable memories but also contribute to the vital conservation efforts that protect these endangered species. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or a first-time adventurer, a combined chimpanzee and gorilla trekking experience is sure to be the highlight of your African journey.