Best Gorilla Trekking Safaris & Tours in Uganda & Rwanda

Ultimate Guide for Gorilla Trekking Safaris & Tours in Africa

Gorilla treks start with a meeting at the park office where you get assigned a group to visit. Groups have eight people each, and each group of tourists visit one family.

How long the trek takes depends on the assigned group. Less fit people get easier, closer groups, while fit people get longer, harder treks. In Uganda, treks can last from 30 minutes to seven hours.

When you find the primates, you spend one hour with them. You can take photos but must stay 7 to 8 meters away.

After one hour, you return, get a certificate, and finish the trek.

Trekking with Gorillas in Rwanda

Rwanda has the most luxurious treks compared to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. To trek gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, you need a permit that costs $1500 per person.

Only people over 15 years old can get this permit. You can visit Rwanda all year, but some months are better for activities like treks.

The best time to visit is during the dry seasons: June to September and mid-December to early February.

During these times, the weather is clear, trails are less muddy, and it is easier to take good wildlife photos.

Gorilla families in Rwanda include: Bwenge gorilla family, Ugenda gorilla family, Hirwa gorilla family, Kwitonda gorilla family, Agashya gorilla family, Sabyinyo gorilla family, Umubano gorilla family, Amahoro gorilla family, Karisimbi gorilla family, Susa gorilla family, Titus gorilla family, Igisha gorilla family, Isimbi gorilla family, Noheli gorilla family, Kwisanga gorilla family, Kigoma gorilla family, Muhoza gorilla family, and Urwego gorilla family.

Trekking with Gorillas in Uganda

Uganda offers cheaper trek experiences than Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. To trek gorillas in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks, you need a permit that costs $800 per person.

Only people aged 15 and above can get permits. Uganda is open all year, but some months are better for trekking. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February.

In these months, there is less rain, trails are easier to walk, and the plants are thinner, making it easier to see and take pictures of the big apes.

Gorilla families in Uganda include: Nshongi gorilla family, Rushegura gorilla family, Nkuringo gorilla family, Habinyanja gorilla family, Mubare gorilla family, Oruzogo gorilla family, Bitukura gorilla family, Mishaya gorilla family, Busingye gorilla family, Kahungye gorilla family, Nyakagezi gorilla family, Katwe gorilla family, Christmas gorilla family, Mukiza gorilla family, Muyambi gorilla family, Mucunguzi gorilla family, Posho gorilla family, Binyindo gorilla family, Kutu gorilla family, Bikingi gorilla family, Bushaho gorilla family, Bweza gorilla family, and Hirwa gorilla family.

Where Can I See Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda?

Below are the top places where you can see gorillas in Africa.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four trekking sectors: Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Buhoma. Rushaga and Buhoma are best for older visitors.

Each sector has different families and land types:

• Nkuringo is in the west and has 3 to 4 groups. Visitors can stay in Rushaga and trek in Nkuringo, or stay in Nkuringo and trek in Rushaga.
• Rushaga is in the south and has the most families. It is near Rwanda and only a four-hour drive from Kigali. Ruhija is in the east and has the easiest treks.
• Buhoma is in the northwest, home to the oldest family, and offers great trekking.
• Ruhia is the Eastern sector and most accessible.

Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park is Uganda’s smallest park, covering 33.7 square kilometers. It borders Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in Congo.

It is not often named as a main trekking place. The park is named after Mount Gahinga, meaning “piles of stones.” It became a game sanctuary in 1930 and a national park in 1991.

Mgahinga is home to three Virunga Volcanoes: Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Gahinga.

It has one group, the Nyakagezi family, known for its old silverback Bugingo, who stayed with the group, which is rare. Visitors can trek here to see this unique family.

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is home to eight volcanoes in the Virunga Massif, part of the Great East African Rift Valley.

The park covers 160 square kilometers and borders Mgahinga National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in Congo.

Volcanoes National Park also has many animals like bushbucks, buffalos, elephants, golden monkeys, and baboons. The park was the home of Dian Fossey, an American scientist who studied and protected mountain gorillas.

She started the Karisoke Research Institute, which still exists today.

Comparing Uganda vs Rwanda gorilla trekking experiences

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is popular but different in price and experience. Uganda offers more trekking areas and cheaper permits at $800, with gorillas found in Bwindi and Mgahinga parks.

Rwanda is a luxury option with one park, Volcanoes, and permits costing $1500, or $1050 in low season.

Rwanda is close to Kigali, making travel easier.

DR Congo has the cheapest permits at $400 and offers both mountain and lowland treks.

Lowland tours need no hiking and are less popular but more affordable.

Mountain gorillas live in high areas, lowland gorillas in lower areas.

Gorilla Trekking Tour Cost – What You Need to Know

The total cost of trekking depends on many things. These include the price of the permit, the country you choose, the tour company, how many treks you want, your trip length, the type of safari vehicle, your lodge, and any special requests.

The permit is the most important cost, and you need it before planning anything else.

Budget lodges cost less, mid-range more, and luxury the most. Each trek needs a separate permit.

A longer trip means more money for food, transport, and guide services.

Land cruisers cost more than safari vans and increase your total safari cost.

Is the trek itself worth it?

Yes, treks in Uganda are worth it. Uganda is one of the busiest places for gorilla safaris, and permits often sell out. A permit costs $800 and gives you one hour with the gentle giants.

For more time, you can choose the gorilla habituation experience at $1500, which allows up to four hours with the primates. This special activity only happens in the Rushaga Sector of Bwindi.

Treks also supports conservation. Over 80% of the permit money helps protect gorillas and supports local communities.

By buying a permit, you enjoy the experience and help save mountain gorillas.

Securing your Gorilla Permits

A gorilla permit is needed for anyone who wants to trek. In Uganda, permits cost $800 and are sold by the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through tour companies.

Uganda also offers a habituation experience for $1500, allowing four hours with gorillas.

Filming and photography need extra fees.

In Rwanda, a trekking permit costs $1500. Discounted Rwanda permits at $1050 are available from November through May for visitors staying over 3 days and visiting another park.

All permits must be booked at least 3 months in advance. Tour companies can help with the booking process.

How difficult is the trek itself?

Gorilla tourism is very popular but also the most expensive in Africa. How hard the trek is depends on where the family lives; some are easier to reach in lower areas.

Weather changes fast in parks, and rain makes trekking harder. You walk through rough paths and thick forest, so wear long sleeves to avoid insect bites and carry a raincoat.

Mountain gorillas live high up, so you need some fitness to reach them. Doing light exercise before helps.

Trekking is hardest in rain because trails get slippery. The best time to visit is the dry season: June to September and December to February.

Minimum Age Limit for Trekking Gorillas

Gorillas are used to seeing people, but they are still wild animals. If visitors do not follow the rules, they can get upset.

Because of this, not everyone is allowed to go on a trek. Children are often playful and may not follow the rules, while adults are more careful.

The trek can also be tiring, and rangers do not want delays if someone gives up. That is why the minimum age for trekking is 15 years.

Authorities believe that at this age, children can follow instructions and finish the trek without much trouble.

Essential Requirements & Packing List

Before going to trek, you need:

• Gorilla permit: One permit per trek, bought from Uganda Wildlife Authority, book early.
• Good health: Must be healthy to protect gorillas from human diseases; no trekking if sick.
• Gear and equipment: Camera, walking stick, sunglasses, insect repellent, snacks.
• First aid kit: For small injuries, since no hospitals are nearby.
• Proper clothing: Long trousers, long sleeves, rain jacket, hat, and strong hiking boots.

Trekking Clothing – What to wear on a gorilla trek?

Wearing the right clothes for a trek helps protect you from insect bites and scratches in the jungle. All treks happen in the wild, and without proper clothing, the hike can be very uncomfortable.

You should wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, leather hiking boots, and garden gloves. A rain jacket, cap, and sunglasses are also helpful.

Carry a backpack with snacks, drinks, a camera, and a small first aid kit. Light and comfortable clothes are best because the hike can be long and tiring.

Dressing well is very important for a safe and enjoyable primate safari in Africa.

Tips for Trekking Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda

Here are important travel tips for visiting mountain gorillas:

• Get your permit before arrival.
• Pack the right clothes for all weather.
• Carry food, water, and energy snacks for the hike.
• Use waterproof covers for your camera and devices.
• Turn off camera flash.
• Prepare physically by exercising months before.
• Travel in the dry season.
• Get all needed vaccinations.
• Keep a safe distance of eight meters from the apes.
• Be in good health and inform your tour operator if you have health problems; special help may be provided.

Gorilla Conservation & Sustainable Tourism

Gorilla tourism helps both tourists and conservation. Money from permits is used to protect the primates, support nearby communities, and pay rangers and wardens.

This tourism also creates jobs, protects the habitat, and helps local development. It plays a big role in the global effort to save mountain gorillas.

Visiting gorillas helps people feel connected and responsible for their protection. The trips are possible because of Dian Fossey’s work.

A hike to the Karisoke Research Center in Rwanda, where she lived and worked, is a good way to learn more about her and her efforts to protect the gentle apes.

What are the accommodation options?

When booking a place to stay for your trek, make sure to choose accommodation near the park and the sector where you will be tracking the gorillas.

Accommodation Options for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Lodges in Bwindi are found in four sectors. In the Buhoma Sector, top lodges include Engagi Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Volcanoes Lodge, and Sanctuary Forest Camp.

In the Ruhija Sector, you can stay at Ruhija Safari Lodge, Bakiga Lodge, Ruhija Friends Resort, and Broadbill Forest Camp. The Rushaga Sector has budget places like Rushaga Havens Lodge and mid-range ones like Ichumbi Lodge.

Clouds Lodge is the top luxury choice. In Nkuringo Sector, top luxury lodges include Nkuringo Lodge and Gorilla Heights Lodge. Many stay in Rushaga.

Accommodation Options for Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park is a quiet place for treks with one family. The trekking experience is like that in Volcanoes National Park, but there are fewer lodges nearby.

The park is close to Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi, as well as Lake Mutanda, Kisoro, and Lake Chahafi, so it is easy to reach from those areas. Good luxury lodges include Mount Gahinga Lodge and Mutanda Lake Resort.

Mid-range options are Travelers Rest Hotel, Ichumbi Hotels, Mutanda Lake Resort, and Lake Chahafi Resort. For budget travelers, Mucha Lodge is the best choice.

Most Popular Gorilla Trekking FAQs

• What is gorilla trekking? Gorilla trekking is a guided walk through the forest to find and watch the primates in their natural home.
• How long does a gorilla trek take? The trek can take from 30 minutes to seven hours, depending on where the primates are located.
• How much time do you spend with gorillas? You spend one full hour watching the primates once you find them.
• How many people are in one trekking group? Each trekking group has a maximum of eight visitors.
• How close can I get to the gorillas? You must stay about 7 to 8 meters away from the primates.
• What happens after the trek? After your trek, you return to the park office, receive a certificate, and end your tour.
• How much is a gorilla permit in Rwanda? A permit in Rwanda costs $1500 per person.
• What is the minimum age for trekking gorillas? Only people aged 15 years and above can go trekking the primates.
• When is the best time to visit Rwanda for tourism? The best time is during the dry months of June to September and mid-December to early February.
• How much is a gorilla permit in Uganda? A permit in Uganda costs $800 per person.
• What are Uganda’s main gorilla parks? The main parks are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.
• Which are the best sectors in Bwindi for trekking? Bwindi has four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Buhoma and Rushaga are best for older visitors.
• Where is Mgahinga National Park located? Mgahinga is in southwest Uganda near the borders with Rwanda and Congo.
• What is special about the Mgahinga family? It has only one family called Nyakagezi, known for its old silverback named Bugingo.
• What animals can I see in Volcanoes National Park? You can see mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, elephants, buffalo, and baboons.
• What makes Rwanda’s tourism special? Rwanda offers a luxury experience, short travel from Kigali, and well-organized treks.
• How is trekking different in Uganda and Rwanda? Uganda is cheaper with more trekking areas, while Rwanda is more luxurious but has higher permit costs.
• How much are gorilla permits in Congo? In the Democratic Republic of Congo, permits cost around $400 per person.
• What affects the total cost of a gorilla safari? The total cost depends on the permit price, lodge type, number of treks, vehicle, and trip length.
• Is trekking gorillas worth the money? Yes, it is worth it. You see rare primates and support conservation and local people.
• What is the gorilla habituation experience? It is a special trek in Uganda’s Rushaga Sector that lets you spend up to four hours with the primates for $1500.
• How can I book a gorilla permit? You can book through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a registered tour company. It is best to book at least 3 months early.
• How hard is trekking gorillas in Africa? It depends on where the family lives. Some treks are easy, others are long and steep. Fitness helps a lot.
• What should I wear for gorilla adventures? Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, hiking boots, gloves, and a rain jacket.
• What should I carry for a trek? Carry water, snacks, a camera, a walking stick, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
• Why is health important before trekking? You must be healthy so you don’t spread diseases to the primates. If you are sick, you cannot trek.
• Why is the age limit 15 years? You must be mature enough to follow rules and complete the trek without problems.
• How does tourism help conservation? Money from permits helps protect the primates, support local communities, and pay rangers.
• Who was Dian Fossey? Dian Fossey was an American researcher who studied and protected mountain gorillas in Rwanda.
• Where can I stay during a gorilla trek? You can stay in lodges near the trekking sectors. Bwindi has lodges in Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Mgahinga also has lodges like Mount Gahinga Lodge and Mutanda Lake Resort.