Christmas Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda: Watching the parade is part of the family, festive holiday tradition at Christmas time. But swap the freezing snow and ice for the warmth of Africa and the excitement of tracking some of the world’s most threatened animals in their natural habitat. For a really unusual Christmas experience, consider a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, an adventure that will make your memories last a lifetime. Imagine the Christmas spirit, set against the rugged beauty of the mountains of Rwanda where trekking gorillas during the holidays will truly be a once in a life time experience.
Feel the Magic of Christmas in the Heart of Africa
Rwandan tropical climate, you can get away from the cold winter and have a warm and sunny Christmas. The mild climate (temperatures in the Volcanoes National Park area are usually between 64°F and 77°F) makes it ideal for a trip that’s equal parts revitalizing and exciting. Instead of snow-packed roads, visualize yourself spending Christmas surrounded by thick jungles, fog-laden mountains and the colourful sounds and sights of Africa.
Rwanda may not have traditional European Christmas traditions, but the heart of a holiday beats strong, particularly in its heat, sense of community and festive ambiance. Whether you’re eating a Christmas feast with other guests at a lodge, joining local festivities, or just marvelling at the scenery, Christmas in Rwanda will be magical in its own way.
Trace the Majestic Mountain Gorillas
A Christmas trek to catch a glimpse of Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas in the wild is probably the best the holiday season has to offer. With a large population of mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park provides the ultimate gift of time spent with these impressive mammals. Rwanda places a cap on how many trekker groups each gorilla group can have, which makes each encounter feel intimate and special.
Your trek will start in the early morning, escorted by veteran guides and trackers, intimately familiar with the terrain and the gorillas. The hike itself is an adventure through dense, foggy woodland, over rivers and up the hardcore volcanic slopes, then comes that moment, that elusive moment when you look one of the gorilla family in the eye.
Picture the enchantment of spending Christmas Day with a family of gorillas, maybe catching a silverback in the throngs of family life, spying playful and rambunctious gorilla teenagers, or, as is often the case, standing in awe as a mother nurses her baby. The encounter, which can last for as long as an hour and begins when you actually sit next to these animals, gives you a deep sense of connection and appreciation for these imperilled species.
A Christmas Like No Other: Wilderness, Relaxation, and Luxury
While Rwanda is notorious for its challenging terrain and exhilarating activities, the country also boasts a selection of high-end lodges and eco-camps that will ensure your Christmas safari is one of comfort and relaxation. After an exhilarating day of hiking through the forest, retreat to luxurious lodgings that are quietly at one with nature.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge and Only Gorilla’s Nest offer world-class service and breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains combined with the highest level of comfort and luxury. These establishments have warm, cozy fires where you can get warm after your hike, and decadent meals with local fare, which you can take in by the warmth of Christmas lights. Numerous lodges also hold special Christmas dinners, typically serving traditional dishes such as roast goat, rice, matoke (plantains) and fresh tropical fruits, and turn it into a festive affair that boasts a little bit of Rwandan flair.
For anyone who wishes to hang on to the spirit of the season a little longer, some lodges provide Christmas tree ornaments and other festive activities to make for a happy evening, even in the midst of the wilderness.
A Unique Cultural Experience while on Christmas Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
A visit to Christmas in Rwanda is not just about meeting the wildlife; you also have the chance to experience the rich culture of this country. The people of Rwanda are extraordinarily warm and friendly, and they want to share their culture and history with visitors. You might stumble upon local villages singing, dancing and celebrating around this time, bringing you yet another layer of insight into Rwandan culture.
During the festive season, lodges and local villages arrange cultural evenings, where you will be entertained by traditional music and dance. It’s also an opportunity to mingle with local craftspeople and taste Rwandan specialties, and to gain insight into the country’s amazing past, from the ancient kingdoms to its contemporary achievements in conservation and development.
Experience Intimate Amazing Wildlife
There is nothing more unforgettable, in a Christmas gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, than the feeling of connection. Not like the mass-touristy “must see and snap” destinations, Rwandan gorilla trekking is meant to be up-close and personal for both the visitors and much more respectful for the gorillas. The trek groups are small, making for an intimate experience that enables you to socialize with your fellow travellers and the astounding wildlife.
The guides and trackers truly go the extra mile to make your experience unique, modifying the trek depending on your fitness and preferences. The quiet duration spent watching the gorillas, from just a few meters away, will forge memories that will never match any gift from a holiday
A truly Unique Holiday Adventure Christmas gorilla trek safari in Rwanda offers a unique holiday experience that blends adventure, wildlife, luxury, and culture as few other destinations can. You will have the chance to witness the magic of Christmas in one of the most beautiful and wildlife-packed countries in the world, while supporting the conservation of endangered species and the livelihoods of local communities.
