Gorilla trekking safari is an exceptional wildlife experience, that is hard to encounter unless you head to Rwanda which is the home to more than half of the world’s entire Gorilla population. This is not just an excursion, it is a well thought out itinerary to ensure your comfort and safety when you meet these amazing creatures. There is a lot more to it – we visitthe Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla trekking, drive to the shimmering Lake Kivu, stay at ecological luxe resorts and explore the wildlife with private guides. If you like the wildlife, this will be a truly remarkable experience for you.

Set out for adventure

In a vacation unlike any other we pack our sneakers and windcheaters amongst other adventure gear and head to Rwanda. Our journey in the land of thousand hills, begins at Kigali, from where we are escorted and driven to Ruhengiri. The picturesque scenery and astounding views of the volcanic range give us goose bumps, a teaser of what’s to come. At Ruhengiri, we check in at the Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, an ecological abode with breathtaking views of the volcanoes and the surrounding countryside.

Gorilla trekking begins

Come morning, we’re at the Volcanoes National Park for the ultimate adventure: Gorilla Trekking. After a briefing from our guide, who will be with us every step of the way, our enthralling walk begins. The next few hours are spent tracking the gorillas through the bamboo forests, the wild and toothed nettles, into the mesmerizing rain forests. Grumpy and fearsome-looking, these silverbacks weigh about three times as much as an average man. While their bulk is exaggerated by a shaggily luxuriant coat, they are remarkably peaceful creatures. Walking just a few feet away from these giants is an inexplicable experience. Equally fascinating is the extent to which the gorillas choose to try to interact with visitors, making eye contact or observing us, while occasionally touching the guide, in apparent recognition.

Drive in the wild

Our excursions, on this week long journey, include a visit to the golden monkeys that reside exclusively in this scenic park. Their vivacity and restlessness amuse us, as we try with little success to capture their antics on camera. A drive to the shimmering Lake Kivu takes us past magnificent hillsides where banana plantations lie camouflaged against the descending trail towards the Gisenyi valley.

Island hopping

Come next morning, and we check in at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, a tranquil paradise on the sandy shores of the lake, with the views of the marvelous tropical gardens. A day here is spent exploring the surrounding islands by boat. Our holiday comes to an end as we head home with flashes of this memorable sojourn and a dozen stories to tell.