Primate Trekking

There are few wildlife experiences on Earth as powerful, humbling, and intimate as primate trekking in Rwanda. Whether you’re watching the expressive face of a mountain gorilla just a few feet away or hearing the echoing calls of chimpanzees deep in the forest, primate trekking is an immersive journey into both the wild and our evolutionary past.

Rwanda is one of the only countries in the world where you can encounter both gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat—within the same itinerary. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Rwanda is also home to over a dozen other primate species, many of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift. From golden monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys to the rare Rwenzori colobus, the country’s protected rainforests offer a depth of biodiversity that continues to delight and surprise. Along with a primate experience, Rwanda also offers a more traditional safari experience where you get to view the big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard & buffalo), making it an all-round safari destination.

What to Expect on a Primate Trek

Primate trekking involves hiking through forested terrain at altitudes ranging from 6,000 to over 9,000 feet. Trails can be muddy, steep, or uneven—particularly in the rainy season. While you don’t need to be an athlete, a moderate level of fitness is essential. Treks can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, and porters are available to assist with gear and support. The pace is determined by the movement of the primates, and your guide is in constant contact with tracking teams. Group sizes are small (typically 8 guests per trek), and all interactions are carefully regulated to protect both travelers and the primates themselves.

Mountain Gorillas

With fewer than 1,100 individuals remaining in the wild, mountain gorillas are one of the most endangered animals on the planet. Thanks to Rwanda’s tightly managed gorilla tourism and strong conservation efforts, these gentle giants are slowly rebounding. Trekking to see them in Volcanoes National Park requires some hiking—usually 1 to 4 hours each way—but the reward is unforgettable: an hour spent quietly observing a gorilla family as they feed, groom, and interact.

Chimpanzees

More agile and vocal than gorillas, chimpanzees offer a thrilling contrast. Found in Nyungwe Forest and the nearby Cyamudongo Forest, Rwanda’s wild chimpanzees are often heard before they’re seen—pant-hooting through the canopy or crashing through the branches above you. Trekking here can be more fast-paced and occasionally strenuous, but it’s a sensory experience like no other.

Beyond Gorillas & Chimps

While gorillas and chimps take center stage, Rwanda is also home to 13 other species of primates, including:

• Golden Monkeys – vibrant and playful, endemic to the Virunga range
• L’Hoest’s and Red-tailed Monkeys – shy forest dwellers seen in Nyungwe
• Grey-cheeked Mangabeys, Blue Monkeys, and Bushbabies – elusive, arboreal species spotted on guided walks
• Olive Baboons and Vervet Monkeys – more commonly seen in Akagera National Park

For those with a deep interest in primatology or photography, we can create tailor-made itineraries focusing on these lesser-known species, including extended forest stays, private guides, and specialist tracking excursions.

Ready to Go Trekking?

Whether you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek, a dynamic chimpanzee encounter, or a broad primate-focused itinerary, we’ll design a journey to match your interests and abilities. Primate trekking in Rwanda isn’t just a bucket-list experience—it’s a transformational one, filled with awe, connection, and purpose.
Let us help you step into their world.