Rwanda — Things to Do
Gorilla Trekking
Most visitors to Rwanda come to track the endangered mountain gorillas in the far northwest of the country, on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains within the Parc des Volcans. Despite their fierce reputation, gorillas are peaceable primates, the largest and most ferocious looking of the ape family, and the chance to view them from up close is a thrilling as well as awe-inspiring experience. Tracking them usually entails a one- to four-hour trek through the forest, and on steep mountain slopes, but groups are only permitted to stay with the gorillas for one hour once they have been located, to prevent behavioral disturbances and the possible transmission of diseases from humans to gorillas. Gorillas share 95% of their genes with humans and people with even a common cold are not allowed to join a group, as this could be fatal to the animal. All treks are led by experienced guides, trackers and anti-poachers, with permits allowing for a maximum of eight visitors per group. Booking is through the Rwanda Tourism Board offices (ORTPN) in Kigali or Musanze.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Although Rwanda is best known for its gorilla population, expeditions to view the golden monkeys in the Virunga heartlands are increasingly popular. Found only in the bamboo forests of the area's volcanic mountains, the endangered primate is both mysterious and fascinating. Many tour operators offer Golden Monkey viewing treks, though viewing is limited to one hour at a time by law.
Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Trekking
Rwanda is a hotspot for viewing primates in their natural habitat, and along with gorillas and golden monkeys, chimpanzees are a major draw. While many people are used to seeing chimps in movies and zoos, many tour operators offer trips into Nyungwe Forest National Park to view them in their natural habitat, while guides take you around the forest via jeeps, or the special canopy walkways that give you a birds-eye view of chimps and other wildlife.
