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FAQ's
Frequently asked questions
- 01Rwanda: $1,500 pp (Volcanoes Nantinal Park.). Uganda: $800 pp (Bwindi/Mgahinga National Park), or $1,500 for the 4-hour Habituation Experience. Our tour prices always include the permit — we secure it within 24h of your 60% deposit.
- 02Rwanda: Best for short trips. Volcanoes National Park is only 2.5 to 3 hours from Kigali airport, the hikes are generally easier, and the lodges are top-end.Uganda: Best for budget and adventure. Permits cost much less, the forest is wilder, and chimpanzee tracking is close by.
- 03Dry seasons June – September & December – February = easiest trekking. Low season March – May, October – November = fewer crowds, softer light for photos, easier permits. Gorillas are seen year-round (98% success).
- 04How long does a gorilla trek take?Treks last between 1 and 6 hours, depending on where your assigned gorilla family is that morning. The time includes the hike in, one hour with the gorillas, and the hike back out. Gorillas move daily, so we can't promise the exact duration in advance.How do I know which trek I'll get?Tell us your fitness level when you book: easy, medium or advanced. We then ask park management to assign you a gorilla family that matches. The easier families are usually closer to the park boundary, while the advanced treks involve longer, steeper hiking at altitude. Park management makes the final allocation, but we always request the best match for you.Do I need to be very fit?Not necessarily. Be honest about your fitness, as this is what lets us request the right trek. The terrain is steep, muddy and high (roughly 2,400 to 3,700 m), so a moderate level of fitness helps. Slow, steady walking is fine, and your guide sets a pace the whole group can manage.Should I hire a porter?We recommend it for everyone, and it is $20. A porter carries your daypack and gives you a hand on steep or slippery sections, literally a push or a pull when you need it. It also supports local families in the communities around the park.
- 05We strongly recommend booking your permits 4 to 9 months in advance, especially during the peak seasons (June to September and December to February). Daily permits are strictly capped by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to protect the gorillas in their natural habitat.
- 06Enchanting Rwanda specializes in tailor-made travel experiences across Rwanda and Uganda, offering luxury gorilla trekking safaris, wildlife adventures, cultural tours, chimpanzee trekking, canopy walkway experiences, and customized East African journeys. Based in Kigali, we provide professional ground handling services for international travelers, couples, families, groups, and travel agents seeking authentic and seamless safari experiences. Our itineraries are carefully designed to combine comfort, adventure, conservation, and cultural immersion while showcasing the very best of East Africa.
- 07We operate throughout Rwanda and Uganda, covering some of East Africa’s most iconic destinations. In Rwanda, we organize tours to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking, Akagera National Park for Big Five safaris, and Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking and canopy walkway adventures. We also offer Kigali city tours and cultural experiences. In Uganda, we arrange safaris to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest, and many other wildlife destinations.
- 08We offer a wide variety of travel experiences designed to suit different interests and travel styles. Our services include luxury gorilla trekking safaris, wildlife game drives, birdwatching tours, cultural experiences, honeymoon safaris, family holidays, adventure travel, canopy walkway and ziplining experiences, chimpanzee trekking, photography safaris, and private guided tours. We also create custom itineraries for travelers who want personalized experiences in Rwanda and Uganda.
- 09Most travelers require a visa to enter Rwanda and Uganda. Many nationalities can obtain visas on arrival or apply online before travel. Travelers visiting both countries may benefit from the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows entry into Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya using a single visa. We recommend checking current immigration requirements before travel, and our team is always available to guide guests through the visa process.
- 10Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in the world. Travelers hike through tropical forests accompanied by trained park rangers in search of habituated mountain gorilla families. Once located, visitors are allowed to spend one unforgettable hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat. The trek can vary in difficulty depending on the location of the gorilla family and terrain conditions. Enchanting Rwanda handles all logistics, including permits, transportation, accommodation, and expert guidance to ensure a seamless experience.
- 11Rwanda and Uganda can be visited year-round, but the best time for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris is during the dry seasons, typically from June to September and December to February. These months offer better hiking conditions and clearer wildlife viewing opportunities. The rainy seasons, however, provide lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent photography opportunities. Enchanting Rwanda can help travelers choose the best season depending on their travel interests.
- 12The cost of gorilla trekking depends on the country, accommodation level, and itinerary duration. Rwanda is considered a premium gorilla trekking destination with the payment of $1500, while Uganda offers more budget-friendly options with the payment 800$. Gorilla permit fees are set by government authorities and are mandatory for all trekkers. Additional costs may include accommodation, transport, meals, and guiding services. Enchanting Rwanda provides customized safari packages ranging from budget to ultra-luxury depending on traveler preferences.
- 13Our safari packages typically include airport transfers, private transportation in 4x4 safari vehicles, professional English-speaking driver-guides, accommodation, meals according to the itinerary, park entry fees, gorilla permits (if included), bottled drinking water, and all planned activities. We aim to provide seamless, stress-free experiences from arrival to departure. International flights, visas, travel insurance, and personal expenses are usually excluded unless specifically requested.
- 14Rwanda is widely recognized as one of Africa’s safest, cleanest, and most organized travel destinations. The country is known for its security, hospitality, and modern infrastructure. Visitors can comfortably explore cities, national parks, and cultural sites with confidence. Uganda is also a popular and rewarding safari destination with established tourism infrastructure. Enchanting Rwanda prioritizes guest safety and works with experienced guides and trusted partners to ensure secure and enjoyable travel experiences.
- 15Booking with a local tour operator provides travelers with authentic local expertise, personalized service, and direct support throughout the journey. Enchanting Rwanda has in-depth knowledge of Rwanda and Uganda, strong relationships with lodges and parks, and experienced guides who understand the destinations intimately. Working directly with a local company also supports conservation initiatives and local communities while ensuring better flexibility, communication, and value for money.
- 16Booking with Enchanting Rwanda is simple and personalized. Travelers can contact us via email, phone, WhatsApp, or social media platforms to discuss their travel interests, budget, and preferred travel dates. Our team then creates a customized itinerary tailored to the traveler’s needs. Once confirmed, we handle all arrangements including permits, accommodation, transportation, and activities to ensure a smooth and unforgettable East African safari experience.
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