Activity Type
Day Treks
Land-based Activities
Duration
From 3 to 8 hours, depending on location of gorillas. Actual viewing is 1 hour
Start Point
Virunga Lodge/Musanze
End Point
Virunga Lodge/Musanze
Operating Months
Year round
Operating Days
Daily
Level Of Difficulty
Moderate
Age Restrictions
Minimum age permissable for gorilla tracking is 15 years
What to Bring
> Recommended clothing is long trousers and shirts when in the forest to avoid nettle stings.
> Study walking shoes or hiking boots are essential. You may find raingear useful.
> Bring a water bottle and a small snack although eating, drinking and smoking near the gorillas is forbidden.
> Photography is permitted, although you may not use flash.
> Porters are available to help you carry your daypack for a small charge.
> Mountain gorillas live at high altitude and this may cause difficulties for some visitors. You should pace yourself, walk slowly and drink plenty of water. No one should feel deterred from making this trip.
Group Size
8
Other Information
A restricted maximum number of permits per day are available for advance booking so confirmation 4-12 months in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment. Bookings are taken up to 2 years in advance. Permits are issued on a first come, first served basis. Permits are non-refundable, although in some cases will be transferable. Some permits may be available on short notice.
> The security of visitors is the highest priority. There is no need for concern about personal security.
> The climate in Musanze is changeable and you can generally expect both sun and rainfall during the day.
> Musanze, at 1,700m above sea level, is generally quite cold, particularly in the evening, so warm clothing is advised.
