MEETING RWANDA'S MOUNTAIN GORILLAS

An intimate journey into the heart of Volcanoes National Park

There are few wildlife experiences in the world that rival the awe of coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, cloaked in mist and framed by rugged volcanic peaks, is home to these gentle giants and offers a wildlife adventure unlike any other. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than a chance to see one of the rarest and most endangered species on the planet; it is an opportunity to witness Rwanda’s extraordinary commitment to conservation, making every moment of your journey both meaningful and unforgettable.



The journey to meet the gorillas is as much a part of the experience as the encounter itself. Trekking through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park awakens the senses. The air is cool, heavy with mist, and alive with the scent of damp earth and foliage. Birds call from the treetops, insects hum in the undergrowth, and the rustle of bamboo leaves hints at hidden life. Every step carries anticipation – the trail can be steep, uneven, and slippery, but it is precisely this challenge that makes reaching the gorillas so rewarding.

Guides and porters, deeply knowledgeable about the terrain and the gorillas’ habits, lead the way. Their expertise ensures a safe and immersive trek while offering insights into the forest’s intricate ecosystem. As you move deeper into the verdant landscape, the forest seems to close around you, and the noise of the outside world fades entirely. Then, suddenly, the forest opens to reveal your first glimpse of the gorillas – a moment that is impossible to forget.

Spending time with a gorilla family is an experience that transcends words. These remarkable creatures share over 98% of our DNA, and their intelligence and emotional depth are evident in every glance and gesture. Watching a silverback quietly oversee his family, seeing mothers play with their infants, or observing a juvenile clumsily climb a tree, you sense a connection that is immediate and profound. The gorillas’ calm presence, their curiosity, and their gentle interactions are both humbling and exhilarating, reminding us of our place in the natural world.

Encounters are carefully managed to ensure minimal disturbance. Groups are kept small, allowing for intimate observation of natural behaviours from a respectful distance. Guides provide quiet interpretation, pointing out subtle interactions, individual gorillas, and signs of social dynamics within the family group. The hour you spend with the gorillas passes in what feels like minutes, each moment a memory to treasure for a lifetime.

The magic of gorilla trekking extends beyond the animals themselves. 

Volcanoes National Park is a landscape of breathtaking contrasts. Towering volcanic peaks rise above mist-laden valleys, while bamboo forests give way to fern-filled slopes. The biodiversity is extraordinary. While the gorillas take centre stage, the park is alive with other wildlife – including golden monkeys, an agile and colourful species that can be tracked through the same forests. Birdwatchers will also be enchanted, with species both common and rare flitting through the canopy, their calls adding a melodic soundtrack to the trek.

Rwanda’s mountain gorillas are more than a wildlife spectacle; they are a symbol of conservation success. In the 1980s, their population teetered on the brink of extinction. Today, thanks to dedicated protection efforts, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement, the numbers have steadily recovered. Gorilla trekking permits directly support these initiatives, funding both conservation programmes and local communities. Visiting the gorillas is therefore a responsible wildlife experience that contributes to the survival of the species while benefiting the people who live alongside them.

For those seeking to immerse themselves fully in Rwanda’s natural beauty, gorilla trekking is just the beginning. The country’s emerald hills, sparkling lakes, and rich cultural heritage provide endless opportunities for exploration. Nearby Twin Lakes offer a serene escape, while a cultural tour in Kigali introduces visitors to Rwanda’s vibrant history and contemporary life. Nyungwe Forest, further south, is a sanctuary for primates including chimpanzees and offers exhilarating canopy walks through lush rainforest, adding another layer to a wildlife-focused itinerary.

At Leadwood Holidays, we understand that gorilla trekking is as much about the journey as the destination. Every step – from arranging permits to guiding you through the forest – is carefully designed to create a seamless and unforgettable experience. We take pride in curating trips that balance adventure, comfort, and responsible travel, ensuring that every guest feels fully immersed in Rwanda’s magic. Accommodation is selected to enhance your encounter with nature, whether it’s a lodge tucked into the hills or a boutique retreat offering stunning vistas of Volcanoes National Park.

Your experience is enhanced by the people who make it possible. Local guides and porters are not only experts in tracking and safety but are passionate ambassadors for conservation. They share stories of the gorillas, the history of the park, and the vital work being done to protect Rwanda’s wildlife, providing context that deepens every encounter. Through their knowledge and dedication, you gain a richer appreciation of the challenges and triumphs involved in preserving these remarkable animals and their forest home.

Ultimately, meeting a mountain gorilla is more than a wildlife encounter; it is a journey into connection, awe, and understanding. It is an experience that stays with you long after you leave, a reminder of the fragility and resilience of life. It is a moment to witness intelligence, family bonds, and emotional depth in a creature that, despite its strength and size, embodies gentleness and grace.

If you are ready to embark on this life-changing adventure, Leadwood Holidays is here to guide you at every step. From the first planning stages to your final day in Rwanda, we ensure every detail is taken care of, allowing you to focus on the experience itself – the journey, the landscapes, the forest sounds, and, most importantly, the extraordinary mountain gorillas who make this corner of East Africa truly unforgettable.