Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s gorilla naming ceremony, is one of the country’s biggest celebrations. Each year, baby mountain gorillas born in Volcanoes National Park receive their names in a colourful event near the park. This guide began with the 2025 ceremony in mind, and the same advice applies to future editions: how to get there by 4×4, where to stay, and how to combine the day with your own trek.
What Happens at the Gorilla Naming Ceremony
Kwita Izina is inspired by a Rwandan tradition of naming a child shortly after birth. In the national version, invited guests such as conservationists, celebrities and community leaders each announce a name for a young gorilla.
The ceremony is usually held in Kinigi, at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes in Musanze District. Expect traditional dance, music, speeches and a large, cheerful crowd. Around the main day, there are often related events, such as conservation talks and community activities.
When it takes place
The date changes from year to year. RDB announces it, often a few months ahead, and it has frequently fallen around September. Check the official announcement before you book anything that cannot be changed.
Why the names matter
Each name is chosen to reflect hope, the gorilla’s family or something special about its birth. Behind the celebration is a serious message. Mountain gorillas were once on the edge of extinction, and careful protection has helped their numbers recover.
Tourism plays a direct part in that success. Permit income supports park rangers and conservation, and a share goes to communities living around the park. So, by attending and trekking, you are part of the story the ceremony celebrates.
Getting From Kigali to Kinigi
Kinigi is close to Musanze, about 2–2.5 hours from Kigali on a good paved road. The route climbs through green hills and has some sharp bends, so take it steadily.
- Leave early. On ceremony day, traffic builds up near Kinigi, and police manage access roads.
- Drive up the day before. Better still, base yourself in Musanze so you are not rushing on the morning itself.
- Follow marshals. Parking is controlled near the venue. Be ready to walk the last stretch.
- Carry ID. Security checks are normal at big public events.
Rwanda drives on the right. If you would rather not deal with crowds and parking, choose car hire with a driver for the ceremony days.
Which Vehicle Suits Ceremony Week?
The roads to Musanze and Kinigi are tarmac. However, many lodges around Volcanoes sit up rough, stony tracks, and these turn slippery after rain.
| Need | Suggested vehicle |
|---|---|
| Couple staying in Musanze town | Toyota RAV4 |
| Lodge on a hillside track | Land Cruiser Prado or Land Cruiser |
| Group or film crew with equipment | Land Cruiser Safari or Toyota Hiace |
See the details on our Land Cruiser Prado page. Book the vehicle as soon as the ceremony date is confirmed, because demand rises sharply that week.
Where to Stay Around the Gorilla Naming Ceremony
Accommodation in Musanze and Kinigi fills quickly during Kwita Izina. Start looking as soon as you know your dates.
- Musanze town: the widest choice of hotels and guesthouses, with restaurants nearby.
- Kinigi area: lodges close to the park headquarters, ideal for early starts.
- Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo: quieter options, a short drive away.
- Rubavu: on Lake Kivu, about an hour or so from Musanze, if everything closer is full.
If you have your own vehicle, you have far more choice. You can stay a little further out and still reach the venue easily.
Ask your lodge about secure parking and the state of its access road. Some hillside lodges are a short but steep climb from the tarmac, and a 4×4 makes that stretch much easier after an evening shower.
Combining the Ceremony With a Gorilla Trek
Many visitors want to see the gorillas themselves during the same trip. That is easy with a car, but plan the permits first.
- Secure your permit early. A Rwanda gorilla permit costs US$1,500, and ceremony season is busy.
- Trek on a different day. Avoid trekking on ceremony day itself, when roads are congested.
- Be at park headquarters early. Trekkers usually gather in Kinigi at dawn for the briefing.
- Check the age rule. Trekkers must be at least 15.
Read more about the park on our Volcanoes National Park page, or look at our 5-day Rwanda gorilla safari for a ready-made plan.
Other Things to Do in the Area
A few extra days around Musanze are well spent. With your own vehicle, you can fit in several of these.
- Golden monkey trekking in the bamboo zone of the park.
- Hiking to Dian Fossey’s former research site or up one of the volcanoes.
- Twin lakes Burera and Ruhondo for views and boat trips.
- Cultural visits in villages around Kinigi.
Permits for these activities are set by RDB, so check current prices before you travel.
A sample four-day plan
- Day 1: Collect your car in Kigali and drive to Musanze.
- Day 2: Attend Kwita Izina in Kinigi.
- Day 3: Gorilla trek in the morning, then rest.
- Day 4: Visit the twin lakes, then drive back to Kigali or on to Lake Kivu.
Practical Tips for Ceremony Day
- Bring a hat, sunscreen and a rain jacket. Mountain weather changes fast.
- Carry water and snacks, since queues for food can be long.
- Charge your phone and camera the night before.
- Fill your fuel tank in Musanze before the crowds arrive.
- Agree a meeting point with your group in case you get separated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone attend Kwita Izina?
There is usually a public viewing area, while some sections are for invited guests. Check the official guidance for the year you are attending.
Do I see gorillas at the ceremony?
No. The ceremony takes place outside the forest. To see gorillas, you need a separate trekking permit.
Should I self-drive or take a driver?
Self-drive works well if you are comfortable with crowds and parking. A driver is easier on the busiest day.
How far ahead should I book a car?
As soon as the date is announced. Vehicles and lodges in the Musanze area book up quickly that week.
Book Your Ceremony Transport
Send us your dates, group size and where you are staying, and we will suggest the right vehicle. WhatsApp us on +250 725 074659 or email info@4x4carrentalrwanda.com.