Which African Country Has an Annual Gorilla Naming Ceremony?

Rwanda is the African country famous for hosting the Annual Gorilla Naming Ceremony. Known as Kwita Izina, meaning “to give a name” in Rwanda’s national language, Kinyarwanda, this grand celebration bestows a special and meaningful name upon each newborn gorilla in Volcanoes National Park. The event not only honors the arrival of these remarkable infants but also highlights the country’s ongoing commitment to conservation.

In 2025, Rwanda will mark the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina on Friday, September 5, in Kinigi, at the foothills of the park. Blending cultural heritage with conservation, this vibrant ceremony both preserves tradition and plays a vital role in tracking each gorilla’s growth while showcasing Rwanda’s dedication to protecting endangered primates.

Origin and Purpose

The term Kwita Izina “to give a name” comes from Rwanda’s longstanding cultural tradition of formally naming newborns within communities. In 2005, this practice evolved into a national event, extending the honor to baby mountain gorillas born in Volcanoes National Park.

The ceremony serves two purposes: it gives each gorilla an individual identity and raises global awareness of gorilla conservation efforts. By naming gorillas, conservationists can better monitor their health and development while strengthening Rwanda’s global conservation reputation.

Significance of the Gorilla Naming Ceremony

Over the years, Kwita Izina has grown into a powerful conservation tool, drawing attention both locally and internationally. Communities living near protected areas often attend the celebrations, gaining insights into gorilla conservation. Many of these residents have transformed into active conservationists some former poachers now proudly serve as park rangers.

The ceremony also attracts international dignitaries, celebrities, and conservationists. Many guests often combine the event with gorilla trekking experiences, generating tourism revenue. Funds from trekking permits are reinvested in national development projects such as schools, health centers, clean water access, and roads, especially in communities near the parks. Consequently, these areas often enjoy better infrastructure than many other rural regions.

Additionally, Kwita Izina creates economic opportunities for local businesses, including hotels, artisans, and transport providers. Overall, the event reflects Rwanda’s strong conservation commitment while engaging the global community in protecting mountain gorillas from extinction.

The Naming Process

Every year, Rwanda honors individuals who have contributed to conservation by granting them the privilege of naming the newborn gorillas. These individuals may include scientists, rangers, philanthropists, dignitaries, or community leaders.

Names are carefully chosen, often inspired by the gorilla’s traits, behavior, circumstances of birth, or themes of culture and conservation. This thoughtful practice allows researchers and caretakers to identify and monitor each gorilla, while also creating a deeper emotional bond between humans and wildlife.

Who Can Attend Kwita Izina?

The Rwanda Development Board oversees the event, and attendance is often by invitation or protocol, as it attracts high-profile guests, including Rwanda’s president. While not open to all tourists, those who plan carefully and coordinate through safari specialists may increase their chances of attending.

More Than Just Naming

Kwita Izina extends beyond the symbolic naming event. It unfolds as a week-long festival filled with conservation-focused activities. Programs often include:

• Tours for international media and operators
• The Business of Conservation conference
• Exhibitions showcasing conservation innovations
• A gala dinner and golf tournament
• Cultural performances, such as the energetic Intore dance

Through these events, Rwanda promotes sustainable tourism, celebrates conservation success, and builds partnerships with global stakeholders.

Conservation Impact

Since 2005, over 280 baby gorillas have received names during Kwita Izina. Each name represents progress in protecting the gorillas of the Virunga Massif.

The ceremony has also enhanced Rwanda’s global profile as a premier eco-tourism destination. Gorilla trekking, which generates substantial revenue, directly supports both conservation and community development projects. These initiatives create a sense of pride and responsibility among locals, transforming former poaching zones into areas of protection and stewardship.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

While attending Kwita Izina is special, visitors can also enjoy gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s only gorilla trekking destination. The park hosts 12 habituated gorilla families available for tourist visits.

The treks begin with a briefing at park headquarters, after which visitors are assigned to different gorilla families. Along the journey, trekkers may encounter other wildlife, including golden monkeys, baboons, and Albertine Rift bird species. Once the gorillas are located, visitors spend one hour with them an unforgettable encounter.

Best Time to Attend

Kwita Izina does not follow a fixed date, though it usually takes place between July and September. In 2025, the ceremony is scheduled for September 5.

For gorilla trekking, Rwanda’s dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal, with easier trails and higher demand for permits. During these times, permits and accommodations must be booked well in advance.

Travelers seeking fewer crowds may consider trekking in the rainy season, when costs are lower and last-minute permits are sometimes available.

Are Rwanda’s Gorillas Aggressive?

Mountain gorillas are generally gentle and peaceful. However, they may charge if threatened. Before they are opened to tourism, gorillas undergo a long habituation process, which ensures they feel comfortable in the presence of humans.

All treks are led by trained rangers who provide guidance and ensure visitor safety. If a gorilla shows defensive behavior, the best response is to remain calm and follow the ranger’s instructions.

 

Trekking Difficulty

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be more challenging than in neighboring countries due to Volcanoes National Park’s steep, volcanic terrain. Trekkers may navigate muddy trails, dense vegetation, and high altitudes. However, with proper preparation and trekking gear, the reward standing face to face with a gorilla family is worth every step.

Costs of a Rwanda Gorilla Safari

A gorilla trekking safari cost depends on the travel style (luxury, mid-range, or budget). However, the gorilla permit fee remains constant:

• $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents
• $1,000 for foreign residents and African nationals
• $200 for East African citizens

The total safari cost also includes accommodation, transportation, and other services.

Packing Tips for Kwita Izina and Gorilla Trekking

To fully enjoy your trip, pack smart and light. Essentials include:

• Neutral-colored safari clothing (khaki, brown, green)
• Sturdy waterproof boots
• Garden gloves for gripping vegetation
• Warm clothing for chilly evenings
• Rain gear and poncho
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Snacks and water
• A lightweight backpack
• A safari hat and gloves
• A camera to capture memories

Is Attending Kwita Izina Worth It?

Absolutely. Attending Kwita Izina is more than a festival it’s a celebration of conservation success. The event highlights Rwanda’s remarkable journey in safeguarding mountain gorillas, a species that survives in only three countries worldwide.

Although visitors do not see or touch gorillas during the ceremony (as the infants remain in the forest), the symbolic naming fosters awareness and raises support for continued protection.

Combining Kwita Izina with a gorilla trekking adventure allows travelers to experience Rwanda’s rich culture, conservation leadership, and the unforgettable magic of standing among wild mountain gorillas.