Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Possible from USA? A Complete Guide by Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers an unforgettable adventure to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. For travelers from the USA, the question arises: Is gorilla trekking in Rwanda possible from USA? The answer is yes, and in this detailed guide, we will explore how US travelers can easily plan a trip to Rwanda for gorilla trekking. As a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is dedicated to helping you make the most of your trip to Rwanda, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and remarkable experience.

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Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

What is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

A Unique Adventure in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda involves traveling through the lush, mountainous terrain of Volcanoes National Park to observe mountain gorillas up close. Rwanda, a small yet scenic country in East Africa, is one of the few places in the world where you can see these incredible creatures in the wild. The country is home to about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and Volcanoes National Park is the best-known location for trekking.

The trek is a physically demanding but rewarding adventure. Visitors hike through the forest, guided by experienced trackers and park rangers, until they encounter one of the gorilla families that reside in the park. This rare and intimate experience allows trekkers to observe the gorillas in their natural setting, making it a life-changing encounter.

For many travelers, gorilla trekking is the highlight of their trip to Africa, offering a chance to experience one of the planet’s most endangered species up close. But how feasible is it for travelers from the USA to experience this adventure?

Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Possible from USA?

Travel Distance and Logistics

For travelers from the United States, getting to Rwanda is certainly possible, although it requires a long flight. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s prime location for gorilla trekking, is easily accessible from Kigali International Airport (KGL), the country’s main international gateway. However, before reaching Rwanda, travelers from the USA will need to take connecting flights. Kigali is not a direct flight destination for most US cities, so a layover in another country, such as Ethiopia, Turkey, or the United Arab Emirates, is often necessary.

For example, you could fly from major US airports like New York’s JFK or Los Angeles’ LAX to cities such as Addis Ababa, Dubai, or Istanbul, and then take a connecting flight to Kigali. The flight duration from the US to Rwanda typically ranges from 15 to 20 hours, depending on the layovers.

While the distance is significant, the journey is comfortable, and the international airlines that service these routes, such as Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways, offer excellent in-flight services, making the long journey more manageable.

Flight Options from the USA to Rwanda

Several international airlines operate flights between the United States and Rwanda, with most flights requiring one or two layovers. Here are some of the most popular options for travelers from the USA:

1. Ethiopian Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines operates flights from major US cities, such as New York, Washington, DC, and Chicago, with a layover in Addis Ababa. The total travel time is approximately 15-17 hours, including the layover.
2. Qatar Airways: Qatar Airways offers flights from US cities like New York and Chicago, with a layover in Doha, Qatar. Total travel time is typically 18-20 hours, including the layover.
3. Turkish Airlines: Turkish Airlines offers routes from major US cities like New York and Los Angeles with a layover in Istanbul. The total flight time is about 17-19 hours.

Once in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, travelers can take a domestic flight or enjoy a scenic 2-3 hour road transfer to Volcanoes National Park, where gorilla trekking takes place.

How Much is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda?

Permit Costs for US Travelers

One of the most common questions US travelers ask when planning a trip to Rwanda is about the cost of a gorilla trekking permit. As of 2025, the price for a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500 USD per person. This permit grants you access to Volcanoes National Park and allows you to trek and spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family.

The cost may seem high, but it is important to consider that the price includes not only the permit but also the services of experienced park rangers, guides, and trackers. These professionals ensure a safe and informative trekking experience, making the fee worthwhile. Additionally, the fees collected from gorilla trekking permits go directly toward conservation efforts, helping to protect the gorillas and the surrounding habitat.

While the permit price is higher than in neighboring Uganda, where permits cost $800 USD, Rwanda offers a more refined and high-end trekking experience with luxury accommodations, making it an appealing option for many travelers seeking comfort and adventure.

Value for Money

The high cost of the permit is justified by the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the endangered mountain gorillas up close. Moreover, the proceeds from the permit fees play a crucial role in funding Rwanda’s successful conservation programs, which have helped grow the population of mountain gorillas over the years.

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, gorilla trekking in Uganda, where permits are priced lower, might be an alternative. However, for those traveling to Rwanda, the unique experience, as well as Rwanda’s exceptional commitment to conservation and wildlife protection, offers good value for the money.

Can I Combine Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with Safaris in Kenya or Tanzania?

Multi-Destination Safari Experience

Many travelers wonder if they can combine their gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda with a wildlife safari in Kenya or Tanzania. The answer is yes! Rwanda is conveniently located near both Kenya and Tanzania, making it possible to combine gorilla trekking with safaris in these countries to witness the famous Great Wildebeest Migration or see the “Big Five” animals in the Serengeti or Maasai Mara.

This combination trip is highly recommended for wildlife enthusiasts who want to experience both gorilla trekking and traditional African safaris. You can begin with gorilla trekking in Rwanda and then head to Kenya’s Maasai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti for a world-class safari experience.

Customizing Your Itinerary

With proper planning and coordination through a tour operator like Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, it is easy to customize a multi-destination safari itinerary. The combination of Rwanda’s gorilla trekking, along with safaris in Kenya or Tanzania, will offer you a diverse range of wildlife experiences, from the rare mountain gorillas to the incredible wildlife migration that draws millions of animals to the plains of East Africa.

For example, after completing your gorilla trek, you can fly from Kigali to Nairobi, Kenya, or Arusha, Tanzania, for a wildlife safari. These are both short, well-connected flights, and combining the two experiences will allow you to make the most of your time in East Africa.

Why Choose Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd for Your Gorilla Trekking Experience?

Expertise and Local Knowledge

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator with extensive experience in organizing safe and enjoyable wildlife adventures. Our expert team can help you plan every detail of your trip to Rwanda, from booking flights and permits to providing accommodations and guiding services.

Our in-depth knowledge of Rwanda and the surrounding countries allows us to offer a seamless travel experience, whether you are visiting Rwanda for gorilla trekking or combining your trip with safaris in Kenya or Tanzania. We are dedicated to making your journey memorable and ensuring that all safety measures are followed throughout your adventure.

Conclusion: Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Possible from USA?

Your Unforgettable Adventure Awaits

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is absolutely possible from the USA, though it requires careful planning and a long flight. With the help of experienced tour operators like Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, you can easily organize the trip and enjoy the amazing adventure of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. From booking permits to arranging accommodations, we take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying your unforgettable experience.

So, if you’ve been wondering whether gorilla trekking in Rwanda is possible from USA, the answer is yes! The long flight is well worth the extraordinary opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Contact Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd today to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda!