Explorer’s Journal: Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with Destination Expert Megan

Join Destination Expert Megan on an unforgettable journey through Rwanda, where misty mountains, emerald forests, and vibrant culture come together in one of Africa’s most extraordinary destinations. From walking in the footsteps of kings at Nyanza’s royal palace to trekking through ancient rainforests in search of chimpanzees and encountering majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, every moment was a profound encounter with nature, heritage, and wonder. 

Greetings from Rwanda! My name is Megan, Destination Expert with SA Expeditions. Join me, along with fellow Destination Expert Isabel, as we explore this small yet diverse country in East-Central Africa—home to some of the world’s most incredible wildlife experiences. Follow along as we journey through Rwanda in search of its iconic Great Apes! 

Cultural Encounters at the King’s Palace 

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Visiting the town of Nyanza and seeing the Royal Rwandan Cattle (Photo: Megan Ribeiro).

After a quick overnight in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, we began the scenic five-hour drive south to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to Rwanda’s population of wild chimpanzees. As we left the city limits, the busy streets gradually gave way to a lush, rolling countryside blanketed in tea plantations, banana trees, coffee farms, and colorful villages. It’s easy to see why Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” 

About two hours into the journey, we stopped in the town of Nyanza to visit the King’s Palace Museum, a fascinating window into Rwanda’s pre-colonial history. The site features a reconstruction of the traditional royal residence of the last king of Rwanda—a replica of a 15th-century royal palace crafted entirely from wood, reeds, and grass. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, visitors gain insight into the daily life and traditions of Rwanda’s former kings and royal court. 

Perhaps the most memorable part of the visit was seeing the Royal Rwandan Cattle, known as Inyambo. These majestic animals, famous for their long, elegant horns, were once bred for royal ceremonies and symbolized power and prestige. Still residing on the palace grounds, they are meticulously groomed and even serenaded by their caretakers—a centuries-old tradition that continues to this day. 

After an insightful visit, we were back on the road. About three hours later, we arrived at our luxurious home for the evening: One&Only Nyungwe House. This five-star retreat is nestled within a working tea plantation and surrounded by the lush emerald canopy of Nyungwe Forest—a tranquil oasis and the perfect base for exploring the region. 

Following a delicious dinner, we retired to our spacious rooms for a restful night—ready for an early morning adventure into the forest in search of chimpanzees. 

Into the Wild: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest 

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Witnessing a Chimpanzee and walking along the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway (Photo: Megan Ribeiro).

With box breakfasts in hand, we set out before sunrise, heading into the misty morning toward one of Nyungwe Forest National Park’s entrances. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our park guide and porters, who provided a quick briefing on what to expect during the trek—including fascinating facts like how chimpanzees share 98% of their DNA with humans. 

Outfitted with walking sticks and gaiters (to protect against fire ants), we began our journey deep into one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Nyungwe dates back to the Ice Age, making it more than a million years old! While the forest is home to over 400 chimpanzees, only about 60 are habituated to human presence. Finding them takes patience, as the dense jungle offers endless hiding spots. 

After about 40 minutes of hiking, our guide received a radio call from trackers ahead—a group had been spotted nearby. Moments later, the forest came alive: branches rustled, and the distinctive whooping calls of chimpanzees echoed through the trees. Finally, we caught sight of a female chimpanzee high in the canopy, quietly enjoying a midday snack of figs. 

With only six visitors allowed per group (a strict rule to protect the chimps), we were able to observe her undisturbed—an intimate and humbling experience. After some quiet moments, we left her in peace and made our way back, grateful for the rare glimpse into the life of one of our closest relatives. 

Following a leisurely lunch back at the hotel, we embarked on another unforgettable experience: the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway, a suspended trail high above the rainforest. Starting from the Uwinka Visitor Center, we hiked the Igishigishi Trail—about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip—to reach the series of suspension bridges totaling 525 feet in length and soaring 230 feet above the forest floor. The panoramic views of the lush rainforest were simply breathtaking (and not for the faint of heart!). 

This is East Africa’s only canopy walkway, and one of just three on the entire continent. It’s even been named Lonely Planet’s Best Canopy Walkway in 2019. After a few awe-filled hours among the treetops, we returned to the hotel to unwind and enjoy our final evening in the ancient Nyungwe Forest. 

Road to Volcanoes: Along Lake Kivu’s Scenic Shores 

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The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund with volcano views (Photo: Megan Ribeiro).

After a beautiful breakfast overlooking vibrant tea fields, we said goodbye to Nyungwe and began the 4–5-hour drive north toward Volcanoes National Park—home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. The route hugs the edge of Lake Kivu, the sixth-largest lake in Africa, known for being one of the continent’s safest for swimming and water sports thanks to its unique volcanic chemistry, which keeps crocodiles and hippos at bay. 

The drive offered stunning lake views and glimpses of rural Rwandan life through charming hillside villages. Before reaching Volcanoes, we stopped at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a world-class research and education center dedicated to gorilla conservation. 

The exhibits were deeply engaging, showcasing gorilla behavior, conservation challenges, and the incredible legacy of Dian Fossey, who lived and worked in the Virunga Mountains from 1967 until 1985. Her original cabin has even been recreated on-site, giving visitors a tangible connection to her groundbreaking work. 

For those seeking a deeper dive, VIP access and behind-the-scenes tours are available—an experience well worth adding to your itinerary. Visiting this campus is the perfect prelude to one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on Earth: gorilla trekking. 

The Ultimate Adventure: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park 

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Destination Expert Isabel and I up close with gorillas in Volcanoes National Park (Photo: Megan Ribeiro).

The day we had been waiting for finally arrived—our gorilla trekking adventure! After an early breakfast, we made our way to the park headquarters, where our guide helped us check in and join our assigned group. We learned that we would be trekking to see the Sabyinyo family, one of the habituated gorilla groups known for their gentle nature and strong family bonds. 

After a detailed safety and orientation briefing, we drove to the base of the mountains where trackers had located the gorillas earlier that morning. Trek durations can vary widely depending on the group’s movements—anywhere from 2 to 6 hours—but fortune was on our side. After just about an hour of hiking, we received word that we were close. We left our backpacks with porters, put on our masks (to protect the gorillas from illness), and ventured deeper into the forest. 

Then, through the mist and dense vines, they appeared: the Sabyinyo family. Watching them interact in their natural habitat was surreal—a new mother cradling her one-day-old infant, a playful six-month-old tumbling in the brush, and the dominant silverback standing watch with quiet strength. 

Our one permitted hour with them flew by, yet it left an impression that will last a lifetime. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting these incredible creatures and the fragile ecosystems they call home. 

That evening, as we reflected on our time in Rwanda, we realized this wasn’t just a journey of discovery—it was a journey of deep connection. 

Thank you for coming along on this unforgettable journey through Rwanda! From misty forests and ancient kings to unforgettable encounters with chimps and gorillas, every moment was a reminder of the beauty and resilience of this remarkable country.