Volcano National Park in Rwanda is one of the oldest parks in Africa. It is now home to the endangered Mountain Gorilla. Volcano National Park has successfully sheltered five of the eight erupted Virunga mountains. It covers about 160km2 of rainforest and bamboo vegetation. For a sustainable travel experience, this park offers only 96 permits per day.
Every responsible traveller should consider Volcano National Park for their next outdoor activity. To some tourists, it is exciting, while others call it a life-saving experience. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda helps you connect with nature differently. By just visiting, you are aiding the survival of one of Earth’s most threatened species. However, sustainable travel practices are one way to keep this species from going into extinction. Let’s see in detail what makes Gorilla trekking special in Rwanda and how to partake in the conservation success.
Sustainable Travel Experience: Tracking Gorillas
This is a trekking journey at a 2500km—4000km altitude, guided and monitored by the park ranger. Porters can help with cameras and heavy backpacks for faster and lighter movement. As you move closer, you will see the rustling leaves and hear the sounds of birds chirping and tickling water. The tour guide will signal you to stop to prevent disruption in the Gorilla’s behaviour. You will see a family of mountain gorillas doing everything that reflects a deep connection.
Social mountain gorillas rule in tight-knit families under the command of a dominant silverback. They interact with juveniles tumbling through the grass. The view of a mother cradling her infant catches glimpses of an intricate and gentle nature, which is humbling to watch.
Rwanda’s Conservation Success Story
Rwanda is probably the best example of what happens when conservation becomes the linchpin. Two decades ago, mountain gorillas faced almost certain extinction due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. The population is bouncing back today due to the relentless efforts of the government, conservation organizations, and local communities.
The money from gorilla trekking permits made the difference. In addition to anti-poaching and habitat conservation programs, some money is invested in community development programs. Part of it also goes into the communities living near areas where these endangered animals are found. Revenue-sharing schemes serve protection and engender coexistence, which will mitigate the probable human-wildlife conflict.
How To Prepare For Your Gorilla Trek
Before one embarks on this sustainable travel adventure, here are things you should know to ensure a smooth experience:
Gaining Your Permit
Permits to gorilla treks are limited to prevent over-impacting the gorillas and the habitat. Booking can be done in advance; it may take some time. Again, the price for this permit may sound high, but remember, it’s an investment directly channelled into the community. Sustainable travel practices support conservation and societal welfare.
Get Trek-Ready
With proper preparation, this will be an unforgettable event. Wear comfortable hiking boots and light clothes. As trekking is in groups, you will meet people.
What To Wear In The Backpack
Always move with your rain cover, gloves, and a silent motor-driven camera. Maintain a good distance and take a shot without flash to ensure you capture the best behaviour of these gorillas.
Sustainable Travel Practices: How To Partake In Volcanoes National Park Success
Responsible Trekking
Being out in the wild with mountain gorillas is a privilege experience with responsibilities. For your visit to be safe and ecologically viable, find respect for the following rules:
1. Keep distance: Always maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas to protect them from catching human diseases. It will also eliminate any feeling of threat or fear.
2. Follow your guide: Guides are trained for your safety and that of the gorillas. So carefully listen to the instructions and follow the rules.
3. Health first: Avoid going on this activity if you feel any sign of illness, even if it is an ordinary cold. Mountain gorillas share almost 98% of our DNA and can catch human sicknesses, too.
4. Keep Quiet and Still: Never make jerky movements that might arouse fear in these gorillas. Be soft in your tone and respect the quietness of nature.
One step taken inside this forest is one taken for the future. It is not only for these gentle giants but also for the sensitive ecosystem of this region.
Support Communities
Besides viewing wild animals in their solitary lives, community is one major reason for tracking gorillas in Rwanda. Sustainable tourism is a means for the host communities to improve their landscape.
- Shop local: Buy hand-woven baskets with vibrant artwork from locals. Buying their goods to support and sustain longstanding cultural traditions.
- Stay in eco-lodges: Most lodges around Volcanoes National Park support community development and sustainable travel initiatives.
- Taking cultural tours is a must, too: time used in learning traditions and daily life is well spent. The interactions with the community around you bring about an understanding of their culture and also add income for the natives.
Choosing The Correct Responsible Tour Operators
Look out for tour operators who put conservation first by finding out whether their activities align with the nature of the ecotourism policy adopted by Rwanda for Tourism. Ensure they support local employment by employing and training locals as guides and support staff. Responsible tour operators are transparent about their fees. By booking responsible operators, you support a system that values wildlife and community well-being.
Be A Guardian Of The Gorillas
In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is a memorable adventure that consolidates the action of taking care of natural heritage. By taking this journey, you have become a protector of these magnificent creatures and a voice for sustainable travel. Get set with your luggage, on with the hiking boots, and have the best sustainable travel experience. Keep your mouth agape and enjoy what this beautiful community has to offer.
