A silverback gorilla looks into the lens of Kyle’s camera. Photo: Kyle Smith, SafariSmiths Travel
As travel advisors, we have had the immense privilege of exploring some of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth — we’ve seen hundreds of wildebeest crushing through the Mara River during migration and apex predators battling it out on the Serengeti.
But nothing quite prepared us for the awe-inspiring experience of hiking through the mist-shrouded volcanoes of Rwanda to visit the mountain gorillas who call the lush forests home.
Hello! Photo: Kyle Smith, SafariSmiths Travel
After arriving at the national park headquarters, our knowledgeable guides explained essential information about gorilla behavior, conservation efforts, and the dos and don'ts of encountering these magnificent creatures (DO bow your head, DON’T point your finger or make big movements!).
We set off into the dense jungle, accompanied by skilled trackers and armed guards for our protection.
Our trekking group. Photo: SafariSmiths Travel
The trek itself was an adventure in its own right. We navigated through tangled vines, over moss-covered rocks, and under the canopy of ancient trees. It’s amazing how much your senses are heightened by the sounds and scents of the forest.
And then, suddenly, there they were. Through a gap in the foliage, we caught our first glimpse of a family of mountain gorillas in a clearing, going about their daily routine with a serene grace that disguised their sheer power and strength. It was a moment of pure magic, as we observed these gentle giants in their natural habitat, completely at ease in our presence.
We were able to spend an hour with the gorillas. To lessen human exposure, the guides are very strict with this time limit — even a slight cough or cold can be hugely detrimental to the whole troop. In our time with them, we witnessed intimate moments of playfulness, nurturing, and communication. We watched as infants clung to their mothers' backs, juveniles played in the undergrowth, and silverbacks assert their dominance with powerful displays of strength.
Mama and her baby.
Photo: Kyle Smith, SafariSmiths Travel
But amidst the wonder and beauty, there's a poignant reminder of the fragility of their existence. Mountain gorillas face numerous threats, from habitat loss to poaching, and their survival hangs in the balance. In Rwanda, dedicated conservation efforts have helped to turn the tide, with populations slowly but steadily increasing.
The opportunity to trek with the gorillas is not inexpensive, but for good reason: the exclusivity. The tours are priced higher because of the strong need for the privacy of these incredible animals. A large portion of the permit fee goes toward the mountain gorilla conservation efforts.
Males become silverbacks between 12-13 years of age and possess the strength of TWENTY combined human men. Photo: Kyle Smith, SafariSmiths Travel
As we said goodbye to our gorilla companions and made our way back to civilization, we were filled with a profound sense of gratitude. For the opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close, for the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to protect them, and for the natural wonders of our planet that continue to inspire and humble us.
Trekking with the mountain gorillas in Rwanda isn't just a journey into the heart of the jungle—it is truly a journey into the soul, reminding us of our connection to the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
To inquire about how you can add trekking with the mountain gorillas to your safari itinerary, get in touch! We would be thrilled to get you started.
If you book 6 nights in Rwanda with SafariSmiths Travel at certain partner properties, the gorilla permit is included. This package will allow you to experience the best of the Land of a Thousand Hills, and is available until the end of May 2024 and from November 1, 2024 through to May 31, 2025. Terms and conditions apply; please inquire.