Gorilla Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda Travel Guide

How Gorilla Trekking Works

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.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda has the most luxurious treks compared to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. To go on Rwanda gorilla tours 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.

Gorilla Trekking 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 to See Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda

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

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Gorilla Trekking

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 Gorilla Trekking

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 Gorilla Trekking

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.

Uganda vs Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Comparison

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.

Most Popular Nationalities that trek gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda

Some of the most popular nationalities that trek gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda are from Victoria Falls, United States of America, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Sweden, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Netherlands, Namibia, Mexico, Japan, Israel, Ireland, Hong Kong, Germany, France, Dubai (United Arab Emirates), China, Canada, Brazil, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Portugal, Spain and a few other countries.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs & Fees

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 Gorilla Trekking 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.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking 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 Gorilla Trekking?

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 for Gorilla Trekking

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.

Gorilla Trekking Packing List & Requirements

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.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking

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.

Gorilla Trekking Tips for 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.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry months from June to September and December to February. Uganda offers easier treks and clear views, while Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park provides a high-end experience. Wet seasons are cheaper but have muddy trails and harder access.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda can be visited all year because of its good climate, but the best time to see gorillas is during the dry months of June to September and December to February. These months have sunny weather, dry trekking paths, and clear views of the gorillas. Visitors should book gorilla permits and lodges early since it is a busy season.

The wet months from March to May and October to November are cheaper with discounts on lodges and easy-to-get permits. Gorillas are easier to find as they stay lower, but roads are muddy. Birding and photography are also best during this time.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to early February. Treks take place in Volcanoes National Park, which is home to ten habituated gorilla families and five volcanoes, including Mount Karisimbi and Mount Sabyinyo. The park can be reached by a 2-3-hour drive from Kigali.

During the rainy season, roads and trails become muddy, making trekking harder. Rwanda offers a more comfortable and high-end gorilla trekking experience compared to Uganda and Congo. Gorilla permits cost $1500 per person, and visitors should book early and pack proper trekking gear.

Gorilla Trekking Month by Month Guide

Below is a month by month analysis of what gorilla trekking is like.

• Gorilla Trekking in January: A great month for gorilla trekking tours. The weather is dry and sunny, and trails are easy to walk on. Gorillas are active, and photographers enjoy clear forest views.
• Gorilla Trekking in February: Still part of the dry season. Trekking is smooth, and the forest is less muddy. It is a busy time, so permits and lodges should be booked early.
• Gorilla Trekking in March: The rains begin. Trails become muddy and slippery, but the forest is green and beautiful. Fewer visitors come, and lodges offer lower prices.
• Gorilla Trekking in April: Heavy rains make trekking harder. However, gorillas often stay on lower slopes, making them easier to reach. Good for travelers looking for cheaper trips.
• Gorilla Trekking in May: Still wet, but the rains start to reduce toward the end of the month. The forest is full of life and color. Great time for bird watchers.
• Gorilla Trekking in June: The start of the long dry season. Perfect conditions for trekking with clear skies and firm trails. One of the best months for gorilla trekking.
• Gorilla Trekking in July: Dry and sunny weather continues. Gorillas are easy to find, and many tourists visit. Book permits early as it is a peak season.
• Gorilla Trekking in August: Another dry month with great trekking conditions. Forest paths are clear, and photography is excellent. The forest is busy but enjoyable.
• Gorilla Trekking in September: The dry season ends, but trekking is still good. Occasional light rain may fall. A quieter month compared to July and August.
• Gorilla Trekking in October: The rains return, making trails muddy again. Fewer tourists visit, and prices drop. Gorillas stay lower in the forest.
• Gorilla Trekking in November: Rain continues but not as heavy as in April. The forest looks fresh and green, and it’s a calm time for trekking.
• Gorilla Trekking in December: A short dry season begins. Excellent month for trekking and photography. Many visitors come during the holidays, so book early.

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.

Accommodation Options Near Gorilla Trekking Parks

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.

Lodges in 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.

Lodges Near 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.