Deep in the heart of Africa, where the mist clings to the emerald slopes of the Virunga Massif, a celebration unlike any other takes place. Kwita Izina, the Rwandan tradition of naming newborn baby gorillas, has grown from a local custom into a global phenomenon.
If you are planning a trip to the “Land of a Thousand Hills” in 2026, attending this ceremony is the ultimate way to connect with nature, culture, and the frontline of wildlife conservation. At All Seasons Adventures, we specialize in crafting the perfect itinerary to ensure you don’t just watch the ceremony, you live the adventure.
What is Kwita Izina?
The term Kwita Izina translates to “to give a name.” Inspired by the centuries-old Rwandan tradition of naming human children in the presence of family and friends, the ceremony was formalized in 2005 to celebrate the birth of endangered mountain gorillas.
Naming these infants isn’t just a symbolic gesture; it’s a vital conservation tool. It allows researchers and rangers to monitor individual gorillas and track the growth of families within Volcanoes National Park. To date, over 390 gorillas have been named by conservationists, world leaders, and celebrities.
Event Details for 2026
The 2026 Kwita Izina ceremony is scheduled for Friday, September 4, 2026, in Kinigi, at the foothills of the Volcanoes National Park. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the event, and it promises to be a week-long celebration featuring conservation dialogues, community projects, and a star-studded naming ceremony filled with traditional music and Intore dancing.
Planning Your Trip
While the naming ceremony happens in September, Rwanda is a year-round destination. Choosing when to visit depends on your preference for trekking conditions.
| Season | Months | Perks for Travelers |
| Long Dry Season | June – September | Best for Kwita Izina. Trails are dry, and trekking is at its easiest. |
| Short Wet Season | October – November | Great for birdwatching and lush, vibrant photography. |
| Short Dry Season | December – February | Excellent for hiking; coincides with the festive holiday season. |
| Long Wet Season | March – May | Best for budget travelers; primates stay at lower altitudes for food. |
Why Book with All Seasons Adventures?
Navigating the logistics of a high-profile event like Kwita Izina requires local expertise. All Seasons Adventures provides a seamless experience, handling everything from your gorilla trekking permits to luxury eco-lodge bookings.
-
Expert Guides: Our guides are deeply rooted in the Musanze region, offering insights into gorilla behavior and Rwandan history that you won’t find in a guidebook.
-
Custom Itineraries: Whether you want to focus on the ceremony or combine it with a safari in Akagera National Park or chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, we tailor every mile to your needs.
-
Conservation First: By traveling with us, you support community-led tourism that ensures the survival of the mountain gorillas for generations to come.
Beyond the Ceremony
If you’re heading to the Kinigi area for the naming ceremony, don’t miss these nearby highlights:
-
Gorilla Trekking: Secure your permit early! Seeing a silverback in the wild is a life-altering experience.
-
Golden Monkey Tracking: These playful, bamboo-dwelling primates are endemic to the Virungas.
-
The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: A world-class research facility dedicated to gorilla protection.
-
Iby’iwacu Cultural Village: Experience traditional Rwandan life through pottery, archery, and dance.
Join the Celebration
The roar of the drums and the sight of the Virunga peaks create an electric atmosphere during Kwita Izina. It is a moment of hope, proving that through dedicated conservation and community involvement, we can bring species back from the brink of extinction.
Ready to witness the 2026 Gorilla Naming Ceremony? Contact All Seasons Adventures today to book your 2026 Rwanda safari. Let us take you to the heart of the mist.