At Rhino Africa, we believe in providing honest, informed, and responsible travel advice. As Africa’s most awarded luxury safari company, we have a deep commitment not just to our guests but to the destinations we work in, the wildlife we strive to protect, and the communities that rely on tourism. The question of whether one should book a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda or Uganda right now is not a simple one. The situation in the region is complex, evolving, and requires careful consideration, but let’s unpack it thoughtfully.
The decision to book a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda or Uganda requires careful consideration, Image Credit: Singita
Is It Safe to Travel to See the Gorillas?
Despite the ongoing tensions in Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), it is still safe to visit the gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda. The gorilla trekking regions of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda remain unaffected by the direct conflict.
However, it would be irresponsible to overlook the fact that the situation is volatile and could change at any time. Travel advisories from various governments currently warn against travel to these areas, not because of immediate threats within Rwanda and Uganda but due to the proximity of the conflict in DRC. While travel is not banned, these advisories have significant implications for financial protection, as we’ll explain below.
Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest remain safe and unaffected by the conflict
Should You Book Now? The Financial Considerations
At Rhino Africa, we do not believe in boycotting destinations. Tourism is the lifeblood of conservation and local economies, and the consequences of a travel boycott would be devastating to wildlife protection efforts and the communities that depend on visitors. However, we do believe in a cautious and transparent approach.
The Key Issue Guests Must Consider is Financial Risk
1. Travel Warnings & Insurance Limitations
Due to the current travel warnings, travel insurance will not cover you if you need to cancel your trip due to an escalation of the conflict. This means that if you book now and the situation worsens, you may not be able to recover your costs should you elect to cancel.
2. Non-Refundable Deposits & Gorilla Permits
At Rhino Africa, our average lead time from booking a gorilla trek to actual travel is up to six months. To confirm a booking, standard payment terms require a 30% deposit, plus full payment for flights and gorilla permits upfront. These payments are passed directly to accommodations, logistics providers, and conservation authorities, making them effectively non-refundable.
3. Final Payments & Shorter Risk Assessment Windows
The final balance is due 60 days before travel, meaning guests have a shorter window to evaluate risk before committing to the full payment. Unfortunately, unless our suppliers in the region change their payment and cancellation policies, guests must accept that their investment is at risk should the conflict escalate and they elect not to travel.
Tourism sustains conservation and communities – we advocate for caution, not boycotts
The Bigger Picture: The Risk of Mass Cancellations
If the conflict situation deteriorates further, mass cancellations could place significant financial strain on the small, high-end lodges and operators that define this region.
As we saw during COVID-19, even when payment terms are flexible, refunds are not guaranteed because suppliers themselves may lack the liquidity to return funds in the face of widespread cancellations.
More concerning is that two Rwandan operators have already gone insolvent as bookings have declined due to the conflict over the past quarter. If more suppliers face financial distress, guest refunds could become impossible, regardless of cancellation policies.
Mass cancellations threaten Rwanda’s gorilla trekking lodges
Rhino Africa’s Approach: Caution with Transparency
We pride ourselves on being more than just a travel company – we are a movement, a champion for conservation, and a company deeply invested in our guests’ experiences and well-being.
We love Rwanda. It is one of the most extraordinary travel destinations on Earth, and seeing the mountain gorillas in the wild is a life-changing experience. We want as many guests as possible to experience its magic. However, our responsibility is to ensure that our guests understand the risks before making a decision.
At this time, we do not feel comfortable recommending new bookings for gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda unless suppliers adjust their terms to protect guests financially, given the traditionally long lead times. Until that happens, our approach remains cautious and transparent, not because we don’t believe in the destination but because we believe in putting our guests first.
We’re more than a travel company – we’re a movement for conservation and unforgettable experiences
Beyond Gorillas: Rwanda Is More Than the “Gorilla Express”
While gorilla trekking is the primary reason many guests visit Rwanda, it’s worth noting that the country offers far more. There are other incredible regions to explore that are well away from the conflict-affected areas, including:
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Kigali – Rwanda’s capital is one of the cleanest, safest, and most dynamic cities in Africa. Its rich history, world-class museums, and vibrant food scene make it a must-visit.
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Nyungwe Forest – The source of the Nile and a pristine rainforest offering chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, and breathtaking biodiversity.
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Akagera National Park – A stunning savannah park with the Big 5 and spectacular landscapes, completely removed from conflict risks. One of Africa’s oldest National Parks, Akagera is the ultimate birder’s paradise.
For those who want to experience Rwanda’s beauty without the risks of gorilla trekking right now, these areas provide incredible alternative travel opportunities.
Experience Africa on a deeply personal level, from the wild depths of Nyungwe Forest, Image Credit: One&Only
The Rhino Africa Difference
We are not in business to make quick sales, we are in the business of crafting life-changing experiences while ensuring our guests are fully informed and protected. We are a company built on passion, integrity, and deep connections to the continent we call home. Our role is not just to sell safaris but to be trusted advisors to our guests.
If you’re considering a journey to Africa, we would love to connect you with one of our Travel Experts to help you navigate the complexities of travel today and plan the African holiday of a lifetime, with confidence and peace of mind. Let’s talk. Let’s plan. Let’s dream Africa.
