Gorilla Trekking Safaris

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers visitors a rare chance to see endangered mountain gorillas in their home territory. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, part of the Virunga Massif, houses over 380 mountain gorillas, about half of the world’s remaining population. Permits cost $1,500 per person, with money going straight to protection efforts and local communities. Walks last 1 to 6 hours, based on where the gorilla family is, and guests get one hour to watch these remarkable animals. Rwanda’s gorilla tourism system gets praise for its careful conservation methods, including keeping daily visitors to 96 permits and giving 10% of park revenue to nearby towns. This direct wildlife activity mixes outdoor adventure, wildlife protection, and local connection, making it one of Africa’s most meaningful wildlife visits.

About Volcanoes National Park, Home Of Gorillas Volcanoes National Park, covering 160 km² in northern Rwanda, leads gorilla protection efforts. Started in 1925, it’s Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park’s five volcanic peaks (like Karisimbi, Bisoke) create rich natural areas supporting 10 trained gorilla families open to tourists. Besides gorillas, the park houses golden monkeys, 200+ bird types, and special plants like giant lobelias. The park became well-known through scientist Dian Fossey, whose studies and fight against poaching helped save gorillas. Now, 30% of Rwanda’s tourism money comes from Volcanoes National Park, with 10% of permit fees going to local roads, schools, and medical centers. Being just 2 hours from Kigali makes it popular with high-end and nature-focused travelers.

Planning Your Gorilla Trek in Rwanda

Getting Gorilla Trek Permits Getting a Rwanda gorilla trek permit starts your trip. Permits cost $1,500 per person for international guests through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Only 96 permits are sold daily, split among 12 trained gorilla families, with 8 guests per group to protect the animals. Book ahead—spots fill up 6–12 months early, mainly in busy times (June–September and December–February). African citizens and residents can pay less at $500–$600 during special times, like Rwanda’s yearly Kwita Izina gorilla-naming event.

Permits cover park entry, a skilled guide, and safety rangers. 60% of permit money goes to protection work, anti-poaching teams, and local projects, fitting Rwanda’s focused tourism plan. Book through RDB-approved tour companies or the official Irembo government website.

The Best Time For Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda aligns with the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. During these periods, trails are less muddy, and rainfall averages 30–50 mm per month, compared to 150–200 mm during the rainy season (March–May and October–November). Temperatures hover between 12°C (54°F) at dawn and 25°C (77°F) midday, ideal for hiking.

However, the rainy season offers advantages: fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and discounted lodge rates (up to 30% off). Wildlife photographers may prefer this time for dramatic skies and vibrant greenery. Avoid trekking in April, when heavy rains make trails slippery and gorillas descend to lower elevations, requiring longer hikes. For cultural immersion, plan your trip around Kwita Izina (September), Rwanda’s gorilla-naming festival, which celebrates conservation milestones.

Selecting a Reputable Tour Operator

A certified tour operator ensures a seamless and ethical gorilla safari. Look for companies accredited by the Rwanda Tour and Travel Association (RTTA) or the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO). Reputable operators like Rwanda Eco Company or Volcanoes Safaris offer all-inclusive packages covering permits, transport, lodging, and guided cultural activities.

Verify if the operator employs local guides trained in gorilla behavior and wilderness first aid. Budget $2,500–$5,000+ per person for a 3–5-day trip, depending on lodging (e.g., Bisate Lodge starts at $2,000/night). Avoid operators promoting illegal activities, such as gorilla habituation experiences—Rwanda only allows visits to fully habituated families. Check TripAdvisor reviews and confirm their RDB partnership status to avoid scams.

Preparing for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

Physical Fitness and Health Requirements

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda demands moderate to high physical fitness due to the challenging terrain of Volcanoes National Park. Treks involve hiking at altitudes of 2,500–4,500 meters (8,200–14,800 feet) through steep, muddy slopes and dense bamboo forests. Visitors should prepare with 3–6 months of cardio training, such as hiking, cycling, or stair climbing, to build endurance. Strength exercises targeting legs and core muscles are critical for navigating uneven trails.

Rwanda’s park authorities enforce age restrictions: only travelers aged 15+ are permitted to trek. Those with chronic conditions like heart disease or severe asthma require medical clearance. Guides assess fitness levels during morning briefings, assigning gorilla families based on difficulty. For example, the Susa family often requires a 4–6 hour hike, while the Hirwa group may be reached in 1–2 hours. Porters (hired for $15–$20/day) can assist with carrying gear, reducing physical strain.

Essential Gear and Clothing for the Trek

Proper gear ensures safety and comfort during your gorilla safari. Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support (e.g., Merrell or Salomon brands) are mandatory for Rwanda’s slippery trails. Pair them with gaiters ($20–$50) to protect against mud, stinging nettles, and ants. Dress in layered clothing—temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) at dawn to 25°C (77°F) midday. Opt for long-sleeved shirts and quick-dry pants to shield against thorns and UV rays.

A waterproof backpack (20–30 liters) should hold essentials: 2 liters of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a dust-proof camera case. Rwanda’s rainy season (March–May, October–November) necessitates heavy-duty rain jackets (e.g., Columbia or The North Face) and waterproof trousers. Don’t forget gardening gloves ($5–$10) for gripping vegetation and trekking poles (often provided by lodges) for stability. Pro tip: Break in boots weeks before the trek to avoid blisters!

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

Health safeguards are non-negotiable for gorilla trekking. The Rwanda Development Board requires proof of Yellow Fever vaccination and recommends COVID-19, Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B, and Polio boosters. Malaria prophylaxis (e.g., Malarone) is advised, though Volcanoes National Park sits in a low-risk zone due to its high altitude.

To protect gorillas from human-borne diseases, visitors must wear surgical masks during the one-hour observation period and maintain a 7-meter (23-foot) distance. Anyone exhibiting flu-like symptoms is barred from trekking. Altitude sickness is a risk—combat it by hydrating with 3–4 liters of water daily and avoiding alcohol pre-trek. Clinics in Musanze (15 km from the park) offer emergency care, but travelers should secure comprehensive travel insurance covering evacuation (e.g., World Nomads or Allianz).

The Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Day of the Trek: Briefing and Group Allocation

Your gorilla trekking adventure begins with a mandatory 7:00 AM briefing at the park headquarters in Kinigi, located 15 km from Musanze town. Park rangers outline safety protocols, including maintaining a 7-meter distance from gorillas and avoiding direct eye contact. Groups of 8 visitors are assigned to one of the 12 habituated gorilla families based on fitness levels and preferences. For example, the Amahoro family (Swahili for “peace”) is ideal for moderate hikers, while the Agashya group (known for steep terrain) suits experienced trekkers.

Each group is accompanied by 3–4 trackers who locate the gorillas by radio and 2 armed rangers to deter forest buffalo or other wildlife. Porters (hired for $15–$20) help carry backpacks, and proceeds support local communities. The briefing also emphasizes COVID-19 precautions, such as mask-wearing and sanitizing gear. By 8:30 AM, groups depart for the trailhead, where hiking poles and bottled water are distributed. This structured process ensures 98% success rates in gorilla sightings, making Rwanda a leader in ethical wildlife tourism.

Trekking Through the Forest

The trek through Volcanoes National Park’s bamboo forests and volcanic slopes is both demanding and exhilarating. Hikes last 1–6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location, with altitudes ranging from 2,500 to 4,500 meters. Trails are often steep, with 45–60-degree inclines, and muddy paths require careful footing. Guides use machetes to clear dense vegetation, including 3-meter-tall stinging nettles, while trackers relay real-time updates via walkie-talkie.

The forest’s biodiversity is staggering: over 200 bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco, and rare flora like giant lobelias thrive here. Trekkers might spot golden monkeys or forest elephants, though encounters are rare. At 3,800 meters, oxygen levels drop to 60% of sea-level density, so pacing is critical. Porters often assist struggling hikers, ensuring everyone reaches the gorillas. Despite the challenges, the reward—95% of visitors rate the experience as “life-changing”—makes every step worthwhile.

Encountering the Mountain Gorillas: Etiquette and Observations

Upon locating the gorilla family, visitors are granted one hour to observe these critically endangered primates. Guides instruct trekkers to crouch low, speak in whispers, and avoid sudden movements. Mountain gorillas, which share 98% of human DNA, often display curiosity, with juveniles approaching within 3–5 meters. Silverbacks, weighing up to 220 kg (485 lbs), may beat their chests to assert dominance—a breathtaking sight.

Photography rules are strict: no flash (to avoid startling gorillas) and zoom lenses (minimum 200mm) are recommended. Guides identify individuals by nose prints, like Ubumwe, a playful juvenile in the Kwitonda family. Rwanda’s gorillas have thrived under conservation, with populations rising from 240 in 1981 to 380 in 2023. Post-encounter, groups retreat 100 meters before discussing the experience. Many visitors describe this hour as “the most profound wildlife interaction on Earth,” a testament to Rwanda’s conservation success.

Post-Trek Activities and Cultural Engagement in Rwanda

Debriefing and Certificate Presentation

After completing your gorilla trek, a 30-minute debriefing session is held at the park headquarters in Kinigi. Here, visitors share their experiences and receive a commemorative certificate signed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). This certificate, featuring a gold-embossed gorilla silhouette, serves as proof of your contribution to conservation—$150 of every $1,500 permit directly funds community projects. Guides also provide insights into the gorilla family’s history, such as the Susa group’s role in Dian Fossey’s research.

100% of trekkers receive this certificate, which has become a prized souvenir for travelers. The session emphasizes Rwanda’s conservation milestones, including the 30% increase in mountain gorilla populations since 2010. Participants leave with a deeper understanding of how tourism sustains ecosystems and empowers local villages.

Optional Activities in Volcanoes National Park

Extend your adventure with golden monkey trekking, a $100 permit activity that lets you observe these playful, endangered primates in the bamboo forests. Alternatively, hike Mount Bisoke, a dormant volcano with a 3,711-meter summit and a stunning crater lake. The 4–6 hour trek rewards hikers with panoramic views of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

History enthusiasts can visit Dian Fossey’s tomb and the Karisoke Research Center, where the primatologist lived while studying gorillas. The center, accessible via a 2-hour guided hike, showcases her groundbreaking work and ongoing anti-poaching efforts. For birders, the park’s 200+ avian species, including the Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, offer exceptional sightings. These activities highlight Rwanda’s biodiversity beyond gorillas, appealing to diverse traveler interests.

Supporting Local Communities Through Tourism

Rwanda’s gorilla tourism directly benefits 12 neighboring communities through the Revenue Sharing Program, which allocates 10% of park income to infrastructure, schools, and healthcare. Since 2005, this initiative has funded 50 classrooms, 20 health clinics, and clean water projects for 50,000+ residents.

Travelers can further support locals by tipping guides ($10–20), porters ($5–10), and trackers ($5–15)—contributions that supplement their modest incomes. Visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near the park offers immersive experiences, such as traditional dance performances and basket-weaving workshops. 90% of the village’s revenue goes directly to families, helping former poachers transition to sustainable livelihoods. By purchasing handmade crafts or dining at community-run cafes, tourists ensure their visit leaves a lasting positive impact.

Ethical Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda: Conservation Success and Responsible Tourism

Rwanda’s Conservation Success Story

Rwanda’s mountain gorilla conservation is a global benchmark for wildlife recovery. In 1981, the Virunga Massif’s gorilla population plummeted to 242 individuals due to poaching and habitat loss. Today, thanks to Rwanda’s rigorous protection policies, the population exceeds 604 gorillas (2022 census), with 380 residing in Volcanoes National Park. Key to this success is the Revenue Sharing Program, which channels 10% of park tourism income—over $5 million annually—into local communities. These funds have built 22 schools, 18 health clinics, and clean water systems for 60,000+ residents, reducing reliance on poaching.

Dian Fossey’s legacy lives on through the Karisoke Research Center, which trains 100+ rangers annually in anti-poaching tactics. Rwanda also employs dog units to track poachers and drones for real-time forest surveillance. Since 2005, gorilla-related tourism has generated $500 million for Rwanda’s economy, proving that conservation and commerce can coexist.

Ethical Guidelines for Responsible Gorilla Trekking

To protect gorillas and their habitat, Rwanda enforces strict ethical guidelines for visitors. Groups are limited to 8 people per gorilla family, with a 7-meter (23-foot) minimum distance to prevent disease transmission. Flash photography is banned, as it can agitate gorillas, and visitors must whisper during the one-hour observation period. Anyone with flu symptoms is barred from trekking, reducing the risk of transmitting illnesses like COVID-19.

Rwanda’s armed rangers accompany every trek to deter wildlife threats, while porters (hired for $15–$20/day) minimize environmental impact by carrying gear. The $1,500 permit fee includes a mandatory health screening and funds 60% of anti-poaching operations. Travelers are urged to avoid single-use plastics and stay on marked trails to prevent soil erosion. These measures ensure Rwanda’s gorillas thrive—zero poaching incidents have been reported since 2019.

Comparing Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo

Rwanda: Luxury and Accessibility

Rwanda’s gorilla trekking experience is synonymous with luxury and convenience. Permits cost $1,500 per person, the highest in the region, but justify the price with pristine infrastructure and streamlined logistics. Volcanoes National Park is just 2 hours by road from Kigali International Airport, making it ideal for time-conscious travelers. The park’s 12 habituated gorilla families are carefully managed, with treks often starting within 30 minutes of arrival at the trailhead. Luxury lodges like Bisate Lodge (rates from $2,000/night) offer private butlers, heated floors, and gorilla-facing suites, catering to high-end tourists.

Rwanda’s “High-Value, Low-Impact” tourism model ensures minimal ecological disruption, with 96 permits issued daily across small visitor groups. The country’s 30% annual tourism growth (2020–2023) reflects its appeal to affluent travelers seeking exclusivity. Additionally, 10% of permit revenue directly funds local schools and clinics, aligning luxury with ethical impact.

Uganda: Budget-Friendly and Diverse Habitats

Uganda offers a cost-effective alternative to Rwanda, with gorilla permits priced at $700 for foreigners and $500 for East African residents. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hosts 19 habituated gorilla families—the largest population in the world. However, reaching Bwindi requires an 8–10 hour drive from Kampala or a 1-hour flight to Kisoro Airstrip, adding logistical complexity.

Uganda’s treks are renowned for their ecological diversity, traversing rainforests, swamps, and volcanic slopes. The Mgahinga Gorilla National Park also offers golden monkey tracking ($100) and hikes up Mount Muhabura. Budget accommodations like Gorilla Mist Camp ($150/night) provide affordable stays, while mid-range options like Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge ($600/night) balance comfort and value. Uganda’s 50% cheaper permit fees attract backpackers and long-term travelers, though trails are often steeper and more challenging than Rwanda’s.

Congo: Raw Adventure Amidst Security Challenges

For intrepid travelers, Congo’s Virunga National Park offers gorilla permits at $400, the lowest cost in Africa. Virunga, Africa’s oldest national park, is home to 8 habituated gorilla families and the iconic Mount Nyiragongo volcano. However, the region’s security risks—including sporadic rebel activity near Goma—require vigilance. The park was temporarily closed in 2021 but reopened in 2022 with enhanced UN-backed security protocols.

Treks here are rugged, with basic infrastructure: expect 4–8 hour hikes through dense forests and volcanic terrain. Lodging options like Bukima Tented Camp ($300/night) offer simplicity compared to Rwanda’s luxury. Virunga’s unique selling point is combining gorilla trekking with Nyiragongo lava lake hikes ($300 permit), a bucket-list adventure. Despite challenges, 15% of Virunga’s revenue funds community projects, including hydroelectric plants powering 200,000 homes. Congo suits adventurers prioritizing raw experiences over comfort.

Luxury Gorilla Safari Lodges and Accommodation in Rwanda

Luxury Lodges Near Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda’s luxury lodges redefine eco-friendly opulence for gorilla trekking enthusiasts. Bisate Lodge, a Relais & Châteaux property, offers six villas inspired by traditional Rwandan royal residences, priced from $2,000 per night. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Bisoke, each villa features a fireplace, private terrace, and panoramic views of the Virunga volcanoes. The lodge partners with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, donating $150 per guest to conservation. Another standout is Singita Kwitonda Lodge, adjacent to Volcanoes National Park, where rates start at $2,300 per night. Its eight suites include heated floors, in-room spas, and a nursery growing 30,000 indigenous plants for reforestation.

For ultra-exclusive stays, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest (from $1,800/night) provides private butlers and helicopter transfers from Kigali. These lodges prioritize sustainability: Bisate Lodge uses solar energy and rainwater harvesting, while Singita employs zero-waste kitchens. Guests enjoy curated experiences like gorilla-naming ceremony visits or private guided treks with expert trackers.

Mid-Range Accommodations for Balanced Comfort

Mid-range options near Volcanoes National Park blend affordability with exceptional service. Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, located just 5 km from the park, offers 30 chalets at $300–$400 per night. The lodge’s stone-and-thatch design harmonizes with the environment, and its on-site organic garden supplies fresh produce for meals. Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (from $250/night) features 25 cottages with fireplaces and free Wi-Fi, ideal for families.

For culturally immersive stays, Virunga Lodge (rates $500–$700/night) combines comfort with community engagement. Perched on a ridge overlooking Lake Bulera, it offers traditional Intore dance performances and guided village walks. The lodge’s “Pack for a Purpose” initiative encourages guests to bring school supplies, benefiting 500+ students annually. These properties often include permits, meals, and transfers in package deals, making them ideal for travelers seeking value without sacrificing quality.

Budget-Friendly Stays for Cost-Conscious Travelers

Budget accommodations near Volcanoes National Park cater to backpackers and thrifty explorers. Fatima Hotel in Musanze town offers basic rooms from $50 per night, including breakfast and Wi-Fi. Located 10 km from the park, it’s a hub for solo travelers sharing trekking tips. Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (from $120/night) provides a step up with en-suite bathrooms and a gorilla-themed restaurant serving local dishes like isombe (cassava leaf stew).

For community-focused stays, Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village offers rustic huts at $30–$80/night, with 100% of profits funding former poachers-turned-conservationists. Guests join traditional cooking classes or hike to Lake Ngezi with local guides. Camping enthusiasts can pitch tents at Kinigi Guesthouse (from $15/night), which provides hot showers and secure storage. While basic, these options ensure affordability without compromising access to Rwanda’s star attraction: the mountain gorillas.

Beyond Gorillas: Other Activities in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park

Golden Monkey Trekking: A Playful Primate Adventure

Golden monkey trekking offers a thrilling complement to gorilla encounters in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Permits cost $100 per person, making it an affordable add-on to a gorilla safari. These endangered primates, with their striking orange-gold fur and black limbs, inhabit the park’s bamboo forests, where two habituated groups of 80–100 monkeys reside. Treks typically last 2–4 hours, with visitors allowed 1 hour to observe their acrobatic antics. Unlike gorillas, golden monkeys are highly social and agile, often leaping between bamboo stalks or foraging for fruit.

The population of golden monkeys in Rwanda is estimated at 3,000–5,000, but habitat loss threatens their survival. Trekking fees fund bamboo reforestation projects and anti-poaching patrols. Guides share insights into their behavior, such as their hierarchical troop structure led by dominant males. This activity is less physically demanding than gorilla trekking, ideal for families or those seeking a shorter adventure.

Cultural Tours: Connecting with Rwanda’s Heritage

Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich traditions through cultural tours centered around Volcanoes National Park. The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a 20-minute drive from the park, is a highlight. Former poachers now work as guides, sharing stories of their transition to conservation. Visitors participate in traditional dance performances, drumming sessions, and craft workshops, learning to weave agaseke baskets (UNESCO-recognized heritage crafts). A $20 entry fee directly supports 200+ local families, funding schools and healthcare.

For deeper historical insights, visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza (2 hours from Kigali), showcasing Rwanda’s pre-colonial monarchy. The Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a sobering look at Rwanda’s 1994 tragedy, attracting 100,000+ annual visitors. These tours underscore Rwanda’s resilience and commitment to reconciliation, with 30% of tourism revenue earmarked for community development.

Hiking and Nature Walks: Exploring Rwanda’s Volcanic Landscapes

Volcanoes National Park isn’t just for primates—its trails beckon hikers with dramatic vistas and ecological wonders. The Mount Bisoke hike ascends to a 3,711-meter summit, crowned by a crater lake straddling Rwanda and Congo. This 4–6 hour trek traverses alpine meadows and volcanic rock, with guided tours costing $75 per person.

History buffs can trek to Dian Fossey’s tomb and the Karisoke Research Center, a 2–3 hour hike through dense forest. The site honors Fossey’s legacy, with rangers detailing her fight against poaching. For a gentler stroll, the Musanze Caves (1.2 miles long) reveal 2,000-year-old lava tubes and bat colonies. All hikes require park entry fees ($50–$75) and contribute to Rwanda’s conservation economy.

Health and Safety Guidelines for a Safe Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda

Vaccinations and Medical Preparations

Before embarking on your gorilla trek, ensure you meet Rwanda’s health requirements. A Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers, with proof required upon entry. Other recommended vaccines include Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B, and Polio boosters, which cost $150–$300 depending on your location. While malaria risk is low in Volcanoes National Park (due to its 2,500+ meter altitude), prophylaxis like Malarone ($50–$100) is advised for visits to lower-elevation regions.

Rwanda also enforces COVID-19 precautions: travelers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival ($50–$100), though vaccination certificates may suffice depending on current guidelines. Altitude sickness is a concern—Volcanoes National Park’s trails reach 4,500 meters (14,760 feet). Combat symptoms by acclimatizing in Musanze (1,850 meters) for 1–2 days pre-trek, hydrating with 3–4 liters of water daily, and avoiding alcohol. Clinics in Musanze, like Ruhengeri Hospital, offer emergency care, but travel insurance with evacuation coverage (e.g., World Nomads) is critical.

Safety Protocols During the Trek

Rwanda prioritizes visitor safety with armed rangers accompanying every trekking group. These rangers deter wildlife threats, such as forest buffalo or rare hyena encounters. Groups are limited to 8 visitors per gorilla family, ensuring minimal disturbance. Guides enforce a strict 7-meter (23-foot) distance from gorillas to prevent disease transmission—surgical masks are mandatory during the one-hour observation period.

In emergencies, guides carry satellite phones to contact park headquarters, and porters assist with evacuations over challenging terrain. Trails are marked, but sudden weather changes (e.g., fog or rain) can reduce visibility. Rangers halt treks if conditions become hazardous, with 99% of groups completing their hikes safely. For added security, avoid straying from the group and follow “leave no trace” principles to protect the ecosystem.

Managing Altitude and Challenging Terrain

Volcanoes National Park’s high-altitude trails demand physical and mental preparation. At 3,800 meters (12,470 feet), oxygen levels drop to 60% of sea-level density, increasing fatigue. Trekkers should pace themselves, taking 5–10 minute breaks hourly to avoid exhaustion. The terrain includes 45–60-degree slopes, muddy paths, and dense bamboo thickets—waterproof hiking boots and trekking poles (provided by lodges) are essential.

Porters, hired for $15–$20/day, reduce strain by carrying gear and offering stability on slippery sections. Altitude sickness symptoms (headaches, nausea) can be mitigated with acetazolamide (Diamox)—consult a doctor pre-trip. Rwanda’s guides monitor hikers closely, rerouting groups to gentler trails if needed. Despite challenges, 95% of visitors complete their treks successfully, rewarded with unparalleled wildlife encounters.