As you search for authentic Rwanda travel operators in Kigali and nearby, we present to you an up-to-date Selection criteria & list of Tourism companies in Rwanda to simplify the process for you.
For a traveler who wants to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda but is unsure which Rwanda tour company to book with, selecting a Rwanda tour operator for a gorilla trekking safari can occasionally be quite difficult and frustrating.
While they will differ in terms of service quality and cost, some Rwanda tour companies also operate safaris throughout all of East Africa.
Selecting a tour company for a gorilla trekking safari may seem difficult, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
When you search online for reputable gorilla trekking companies to manage and take good care of your safari in Rwanda, you will come across many companies.
Some of these Rwanda tour operators specialize in organizing gorilla trips where as the rest are generic in their nature of operations.
Below are some of the best Rwanda tour companies that we recommend you should book with. The companies are highly reviewed, very knowledgeable and cost-efficient.
They will definitely give you value for money.
The Top 10 Gorilla Trekking Companies & Rwanda Tour Operators
Below are the best gorilla trekking companies and Rwanda tour operators that you can confide in for your trip. These top 10 tour companies in Rwanda are highly responsive and will revert to you within a few hours of time.
- Magical Gorilla Adventures
- Gorilla Hurly Burly Ltd
- Amahoro Tours
- Volcanoes Safaris
- Thousand Hills Africa
- Gorilla Trek Africa
- African Gorilla Tours
- Gorilla Tours Limited
- Gorilla Riddles Ltd
- Visit Rwanda Safari Tours
The above list of tour companies in Rwanda is authentic and we can reassure you of their good services and reputation.
They make up the list of the best Rwanda tour operators in Kigali and beyond.
For international Rwanda tour agents who are searching for a list of travel agencies in Rwanda, the list above also mentions some of the best Destination Management Companies (DMC) that you can partner with.
The Rwanda tour agencies have the capacity to handle your trip at the best level of service.
What to Consider When Choosing a Gorilla Trekking Safari Company in Rwanda
So how exactly do you choose the best gorilla trekking company or tour operator/tour company/travel agent for your Rwandan trip?
There are so many factors to consider when searching for the best tour company in Rwanda but the ones below carry the most weight.
1. Communication Frequency: A trustworthy gorilla safari company will respond to your initial inquiry right away. An accurate and timely response is a good indicator of a serious tour operator. You should not take a tour agency seriously if they reply to your initial request more than two days later. What would happen if you got stuck somewhere on your safari and they didn’t respond to you right away? All relevant travel-related information ought to be available to a knowledgeable tour operator.
2. Payment Methods: Reputable tour firms will never request payments be made using a personal account or money transfer services like MoneyGram, Western Union, or WorldRemit. The best tour companies accept bank transfers, PayPal, Pesapal, and direct payments at their office. All payments must be made to a bank account named by the travel operator. It is essential to provide customers with the choice to securely and safely pay with their credit cards online or through a bank transfer.
3. Booking Terms and Conditions: Observe the booking terms and conditions of the company regarding trip cancellations and postponements. Some businesses require a larger deposit than others, while some are more accommodating and only ask for a small portion to secure lodging and a gorilla permit, which is the primary requirement. Choose what best fits your interests and budget. Some customers may prefer to pay the entire amount due at the time of booking to have everything set up well in advance. It is imperative that you examine the refund policy in case the tour is canceled or postponed.
4. Bank Details: A trustworthy travel company must maintain a bank account in the country in which it is registered. You can verify if a company is registered by checking whether their bank account details are in their name. Banks only issue corporate accounts to registered corporations. A reputable safari company will have documentation proving ownership of the bank account. Never transfer money into personal accounts. Ensure that the company name and the bank name match at all times.
5. Social Media Presence: Are the company’s social media pages regularly updated? Analyze their social media accounts to gauge the company’s legitimacy. Social networking sites like LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and Facebook are excellent sources of company information. You can find more client and previous traveler testimonials by browsing the tour company’s social media accounts. Additionally, you can see the company’s address, phone number, and location, including whether they have any physical offices. If you are satisfied with your research, only then should you book a safari with the company.
6. Ownership: Travelers may choose to pay more for vacations with international travel agencies when they are unsure about the quality of services offered by local tour operators. While choosing well-known companies worldwide is acceptable, we believe locally owned companies can offer the same level of service at a significantly lower cost. Choosing to travel with an African tour business that is locally owned and operated helps empower Africans and creates jobs for those who are less fortunate. Local companies also offer guides who are well-versed in the languages and traditions of their country. If you are concerned about security or service quality, review the TripAdvisor or Facebook feedback on nearby tour companies.
7. Flexibility of the Itinerary: Ensure that every activity is included in the final recommended itinerary before selecting a gorilla trekking company. A first-rate tour operator will be flexible and allow visitors to make necessary adjustments. If the schedule cannot be changed to meet your needs, consider finding another option. Selecting the places and activities you want to engage in requires active participation. The tour operator should inform the traveler of all available options, make recommendations, and ultimately allow them to decide.
8. Website: Check if the company has an “About Us” page. Learn about their work, motivation, and, if possible, how long they’ve been in operation. Do they have offices in other countries or locations abroad? By finding out more about their services and locations, you can determine if they can handle every aspect of your tour, especially if it involves activities in multiple countries. These details may help demonstrate the professionalism of the safari operator.
9. Cost: The cost of tours offered by gorilla safari businesses varies. If you are working with a limited budget, it is essential to compare prices from several providers before making a final decision. It is recommended that you choose a provider who charges a reasonable fee while maintaining service quality. It’s not wise to select a safari business solely based on price. We’ve heard of companies that charge low prices just to secure a trip, but in return, they offer mediocre accommodations, outdated vehicles, and underpaid, inexperienced guides and drivers.
10. Safety: Though listed last, safety is a crucial factor when choosing a gorilla safari company. Reputable companies prioritize tourist safety and ensure all necessary precautions are in place. Reliable tour operators will disclose this information and suggest insurance options if they do not provide coverage themselves. In addition to informing clients about the current security situation in the country, a respectable safari operator will advise clients on the necessary safety precautions to take while on safari or in major towns. The operator should reassure visitors that they will be safe around wild animals and within national parks.
Selecting a tour company for a gorilla trekking safari can be challenging, but it can be simplified if you pay attention to the important considerations outlined above.
Local Operators vs. Others: Should you use Inbound or Outbound Rwanda safari companies?
It is important to work with local Rwanda safari companies and ground handlers when making your safari reservations, whether through direct booking or online.
They offer lower rates and have readily available information, such as cancellations for gorilla treks.
Using a non-local Rwanda safari agents or intermediary company could result in excessive charges and ultimately rely on a local operator to manage the safari.
Additionally, the intermediary may pay the local operator more and charge you extra, reducing the quality of your safari.
Companies from countries within the East African Community are considered local operators in Rwanda.
Does Membership in Local Tour Associations like the Association of Rwanda Tour Operators Matter?
Is affiliation to the Association of Rwanda Tour Operators, also known as the Rwanda Tour Operators Association (https://rtta.rw/) mandatory?
Well-known tour companies should be members of a travel organization in the country where they are licensed.
It is easier to lodge a complaint against a company if it is a member of a tour operator association.
However, membership does not always imply high-quality services.
Despite being registered as official members of travel groups, several gorilla safari companies offer subpar services.
Some provide excellent services even if they have no affiliation with any organizations.
While membership in a tour association has its advantages, superior services are not always guaranteed.
This is why many of the other considerations discussed here should also be taken into account.
Does Company Reputation and Reviews Matter?
Reading online reviews of a gorilla safari company is the best way to assess its credibility.
A reputable Rwanda safari operator should have glowing references from prior clients.
Platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings provide recommendations and evaluations from real consumers who have used the tour agency’s services, allowing prospective customers to make well-informed decisions.
These platforms also allow travelers to communicate directly with the reviewer.
By reading customer reviews, you can determine whether a tour company will fulfill its commitments.
Do not disregard a company based solely on a few negative online reviews. Sometimes it hard to get it perfect all the time.
The average rating should help you make an informed decision.
Luxury or Budget Gorilla Trekking Companies?
The debate about using budget vs luxury gorilla tour operators is a longstanding one.
Some tourism companies in Rwanda specify whether they handle particular Rwanda Gorilla Safaris as luxury or budget options.
However, most companies will be open to tailoring gorilla tours to fit your budget and interests.
Therefore, you should work with companies that meet your requirements, and they will customize the experience for you.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Working with Rwanda Travel Agents
So what are the advantages & disadvantages of using Rwanda travel agents?
The best option when visiting any destination is to book with a local operator, and this is no different in Rwanda.
Local operators have detailed knowledge about the nuances that can make or break your safari.
When we refer to local operators, we include those from the countries that make up the East African Community (Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, and Kenya).
There is little disadvantage in working with local operators, as they are usually more affordable as well.
Book your trip through international companies like Audley Travel and Abercrombie and Kent won’t change the fact that they will still use a local Rwanda travel agency to run your trip.
Do Gorilla Safari Companies Only Specialize in Gorilla Tours?
Most gorilla safari companies offer additional tours, as many activities are not done in isolation.
For example, a Gorilla Safari can be complemented with cultural adventures and some wildlife experiences.
Therefore, a gorilla safari company will likely handle other safari activities as well.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rwanda Tour Operators & Gorilla Trekking Companies
Here are 30 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the best Rwanda tour operators and gorilla trekking companies:
- What is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda? The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February when the trails are less muddy and gorilla sightings are more frequent.
- How do I choose a reputable gorilla trekking company in Rwanda? Look for companies with good communication, secure payment options, clear booking terms, a strong social media presence, and positive customer reviews. Additionally, check if the company is locally owned and has experience in organizing gorilla trekking safaris.
- Why is communication frequency important when choosing a tour operator? A tour company that responds quickly to your inquiries shows it is professional and reliable. Slow responses could indicate poor service during your trip.
- What payment methods should I expect from a reputable tour company? Reputable companies accept secure payment methods such as bank transfers, PayPal, and credit cards. Avoid companies that ask for payments via personal accounts or untraceable services like Western Union.
- What are some top-rated gorilla trekking tour and travel companies in Rwanda? Some of the top-rated companies include Magical Gorilla Adventures, Gorilla Trek Africa, Volcanoes Safaris, Thousand Hills Africa, and Amahoro Tours.
- Why is it important to check the booking terms and conditions? Booking terms and conditions outline the deposit requirements, refund policies, and cancellation options. This helps you understand what to expect if your plans change.
- How do I verify the legitimacy of a tour company in Rwanda? Ensure the company has a registered bank account in the country, check its membership in local tour associations, and read reviews on trusted platforms like TripAdvisor.
- Is it safe to book a gorilla safari online with a Rwanda tour operator? Yes, as long as you choose a reputable company that uses secure payment methods and has positive online reviews and a strong social media presence.
- Can I customize my gorilla trekking itinerary? Yes, most reputable tour operators in Rwanda allow you to customize your itinerary based on your interests and preferences.
- Does a tour company’s website matter when selecting a provider? Yes, a professional and informative website, including an “About Us” page, can indicate the company’s credibility and experience.
- Is it better to choose a local or international gorilla safari company? Local companies often offer more affordable rates, better local knowledge, and authentic experiences. International companies usually subcontract local operators, so booking locally is often more efficient.
- What are the payment options for booking a gorilla trek in Rwanda? Gorilla trekking permits can usually be paid for through secure methods such as bank transfers or credit card payments via reputable companies.
- Why is it important to check the social media presence of Rwanda travel companies? Social media presence shows how active and responsive the company is. It also provides access to customer reviews and insights into their services.
- What are the best months for gorilla trekking in Rwanda? The best months are the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when trekking conditions are more favorable.
- Why should I support locally owned Rwanda tour companies? Supporting locally owned companies empowers local communities, creates jobs, and often results in more authentic and affordable experiences.
- What are the costs involved in gorilla trekking in Rwanda? The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500. Additional costs may include accommodation, transportation, and guide fees.
- Can I book a last-minute gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda? It’s possible, but it’s advisable to book in advance to secure your permit and preferred accommodations, as permits can sell out quickly.
- Are the tour companies on TripAdvisor reliable for gorilla trekking in Rwanda? Many reliable Rwanda tour companies are listed on TripAdvisor. It’s recommended to read the reviews and ratings to gauge their credibility.
- Do all tour companies in Rwanda offer the same services? No, some companies specialize in gorilla trekking, while others offer more general safaris. It’s important to choose a company that matches your specific interests.
- What should I look for in a tour company’s reviews? Look for consistent positive feedback regarding communication, organization, guide expertise, and customer service.
- How long does it take to receive a response from a reputable tour company? A reputable company typically responds within a few hours to one day. If they take more than two days to reply, it may indicate poor service.
- Is it safe to trek with local guides in Rwanda? Yes, local guides are experienced and knowledgeable about the terrain and wildlife, ensuring a safe and informative trekking experience.
- What is the importance of flexibility in a tour company’s itinerary? Flexibility allows you to tailor your safari experience, ensuring that all your preferences and interests are accommodated.
- Should I compare costs between different tour companies in Rwanda? Yes, comparing prices helps you find a company that offers good value for money without compromising on service quality.
- How do I ensure the safety of my payments to a tour company? Ensure payments are made to a registered company’s bank account and through secure payment methods such as credit cards or PayPal.
- Can a Rwanda tour company handle multiple safaris across East Africa? Yes, some Rwanda tour companies operate across East Africa and can organize safaris in neighboring countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
- What makes a good gorilla trekking company in Rwanda? A good company offers responsive communication, secure payments, knowledgeable guides, flexible itineraries, and excellent customer service.
- Do gorilla trekking companies also offer other safari activities? Yes, most companies also offer additional activities such as wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and hiking adventures.
- What is the difference between budget and luxury gorilla trekking companies? Budget companies offer more affordable options, often with basic accommodations, while luxury companies provide high-end services, including premium lodges and personalized experiences.
- How do I know if a Rwanda tour company is safe and reliable? Check for secure payment methods, read customer reviews, verify the company’s registration, and ensure they provide safety measures for your trek.
See the top 10 recommended gorilla trekking Rwanda tour companies here.