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Kwita Izina: As it is in human, for many parents, naming their child is one of the most important considerations they have to make. From looking through family members and relatives, to consulting family members, to perhaps drawing straws because a mother and father can’t decide between Leigh and Lee. Naming is always based on seasons, situation at hand and family ties. Names have always been something that carries great significance and meaning, from religious icons to fictional characters in your favorite novel.

The same to gorillas, naming is always done based on some habits, situations and factors that are considered for a baby gorilla. The Kwita Izina is Rwanda’s annual event where the newly born mountain gorillas are given names for purposes of conservation.

The gorilla naming ceremony started way back in 2005 as a small occasion that has recently become a big event in Rwandan tourism industry, attracting a lot of tourists worldwide to take part in the baby gorilla naming ceremony. Thousands and thousands of people find their way to the foothills of the Virunga Mountain.

The ceremony’s main goal is in helping monitor each individual gorilla and their groups in their natural habitat. It was created as a means of bringing attention both locally and internationally about the importance of protecting the mountain gorillas and their habitats in Volcanoes National Park in the Virunga Mountains in the north of the country. This event has become Rwanda’s cultural and traditional practice for each year at Kinigi at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters.

About 239 mountain gorillas have been named over the course of the Kwita Izina ceremonies. The Kwita Izina event seems to be a vibrant conservation measure. In 1985, there were fewer than 300 mountain gorillas that thrived in the natural environment compared to the 900 that are estimated to be living today in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The event was celebrated under the theme “Conservation and sustainable tourism, a foundation for future generation.” Volcanoes National Park lies in Musanze village which is also famous as Ruhengeri.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations are a set of guidelines and principles pre cautiously put in place to conserve the mountain gorillas’ health and safety as well as ensuring that visitors do not get hurt by the unusual and unpredictable behavior of the gorillas.

These are the same as Dos and Don’ts for gorilla trekking.

It should be noted that Gorillas are extremely vulnerable to human illnesses and infection and become strained if too many visitors arrive or advance too closely, remember that these are indeed wild individuals and will always act defensively to protect their young ones especially when strangers are in their territories.

Therefore, as you plan to visit Rwanda or Uganda for gorilla trekking, the following Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations can serve as a guideline principle and please kindly ensure that you obey then if you to have the best experience with the gorillas. You can also obtain a leaflet copy of these rules issued out by the Rwanda Development Board and Uganda Wildlife Authority at the park headquarters).

Consider the following set of guidelines in as far as gorilla trekking rules and regulations are concerned.

Before the hike for gorilla trekking begins

1. You should know that only a maximum number of 8 visitors may visit a group of habituated mountain gorillas in a day. This minimizes behavioral disturbance to the gorillas and the risk of their exposure to human-borne diseases.
2. Remember to keep your hands clean always before and after being with the gorillas.

On the way to the gorillas

1. Please always keep your voices low. You will also be able to observe the great bird life and other wildlife in the forest.
2. DO NOT leave rubbish in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back out with you.
3. You will be taken to where the guides observed the gorillas the day before. From there you will follow the gorilla’s trail to find them. Look out for the gorilla’s nesting sites along the way!
4. When you approach the mountain gorillas, the guides will inform you to get ready.

How to behave when you are with the gorillas

1. In the Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations, A 7-meter (21 feet) distance should try to be observed at all times from the gorillas. The further back you are, the more relaxed the group will be.
2. You must stay tight in your group whey you are near the gorillas.
3. Keep your voices down at all times. However, it is okay to ask the guide questions.
4. Do not smoke, drink or eat when you are near the gorillas. Eating or drinking inevitably will increase the risk of food/drink morsels/droplets falling, which could increase the risk of transmission of diseases.
5. Sometimes the gorillas charge. Follow the guides example (crouch down slowly, do not look the gorillas directly in the eyes and wait for the animals to pass). Do not attempt to run away because that will increase the risk.
6. Flash photography is not permitted! When taking pictures move slowly and carefully.
7. Do not touch the gorillas. They are wild animals.
8. The maximum time you can spend with the gorillas is one hour. However, if the gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide will finish the visit early.
9. After the visit keep your voices down until you are 200 meters away from the gorillas.

General health rules on gorilla trekking

Remember that mountain gorillas are very susceptible to human diseases. The following Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations are ways to minimize the risk your visit might pose to them:

1. Respect the limits imposed on the number of visitors allowed with the gorillas each day. This minimizes the risk of disease transmission and stress to the group.
2. If you are feeling ill, or you are carrying a contagious disease, volunteer to stay behind. An alternate visit will be arranged for you, or you will be refunded your money.
3. If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of bacteria or viruses.
4. Always stay 7 meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas. This is to protect them from catching human diseases.
5. Do not leave any rubbish (eg. food wrappers) in the park; foreign items can harbor diseases or other contaminants.
6. If you need to go to the toilet while in the forest, please ask the guide to dig you a hole with his panga. Make sure the hole is 30 cm deep and fill it in when you are finished.

What to bring on your Gorilla Trekking Safari

1. Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for steep muddy slopes.
2. You may opt to put on earplugs for those who feel uncomfortable with the jungle sounds.
3. Carry a packed lunch and enough drinking water.
4. Carry rain gear, sunscreen lotion, a hat (as the weather is unpredictable) and insect repellent.
5. Bring a photo of a film camera. Using flashlight is not permitted so we recommend using films of 400-800 ASA.

Mountain Gorilla Etiquette Guidelines

• Keep a distance of about 6 to 7 meters, which is about 15 feet from the Mountain Gorillas.  This way you protect the mountain gorillas from diseases and illnesses humans may be carrying and not seem threatening to gorillas since you.
• Stay together as a group when you are in the presence of the Gorillas to reduce potential confusion of the gorillas.
• Voices need to be kept low, and it is best to keep silence and treasure the moment with the Mountain Gorillas.  Keep your views down until you are well out of range of the Mountain Gorillas.
• Do not take food or drinks and no smoking in the presence of the Mountain Gorillas.
• Don’t stare straight into gorillas’ eyes – this can be seen to be aggressive. Don’t ever run from a gorilla – if one approaches you to act submissive and crouch down.  If you sneeze or a cough, turn your head away from the gorillas so as not to spread your germs.  No flash photography is permitted.  Do not make a lot of movement when taking pictures-keep it calms. There is no touching or attempting to touch the Gorillas.

What to carry on your gorilla trekking adventure. As you wake up in the early morning, thinking on how you’re going to meet and smile with these gentle giants in their own habitat – the forest. Remember to at least not to leave behind one of the followings that may be of great importance to make your gorilla trekking experience easy and memorable. We do recommend a number of things to our clients to include on their gorilla pack list to avoid any discomfort during the trekking so as to make your trekking as enjoyable as you wish too. However, this does not mean you empty you woo drop and pack everything for your safari. We do recommend only what is very important and relevant to the safari to reduce on your luggage, and hustle of packing and unpacking.

What to carry on your gorilla trekking adventure?

Tough Gardening Gloves:

Gardening Gloves – no you are not going gardening but on a gorilla trek and the gloves allow you to pull yourself up on vines, branches and not get scratched. Some tree branches or stems have thorns, that your hand may land on the unknowingly, this will help to keep you safe. Other plants have itching substance that when you get into contact with your hands may cause discomfort.

Those that use them are quite glad that they did since you often go off of the trail and simply enter the bush where the gorillas are in order to spend your hour with them. You can take your gloves off when you are with the gorillas in order to take pictures.  Gardening Gloves – bring them along – they might come in handy.

Carry a hut:

Have a hat, not only because of the sun, but because sometimes ants can fall on your head, or a hat can save you from hitting your head against a low branch.

At the least wear a baseball cap, but it does not protect your neck against the tropical sun that comes out after the morning mist has lifted in the mountains.

You do not need an expensive Tilley Hat, a good wide-brimmed hat will d and you can wear it on the plane coming to Uganda or Rwanda.

The alternative is a baseball hat or purchasing a hat in Uganda or Rwanda and there is a wide-range available in local markets including Craft Markets.

Insect repellant:

You will definitely need this, as there are numerous ants there waiting for as you encroach their territory, they tend to react. The repellant will keep your skin safe. You will also need to apply sun block to your body that is exposed.

Sunglasses:

They may be of great importance to protect your eyes in case you’re heading off trail to protect your eyes from flying insects and falling pieces of wood.

Light Rain-Jacket:

You are trekking Gorillas in the Rainforest and often in the morning, there is that “Gorillas in the Mist” feel to it all where a rain jacket comes in handy.

Rain Forest also means that in spite of you coming in the Dry-Season Months of the year, it can rain at any time, after all, you are in a Tropical Rainforest and at times it does rain for a spell in the morning, yet the sun comes out each day to dry the ground.

A Poncho can also be used and is often worn by Rangers, Trackers, and Porters.  Use a light one that you can fold or roll up and put into your Daypack until the time that you need it.

A sweater:

It’s always cool over them especially in the early morning and late evening, you may need this to keep you warm for some time. That for Tropical, Equatorial Africa is cool, for visitors to the area it may just feel right.

Waterproof Daypack:

You will need a good waterproof day pack in which you can pack the things you will be bringing along.

Wrap Camera Equipment in Ziploc Bags or Shower Cap to protect it, a small first aid kit with band aids, insect repellent – during the day there may be a lot of flies present.

Binoculars: Will not be necessary unless you are a Birder.

Your packed lunch and at least two liters of water – some granola or energy bars may come in handy. On a Gorilla Habituation Experience, you will need 3 liters of water.

Pack a light rain jacket or poncho – you are tracking Gorillas in a rainforest.

Extra things – Swiss-Army Knife – First-Aid Kit- Insect Repellent mostly for flies – Sunglasses may come in handy.

Use Ziplock Bag to cover anything you are trying to protect from water, plus to keep the Deet Based Insect Repellent from spilling in the bag, other items.

Gators with wool stockings underneath should also be carried to keep you dry.

Energy giving snacks.

Gorilla trekking can take from 30 minutes to eight or so hours and that’s why a certain level of fitness is required. To add on that, we advise that you carry some energy giving snacks as supplements. Before departing from your lodge, you need to carry your packed lunch and lots of drinking water as you never know when you will return. Energy giving foods can be bought in Uganda or Rwanda so contact or ask your guide to take you to a nearby supermarket.

A money belt is also helpful for carrying money in case you need to buy souvenirs and tipping tour guides.

Safari Gadgets like a pair of binoculars that will be important during birding, cameras with enough memory and extra lenses for capturing all the interesting and breathtaking moments during your trekking, rechargeable batteries with a charger (for the camera), smart phones because Wi-Fi is available in most lodges, torches (LED torches have a good battery life and are of lightweight). Remember to carry enough extra batteries, since you will need to take as many photos as you can.

Porters for your gorilla trek

This is an extra optional item, and we advise all our clients to take a porter for their gorilla trekking in case you need a helping hand in anyway. As earlier noted, gorilla trekking can be strenuous and thus you will need someone to give you a push or a pull on the way to the gorillas. These porters go for a fee, but it is worth it. You may feel too exhausted during the trekking; they are there to give full support.

Now as you have known and well conversant with what is needed for your gorilla safari in Africa, you can go ahead and make a booking with Rwanda Eco Company & Safari, so that they may make all the necessary arrangements, and permits for your gorilla trekking safaris in Africa.

See you do a successful and a wonderful life time experience in one of the amazing country with great people, full of number of attraction that will leave you, in need of revisiting the area again, Rwanda Eco Company & Safari or Beyond Kigali City Tours, you do not need to worry, they have a long time experience with this, with some of our guides, have been once guides at the park.

The gorilla permit booking is a major factor for the guarantee for your gorilla safari, as its availability and purchase will determine the exact trekking dates and travel time. By securing your gorilla permits in advance and on time, this guarantees that your trip is confirmed, and you need to start planning for your travel and flight issues.

We help you to secure the gorilla permits, and also check for the availability depending on your date of travel.

For gorilla permits booking either in Rwanda or Uganda, we are in position to help you secure your gorilla permit and enjoy a wonderful moment with the gentle giants.

Kindly email us, your travel dates, and number of people you intend to travel along with, and we help you secure your gorilla permits for your gorilla safari tour.

Kindly note that the cost for the gorilla permit in Rwanda is 1500 dollars per permit per days, and 700 dollars in Uganda per permit, per day per person. Feel free to get in touch with us, for gorilla permit arrangements.

We can as well help you to package the whole tour including accommodation booking at your travel budget. You need not worry; our team has great hands on this.

We are just an email away from you, for any concern and request. Kindly feel free to get in touch with our team and get your tour and permit booked.

Is it possible to trek the gorilla twice?

Yes, very possible, you can trek as many times as you wish, depending on your budget but once in a day.

How can one obtain a gorilla permit?

You can obtain a gorilla permit through booking with a local tour operator who will purchase the permits for you and reserve them for you as part of your package. The arrangement has to be in advance with your local tour operator.

Can a gorilla permit be transferred to another person?

Gorilla permits are transferrable to another person. In Uganda, its free transfer while in Rwanda, at a cost of 300 dollars, per permit. The arrangement has to be in advance with your local tour operator.

How can one dress for a gorilla trekking?

You need good hiking boats, shoe getters, raincoat / jacket, sunglasses, gloves, long sleeved shirt and trousers, a hut.

How far is Volcanoes NP from Kigali?

Kigali is roughly two hours and a half drive from Musanze.

What is the age limit for gorilla trekking?

The age limit of gorilla trekking is 15 years. Below 15 years you’re not allowed to trek, and above 15 years you’re allowed to trek the gorillas.

How many gorilla groups are available in Volcanoes?

There 10 gorilla group available at the park, with some being easy to access in case you have difficulty in mobility ask for the easy group, some are at medium hike and some far away for those intending to love hiking as part of the experience.

Are gorillas not dangerous?

You need not to worry; you will have a ranger guide who will help you through the entire trekking. For the last past years, there has not been any case of gorilla attacks, you will be as close to them as you may not imagine. Do not be surprised when they give you a touch.

What should I carry for a gorilla trekking experience?

Just pack what you feel is enough for you, some clothes, long sleeved shirts, and trousers, sunglasses, garden gloves, good hiking boots, packed lunch, a hut and a rain jacket. The getters to protect your shoes are also very important.

Where can I exchange currency?

There are numerous FOREX facilities in towns. You will receive a much better rate than compared to a bank. Kigali Airport also has a FOREX on the premises. U.S. currency is the easiest to exchange and you will receive the best rates on $100 & $50 bills compared to smaller notes. US bills should not be older than 2006. Travelers check-ques or another type of check not accepted at all. US bills should not be older than 2006)

What is the best time to trek the gorillas?

Throughout the year the activity is ongoing, and every day there is someone trekking. Just plan according to yourself, when you wish to travel. However, from June to September the demand for the permits is too high, being a holiday season.

Where can we stay for an overnight to gorilla trekking?

Number of lodges do exist around the park, ranging from luxury lodges to mid ranges lodges to budget lodges that can suit you. You need not to worry about where to sleep, so longs as you have the money.

What currency can we use to pay for gorilla permits?

The currency used to pay the gorilla permits is US dollars, however you can make an exchange and convert to dollars in case you’re having a foreign currency.

Where can I get the gorilla permits?

Our reservation team can aid you to see you have your permits with you at the time of the trekking.

Which means can I use to get to the park for gorilla trekking?

The best means to access the parks is through a tour operator, who will arrange everything for you at your left with no stress to hustle looking for means; they will take you and bring you back safely. However public means do exist, but they will drop you at a point, and you will have to look for other means to reach the park, as you will head for the trekking. The good thing with tour operator, after dropping you at the start up point for the trekking, they wait for you until the end of the trek and drop you back to your hotel, they make all arrangements at the park to see that you have a wonderful trek.

Are there ATMs available?

Yes, in large towns and popular tourist areas such as Kigali, Nairobi, Stone Town, Kampala. There are sufficient ATM`s. Before traveling you need to contact your bank to authorize your credit card to work in East Africa. Most banks put fraud warning for transaction especially in East African. Also, be caution when using ATM`s and not exceed withdraw limit per day, it makes be difficult for time you need cash next time.

How many people are allowed per group for a gorilla trekking?

Only 8 people are allowed per the gorilla group per day. You can no go beyond the maximum group limit, but you can be less the number.

What time do the gorilla trekking start?

The gorilla trekking starts at 0730 hours with a briefing, before heading for the real trek. The guide will start by welcoming you and later brief you about all the relevant rules and regulation governing gorilla trekking.

How long does gorilla trekking take?

Gorilla trekking depend on the movement of the gorilla on that day, however the trekking ranges from 2 – 6 hours depending on how close the gorillas are. The trekking can however also depend on the mobility of the group your attached too, if you’re all good at working, it means you will allocate the gorillas, and return early.

Are the gorilla permits refundable?

Gorilla permits are nonrefundable, due to the facts that they are on high demand worldwide. However, for Ugandan Permits, your agent can help to try to resale them at a lower price.

What can I do besides gorilla trekking?

Besides gorilla trekking, you can decide to visit the Akagera National Park for big game safari or visit Nyungwe National Park for hiking safaris, chimpanzee trekking, nature walk, canopy walk, bird watching, cultural tour, hiking the volcanoes, visit lake Kivu for boat trip, go fishing or go for golden monkey trekking, you can as well do numerous hikes around Volcanoes National Park or take Kigali city tour.

What activities can I do after gorilla trekking?

Lots of activity can be done after the gorilla trekking, you can go for a boat ride or canoe ride at Lake Kivu, go for village tour to explore the local culture, take a bicycle safari, head for a bird watching activity, or go for various hike a round to explore the area.

What is gorilla trekking?

It is an adventurous activity that involves hiking and walk to the jungle forest in search of the gorillas so as to be able to see them.

What is the cost for a gorilla trekking safari?

The gorilla permits cost $600 in Uganda and $1500 in Rwanda per person per day.

How early can I book a gorilla permit?

It is always advisable to book at least 3 months early to avoid your travel plan from being disrupted due to no availability or your trip post pond to another date.

What about internet access?

Internet is available at our most lodges; however, you can connect to the internet cable or buy a local sim card that will help you to connect. Internet is available everywhere in the café.

Is food safe?

The food that is served in lodges, restaurants, hotels and camps is usually well prepared and safe to eat. The luxury properties serve superb cuisine that is of a very high standard. We would, however, recommend that you drink bottled water only, peel your fruit and avoid street food.

When choosing a gorilla family to trek, there are a lot of factors to consider, to choose which gorilla family to trek, and be assigned to. There are over 10 gorilla families at Volcanoes National Park, and they offer different experience all. Some are well habituated and so close to clients. Some families have many silverbacks, juveniles, and females, and some have many members in the group, which can give you more experience to sight many gorillas. There are so many reasons for choosing a gorilla family to trek. Some tourists do not know about this. In case you’re having a good guide, from a great company, they will always ask you about your interest and then your physical fitness, which determines your trekking ability.

There are like three levels of trekking, from easy, to medium to difficult gorilla group. Some gorilla groups are nearer, and easy to reach, hence less hiking, some are medium, and you hike a little, while some are far away, which need more hiking to reach them, but still offers great experience, as you enjoy the hiking and trekking as well. Elderly clients and those with mobility issue, are always assigned near group, which are easy to reach. Always end ever to tell you guide, your health issues, because you may look healthy on appearance yet you’re not good at hiking and you fail to make it to the gorillas.

Many clients often fail to make it up to the gorilla trekking point due to their health complications and unfit to hike. But majority always succeed to the gorillas, and the smile, they have, is always a lifetime moment. Some gorilla families are also near, easy to drive and reach the trekking point, while some are far away like an hour drive to the trekking point.

Car Hire: do you need to rent a car for your gorilla trekking safari? Look no further. Wherever you want to go, whatever car you need, we’ve got the keys. Just enter your destination, pick-up and drop-off dates and we’ll get you all the deals and book your car in seconds. We cater all kind of clients; you need a safari car, or 4 x 4 jeep, we have all the available options that shoot your desires and comfort. All our cars are chauffeur driven and can handle all the volcanoes terrain and well serviced.

Safari Car Hire

Along with our expert guides who have professional driving skills and field knowledge, our extensive 7-Seater fleet of Land Cruisers and 4 x 4 safari jeeps are well equipped to provide you with the perfect safari adventure you deserve and of course, your comfort is another hugely important factor. You do not need to worry about the volcano terrain, the vehicles are in good condition to run over these rough marvels at no ease. We have a number of fleets that can handle your group booking or family size. Just write to us in advance, and we make all the necessary arrangement.

Airport transfers

Don’t wait until you land to find your airport transfer. Enter your flight dates and details and we’ll help you reach your booked accommodation in time; we can as well help you to book the accommodations or recommend for you the best options available within your budget. Then relax knowing it’s all taken care of, at ease.

Pre-book online

Save a fortune by pre-booking your car hires online before you travel. Walk-up rates at airport and downtown locations are much more expensive. Not only can you save significantly, but you also get a range of options to browse in your own time and can avoid the pushy sales pitch at the desk. You can give us a call or email us in advance in need of a car, with specification of dates, and destination, you will find us ready at the gateway for your pickup.

PLANNING YOUR GETAWAY

We guide you in planning your getaway to see you have much fun!

SAFETY FIRST

Our vehicles are modified to provide a safe 4×4 experience, to make you enjoy your wonderful safari at ease. Book yourself a vehicle in advance, as you will require a vehicle to and for trekking point and park office.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Whether you are new to the world of 4X4 or a 4×4 enthusiast, we promise an unforgettable African experience right from the get-go.

AFRICAN TREASURES

In every corner of Africa there are secrets to be uncovered. Let us unveil these treasures for you!

Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lakes, divided into two fingers that run along the Democratic Republic of Congo’s border with Rwanda, home to the world’s 10th-largest inland island. It lies on the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, and is in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika. Lake Kivu in the west of Rwanda is surrounded by magnificent mountains and has deep emerald, green waters covering a surface area of 2,700 km2. It is Rwanda’s largest lake and the sixth largest in Africa.

Lake Kivu is full of promise for Rwanda’s future. It is saturated with methane gas that, if extracted properly, can be used to power a country where only 20 percent of residents have electricity. The real joy of this area is driving between the towns, villages and it’s a lovely option for a slower route between Nyungwe Forest National Park and Volcanoes National Park. The road gently curves back and forth as it weaves through hills and mountains beside the lake from Gisenyi all the way to Cyangugu, with Kibuye almost at its center point. Every corner produces another gorgeous stunning view.

Eucalyptus trees line the road, while every inch of the hills seems to be terraced with bananas, giving a great overview of the real village life. Villagers smile and wave at the passerby, and children constantly call out “Abuzungu!” as you drive past (the Kinyarwanda term for white people, like “Muzungu” in Swahili). You’ll end up with hands tired from waving and feel like royalty at the end of the trip! This will give you a taste of African way, and love, as you enjoy the stunning ride across the countryside.

Gisenyi (Rubavu)

Gisenyi (also referred to by its new name Rubavu) is a large town spread over several hills on the northern edge of Lake Kivu. Once a colonial beach resort of note, Gisenyi’s waterfront is lined with fading old mansions, some decent hotels including some of international standard, and trendy bars on the lakeshore, ideal for a sundowner cocktail. Nearby Rubona is also home to some pretty lakeside hotels.

What to do in Gisenyi (Rubavu)

There is a pleasant public beach on Gisenyi’s lakeshore, but it can get quite busy, particularly at weekends. Some hotels have private beaches and water sport options. Once a colonial beach resort of note, Rubavu’s waterfront is lined with fading old mansions, hotels and trendy bars on the lakeshore, ideal for sundowner cocktails.

Kibuye (Karongi)

About 100km south of Gisenyi, Kibuye (also known by its new name Karongi) is probably the prettiest of Lake Kivu’s towns. It’s a verdant, tropical spot surrounded by hills covered in eucalyptus and pine. If you’re visiting in August, you may catch thousands of yellow-billed kites here flying over Lake Kivu on their annual migration. Most of Kibuye’s hotels are in beautiful locations overlooking the lake and facing the sunset.

What to do in Kibuye (Karongi)

From Kibuye (Karongi) you can take boat trips on Lake Kivu to nearby islands: Napoleon Island with its colony of fruit bats and Amahoro Island, which became popular locally for the sundowner bar set up on the island seasonally! It’s also possible to visit Kibuye’s genocide memorial church, with brightly colored stained-glass windows, in a quiet location on a hill above Lake Kivu. Despite a tragic history, it’s a place for peaceful contemplation.

Cyangugu (Rusizi)

At the southern end of Lake Kivu, Cyangugu (pronounced ‘Shangugu’ – its new name of Rusizi is easier to pronounce!) is an old border town whose fading façades tell of its past as a vital trading gateway. It makes for a convenient base if you want to combine a stay on Lake Kivu with Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is only 45 minutes away, although there are limited hotel options.

Gisenyi (Rubavu) and Cyangugu (Rusizi) are both close to the DRC border so it’s wise to check with your tour operator before visiting either. From Rubavu in the north, the Congo Nile Trail extends 227 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes all the way to Rusizi in the south of Lake Kivu. The trail gently curves back and forth as it weaves through hills and mountains beside the lake with eucalyptus trees lining the road and every inch of the hills seemingly terraced with bananas.

Rwanda’s land is famously fertile, and the area around Lake Kivu is no exception; among the goods sold at a local Monday afternoon market were homegrown bananas, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, kale, chard, and small, silvery fish called sambaza that made deliciously salty snacks when fried. The market visit will give you a great experience of the taste of the cultural life of the country, as you enjoy how business is carried out in a local way.

For adventurous travelers, an exciting way to explore Rwanda is a kayaking tour on Lake Kivu, or mountain biking or hiking one of the 6 off-the-beaten path stages of the spectacular Congo Nile Trail. Lake Kivu has also offered a relaxing moment to clients who are seeking total relaxation after gorilla trekking safari adventure from either Bwindi Impenetrable national park or Volcanoes National Park, and other clients from Nyungwe National Park, after doing canopy walk and chimpanzee trekking adventure experience.

Most clients doing both visits to Nyungwe National Park and Volcano national park, Lake Kivu is often in cooperated in their itinerary with a boat ride or Kayaking adventure being added as part of the visit to this great lake to explore the hidden beauty to this great lake with an overnight here. Number of hotels and lodges do exist here, ranging from luxury lodges such as Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Paradise Kivu, to mid-range facilities such as Paradise Malahide, Comrand lodge up to budget facilities.

Lake Kivu, especially Gisenyi has become one of the weekend gate ways, as more people from Kigali, travel over to seek a total relaxation here to experience a beach life in these clear sand and water. Today, Lake Kivu, has become part of most tour operators itinerary planning, with a boat ride to Napoleon Island being the major state of attraction, and visit the evening local market, to experience the how local merchandise is practiced in local settings.

During your golden monkey trekking or gorilla trekking porters might be needed to help you around with your luggage such and movement around. The gorilla trekking porters gives your assistance as you go about with your trekking, it may seem very easy but become hard during the trekking as it involves a lot of hiking and sometimes the ground may seem very slippery that you may require extra hard to lean on, and that where you porter becomes of great help.

Those with movement difficulties or with mobility problem we advise you to take a porter along with you to help you during your gorilla trekking adventure. The porters just cost roughly 10 to 15 dollars per porter, which is relatively cost friendly compared to the great work they do on their way down the trekking.

This is also a way to support the local community by taking a porter along with you during the gorilla trekking, as these porters look at this as their employment opportunity to benefit from the tourism opportunity. The porters are from the living local communities around the park, and they are selected by the park officials to give assistance to tourists who need assistance during trekking. It is not a Must to take a porter along with you during the trekking, it’s your choice to request for a porter who will guide you and give your assistance as you go around.

The porters are always available at the starting point of each trek, no need to book in advance, as they are always there waiting for you.