Virunga Mountains, Rwanda:
In the summer of 2023, we extended our African safari by visiting Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas. This was the top item on my dad’s bucket list.
Comfortable Accommodations with a Personal Touch
Our adventure began with a stay at a luxurious lodge nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. The nights were chilly, but each evening the lodge staff would light the fireplaces in our individual cabins. It meant we returned from dinner to a warm and inviting room. This gesture made a significant difference, especially for my parents, who find the cold more and more intense these days.
Overcoming Mobility Challenges with Sedan Chairs
My mom suffers from bursitis so faces some mobility challenges. As a result, we worried that walking the rugged terrain to see the gorillas would be too much for her. Our tour company suggested a solution: sedan chairs. Initially, my mom was reluctant, but understanding it was likely her only way to participate, she agreed. As my dad had experienced an unexpected medical emergency earlier in our trip, we decided to arrange for a second sedan chair to ensure he could also comfortably complete the trek.
Eight porters rotate carrying each sedan chair throughout the journey. It meant there were sixteen men in total, just for my parents! We had Googled what the chairs would look like to mentally prepare for the experience, but when we arrived, they looked nothing like what we had seen on the internet. Instead of the anticipated sedan chairs, we were horrified to find litters. They looked more like battlefield stretchers! Despite our initial shock, the setup ensured both my parents could partake in this extraordinary experience without strain.
The Trek to the Gorillas
The gorilla family we hiked out to see was located closest to the park entrance. It was arranged this way to minimize the distance my parents had to be carried. The men leading our group, armed with machetes, skillfully cleared the path as we made our way through the dense forest. The anticipation built with each step, and soon, we found ourselves in the presence of these magnificent creatures.
Encountering the Gorillas
Seeing the mountain gorillas for the first time was a humbling experience. They are much larger than we had imagined, and seem unperturbed by the presence of people. We wore facemasks to protect the gorillas from potential COVID-19 transmission and observed them from a respectful distance. The silverback lay basking in the sunshine, while the playful antics of the baby gorillas provided endless entertainment.
This surreal experience was momentarily overshadowed when my dad began to feel unwell. His heart rate dropped, and he needed to sit and rest. In a surprising turn, one of the gorillas noticed my dad’s distress and wandered over to observe him, almost as if expressing concern. It was a lovely and touching moment.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: What You Need to Know
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a well-regulated activity to ensure the safety and preservation of these endangered creatures. The process involves a briefing at the park headquarters where guides explain the rules and expectations. Then everyone is placed in a group based on their fitness level and interest. Each group has a maximum of one hour with the gorillas to reduce this risk of stress on the animals.
The trek can vary in difficulty, depending on the location of the gorilla families. Porters are available to assist with carrying bags (and people!), and providing support along the way. It’s essential to wear sturdy hiking boots, carry plenty of water, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. We spoke to other guests over dinner and learned that they had trekked for hours in challenging, muddy terrain, which was a stark contrast to our experience.
Reflecting on the Journey
Our trip to Rwanda was more than just a bucket list adventure; it was a journey that brought our family closer and offered us a glimpse into the lives of one of the world’s most fascinating species. Despite the challenges, every moment spent with the mountain gorillas was worth the effort. The beauty of Rwanda, the warmth of its people, and the extraordinary wildlife certainly left a mark on our hearts!
Rwanda or Uganda Gorilla Trekking
If you’re unsure whether to see the gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda, consider these differences: Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers relatively accessible gorilla families and well-maintained trails, making the trek easier and often shorter. The lush, scenic backdrop of the Virunga Mountains enhances the experience. In contrast, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides a more rugged and challenging trek through dense, often muddy terrain, offering a truly immersive jungle adventure. While Rwanda provides a more luxurious and streamlined trekking experience, Uganda’s raw and adventurous routes appeal to those seeking a more challenging encounter. Rwanda made sense for us, given my parents’ circumstances.
For anyone considering this adventure, I highly recommend it. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to fulfil a lifelong dream, gorilla trekking is an unforgettable journey.
