Karisoke Research Centre Tour : The Karisoke Research Centre (KRC) is a Research Centre in Rwanda that investigates the ecology and biodiversity of gorillas. The Centre is located in the Imatong Mountains, 25 km southwest of Kigali. The mountains are home to the majority of Rwanda’s gorilla population. The KRC was established in 1974 and is a collaboration between the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Rwandan Government. It aims to conserve and protect Rwanda’s gorillas and promote their long-term survival in the wild. The Centre has also provided training for hundreds of local rangers to help them monitor and protect the gorilla population. Located in the foothills of the volcanoes on the edge of the Parc National des Volcans d’Afrique lies the Karisoke Research Center.
Before embarking on this trip, you need to book in advance to ensure a space on the hike, which costs 50 USD for a full day. While the hike to the summit of the volcano is straightforward enough, it’s recommended you have a certain level of fitness for it due to the altitude and the fact that the trail goes uphill most of the way. However, the views along the way are stunning and the adrenaline generated by seeing the volcano up close and personal is something you’ll never forget! One of the best things about the hike is that if you reach the crater without enough time left to explore it due to time constraints, you can trek back to the base at the village and buy another pass for another day, which means that you have the freedom to return to the mountain as many times as you like.
What to expect at Karisoke Research Centre
When you arrive at the Centre, you will be greeted by a member of the research team who will take you on a tour of the facility. The tour will include a viewing of the gorilla enclosure where you will be able to observe some of the gorillas feeding. You also have the opportunity to watch a short film about the work being done at the Centre. After the tour, there is a short presentation about the work that is being done at the Centre and how the research benefits the local community. This is followed by a Q&A where you can ask questions to the scientists. There are also a number of interactive displays in the visitor Centre which allow you to learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect the gorillas.
During my visit to Karisoke, I was able to see the work being carried out by the research team as well as learn more about the threats facing gorillas and the importance of protecting them. I think that it is important that people understand the importance of protecting endangered species.
By visiting places such as the KRC, people are able to see first-hand the work being carried out to conserve and protect wildlife around the world. It also encourages people to take action to help protect endangered animals and conservation projects from extinction. All visitors to the KRC must be accompanied by a member of staff during the Rwanda Safari tour. If you are interested in attending one of the tours, you can contact the Centre for more information.
