Kwita Izina is Rwanda’s most important conservation celebration—an annual gorilla naming ceremony that honors newly born mountain gorillas while spotlighting global wildlife protection efforts. Rooted in a centuries-old Rwandan tradition of naming children, Kwita Izina has evolved into a powerful international event that brings together conservationists, researchers, community leaders, and travelers from around the world. Held at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park, the ceremony symbolizes Rwanda’s extraordinary success in protecting one of the world’s most endangered species. Each named gorilla represents hope, conservation triumph, and the deep bond between people and nature. The festival blends ceremony, cultural performance, storytelling, and conservation dialogue—making it one of Africa’s most meaningful wildlife events.  

Kwita Izina | Custom Journey

For travelers, Kwita Izina offers unparalleled access to Rwanda’s conservation story, including opportunities to meet Gorilla Doctors, trackers, and local community leaders while experiencing Rwanda’s refined hospitality and pristine landscapes.

All Kwita Izina journeys with Seek & Savor Travel are fully customized. Due to limited access, security protocols, and conservation priorities, we do not operate fixed group departures. Each itinerary is designed privately or in small curated groups to ensure meaningful participation, seamless logistics, and ethical wildlife engagement.

Festival Timing & Seasonality

Typical Festival Timing:

  • •Early September (exact dates announced annually)

The Kwita Izina celebration spans multiple days and includes:

  • Official gorilla naming ceremony
  • Conservation talks and community events
  • Cultural performances
  • Gorilla trekking experiences

Recommended Trip Length

  • Ideal duration: 7–10 days (extensions to Kenya, Tanzania, or Lake Kivu available)

Why Kwita Izina Requires A Custom Approach

Kwita Izina is a tightly managed conservation event with limited attendance, specific access protocols, and regionally coordinated logistics. A bespoke approach ensures priority positioning, ethical wildlife encounters, and elevated accommodations close to Volcanoes National Park.

Possible Journey Elements

  • Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
  • Attendance at the Kwita Izina naming ceremony
  • Private briefings with conservation experts and Gorilla Doctors
  • Cultural village visits and Rwandan arts experiences
  • Luxury lodges overlooking the Virunga Mountains
  • Optional extensions to Lake Kivu or East African safaris

Help us design the right Kwita Izina Custom Journey experience for you.

Traveler Information

Country of Residence*(Required)

Travel Style*(Required)
(Most Seek & Savor journeys are designed to allow time for immersion, pacing, and access)
(Optional but encouraged)
(Photography goals, mobility considerations, prior polar travel, special interests, etc.)

Want to customize or need help planning your Journey? Contact our Experienced Advisors - We have been there!

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