ATI celebrates World Gorilla Day with Rwanda safaris

African Travel, Inc. (ATI) is spotlighting Rwanda’s remarkable transformation in gorilla conservation for World Gorilla Day.

Once on the brink of extinction due to poaching, habitat loss and disease, mountain gorillas are now thriving, with a population surpassing 1,000 from an estimated 250 in the early 1980s.

These concerted conservation efforts have made Rwanda a premier destination for experiencing these endangered primates in their natural habitat. The country’s dedicated conservation strategy, including robust anti-poaching measures and community involvement, has led to 604 gorillas residing in the Virunga Massif, which spans Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Through ATI’s curated immersive safari experiences, guests can participate in guided treks that include gorilla trekking permits, with proceeds directly funding critical preservation projects, such as supporting anti-poaching initiatives, habitat expansion and uplifting local communities.

Clients also have the chance to visit conservation centers that educate on over 55 years of gorilla protection and scientific research for the preservation of these species.

Every September, Rwanda holds the Kwita Izina Ceremony to name baby mountain gorillas born in Volcanoes National Park during the previous year. In the last 19 years, 397 mountain gorillas have been named during the ceremony.

“On World Gorilla Day, we celebrate Rwanda’s remarkable recovery of mountain gorillas and commend their efforts in preserving this natural heritage from extinction,” said Sherwin Banda, president of ATI. “Since the 1990s, there has been a strong effort to protect gorillas in Rwanda by educating and involving local communities, dispelling myths, implementing robust anti-poaching measures and conducting ongoing research.”

“When clients embark on a gorilla trek and look into the eyes of these majestic apes, they experience a profound connection that highlights our shared DNA,” Banda continued. “Research shows that gorillas share 98 per cent of human DNA, indicating that we are separated by such a small amount.”

One of ATI’s gorilla-focused trips is the 9-day Gorilla & Safari Adventure, which combines a gorilla trek with a Big Five safari while showcasing Rwanda’s scenic volcanoes, rainforest and sweeping plains.

The journey begins in the capital, Kigali, where clients will experience the country’s warm hospitality at The Retreat and meet local leaders to learn about the city's art and culinary scene.

A visit to the Akagera National Park, Central Africa’s largest protected wetland, provides the possibility of catching a glimpse of the Big Five.

Staying at Magashi Camp, guests will enjoy expertly guided game drives, nature walks and boating excursions. Onwards, they explore Kigali’s vibrant cultural landscape and delve into Rwanda's history at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Guests then begin their exclusive gorilla-tracking adventure through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, a critical area for gorilla preservation, where they can observe the majestic ape families in their natural habitat.

Due to the park's ongoing conservation efforts, they will also have the opportunity to see the endangered golden monkeys nestled in the foothills of the volcanic mountains.

Currently, there are 12 gorilla families living in the Volcanoes National Park, with at least one silverback protecting each troop.

Guests will also visit the Dian Fossey Karisoke Research Center to gain valuable insights into the protection, research and recovery efforts dedicated to these incredible great apes.

Another option is the 12-day Ultimate Tanzania and Rwanda journey, which offers a unique blend of experiences in Serengeti and Tarangire National Park in Tanzania, as well as Kigali and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

They begin in Arusha and head to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its baobab trees and large elephant herds. The next stop is at Singita Faru Faru Lodge in Grumeti Reserves, where guests can enjoy morning and evening game drives to witness the diverse wildlife of the country.

Moving on to Rwanda, the journey includes a cultural exploration of Kigali, a tour of the Kigali Memorial Centre, and visits to local art galleries. In Volcanoes National Park, clients will visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about the world-class research and conservation initiatives led by Fossey.

The highlight of this journey is the gorilla trek, offering a rare chance to observe gorilla troops in their natural habitat. With only 96 permits issued daily, this experience not only allows clients to witness the splendour of gorillas up close, but also contributes to ongoing protection efforts.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.