Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Possible from Canada?

If you’re considering a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an incredible experience. If you’re based in Canada, you might be wondering, “Is gorilla trekking in Rwanda possible from Canada?” The answer is a resounding yes! While there are no direct flights from Canada to Rwanda, you can easily make the journey with connecting flights. At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, we specialize in crafting unforgettable safaris, including gorilla trekking, for travelers around the world. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda from Canada, the cost of trekking permits, flight options, and the possibility of combining your adventure with safaris in Kenya or Tanzania.

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Why Choose Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

The Unique Experience of Gorilla Trekking

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places in the world where you can see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With only about 1,000 of these magnificent creatures left in the wild, tracking them through the lush forests of Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Rwanda is known for its stunning landscapes, including lush green hills and volcanoes, which makes the trekking experience not just about seeing gorillas but also about enjoying breathtaking views. The trek itself can range from an hour to several hours depending on the location of the gorilla families, making it a physically rewarding challenge for many travelers.

Choosing to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking means you’re contributing to conservation efforts. The revenue generated from trekking permits directly supports the protection and welfare of the mountain gorillas and their habitats. It also helps in improving local communities’ livelihoods through eco-tourism.

So, when you ask, “Is gorilla trekking in Rwanda possible from Canada?”, rest assured that it’s a very accessible adventure with proper planning.

The Journey: Flying from Canada to Rwanda

Flight Options from Canada to Rwanda

While there are no direct flights from Canada to Rwanda, the journey is quite feasible with one or two connecting flights. Here’s a breakdown of possible routes:

1. Flights via European Hubs: The most common connection is through major European hubs. For example, you can fly from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) or Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to London Heathrow (LHR), Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), or Istanbul Airport (IST). From these European airports, you can board a direct flight to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital.
   • Example Route: Toronto (YYZ) → London Heathrow (LHR) → Kigali (KGL) – Total flight time: around 13 to 15 hours.
   • Example Route: Vancouver (YVR) → Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) → Kigali (KGL) – Total flight time: around 15 to 17 hours.

Flights via Middle Eastern Hubs

Alternatively, you can travel via Middle Eastern hubs, such as Doha (DOH) or Dubai (DXB), both of which offer convenient connecting flights to Kigali. Airlines like Qatar Airways and Emirates provide excellent services, making this an efficient route.

• • Example Route: Toronto (YYZ) → Doha (DOH) → Kigali (KGL) – Total flight time: around 17 hours.
  • Example Route: Vancouver (YVR) → Dubai (DXB) → Kigali (KGL) – Total flight time: around 18 hours.

These routes offer the flexibility to select the most convenient stopover and airlines based on your preferences.

How Much is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda?

The Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permit

One of the most important questions travelers have is, “How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?” As of 2023, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500 USD per person.

This permit grants you access to Volcanoes National Park, where you can trek into the jungle to observe mountain gorillas up close. The cost includes the following:

• Park entry fees: Your permit covers the fees for accessing Volcanoes National Park, where the gorillas live.
• Guides and rangers: The fees cover the costs of trained guides and park rangers who ensure your safety and enrich your experience with insightful information about the gorillas.
• One hour with the gorillas: The highlight of the trek is the hour you’ll spend with the gorillas. It’s a rare and precious opportunity to observe them in their natural environment.

While the price may seem high, it’s important to note that the revenue generated from trekking permits plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, including anti-poaching measures and community development projects around the park.

Can I Combine Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with a Safari in Kenya or Tanzania?

Combining Gorilla Trekking with a Safari Adventure

Another common question is: “Can I combine gorilla trekking in Rwanda with a great wildlife migration experience in Kenya or Tanzania?” The answer is absolutely yes!

Rwanda is conveniently located in East Africa, and you can easily combine your gorilla trekking experience with safaris in neighboring countries like Kenya and Tanzania. Here are a few reasons why this combination is so appealing:

The Great Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration, which takes place between July and October, is a spectacular natural event in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti. By combining gorilla trekking with a safari in these regions, you can witness this incredible migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras move across the plains, crossing dangerous rivers and evading predators like lions and crocodiles.

Other Safari Highlights

Both Kenya and Tanzania are famous for their exceptional wildlife safaris. You can visit iconic national parks like the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, where you’ll have the chance to see the “Big Five” — lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos.

Easy Connectivity

There are quick flights between Kigali (Rwanda) and major safari hubs like Nairobi (Kenya) and Arusha (Tanzania). You can easily fly from Rwanda to Kenya or Tanzania, making it simple to combine these experiences into one unforgettable itinerary.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we can tailor your itinerary to include both gorilla trekking and a safari in Kenya or Tanzania. Whether you prefer a luxurious safari experience or a budget-friendly option, we can create the perfect combination for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda?

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500 USD per person. This includes park fees, a guide, and one hour spent observing the gorillas.

Can I Combine Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with a Safari in Kenya or Tanzania?

Yes! You can easily combine your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda with a wildlife safari in Kenya or Tanzania. The proximity of these countries makes it easy to fly between them and enjoy both experiences in one trip.

When is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. These months offer the best trekking conditions, with minimal rainfall and easier hiking.

Why Choose Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd?

Your Trusted Partner in Adventure

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we specialize in creating customized tours that perfectly match your interests. Whether you’re interested in gorilla trekking, a wildlife safari, or both, we can arrange everything for you, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

We are a registered tour operator with years of experience in organizing safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Our team ensures you have the best experience, from the moment you land in East Africa until you depart.

Sustainable and Responsible Travel

We believe in promoting responsible and sustainable travel that benefits both the environment and local communities. By booking with us, you’re supporting conservation efforts and helping to improve the lives of local communities around the national parks.

Conclusion: Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Possible from Canada?

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is not only possible from Canada, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience. With connecting flights from major Canadian cities, like Toronto and Vancouver, the journey to Rwanda is well within reach.

You can combine your gorilla trekking experience with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration and explore other wildlife hotspots. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit is $1,500 USD, which supports important conservation efforts in Rwanda.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we are here to help you plan and execute the perfect East African safari experience, ensuring you have a memorable and meaningful journey. Reach out today to start planning your adventure!