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Gorilla Trekking – Ultimate Guide for Gorilla Treks in Rwanda and Uganda

If you're looking for a complete gorilla trekking guide, we've got you covered.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular African safaris. It doesn't hurt that getting to them is also a breathtaking adventure.

From the stunning Virunga Mountains to the ethereal butterflies in the morning mist, Gorilla trekking in Africa is an unforgettable experience.

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about gorilla safaris .

15 Gorilla Safaris FAQs

1. what is gorilla trekking.

Gorilla trekking is an experience that involves tracking habituated gorillas in the mountain forests of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Gorilla habituation is the practice of training wild gorillas to be comfortable around humans. The park rangers conduct the training and it takes about 2-years to complete.

Like most wildlife, gorillas are territorial and protective of their families. They are gentle creatures, as long as they don't view you as a threat. However, if you come across an unhabituated gorilla, it can be dangerous. This is why only habituated gorillas are tracked.

Habituated gorillas are very unlikely to view humans as a threat and will be passive during your visit.

Mountain gorilla trekking is available in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Congo. There are safety concerns regarding the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thus, in this guide, we only focus on Rwanda and Uganda.

In Rwanda, the mountain gorillas live in Volcanoes National Park. Gorillas in Uganda call two parks their home - namely, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

2. How difficult is Gorilla Trekking?

You need a good fitness level to track gorillas. You will be tracking gorillas through a mountainous rainforest. Certain routes are steeper than others. Even the easiest route will need a moderate level of fitness and experience.

You can ask to join a route that will suit your fitness level.

It also depends on the season you trek in. Gorilla tracking is easier in the dry seasons. During the rainy season, the slopes will be slippery and muddy. Vegetation is denser in the wet season, as well. You will exert more energy faster than in dry terrain.

3. What is the minimum age for Gorilla Trekking?

The minimum age requirement for both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is 15 years old.

4. When is the best time to go Gorilla trekking?

January or February is the best time to see mountain gorillas in Uganda. It is one of the dry seasons which makes tracking and viewing wildlife easier. There are also fewer trekkers so less competition for gorilla permits.

The trekking periods in Uganda are split into high and low seasons. 

Due to its location on the equator, Uganda has a tropical climate. The temperatures average around 23⁰C (73⁰F) in the afternoon. There are two rainy seasons in Uganda.

The national parks are open year-round. Gorilla tours are available even during the rainy seasons. Due to its climate, the sun usually peaks through as soon as the rains stop. Lodges and permit rates are usually reduced during the wet season.

The rainy season brings an increase in food along the lower slopes. This makes finding the gorillas easier (usually only about 2-hours of trekking). The forest will also be lush with vegetation; perfect for photography.

While the option is available to trek in the low seasons, you should consider the terrain. The rains will have turned the routes muddy and difficult to trek. This likely won't be a concern for experienced trekkers. But it will still be uncomfortable, especially if it starts raining during your trek.

Below is a brief breakdown of the entire gorilla trekking season according to months in Uganda. 

February to March is the best time to track gorillas in Rwanda. It is close enough to the wet season that Volcanoes National Park will not be too busy. It is also still the dry season, and this makes trekking easier.

The trekking periods in Rwanda are split into high and low seasons. 

Rwanda has a tropical highland climate and is considered an all-year destination. The temperatures average 30⁰C (86⁰F) in the lowlands and 14⁰C (57.2⁰F) in the highlands.

Viewing wildlife is considered easier in the dry season. Tracks are easier for the guides/ranges to spot and point out to you.

The park is beautiful in the dry season, but the rains bring out a breathtaking lushness. The entire forest comes alive after the rains. The terrain will be slippering though, and trekking while wet will not be pleasant.

On the plus side, the lodges usually reduce their prices during the rainy seasons.

Below is a brief breakdown of the entire gorilla trekking season according to months in Rwanda. 

5. How do I acquire a Gorilla Trekking permit?

All permits include a park entrance fee, guide fee, and community contribution.

75% of the fees are for conservation. It provides a means of protection for the national parks and their inhabitants.

Gorilla permits in Uganda are US$700 per person. Permits can be purchased at  Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) .

If you are visiting as part of a tour group, the agent will likely buy the permit on your behalf. Gorilla tours often include the permit price in the tour fee.

Booking in advance is essential to avoid disappointment. Using an authorized agent will be to your advantage.

Gorilla permits in Rwanda are US$1,500 per person. You can buy the permits from the  Rwanda Development Board . Their headquarters is in Kigali. Or, you can get a permit from an authorized agent.

The second option may be a better choice. The travel agency will often include the permit in your travel/tour package.

Booking in advance is essential and an authorized agent can do this for you.

6. What does an average gorilla trekking safari cost?

If you want to trek with gorillas, it is best to do it as part of a tour or safari. Most of these safaris are all-inclusive and the agents see to everything for you. Some tour companies add accommodation in their fees as well.

Keep in mind, that factors such as food, visas, and border crossing, extra gear, etc, all factor into the cost. And that's not mentioning the plane ticket and transportation costs during your stay. If you are working with a strict budget, be sure to consider all factors.

Gorilla safaris fall into 3 categories:

Here are the costs of gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

7. What are the best lodges for gorilla trekking?

Below are the 5 best safari accommodation in Uganda and Rwanda, from the lowest price to the highest.

8. What gear do I need for Gorilla Trekking?

You will need to wear the correct clothing to trek through tropical rainforests. It will not be wise to track the gorillas in a shorts and t-shirt. The humidity will make it tempting, but long-sleeves and long pants are safer.

Here's what you should wear when gorilla trekking:

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Long-sleeve shirt
• Long pants (trousers)
• Long socks (consider tucking your pant legs into your socks)
• Rain jacket/poncho
• Consider taking robust gloves (like gardening gloves)

Other gear to bring includes:

• Walking stick (can be acquired at the park headquarters)
• Extra sweater
• Camera or cellphone (don't use the flash for pictures)
• Insect repellent
• Bottled water
• Energy snacks
• Basic first aid kit
• Any chronic medication (allergy medication or EPI Pens, if applicable)

9. What can I expect on a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda?

You will begin your gorilla trekking experience with a 30-minute briefing at 7:30 am. Refreshments and entertainment (traditional Kinyarwanda song and dance) are available from 7 am. All free of charge and you can have as much coffee as you want.

Before the briefing, groups of 8 get assigned to a gorilla family to track.

The gorilla trekking kicks off at 8 am. The ranger/guides will lead you through the tropical rainforest. The beauty of the Virunga Mountains is difficult to miss. You could end up climbing steep inclines. It all depends on which gorilla family you are tracking.

It could take between 3-6 hours to track the gorillas.

Some groups prefer the lowlands while others frequent steep slopes. Hiking speed, weather, and terrain also factor into the trekking time. Your guides will also make frequent stops to give you a break.

Under current Covid-19 restrictions, once you find the gorillas, your guides will tell you to sanitize again. You are to maintain at least a 10-meter distance and to keep your voice low. Your guides will answer questions and pictures are welcome (no flash though).

After one hour with these gentle giants, the guides will lead you back out of the forest.

Be sure to keep a watchful eye for wildlife during the trek. Volcanoes National Park is also home to the golden monkey. Seeing them while mountain gorilla trekking is a real treat.

There is a large population of butterfly species and over 50 bird species. The other mammals will be difficult to spot in their natural habitat. The animals are easier to spot in the dry months when the vegetation is less dense.

10. What can I expect on a gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to half of the world's mountain gorilla population. Gorilla trekking in Uganda begins at 7:30 am with a 30-minute briefing. You are placed in groups of 8 and then the staff explains the trekking rules.

After the current COVID-19 safety checks, you will set out at 8 am. Your guides will lead you through the dense forest. Pay close attention as they point out wildlife and unique vegetation. The dry months are the best time to spot animals. You may even encounter the rare forest elephant, buffalo, or giant forest hog.

When encountering wildlife remember to listen to your guides. Their rules are for your safety.

Gorilla trekking could take between 2-6 hours. This depends on which gorilla family you are tracking. The mountain gorillas move around a lot for food. You may end up climbing steep slopes before you encounter them.

Your hiking speed and the weather also factor into gorilla trekking.

When you reach the gorillas, the guides will remind you to keep a 10-meter distance and to keep your voice low. The flash on your camera must be off before you take pictures.

You will spend up to an hour with the great apes, and your guides will answer any questions.

Once back at Bwindi National Park headquarters, you can view one of the many traditional dances (at a fee). It is a great way to end your gorilla trekking experience.

11. What about gorilla treks in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda?

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is not as popular for gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda.

There is only one habituated gorilla family in this park. This means that only one tour group can trek per day. They are usually found in the Nyakagezi area.

As with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the briefing is at 7:30 am. The gorilla trekking begins at 8 am with a group of 8.

The area they prefer is very open and the trek is not very difficult. It takes about 2-4 hours to find them. You can visit the gorillas for an hour before returning to headquarters.

12. How many Habituated Gorilla Families are there?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest has 12 mountain gorilla families available for tracking. There are 7 gorilla family groups in Volcanoes National Park.

Mghinga Gorilla National Park only has one habituated group.

Bwindi Gorilla Families

• Rushegura: 19 members - 1 silverback
• Habinyanja: 17 members - 2 silverbacks
• Mubare: 8 members - 1 silverback
• Bitukura: 14 members - 4 silverbacks
• Oruzongo: 25 members - 2 silverbacks
• Kyuguriro: 15 members - 2 silverbacks
• Nkuringo: 19 members - 2 silverbacks
• Mishaya: 12 members - 2 silverbacks
• Nshongi: 26 members - 1 silverback
• Kahungye: 13 members - 3 silverbacks
• Bweza: 25 members - 1 silverback
• Bsingye: 9 members - 1 silverback

Volcanoes Gorilla Families

• Susa: 39 members - 3 silverbacks
• Sabyinyo: 9 members - 2 silverbacks
• Amahoro: 15 members - 1 silverback
• Group 13: 20 members - 1 silverback
• Umubano: 7 members - 1 silverback
• Kwitonda: 18 members - 2 silverbacks
• Hirwa: 9 members - 1 silverback

Mgahinga Family

• Nyakagezi: 10 members - 5 silverbacks

13. What are the safety tips for Gorilla Trekking?

Whether you choose to go gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, there are regulations you need to follow.

• Pay attention during the debrief; the information is important.
• Follow your guide/ranger's instructions. It is for your safety.
• Do not make direct eye contact. The gorillas will view that as a challenge and charge at you to assert their dominance.
• Maintain a 10-meter distance from the gorillas.
• Do not use a flash when taking pictures. It will startle and scare them, and they may charge at you.
• No loud noises.
• No sudden, aggressive movements.
• No eating, drinking, or smoking when encountering the gorillas.
• Do not cough or sneeze near the gorillas (cover your nose and mouth if you must).
• You cannot go near the gorillas if you are experiencing any symptoms of sickness.
• All human waste must be buried at least 30 cm (2 ft).

14. Is Gorilla Trekking ethical?

Gorilla tracking is ethical as long as it's done right.

The majority of the permit fee is for conservation efforts. It aids in the security of the gorillas in their natural habitat. Protection from poachers is one of many concerns.

All visitors get briefed for 30 minutes before the tracking begins. The staff will explain the regulations and rules. This ensures everyone's safety (yours and the gorillas) during the experience.

The rangers are not only your guides. They will also ensure you follow the rules.

Gorillas, like most wild animals, are territorial and protective. Only gorillas habituated are tracked.

Habituation is the practice of training mountain gorillas to be comfortable around humans. This ensures that they are in no way distressed by the visitors.

15. Uganda or Rwanda: Which is best for Gorilla Trekking?

Deciding which country is the best for gorilla trekking is a personal preference.

Below is a comparison of the highs and lows of visiting each country and their respective national parks.

Pros and Cons of Uganda and Rwanda

The real deciding factor should be the trekking itself. But you won't know your preference unless you trek in both parks.

Tour companies often offer multi-day packages that begin in one park and end in the other. You will cross the Rwanda-Uganda border during this type of tour.

COVID-19 Regulations in Uganda and Rwanda

As we currently live in a post-pandemic world, here is a list of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for tourism for Uganda and Rwanda.

Please note these are subject to change (they are current as of December 2022).

General Covid-19 Regulations in Uganda and Rwanda

• Individuals are required to either possess an up-to-date vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result not older than 24 hours to attend formal meetings and access public places.
• Vaccination certificates are now mandatory to access government buildings and all public and private offices.
• Wearing facemasks in enclosed spaces are recommended by officials. 
• Handshaking and hugging remain prohibited.
• It is advised that all Ugandan citizens get vaccinated at least every six months.

Covid-19 Regulations at Gorilla Trekking Briefing Points

• At the briefing points, all visitors and staff will go through the standard COVID-19 checks. Wash and/or sanitize hands and check body temperature.
• Once the briefing is done, visitors get separated into groups of 8. They are then assigned to gorilla groups. Debriefing is done in those same groups of 8.
• If any of the visitors or staff show symptoms of being sick, they are not allowed to track. These can include flu-like symptoms, reports of diarrhea or upset stomach, malaria, etc.
• All persons must wear masks.
• The visitors will keep a minimum distance of 10-meters from the gorillas.
• A 2-meter distance must be kept among the group while tracking (where able). The guide rangers will ensure this.
• Due to the side-effects of wearing masks for long distances in high altitudes, the group will stop for frequent breaks for fresh air. The guides will monitor proper social distancing during these breaks.
• Everyone will sanitize again once they reach the gorillas.
• Tourists are only allowed to carrying light equipment. Porters should be used as little as possible.
• If someone in the group experiences health problems, the guides will implement established first aid and evacuation guidelines and affected individual(s) will then be moved from the field.

References:  Crisis24 , Rwanda Ministry of Health

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See more information on  Africa . Or check out these other African Hiking articles:

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• Exploring the Simien-Ethiopia Mountain Range
• Complete Guide to Trekking in Morocco
• Uncovering the Atlas Mountains
• Kilimanjaro Climbing Guide
• Complete Guide to Mount Kenya
• Hiking in South Africa
• Major Mountain Ranges in Africa

About the author 

Kayla De Jongh

Kayla lives in Cape Town, South Africa - her favorite place in the world! Kayla has traveled extensively in Southern Africa. When she's not writing about adventure travel, she's an epic mum to two gorgeous kids.

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For the minimum age, even those as young as 12 can be allowed to trek mountain gorillas so long as you write a letter to a responsible body. But, thanks for sharing useful information about mountain gorilla trekking.

Thanks Gava!

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Gorilla trekking

How and where to see gorillas in the wild.

Philip Briggs

Charlotte Beauvoisin

Ian Redmond OBE

• In this guide

Uganda or Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking costs.

• Before & after
• Photography tips
• Conservation

Where to go gorilla trekking

• Need to know
• What to expect

Costs & permits

• Book carefully!

Gorilla trekking FAQs

Before Sir David Attenborough’s landmark TV programme, Life On Earth , gorillas were seen largely in a negative light, based on King Kong and cheap B-movie monsters. At one point, a survey of the world’s most feared animals featured gorillas alongside sharks and spiders.

Seeing this popular TV personality interacting with friendly gorillas changed all that. The famous sequence of Sir David’s encounter and his awe for the gentle giants helped bring a new understanding of their true nature to TV screens around the world.

Today gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda are both countries' biggest draw for international visitors. Perhaps there's something about these creatures' gentle vulnerability despite their colossal size that triggers a sense of empathy for our distant cousins. Do we see something in them that we wish we saw in ourselves? Whatever the appeal, visitors who come to spend a magical moment with the gorillas describe a life-changing experience.

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Gorilla trekking: overview.

As a guidebook writer specialised in East Africa , I’ve been gorilla trekking at least a dozen times in three different countries. It’s an experience that never gets old. On the contrary, every gorilla encounter is different. You might find yourself sitting a few metres from a barrel-headed silverback as it delicately shreds a bamboo shoot, or exchanging a questioning glance with a curious middle-aged mama, or watching a young hooligan climbing ineptly up a liana and tumbling playfully back to the ground. However your encounter plays out, anybody who has looked into the soft brown eyes of a gorilla will confirm that it is an awesome experience.

On the following pages you'll find our expert guide to gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, but for quick reference here's what you need to know:

• Rwanda is significantly more expensive with accommodation and tours skewed to the luxury end of the market. The gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda is more accessible and convenient. If you have less time, or are a less confident hiker, I normally suggest Rwanda. See our country comparison here .
• Gorilla trekking in Uganda is cheaper and more diverse than in Rwanda, with accommodation for a wider range of budgets and a greater range of activities. If you’re on a tight budget, or you’re looking for a longer, more varied and more adventurous trip, I’d probably recommend Uganda.
• Wherever you go, gorilla tracking permits are required and can be scarce: book well ahead if you're travelling in peak months.
• It's a year-round activity, but the best conditions are during the dry seasons .

One magical moment: coming face to face with mountain gorillas in Uganda

The best places to see gorillas in the wild

In the wild, gorillas are found in 10 countries in the equatorial African rainforest, of which Rwanda and Uganda are by far the main locations for commercially-organised gorilla trekking.

Volcanoes National Park

Accessible gorilla trekking in volcanoes national park.

Volcanoes National Park, which protects the Rwandan slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains, has positioned itself as Africa’s premier gorilla tracking destination. One reason for its popularity is that it lies a short drive north of the Rwandan capital Kigali, making it a convenient add-on to any multi-country African trip or Big Five safari elsewhere in the region. Another is the association with Dian Fossey; the iconic primatologist worked here for two decades prior to her death, and several scenes in the Oscar-winning movie Gorillas in the Mist were shot here too.

In my experience, Volcanoes generally offers relatively easy tracking conditions compared to Bwindi, its main rival, and the range of luxury lodges bordering the park is second to none. A negative for budget conscious visitors is the relatively hefty price tag of US$1,500 for one of the park’s 96 daily tracking permits. Once here, other recommended activities include tracking a habituated troop of endangered golden monkeys, the day climb to the spectacular crater lake at 3,711m summit of Mount Bisoke, and a hike to Dian Fossey’s grave at her abandoned research centre.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Best all-round gorilla trekking in bwindi.

Bwindi vies with Volcanoes National Park as Africa's best all-round gorilla tracking destination. Its densely forested slopes are home to 45% of the world’s mountain gorilla population, and a total of 23 habituated groups means that 180-plus permits are available daily. True, tracking conditions are generally less predictable than they are in Rwanda, and the denser foliage can sometimes make it more difficult to obtain clear views. But this is mitigated by the fact that permits are less than half the price (in other words, you could track here on two successive days and pay less than you would for a single excursion in Rwanda) and by the park’s relative accessibility to independent travellers.

Be aware that there are four discrete tracking hubs in Bwindi. Each hub is serviced by its own cluster of lodges, so it is important you coordinate your permit and accommodation booking around the same place. The oldest hub is Buhoma, which usually offers the easiest hiking conditions, is accessible on public transport, and has the widest range of accommodation (from luxury lodges to simple local guesthouses) but is also the most likely for permits to be booked solid months in advance. Nkuringo hub offers the most challenging tracking (almost always bookended by a steep one-hour descent and two-hour ascent). Rushaga has the most permits, with 9 habituated groups resident, so it is good for last minute bookings. Ruhija is the only tracking hub set deep within the park, rather than on the periphery, which makes it highly alluring for other wildlife and birding.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Uganda's hidden gem.

Mgahinga, set on the Ugandan slope of the Virungas, is my personal favourite among East Africa’s gorilla tracking destinations.

True, there’s only one habituated group here, but if you can secure one of the park’s eight daily permits, you're in for a special experience. This is because the group in question is overseen by a trio of massive male siblings, making for superb silverback viewing. In addition, the gorillas here are generally found in bamboo forest or other relatively open areas, hiking conditions are usually quite undemanding, and low tourist volumes give the park a relatively off-the-beaten-track feel. What’s more, the location, below the volcanic Virunga peaks, is utterly spectacular, and other activities on offer include golden monkey tracking and various volcano hikes.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

For underrated & affordable gorilla treks.

Kahuzi-Biega is East Africa's most underrated gorilla-tracking destination. This little-visited Congolese park is the only place in the world where you can see the eastern lowland gorilla in the wild. As with Virunga National Park, tracking permits cost US$400, the difference being that Kahuzi-Biega is currently regarded to be reasonably safe so it has reopened to tourists post-COVID. For independent travellers, the park can be visited on an overnight or day tour from the Rwandan port of Cyangugu.

Virunga National Park

Virunga national park (currently closed).

Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse national park, home to an astonishing tally of 200 mammal and 700 bird species, will mark its centenary in 2025. Unfortunately, however, the park’s politically volatile location means that celebrations are likely to be muted. Indeed, having closed for COVID-related reasons in March 2020, Virunga National Park has yet to reopen as a result of a fresh outburst of instability and military activity.

As and when the park does reopen, it will still probably be a riskier destination than its neighbours. That said, gorilla tracking is experientially comparable to any other park in the region, and it will be relatively affordable if the permit fee of US$400 is maintained.

For me, the biggest highlight of this incredible park when I visited a few years back was not gorilla tracking but the incredible overnight hike to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano that hosts a permanent lava lake.

In the meantime you may want to support WWF's campaign to prevent oil drilling in Virunga.

East Africa

Lesser-known gorilla safari locations.

There are a couple of parks in west-central Africa where western lowland gorillas can be seen in the wild. These are the Congo Republic’s Odzala-Kokoua National Park and Central African Republic’s Dzanga-Sangha Forest Reserve, both of which protect vast tracts of lowland rainforest inhabited by the likes of forest elephant, lowland bongo and chimpanzee . At the moment, these parks only really cater to high-end fly-in gorilla safaris and are difficult to reach on a normal holiday or travel budget.

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Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda is a developed and well-organised industry with few pitfalls to be aware of. The following pointers will help you plan a seamless trip.

Trekking to meet the gorillas in Rushaga, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

What’s gorilla trekking like?

It’s a big day with an early start and potentially hours of hiking, so make sure of an early night the day before. I was so excited on the eve of my first gorilla trek that I barely slept a wink.

Your lodge or tour operator will organise a transfer to the park headquarters for registration and a briefing around 7:00am. You’ll get an important reminder of the regulations and safety guidelines and your group will be assigned to visit a specific gorilla family.

You’ll usually trek for at least an hour before you reach your gorilla family. In some cases, it may take three or more hours before you find your group.

The scenery is stunningly beautiful, and the hike is all part of the experience.

As you come within range of your gorilla family, you’ll leave your bags so you can approach the group more closely. Once you make contact, you’ll spend an hour with the gorillas. They may be hanging from trees, grooming, suckling their babies, playing, sleeping, farting or mating. Your hour with the gorillas may be calm or it may be full of drama! One thing is for sure, the hour will fly by. My biggest tip is to just enjoy being in their presence: don’t spend the whole time watching them through your camera screen.

If the gorillas are on the move, you’ll be able to move with them, keeping the required minimum distance of ten metres at all times. They may ignore you or show some interest and approach you. This is normal, exciting and – because of their size – a little scary too! It’s all part of the fun.

If the gorillas do approach, the rangers will reassure you and ask you to calmly step back. The rangers are highly knowledgeable; they will show you how to vocalise like a gorilla, and help you notice their behaviour and traits. I find talking to the guides an integral part of the experience. They know each gorilla family and their personalities intimately, tap into their wealth of knowledge about the gorillas, the forest and conservation issues.

Depending on where you are, you’ll find the gorillas in very different settings: I first saw them in dense dark forest; I’ve watched them in an open clearing, with clear views and plenty of sunlight; I’ve seen them balance precariously in the bamboo above my head! Keep lighting conditions in mind when planning your photos as flash photography is strictly prohibited.

Hire a porter!

At the morning briefing you’ll have the option of hiring a porter for the day. The going rate for a porter is around USD $20 (plus optional tip), and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Their help is absolutely invaluable. I really appreciate having my hands free to take photos or grab hold of a branch as I’m climbing a slope. Porters are more than happy to carry extra water (so there is no excuse for getting dehydrated). If it gets muddy, you have a strong pair of hands to help you scramble up the hillside. It’s also a fun way to interact with the locals, and it provides useful income in a community that has little access to cash jobs. Portering makes a valuable contribution to local livelihoods, and therefore directly supports gorilla conservation through tourism. In these areas, most people are subsistence farmers; having an opportunity to earn some extra cash is extremely well received. If you’re unsure of your physical ability, it’s also possible to hire an unglamorous-sounding “stretcher” which is carried by a group of porters. The use of a stretcher costs around USD $100 plus tips.

Remember you’re allowed just one hour of contact time. Many visitors find the gorillas more interesting when they’re resting, family clustered together, snoozing, grooming and playing. When you approach, ask your guide if they are on the move and, if they are, if you can wait for them to stop before making contact.

Crossing a bridge with the welcome support of a porter in Bwindi

Speak up before setting off!

The gorilla family that you’re assigned to visit is determined by your group’s trekking ability and preferences.

The park authorities closely monitor the whereabouts of each family and they have a good idea of their distance from headquarters. Some families are within an hour of easy hiking, others could be four or more hours away from HQ. The authorities will assign you to a gorilla family that is suited to your preferences and personal fitness.

So, if you have any preferences for a shorter (or longer) trek, I urge you to speak up at the morning briefing and you’ll be assigned to track the most appropriate gorilla family.

If you’re travelling with a big group this could mean splitting up – younger or fitter members trekking to a more distant family, and older or less mobile members visiting a more accessible family. It’s up to you, and the rangers will try to accommodate your preferences.

My number one gorilla trekking tip

My advice is to make this experience much more than ‘just’ seeing the gorillas. Your encounter with the gorillas is strictly limited to 60 minutes, which will fly by before you know it. But during the rest of your trip you’ll experience a part of the world that few others get to visit. You’ll see astonishing scenery, all sorts of other wildlife, and get to witness local people living their lives in this amazing setting. The gorillas are the crowning jewel, but don’t forget about the rest of the treasure trove on your race to see them.

Up close and personal: Meeting a silverback on a gorilla trek in Rwanda

Permit availability is limited and is determined by the number of habituated gorilla families in each country. Permits can sell out months in advance, especially during peak season.

The current cost of a permit for a foreign non-resident is USD $1,500 in Rwanda, USD $700 in Uganda and USD $400 in the DRC. This fee includes park entrance, and all guiding and tracking services (which are provided by the park, not by individual operators), but it does not include an optional porter to carry your day pack.

It's possible to organise a DIY gorilla trek in Rwanda by purchasing a permit directly from the Rwandan Development Board and then booking your own accommodation and transportation. In Uganda foreigners can only secure a permit via an authorised tour operator.

Other costs will depend on how you arrange your trip. Most visitors book an all-inclusive organised tour using midrange or luxury lodges. Standalone two- or three-day tours of this sort might cost anything from USD $1,500 per person to USD $5,000 and up, depending largely on the quality of accommodation.

If the cost of a gorilla permit and accommodation feels too high, I often recommend chimpanzee trekking as a lower-cost alternative for budget-conscious travellers. And if you can afford both, it also makes an excellent add-on to a gorilla trek!

Gorilla trekking can cost from USD $1,500 per person on the low-end, to $5,000 and above on the luxury end…

Don’t ignore off-season

In my experience, the best conditions for gorilla trekking in Rwanda are during the two dry seasons which run from June-September, and December-February. (Note that climate change is disrupting the timing of these seasons.) The advantages to tracking in dry season are less muddy paths, easier hiking and clearer views. The disadvantage is that these are the peak gorilla trekking seasons, demand for permits is higher, and accommodation is more expensive. You’ll need to book well in advance.

The rainy seasons, from March-May and September-November, can be very soggy but if you don’t mind the rain (and mud) the mountains will be quieter and you may find some good deals on accommodation. Saying that, just because it is called the rainy season, it doesn’t mean that it rains every day. There is no off-season discount on the gorilla trekking permit.

Whenever you come, you must bring your rain gear and some decent boots. Mountain gorillas live in the rainforest and most days have heavy dew, a light shower, a downpour, or all of the above!

The best time to see gorillas

The climate, gorilla trekking conditions, and tourism seasons are more or less the same in both Rwanda and Uganda…

Meeting point for the group tracking the Busingye family in the Rushaga sector, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Important! In Uganda, where you stay matters

Unlike in Rwanda, Uganda’s gorilla population is more dispersed and gorilla trekking here requires more planning.

The gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are scattered across four distinct areas: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga and Ruhija. In each area the gorillas are various distances from the entrance, and the terrain can vary greatly – which means an easier or harder trek depending on which area you visit.

Generally speaking I recommend Buhoma for easier-going treks and Nkuringo for longer and more challenging treks. Rushaga has the most permits, and Ruhija is good for birdwatching, although you'll probably need to do a separate (quieter) guided birdwatching hike after your gorilla trek.

The other key factor to bear in mind is to ensure your accommodation is not too far from your chosen trekking area. You have to be at the relevant entrance for the 7:00am briefing, so you should book a lodge that is not too far away from your chosen area entrance.

This only really matters if you’re booking your travel arrangements independently. If you’re using a specialist tour operator they’ll make the best match for your interests, budget and hiking ability.

In Rwanda, ignore whistle-stop itineraries

Standard tour itineraries tend to rush you through the gorilla trek and onwards to other lucrative destinations elsewhere in East Africa. In Rwanda I've even seen an itinerary that has you fly in, see the gorillas, and fly out all on the same day.

While these itineraries are technically possible, I really don't recommend them – there's much more to Rwanda (and Uganda) than one hour with the gorillas!

My advice is to slow right down, and appreciate the privilege of being able to visit this little corner of a vast continent. By all means combine your trip with some of the other East African ‘big hitters’, but treating the entire country as a springboard to just see the gorillas just feels wrong to me.

What To Do After A Gorilla Trek

UgandaUganda is a haven for primate lovers…

Don’t overlook local operators

There are many locally-based operators as well as international travel companies, often with stark price differences between the two. International travel companies often subcontract local operators to run their ground operations, so you may wonder why you’re paying a premium to a middleman. Generally speaking, international operators can offer an extra edge on pre-trip communication, higher-end lodges, more hand-holding, and stronger financial protection.

On the other hand, a good local tour operator will have a stronger grounding in the local community and customs, might use smaller, independent accommodations or homestays, and can generally get you out of the international tourism bubble. And the biggest factor for me: much more of your money will stay in the local economy, instead of being syphoned off abroad.

My advice as a 15-year resident of East Africa: embrace the local connection, don’t rely on the highly curated experience of an international company. Dance with the locals, make banana beer, get your hands dirty and do a bit of digging in the fields. Get out of your comfort zone and find out what local life is really like. I guarantee you will have a more memorable trip as a result.

If you do book with a local tour operator, always check independent reviews and ensure they’re registered with the Rwanda Tours and Travel Association or the Uganda Tourism Board. In addition, you may check they are registered with

the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, the Exclusive Sustainable Tourism Association, and/or YUTO. Pay by credit card for financial protection, and always make sure you’re covered with travel insurance from time of booking.

Gorilla trekking rules & guidelines

Tourists are only allowed to visit and interact with habituated mountain gorilla families. Habituation is a gradual process through which the gorillas get used to the presence of humans. This allows people to visit the gorillas without affecting their daily lives or natural behaviour.

Although the gorillas are habituated, the Rwanda Development Board and the Uganda Wildlife Authority enforce strict rules governing how tourists can interact with the animals. The following are for the safety and wellbeing of the gorillas and tourists and are considered non-negotiable:

• Your group is allowed a maximum of one hour with the gorillas.
• Visitors must be over the age of 15.
• The maximum group size for tracking the gorillas is eight people (plus rangers and porters).
• Hiking in thick forest at an altitude of over 2,000 metres (6,560 ft) can be tough. It is often wet. Visitors must be fit and in good health.
• You should not visit the gorillas if you have Covid-19, diarrhoea, flu or a cold. Gorillas have no immunity to most human diseases and even mild human infections can be lethal to a gorilla. The Covid-19 pandemic made us even more aware of the risk we pose to them. You are obliged to inform the authorities if you are sick and they will decide if you are well enough to visit the gorillas. Remember that the lives of the endangered gorillas are more important than your holiday.
• If you need to sneeze or cough, cover your nose and mouth to reduce the chance of spreading infection.
• Don't spit or leave litter in the forest. Gorillas can catch diseases from human rubbish.
• Always leave a distance of ten metres between you and the gorillas. If the gorillas start moving towards you, the rangers may advise you to move away from them.
• Gorillas can be quite curious. Do not touch the gorillas, even if they come close to you.
• Do not make any sudden movements.
• If a gorilla charges, do not run away. Avoid direct eye contact until the gorilla has moved away. Stay calm and slowly crouch down.
• Stay in your group. Do not crowd or surround the gorillas.
• If you need to go to the toilet in the forest, tell your guide and he will dig a hole for you. Cover the hole afterwards to prevent spreading disease to the gorillas.
• Flash photography is strictly forbidden.

Follow these simple, common-sense rules and your gorilla trek will be a positive one—for the gorillas as well as yourself!

Your questions, our expert answers

Is gorilla trekking hard.

This is the first question most people ask me. It’s hard to answer because it depends on where you go, the weather, and how long it takes to find the gorillas, all of which can vary from one day to the next.

In my experience, however, moderately fit people under the age of 60 are unlikely to find it particularly tough. Older and less fit travellers may find it more challenging; even so, the odds of locating gorillas is better than 99%, and your exhaustion is sure to dissipate when this happens.

We are six Baby Boomers planning to see the gorillas. One of us will be 82 and although in great shape, we won’t be able to hike for hours to see them. Will that work, and will there be porters to assist us?

This isn’t medical advice but it sounds to me like you'd be fine. I always recommend hiring a porter regardless of age; it's a huge help to have someone carry your stuff and leave your hands free for taking photos.

If you think you need some extra support you can hire a group to carry you on a rather unglamorously-named "stretcher" (it's better than it sounds!) You generally pay $10-$15 per person for the porter, and you might consider adding a tip of a similar amount. The "stretchers" cost around $100. These services are community-run initiatives and are a big boost to a family's income. All this can be arranged on the morning of your trek, during your briefing.

Also consider the location of your lodge and the gorilla family that you're assigned to track. Don't be shy in stating your tracking preferences during the morning briefing. The rangers want everyone to have a good – and safe – time so they will do their best to make sure that people with similar fitness levels are grouped together and assigned to track a more accessible gorilla family.

The Habinyanja family in Buhoma (Uganda) is well-known for being quite close to a number of the lodges. I tracked this same family a few years ago and had a lovely hour in search of them, before spending an hour with them. It took a little less than an hour to get back to the lodge, so about a three-hour round trip. Your tour operator should be able to identify a gorilla family and lodge combination that suits your fitness and ability levels.

Good preparation is also important. Local people love wearing gumboots (they keep out the ants as well as the mud) but walking boots with ankle support are the best option I'd say. I'd suggest bringing walking pole(s) or a stick. Sticks can also be bought or borrowed from your lodge.

Is gorilla trekking worth the money?

If you do a search for this question you'll find hundreds of pages – mostly from companies selling gorilla treks – saying yes it's definitely worth the money. My reply is more qualified: if you have to ask, the answer might actually be no!

For many, seeing the gorillas is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Personally I love it so much I’ve been four times!

But whether it is quite so life-changing for you depends on how passionate you are about wildlife encounters, hiking, (and early morning starts!) I actually think you’re most likely to be disappointed if your entire trip revolves around just seeing the gorillas – after your 60 minutes, the rest of the trip might feel anticlimactic. It should be regarded as a whole day’s activity in a pristine natural environment, not just the single hour with the great apes.

To get maximum value from the experience, make sure you’re prepared. Be as fit as possible, wear the right gear, rest well and don’t try to pack too many activities into your itinerary. These are both fascinating countries with much more than ‘just’ gorilla tracking; slow down and round out your experience by getting to know the rest of the country.

Why are gorilla permits so expensive?

Seeing mountain gorillas in either country isn’t cheap. The combined cost of permits, accommodation, guides and a tour can bring overall trip costs upwards of $2,000 per person. So why are gorilla treks so expensive?

The main reason is that mountain gorillas are endangered and vulnerable to uncontrolled human interaction. One of the biggest threats to the gorillas’ survival is disease. Gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, making them highly susceptible to infection from human diseases. Therefore the authorities (wisely, in my opinion) tightly restrict and control the number of interactions the gorillas have with people.

And it takes money to protect the gorillas’ natural habitat. A significant percentage of gorilla permit fees goes into conserving the gorillas’ mountain forest habitat. Finally, some of the money you pay will go into research and monitoring of the gorillas, as well as paying your guides and encouraging sustainable tourism. The authorities point to the growth in gorilla numbers as evidence of their success.

On balance the price might not be low, but in my opinion it’s still pretty good value considering the importance of protecting this endangered primate.

Is there an age limit?

The minimum age to visit gorillas in both countries is 15. You will need to provide your passport when you book your permits and park authorities will use your passport to verify your birthday matches the date given on your gorilla tracking permit.

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Despite their size and unfair reputation, gorillas are not remotely dangerous provided they’re treated with appropriate respect. All gorilla treks are accompanied by expert ranger guides who spend most of their time with the mountain gorillas. You’re only allowed to visit gorilla groups who have been habituated to the presence of humans, meaning they are used to having people near them and understand that you’re not a threat.

Gorillas are normally shy and reserved, spending the majority of their time feeding and looking after their young. However, they—like any wild animal—can exhibit defensive behaviour if they feel uneasy, particularly around their young. Your guide will recognise the signs; they may include ‘mock charging’, aggressive beating of their chests and grunting. Always follow your guide’s lead, but if faced with an aggressive gorilla, crouch down, look away and try to act relaxed. Your guide will advise you further during the pre-trek briefing.

Should I book a gorilla trek with a local or international operator?

There are many locally-based operators as well as international travel companies, often with stark price differences between the two. International travel companies often use local operators to run the ground operations, so you may wonder why you’re paying a premium to a middleman. Generally speaking international operators can offer an extra edge of communication, more hand-holding, and stronger financial protection. To help keep more of your money within the local economy I think it’s worth considering booking locally, but do check independent reviews and try to pay on a credit card and with travel insurance for financial protection.

How close can you get to the mountain gorillas?

Regulations state that you must stay 10 metres from the gorillas at all times and only spend one hour with them. In practice, inquisitive gorillas may come closer to you on your trek. If they do, stay calm and quiet, follow your guide’s advice and never touch the gorillas. Keep your voice low and avoid eye contact.

The gorillas will normally be more relaxed the further back you are. Your guide may ask your group to move to a different location to calm the gorillas or to get a better view.

What should I pack for a gorilla trek?

Your day of gorilla tracking will be long, active and may be fairly arduous. You’ll be hiking in thick forest in a changeable climate. Evenings can be cold; mornings are cool, and the days are hot—especially when you’re clambering up a muddy mountainside. Having the right gear makes all the difference:

A small backpack to carry water, packed lunch and rain jacket.

Walking boots or hiking shoes. Boots are ideal for the extra ankle support on rocky and muddy terrain. Another option (that is particularly popular with locals) is plastic gumboots. Not only do they keep your feet dry, but they keep insects—particular ants—at bay.

Long socks will allow you to tuck in your hiking trousers and protect your ankles from scratches and biting insects. Higher-end lodges may loan gaiters to guests.

Lightweight waterproof jacket.

Hiking pants or waterproof trousers (handy when sliding down muddy slopes!) Do not wear jeans or shorts: hiking in wet jeans can be miserable and shorts will leave you exposed to hungry insects and scratches from thorns.

A long-sleeved shirt offers much needed protection from the sun and insects.

A fleece or light-wool sweater for cold mornings.

Cheap gardening gloves will protect your hands but aren’t essential.

Sunglasses, sunscreen and sunhat.

Camera (and associated paraphernalia). Although some people take binoculars, you aren’t very likely to use them. You will spend most of your time in the forest where trees will obscure most things.

Many visitors—regardless of age or fitness—find walking poles useful and many upmarket lodges provide wooden poles. In VNP your guide can cut you a custom-made pole from bamboo!

At least one litre of drinking water and your packed lunch.

A basic first aid kit may come in handy: antiseptic wipes, antihistamine cream, insect repellent, plasters, painkillers, and rehydration sachets.

Can I organise a DIY gorilla safari in Rwanda?

There are two ways to organise a gorilla safari in Rwanda. You can either secure a permit yourself through the Rwanda Development Board and then try to book your transport and accommodation independently. You'll need to get yourself to the park entrance for the morning of your trek, if you book in a lodge near VNP they should be able to arrange transport for you.

Or you can book the whole thing through a licensed tour operator who will arrange your gorilla tracking permit, accommodation and all the necessary logistics. My advice is to book your trip with a tour operator. Rwanda is an easy place to travel around but things can go wrong, and their help can be invaluable.

We have hotel reservations for Bwindi, but need to buy gorilla tracking permits. How can we buy the permits?

In Uganda, international visitors must buy gorilla tracking permits via a tour operator. Only Ugandan residents can buy permits directly from the office in Kampala.

I recommend travelling with a tour operator that is registered with the Uganda Tourism Board . In addition, you may check they are registered with the Association of Uganda Tour Operators , the Exclusive Sustainable Tourism Association , and/or YUTO .

You'll need to give the tour operator the name of the lodge where you are staying. This is because gorilla tracking is an early morning activity so ideally they'll book permits for a gorilla family that is a short walk / drive from your lodge.

I'm trying to purchase a gorilla tracking permit for Rwanda but the website isn't working, what should I do?

Unfortunately the Rwanda Development Board gorilla permit portal can be unreliable! You may want to contact them directly on [email protected], alternatively you'll probably find it a lot easier to purchase your permits via a tour operator.

I am considering a gorilla safari in Rwanda in the first week of October. What is it like in terms of rain? I'm not super fit, is it likely to be very muddy and challenging? Thank you!

If you're tracking in Rwanda at the beginning of October, you may be lucky and not have too much rain. (It's November that is typically the wettest season during the year's late rains).

But to be honest, it can rain any day of the year, particularly in the afternoons. However, with good preparation you can still enjoy visiting the gorillas.

Firstly, make sure you have the right equipment: sturdy walking boots that cover and support your ankle, for example. Locals often prefer wearing gumboots but I prefer the non-slip grip of walking boots. Regardless of the time of year you track, we always recommend wearing layers e.g. thin longsleeve T-shirt, a light pullover fleece, plus a rain jacket. On the day you track, the rangers will assess your fitness level, and allocate you a group to suit you.

You don't need to be mega fit. You will be supported by the rangers and can also hire a porter. Invaluable! This means you don't have to worry about carrying your backpack. Nor do you need to worry about the mud, the weather or the distance since you'll have plenty of hands to literally lift you up, if needs be. You can also borrow, buy or hire a walking stick. Sometimes, someone will grab a piece of bamboo and make you one.

Make use of every bit of help that is offered. It's all part of the fun! I think you'll be fine. Enjoy!

In this guide:

When to go gorilla trekking in rwanda & uganda, how to choose between the two, is uganda or rwanda better for gorilla trekking, about the authors.

Philip Briggs is a guidebook writer and travel journalist specialised in African travel. He first backpacked between Nairobi and Cape Town in 1986 and has been travelling the highways and byways of Africa ever since. Since the 1990s, he has researched and authored several pioneering Bradt Guides. These include the first dedicated guidebooks to Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Malawi, Ghana, Mozambique, Rwanda and Somaliland. He has worked on guidebooks for several other publishers including AA, Insight, Berlitz, Eyewitness, Frommers, Rough Guides, Struik-New Holland and 30 Degrees South.

Charlotte is a travel journalist and guidebook author based on the edge of Kibale Forest, Uganda. She is an expert contributor on East Africa for the Bradt Uganda Guidebook and has written for Lonely Planet, The Daily Telegraph and Fodor's. She also volunteers with Conservation Through Public Health where she works with Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, Uganda's most prominent gorilla vet.

Ian Redmond is a tropical field biologist and conservationist, renowned for his work with great apes and elephants. For more than 40 years he has been associated with the mountain gorilla, through research, filming, tourism and conservation work. Ian founded Ape Alliance in 1996 to encourage conservation organisations to work together.

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Gorilla Trekking in Uganda – A Complete Guide

Last updated: May 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 12 Comments

If you are planning on going gorilla trekking in Uganda, or you are just wondering what gorilla trekking entails you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we’re going to share with you everything you need to know about gorilla trekking and where you can see the mountain gorillas in Uganda. This is based on our personal experiences trekking to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know where to see gorillas, how much it costs, how hard it is, what you need to pack, and more.

If you are not sure if you want to do a gorilla trek, this information should help you decide if it is an experience that is right for you or not. Gorilla trekking is expensive and can require some strenuous hiking so it is not for everyone.

There are also lots of photos to give you an idea of what to expect, as well as some tips on getting great photos on your gorilla trek. Let’s get started!

Where Can you see Gorillas in Africa?

The first question you probably have is where you can actually see gorillas. There are a number of gorilla species, but most people travel to see the mountain gorilla. This is a sub-species of the eastern gorilla species, and there are only around 800 – 1,100 mountain gorillas currently in the wild. They are listed as a critically endangered species.

Mountain gorillas, as the name suggests, live in mountainous regions, and can only be found living in the wild in three countries in Africa. These are Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

There are only two wild populations of mountain gorillas left in the world. The first group lives in the Virunga mountains, a chain of volcanic mountains in East Africa. In this population the gorillas are scattered in groups across Uganda (Mgahinga Gorilla National Park), Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Virunga National Park).

The second population lives within the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park).

Due to current safety issues in the Democratic Republic of Congo, most travellers visit the mountain gorillas in either Rwanda or Uganda.

Note that while we are specifically going to focus on gorilla trekking in Uganda in this article, much of the information such as preparation, packing, and the actual hiking experience is going to be fairly similar if you do gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Congo.

Where Can you See Gorillas in Uganda?

There are two national parks in Uganda where you can see mountain gorillas. These are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the Virunga Mountains, and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

The parks are located next to each other in southwestern Uganda, and both offer the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in the wild.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to around 80 mountain gorillas, of which two gorilla families have been habituated for visitors. It’s a 13 square mile national park in the larger Virunga Mountains.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to around 400 mountain gorillas, nearly half the world’s population. Fourteen gorilla families have been habituated for visitors. This park covers 128 square miles, and there are four gorilla trekking regions:

• Buhoma Gorilla Region, home to 3 habituated gorilla families
• Ruhija Gorilla Region, home to 3 habituated gorilla families
• Rushaga Gorilla Region, home to 5 habituated gorilla families
• Nkuringo Gorilla Region, home to 3 habituated gorilla families

However, be aware that the gorillas aren’t aware of things like park or country boundaries, and so the number of families that can be visited can vary if they migrate.

Most visitors to Uganda go to Bwindi for gorilla trekking as there are more families that can be visited and therefore more permits available. If you book a tour through an operator, they will likely pick the area and region for you based on your itinerary and lodging options.

Is Bwindi or Mgahinga a Better Place to See the Gorillas in Uganda?

You have about the same chances of seeing the gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Now, there are a lot more gorillas in Bwindi, so you are more likely to get a permit and do a gorilla trek in Bwindi than at Mgahinga. However, no matter which park, or which section of Bwindi you trek, the chances are about the same as each group will be assigned to trek a specific gorilla family on the day.

In terms of the actual hiking experience, they may vary a bit depending on which region; however, they are all relatively similar. Some people say hiking can be a bit easier at Mgahinga, but again this just depends on the day and the location of the gorillas.

Do you Need a Permit to go Gorilla Trekking?

Yes, you do need a permit to go gorilla trekking in Uganda (as well as in Rwanda or Congo).

Mountain gorillas are very rare, and they live in a remote and difficult to access part of the world. Visiting them is also a very popular activity. As such, you can’t just wander into the forest on your own and seek out the gorillas. Even if it was allowed, it would be very difficult and rather dangerous.

Instead, the only way to see gorillas in the wild is to get a permit and take an official gorilla trek. In Uganda these are all arranged by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and you need to book a permit in advance . Be sure that you arrange your gorilla trek before you travel to Uganda. If booking through a tour operator, they will likely arrange this on your behalf.

The permit includes the cost of the rangers who accompany you as well as bush trackers who track the gorilla family’s movement so you have a better chance of seeing the gorillas.

Note that while it is possible that you could happen to see the mountain gorillas without trekking (e.g., our guide once saw them near the road) this is very rare as the gorillas rarely leave the forest. So if you want to see the gorillas, you will need to book a permit (or have your tour operator do so) to do a guided trek.

How Many People Go on a Gorilla Trek?

In order to protect the mountain gorillas and limit the amount of time humans interact with the gorillas, the numbers of people allowed to visit each gorilla family is controlled. Each group is limited to a maximum of eight visitors, plus the rangers, trackers, and any porters.

So, I would go with the expectation of 8 people in your group as it is a popular activity. But the number will just depend on the number of people who purchased permits for that particular day and the way that the rangers divide the groups.

How Likely Are you to See Gorillas in Uganda?

We spoke to the rangers on our trip and also our guide in Uganda about how often people see the gorillas when trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The overall consensus was that the chances are very good, most estimating that over 90% of the time visitors will get to see the gorillas.

The main reason that some people don’t see the gorillas is not that the gorillas can’t be found, but that travelers decide to return before they reach the gorillas. The trek to see the gorillas can be challenging, especially if the gorilla family being visited is further away, and some travelers may find that the trek is more arduous then they imagined and return.

Of course, as these are wild animals, there are no guarantees. Whilst the park has bush trackers who go out very early each day to find the gorillas, they do not have GPS tags or anything like that, so there is always a small possibility that they will be unable to locate them. But this is unusual.

How Long Do You Spend with the Gorillas in Uganda?

So as to minimise the disturbance to the gorillas, once you find the family you are allowed to spend one hour with them.

We found that this time went by very quickly, but we had plenty of time to observe them and get all the photos that we wanted.

How much does it cost to go Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking is definitely not a budget experience. Prices in Uganda for gorilla trekking permits are below for 2023.

• 700 USD per person for foreign non residents
• 600 USD per person for foreign residents
• 250,000 Ugandan shillings for East African citizens

You can see the most recent prices on the Uganda Wildlife Authority website here . These prices include park entry, guide fees, and a contribution to local community development. However they don’t include transport to and from the park or any accommodation. They also don’t include tips for guides and trackers or the cost of hiring a porter (minimum of $15/person when we were there).

Whilst the prices are high, you should be aware that the funds are used for both gorilla conservation and also for wildlife conservation in Uganda in general. Some of the funds also go to the local community, to encourage gorilla preservation efforts. Mountain gorilla numbers have been rising in the past several years, and much of it is attributed to controlled tourism and conservation efforts paid for by trekking permits.

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda compares very favourably to the prices for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, where permits are currently $1500 for foreign non-residents. In Congo it’s cheaper at $400.

What is the Gorilla Habituation Experience?

As well as the standard tracking experience, it is possible to book onto a Gorilla Habituation experience. This is a separate tour which as of March 2023 costs $1,500 USD per person.

The gorilla habituation experience has you visiting a gorilla family which has not yet been approved for normal tours to visit. Gorillas are wild animals, and it takes a while for them to become used to humans. This process is known as habituation, and the Gorilla Habituation experience has you visiting a gorilla family which has begun this process.

Whilst the experience is more expensive, it does give you a lot longer with the gorilla family. In fact, you get to spend four hours with the gorilla family, instead of the usual one hour. There are also stricter limits on the group size, with only four people per family instead of eight.

Despite the higher price, the habituation experience is still popular, and if this is something you are interested in doing we recommend booking as far in advance as popular due to the limited number of spaces available.

How to Book a Gorilla Trek in Uganda

In Uganda, gorilla trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority .

For most visitors, their gorilla trekking permit is booked by their tour operator as part of their tour, and is the same price as booking it directly. If you are travelling independently, you can book on the UWA website here . Be sure to call or e-mail in advance of your booking via the link on the page to check availability before paying.

Gorilla trekking is a very popular activity in Uganda, and is something you will want to book at least two months in advance to ensure you are not disappointed as there is limited availability.

You should be aware when booking what the cancellation policy is and check before purchasing. In general, you get 75% back if you cancel more than 90 days before your trek, 50% if it’s 46 – 90 days until your trek, 25% if it’s 9 – 45 days until your trek, and nothing if you cancel within 8 days of your trek date.

However, definitely check what the cancellation policy is when you book as these might change.

How Difficult is Gorilla Trekking?

The answer to this obviously varies, but as a general rule, gorilla trekking is a challenging and demanding physical activity.

The mountain gorillas in Uganda live in remote and densely forested areas. Whilst there are small trails through the jungle which have been created over time by visitors, expect there to be plenty of branches and thorns to watch out for as you walk.

In addition, when you get closer to where the gorillas are you will likely have to leave the trail and go through the jungle itself. The rangers and trackers will bring big machetes to help clear the way, but it can still be challenging to get through.

It can also be very hot, very wet, and very humid, as well as very muddy!

There is also no set route to visit the gorillas. They move around of their own free will, so the amount of time it will take to visit them can vary from under an hour to almost a full day depending on where they are and how long it takes the trackers to locate them. Treks can be as long as 5 hours each way.

So you can be lucky and have a shorter hike, or you can spend most of the day in the jungle. All this is to say, you will want to be both physically fit and mentally prepared for what might be a very challenging hike.

The good news is that you can get help in the form of porters who you can hire before you start your trek. These are extremely fit locals who you can pay to carry your bag or bags for you. The fee was a minimum of $15 per person when we did our trek (so be sure to bring cash if you plan to hire a porter). Porters can also help you up and down any particularly tricky sections.

However, you will still want to be fit enough to ascend and descend steep terrain, and sure footed on uneven, unstable, and slippery terrain. So if you have mobility issues or physical limitations, it is definitely worth thinking about whether you think you could do the trek before booking a hike.

I would add that in general the trackers and rangers have an idea of where each gorilla family will be as they visit them most days, and they don’t tend to move too much. They also obviously want people to have a positive experience, and will try to split the groups up by fitness level. Usually each gorilla family will be a different distance away.

If you would prefer a less demanding hike, you can request your tour guide to let the rangers know that you would prefer to visit a closer family. You can also let the rangers know yourself of course.

Just be aware that there are no guarantees that this will be possible, or that the “closer” family will actually be closer!

I definitely don’t want to put you off gorilla trekking, as it is an amazing experience that is well worth doing. I just want you to be fully prepared for it so you can get some hiking practice in well in advance!

When is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Whilst you can go gorilla trekking at any time of year in Uganda, we would suggest during one of the two dry seasons would be best if you are flexible in when you visit. Whilst there is always a possibility of rain in this mountainous region, it is less likely at this time of year, meaning you are less likely to get soaked during your trek.

There are two dry seasons in Uganda, one that lasts from about December to February, and one from approximately June to September. This is also a generally good time to visit Uganda for wildlife viewing.

But gorilla trekking can still be good in the wet season, but you do need to be prepared for the much greater probability of rain and mud which can make the hike more challenging and can impact how well you can see and photograph the gorillas.

Is there a Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The minimum age for anyone wanting to go gorilla trekking is 15. Ages are verified using the date of birth in the applicant’s passport.

If you are wanting to go gorilla trekking and are traveling with children under the age of 15, be sure to make arrangements for their care in advance. It is likely you will be trekking for several hours and possibly for most of the day.

General Rules for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Prior to setting out on your trek you will be given a briefing which covers all the main rules of gorilla trekking. However, to give you some idea of what to expect, here’s a quick overview of the main rules you need to know.

• Group sizes are set to a maximum of 8 people
• Once you find the gorillas, you have a maximum of one hour with the group
• Photography and video is allowed throughout, without flash
• No rubbish is allowed to be left. Everything must be carried out
• Eating, smoking and drinking near the gorillas is forbidden
• You should speak in a low voice and avoid making sudden movements or loud sounds
• You are allowed to pee off the trail during the hike to and from the gorillas, as long as it is away from water. For solid waste, be aware that human waste needs to be buried in a hole at least 30cm deep. The ranger will have a small shovel, so just let them know if you need it.
• You must keep a safe distance from the gorillas and on no account attempt to interact with them by making sounds or attempt to touch them
• As gorillas are susceptible to catching human diseases, protecting them from catching them is important. Whilst mask wearing became common during the Covid-19 pandemic around the world, it has often been a requirement when visiting the gorillas since before then to keep them safe. During our trek we had to wear face masks during the hour with gorillas, but not whilst actually hiking. So be sure to check any pandemic or other related measures that might be in place to protect the gorillas before your visit.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Now that you know what you expect, here is a quick overview of a suggested packing list specifically for gorilla trekking.

• Hiking boots . Hiking boots are in my opinion an absolute must for gorilla trekking. The terrain is very challenging, and good ankle support and water protection are going to make for a much more comfortable hike. Just make sure you have fully broken in your boots before your hike. See our guides to the best travel shoes for men and the best travel shoes for women for some suggested brands; we both wore Scarpa hiking boots on the trek. You can search hiking boots on Amazon here and REI here .
• Hiking pants / Hiking shirt . A comfortable pair of hiking pants and a lightweight long-sleeved shirt will make for a much more pleasant trekking experience and will help protect your arms and legs from sun, branches, and insects. Look for clothing made of lightweight and breathable materials which are good at wicking moisture away. We’d also recommend bringing layers as temperatures are likely to vary across the day; we wore quick-dry T-shirts under long-sleeved button-up hiking shirts. We like the Craghoppers range of clothing, some of which also includes built-in insect protection and sun protection. You can get them from the official Craghoppers store here as well as REI in the US here , and from Amazon here .
• Waterproof Clothing or Rain Protection . Even when visiting in the dry season, there is a possibility of rain, so you’ll want to be prepared for the possibility of rain on your hike. Waterproof clothing is one option, but the downside is that given how hot it can be, you might end up being really hot and sweaty. We packed a lightweight rain jacket with hood (Laurence) and a travel poncho (Jess). Search rain jackets on REI here and on Amazon here .
• Sun Protection (Hat/Sunglasses/Sunscreen). No matter when you go trekking, you’ll want to make sure you are fully protected from the sun. We recommend a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen along with wearing long-sleeved shirt and trousers. Many people may also want to bring along their sunglasses.
• Daypack with rain cover.  You are definitely going to need a day pack to carry your various items, including your camera, water bottles, extra clothing, and snacks. A day pack with a rain cover is a good idea in case of rain. We’d recommend one with a rain cover that attaches to the backpack in some way so it’s not ripped off by branches in the jungle. Search day packs on REI here and on Amazon here .
• Camera. You will of course want to bring along your camera. I’d also recommend bringing along a lens cloth as well as extra batteries and memory cards.
• Dry bag . The chances are you will be bringing a camera with you, and you will want a way to keep it dry should you experience a tropical downpour. If it’s a smaller camera, then something like a Ziplock bag will work. Otherwise, you might consider a dry bag or backpack liner that you can put inside your daypack which will keep all your belongings dry. Search dry bags on REI here and on Amazon here .
• Snacks / Lunch . Whilst the gorilla trek will normally start around 8.30am, there is a good chance that it will go on for more than half the day. In this case, you are going to get hungry and will want to carry some food with you. We’d suggest packing some high energy items like nuts, dried fruit, jerky, or granola bars.
• Rehydration Salts. Hiking in humid conditions will cause you to sweat a lot, and when you sweat you lose both water and salts. When hiking in these situations, we always recommend carrying some rehydration salts with you. These can be added to water to replace lost nutrients.
• Water bottle / water bladder . You are definitely going to need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated so you will want to make sure you fill up your water bottles before leaving your hotel that morning. As a minimum you’ll want to carry at least 1 litre / 33 fl oz per person, but if it’s hot and you are doing a long hike you might want even more. If your day pack has a water bladder such as a Camelbak pack I would use that or you can just bring a regular reusable water bottle .
• Gardening Gloves . This might seem like an odd suggestion, but it is recommended by the park service. A pair of gardening gloves will protect your hands as you push through the jungle from branches and insects such as the stinging caterpillar. This can also protect your hands from the wooden hiking poles (Jess had the start of a blister from using the free wooden pole). We didn’t actually use gloves and we were OK; however, we had a relatively short trek. If you feel you want extra hand protection, they might be worth bringing along, especially if you already own a pair.
• Gaiters. Gaiters offer protection from mud and dirt and can also keep stones and dirt from getting into your hiking boots. They can also offer some protection from biting insects. These are not a must-have but they are recommended. At the very least you will want to make sure you can tuck your hiking pants into your socks and they will stay tucked in even when hiking. If insects are the greater concern, you might want to consider leech socks as mentioned below (could be worn with or instead of gaiters). See gaiters on Amazon here and REI here .
• Leech socks. These are definitely not necessary, but are good for peace of mind. Depending on the time of year you visit, there is a possibility of there being leeches. Whilst leeches aren’t really dangerous, they are definitely unpleasant. Leech socks provide a barrier up to your knee that leeches can’t get through. Leech socks also protect against biting insects like safari ants and stinging caterpillars and can also offer you some mud protection.
• Insect repellent. The jungle is obviously a place where you are going to find insects, and while gorilla trekking in Uganda you may encounter insects such as safari ants, stinging caterpillars, and leeches. You will want to wear insect repellant to protect yourself from bites. It is recommended that you choose an insect repellent that includes at least 20% DEET as the active ingredient. While you are unlikely to encounter mosquitoes while gorilla trekking (altitude is too high) mosquitoes are present in other areas of Uganda and can carry malaria. We have had issues with insect repellent leaking so always keep it in a Ziploc bag.
• Hiking pole. Most people use the free wooden hiking pole offered at the beginning of the hike. However, if you already own a hiking pole you like, you might consider bringing it along.
• Passport. Don’t forget to bring along your passport as it will be checked and needed to verify your booking. Everyone in your group, including children, will need to have their passports.
• A face mask . As mountain gorillas share so much DNA with humans, diseases can easily cross the species barrier. It is a common requirement, even pre-2020, for visitors to have to wear masks when visiting the gorillas. It’s a good idea to pack a good face mask that fits you well and you can breathe through.
• Local currency or USD for tips. Tipping is a fact of life in Uganda, and despite the high price of the gorilla trek, tipping is still going to be expected. Carrying money on you is a good idea as the trackers you meet in the jungle might not accompany you back, and so you might want to tip them before you depart. Local Ugandan shillings are the easiest option, but U.S. dollars are also widely accepted.
• Toilet paper.  On a longer trek the chances of needing to go to the toilet increase, so packing some toilet paper just in case is a good idea.

For more general packing tips for your trip, see our guide to what to pack for safari .

Where to Stay when Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Normally, you need to be at the ranger station or gorilla trekking check-in point by 8:00am in the morning of your trek to check-in and do the briefing before heading out. So given the relatively early start, we recommend staying close to the gorilla trekking meeting point the night before your trek.

Given that your trek will likely take at least half the day and may take most of a full day, we also recommend considering staying a second night at the same place. Most people are pretty tired (and dirty) after the trek and will want to relax. You can then just return to your hotel, take a shower, eat, and relax for the rest of the day.

If you book a tour which includes gorilla trekking, your itinerary will normally include an overnight stay near the trekking start point so you can get there in time for the early start.

If you are self driving, then you will want to pick accommodation near to the gorilla trekking meeting point. Once you know where your trek will take place (one of the four regions in Bwindi or in Mgahinga), then you can choose a hotel as close to the ranger station as possible to minimise your transfer time that morning. Be aware that the roads in these areas can be quite rough going, so give yourself plenty of time.

One thing to note is that many of the hotels have very similar names, usually revolving around gorillas. So be sure when booking that you are choosing the right place.

Accommodation near Mgahinga

Mgahinga has fewer gorilla families than Bwindi and therefore has fewer hikers as there are fewer permits. As such, there are not too many accommodation options, but there are still a few options near the gorilla trekking meeting point.

• Anjambere Iwacu Community Camp – a community owned camp right next to the national park entrance. Features both simple hut style accommodation as well as pre-pitched and bring your own camping. A solid budget option.
• Mount Gahinga Lodge . The main high-end option in the Mgahinga area. Features a spa, individual butlers, and a location right by the park trail head.
• Travellers Rest Hotel . A popular option is Kisoro, around a 45 – 60 minute drive from the park entrance.

Accommodation near Buhoma Gorilla Region, Bwindi

Buhoma has perhaps the widest choice of lodging available and has a range of amenities. It’s also the original gorilla trekking location in the park and one of the more popular.

• Buhoma Community Rest Camp / Haven Lodge – These two properties are found next to each other, and both are operated by the local community development association. The rest camp offers simpler accommodation whilst Haven Lodge is more of a mid-range option. Both are within a short distance of the trailhead for the gorilla trek.
• Buhoma Lodge – A popular and well-reviewed mid to high end option in Buhoma offering comfortable ensuite chalets and an on-site restaurant. Close to the Buhoma gorilla trekking trailhead.
• Mahogany Springs – Another popular option in Buhoma with a range of room choices and an on-site restaurant. Close to the Buhoma gorilla trekking trailhead.
• Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp – Luxury tented accommodation with stone built en-suite facilities in every room. There’s a central campfire and dining area and it’s very close to the Buhoma trekking start point.
• Bwindi Volcanoes Lodge – A lovely lodge with excellent views, a short distance from the Buhoma start point. Individual rooms feature personal butler service and there’s an on-site spa and restaurant.

Accommodation near Ruhija Gorilla Region , Bwindi

Ruhija has a range of accommodation options that are more focused on budget and mid-range. Here are some options to consider.

• Ruhija Community Rest Camp – A good budget option which includes the option to bring your own tent as well as pre-pitched tents and cabins. About a 10 minute drive to the Ruhija trekking centre.
• Bakiga Lodge – This community operated nonprofit eco lodge is part of the Bakiga Community project and funds go directly back into the community. Rustic accommodation with spectacular views. This was where we stayed. About a 10 minute drive to the Ruhija trekking centre.
• Gorilla Mist Camp – Another good mid-range option about 10 minutes drive from the Ruhija trekking centre. Private en-suite rooms with lovely views.
• Gorilla Safari Lodge – Mid-range option with chalet based accommodation and an on-site spa, restaurant and bar. 10 minutes’ drive to the Ruhija trekking centre.

Accommodation near Rushaga Gorilla Region , Bwindi

With lots of gorilla families to choose from, Rushaga sees quite a few visitors. Here are some accommodation options to consider.

• Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge – a well rated mid-range option near the Rushaga trekking centre. E-suite rooms, on-site restaurant and great views
• Rushaga Gorilla Lodge – within walking distance of the Rushaga trekking centre, this is a good mid-range option with a full-service restaurant and a pool, as well as lovely views

Accommodation near Nkuringo Gorilla Region, Bwindi

Nkuringo does not have a huge range of accommodation options, however it does have some excellent high end options for those looking for a more luxurious stay.

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge – A well rated 4-star designer lodge offering a range of villas and garden cottages. Complimentary laundry service, on-site restaurant. 10 minutes walk from the Nkuringo Sector trailhead.
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla lodge – An award-winning luxury lodge which is also the highest lodge in Uganda. Individual cottages feature fireplaces, duvets and personal butlers. If you would like a luxury experience when gorilla trekking, this is the best option. A short walk from the Nkuringo sector trailhead.

As you can see there are lots of options to choose from across a variety of budget, so hopefully you will find something that works for you.

Our Experience Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

We did a gorilla trek in Uganda as part of a longer trip around Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. We spent 12 days in Uganda, and gorilla trekking was an activity we really wanted to do. We are fairly active but would not describe ourselves as super fit!

We went to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and specifically the Ruhija Gorilla Region. We stayed overnight at Bakiga Lodge , a rustic non-profit lodge offering simple accommodation with stunning views, just 10 minutes drive from the Ruhiga trekking centre.

Our day started around 7am with breakfast, and we left the lodge with our guide and vehicle at 7.40am, arriving at the trekking centre a little before 8am. Our guide registered us (we had to provide our passports), and then we took our seats for a briefing.

But before the briefing began, there was a short dance by some locals to welcome us. After the short dance performance, they collected tips to help support the community, so having some local currency on you is useful.

After the welcome, the ranger in charge of proceedings came to give us a briefing about the trek. We were given a bit of information about the area, the gorillas, and the rules and regulations about visiting the gorillas. We were also told to make sure we had plenty of water and snacks. We were then divided into two groups.

On the day we visited there were nine tourists in total. As the maximum number of people per gorilla family is 8, we were divided into two groups. There were four people in our group, and five in the other group. We asked for an easier hike as we didn’t feel we had to make it harder for ourselves than necessary!

Once we were divided into our groups we were introduced to our specific ranger who would be leading us, as well as the two armed guards who would be escorting us. These were primarily to provide protection from wildlife, but the rangers can also escort hikers back if they find the trek too tough or get injured.

We were told that the trackers had a general idea of where our family, the Oruzogo group, was to be found. It was quite a distance away, but we would be able to drive down to a starting point for the hike that would take us a lot closer. We didn’t realize that some treks don’t start from the meeting point, so this is something that is good to know. The other group did start from the meeting point that day.

We drove with our guide for about 30 minutes, way down to the valley floor. Whilst it had been quite cool in the mountain tops where the trekking centre was, the temperature was much hotter near the base of the valley. The sun was also out, which was certainly better than rain, but added to the overall heat.

At the hike starting point, next to small village, we had the opportunity to hire porters. We opted not to as we felt pretty confident about carrying our own bags. The other couple we were with did hire a porter, who took one of their bags. We were also each given sturdy wooden walking sticks.

We set off on the hike, the first section of which was down through a tea plantation. This was a relatively easy path to follow and there were lovely views, but it did get quite steep as we descended towards the valley floor.

At the edge of the tea plantation we entered the actual jungle. Here, there was a small trail we were following, towards the trackers. We were told that each day the trackers go back to where they left the gorilla group the day before and then start looking for them from that point.

We trekked through the forest for about 30 minutes before we got to the base of the valley and crossed a rickety old moss-covered wooden bridge, setting off towards the trackers. However, a few minutes later, via shouts through the jungle from the trackers, we turned around and headed in the opposite direction.

About 30 minutes of fairly muddy progress through the jungle along a small trail, we met up with our trackers who had by this point had located the gorilla family. We left the trail and pushed through the actual jungle for around 10 minutes, the rangers and trackers using machetes to clear a path, and came face to face with the gorilla family.

In our case, this was the Oruzogo group which when we visited consisted of 10 members. However, given how they were lying down in the forest under a lot of bush, we only got clear views of about 6 of the gorillas during our visit.

The closest to us was the large male silverback called Bakwate who is the dominant leader of the group. We were also close to the youngest member of the group, who was about 1 year old, and was the most active of the group. We also saw a couple of females and a couple of blackback gorillas (younger male gorillas) during our visit.

They were resting in a very dark bush but we had a fairly good view of several of them and were able to take all the photos we wanted. The trackers were able to clear away some of the undergrowth to improve our view as well.

The gorillas were definitely not bothered by our presence and the clicking of camera shutters. They were very relaxed, and other than the baby gorilla playing around, they mostly lay quietly scratching at themselves, sleeping, and peering at us curiously.

About 30 minutes into our visit, another blackback gorilla joined the group from the other side. He walked through the forest around us, eating as he went, and then went to join the group. It was amazing how close it came to Jess (who was a bit scared and startled) as it walked by, but it seemed to take little notice of her. She backed up slowly to give it plenty of room to go by.

Overall it was a remarkable experience, and our hour flew by taking photos and just enjoying being near them and having a window into their world.

Finally, our hour was up and it was time to leave. Getting back was a similar experience to getting there, except it was mostly uphill. It was definitely tough, but as we knew how far we had to go it wasn’t too bad.

Note that there were short breaks to drink water, rest, and have snacks along the trek. Most people in our group also stopped for toilet breaks. If you need to pee, you can do that just about anywhere off the trail away from water. Always let the rangers know if you need to go so they can stop the group and no-one gets lost or separated.

For solid waste, then you will need to tell a ranger so they can direct you to an appropriate spot and then you (or the ranger) will need to dig a hole and bury the waste. Rangers will bring a small shovel for this purpose. There were also toilets located at the ranger station where we met.

Once we got back to the vehicle, we posed for photographs and everyone in the group was presented with a signed gorilla tracking certificate.

We then had to drive back to the ranger station to drop off our gorilla trekking guide who had ridden in our vehicle. We were leaving the ranger station before 1:00pm, so our total experience had taken about 5 hours in total from arrival to return.

Our total hiking experience was around three hours, including the hour with the gorillas. We were told that this was definitely one of the easier hikes and shorter times. We found out from our guide that the other group on our day took much longer, with a total hike of around six hours. So about twice the time it had taken us.

I would say that despite it being classed as “easy”, it was definitely not an easy walk. All of us in our group found the going quite tough thanks to the steep terrain and hot climate. So easy in this case, for us at least, was a very relative term. However, it was absolutely worth it!

Tips for Visiting the Gorillas

I wanted to share some tips with you to help you have the best possible gorilla trekking experience.

• Improve your fitness before your trip . This would probably be my number one tip. Gorilla trekking can be challenging, and you can make your whole experience a lot more enjoyable if you get in shape before you tackle it. Definitely practice hiking some hills if you can!
• Pack and dress appropriately for the hike. Dressing appropriately for the hike and packing everything you’ll need in your day pack will ensure you are prepared and comfortable during the hike. See our packing advice above.
• Be honest about your fitness level and inform the rangers . If you don’t think you are particularly fit, then you should let the rangers know and they should be able to allocate you to an easier group if possible. If you don’t let anyone know, you could find yourself hiking much further than you needed to. Hiring a porter will also help.
• Take breaks and go at a comfortable pace. Be sure to let your guide know if you need to slow down or take a short break. Be sure to drink plenty of water as you go.
• Bring local currency with you . In Uganda, tipping is ubiquitous. The sums don’t need to be particularly high, but having some local notes to tip the trackers and rangers in your party is a good idea. Also you will need cash if you want to hire a porter or buy souvenirs.
• Go in the dry season . Trekking in the pouring rain and trying to keep your gear dry is no fun. Whilst of course rain is possible at any time of year, you are less likely to be rained on in the dry season, and almost guaranteed to be rained on in the wet season!
• Stay overnight near the meeting point. Stay near the trekking start point to minimise your travel time in the morning. We’d also recommend staying in the same place for a second night on the night of your schedule trek so you can relax without having to travel anywhere that day.
• Have good travel insurance . Most tour companies will require you to have travel insurance as part of booking the tour. Regardless, you should always have good travel insurance that specifically covers things like any medical bills and air evacuations. Whilst it is unlikely anything will happen to you, travel insurance is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
• Enjoy the moment! This is an expensive and once in a lifetime experience for most people so make sure you take time to be in the moment and enjoy the hike and time with the mountain gorillas.

Tips for Photographing Gorillas

As a professional travel photographer I wanted to share some tips to help you get the best results when photographing gorillas in the wild.

If you are thinking about buying a new camera for your gorilla trekking, see my guide to the best safari camera for some tips and suggestions.

• Disable your flash . You are going to want to take a lot of photos of the gorillas, and the forest can be a dark place. Many cameras will automatically enable their flash, which is not allowed. You can read more about disabling your camera flash here .
• Understand ISO and Shutter Speed . When you find the gorillas, there’s a good chance they are going to be somewhere fairly dark. Even on a sunny day the jungle canopy cuts out a lot of light, and the gorillas are likely to be in a shaded area too. In these situations you will find yourself needing to juggle a high ISO against a suitable shutter speed so you still get sharp images. If you’d like to know more about these controls, see my guide to the exposure triangle in photography
• Don’t worry about a super zoom lens . You are going to get quite close to the gorillas, so you won’t need a camera with a massive zoom lens to still get good results. A 10x optical zoom, or a lens up to 200mm should be more than sufficient to get good shots.
• Relax a little . When you first arrive at the gorillas the chances are, if you’re anything like me, that you are going to be super excited and start pounding on your shutter button. Whilst this excitement is to be expected, you can probably relax a bit. The gorillas are unlikely to run away, and if you take a moment or two to compose yourself you will be able to ensure your camera settings and composition are good before you start capturing the moment.
• Get down to their level . Wildlife photos nearly always look better when you are shooting at eye level rather than down to the animal. This might require you to get yourself lower down (watch out for biting insects and undergrowth of course), but should result in better images.
• Try to make eye contact . I personally find that wildlife images where the subject is making eye contact with the camera are more interesting to look at. Whilst you can’t control where the gorilla is looking, you can improve your chances by shooting in burst mode and taking sequences of photos, as the gorilla might make fleeting eye contact when you are shooting. Don’t do anything to try and make the gorilla look at you though such as making noises, as this might upset them.
• Experiment with wide and close up shots . If you have a zoom lens, it can be tempting to zoom right in on a single gorilla subject, to the exclusion of everything else. Whilst this will often make for a striking image, don’t forget to include some wide angle shots we well. This will help to show the scenery and set some context for the viewer. It can also tell more of a story.
• Photograph more than the gorillas . Whilst you will obviously want to take a lot of photos of the gorillas, your experience is going include a lot more than the hour you spend with them. Hiking through dense jungle is a unique experience as well, and you will likely come across numerous photography opportunities on your way to and from the gorillas that you will want to record!
• Consider improving your photography skills. If you aren’t sure about your photography skills and want to hone then, consider taking a photo course like mine, a local workshop, or similar, to ensure you are going to be able to get the best photos with your equipment.

Gorilla Trekking Tours in Uganda

There are a multitude of tour operators in Uganda, and many tour itineraries will include gorilla trekking as it is very popular. However, you can also book shorter, more specific tours that focus on gorilla trekking, which would suit a shorter time in Uganda.

When looking at tours, make sure they include the gorilla trekking permit as this is quite an expense. Most tours do include it, but just make sure.

Here are a number of options to consider.

• This 1 day tour from Kigali in Rwanda has you getting up early and crossing the border to visit Mahinga National Park in Uganda. It includes transport from Kigali, breakfast and the gorilla trekking permit. This is a similar tour.
• This 3 day tour from Kamapala to Bwindi includes your gorilla trekking permit, transport, food and two nights of accommodation. This is a similar tour.
• This 5 day tour from Entebbe includes a number of safari locations as well a gorilla trekking in Bwindi. It includes gorilla trekking, transport, and full board accommodation.
• This is another 5 day tour from Entebbe which has a focus on primates, and include both gorilla trekking in Bwindi as well as chimpanzee trekking in Kibale
• This 10 day tour from Entebbe includes chimpanzee tracking in Kibale as well as gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
• This 11 day tour from Entebbe covers many of the highlights of Uganda
• This 15 day tour from Kampala includes gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, as well as may more highlihts of Uganda.

As you can see, there are lots of options to choose from and tours of various durations and prices. You can see more options on Viator here and GetYourGuide here .

Further Reading

That sums up our guide to gorilla trekking in Uganda. We hope you found it useful! Before you head off, we wanted to share some links to other content we think you might find useful in planning your trip to Uganda.

• We have a guide to chimpanzee trekking in Uganda , which is another popular activity in the country.
• We have a guide to choosing the best safari camera , so you can ensure you get great memories of your trip. We also have a guide to the best photography bean bags for safari , as well as what to pack for safari .
• We have a guide to getting online when travelling , to help you stay connected in Uganda
• You’re going to need to power all your devices when you travel – see our guide to the  best travel adapters so you can choose the right one for Uganda
• If you’d like a travel guide, consider the Uganda Bradt Travel Guide , which is generally regarded as the best option for Uganda. It also includes detailed information on gorilla trekking.

And that’s it! As always, we’re open to hearing your questions. Just pop them in the comments below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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There are 12 comments on this post

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Andy & Jose says

2nd October 2023 at 12:01 am

Thanks for this great guide to seeing the gorillas in Uganda!!! We have seen a good deal to go on a tour in Uganda next Spring with our priority being to see the gorillas and chimps. We have a couple of questions though.

1) Are face masks still required to see the gorillas and is this site specific or same everywhere? If so, what kind should we bring (such as the blue surgical ones or the N95??).

2) Thoughts on visiting and doing trekking in the Spring (March or April?), not sure if weather is ideal but prices seem better so would love your thoughts on this.

Thanks again for these great resources, we have bookmarked for future reading!

Laurence Norah says

4th October 2023 at 8:22 am

Hi Andy & Jose

My pleasure! It’s a wonderful experience and I am sure you will have a great time. To answer your questions:

1 – so face masks were actually a precaution of visiting the gorillas even before 2020, because they are susceptible to human diseases. However you only need to wear them when you are about to meet them, not for the whole trek. I believe it is the same everywhere, although will be up to your guide regarding actual enforcement! I don’t recall them being picky about the type of mask to be honest, although it’s worth checking with your operator when you book.

2 – March & April are part of the rainy season which is why it’s cheaper. Of course it’s possible to visit the gorillas in the rain (and rain is likely at any time anyway), but you will just want to be prepared to get very wet.

I hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions!

Deepa Tiwari says

14th July 2023 at 7:27 am

Thanks for Sharing this Amazing and Informative post

15th July 2023 at 5:17 pm

It’s my pleasure Deepa 🙂 I hope you have a good trek!

ANUKRATI DOSI says

14th April 2022 at 8:34 am

Wow! Gorilla trekking must have been a memorable experience for both of you. I loved reading your personal experience. It took me to the trail.

14th April 2022 at 11:16 am

It was amazing! Thanks very much for your comment, pleased to hear you enjoyed the post 🙂

SecretAdventurer says

22nd March 2022 at 8:03 am

Truly a well put together guide and full of helpful tips!

22nd March 2022 at 4:39 pm

Thanks very much!

15th March 2022 at 5:35 pm

Hello Laurence & Jessica,

Thanks for this great guide on gorilla trekking in Uganda. Planning a trip here in 2022 and hope to do this. Worried about how much to take on trek in terms of weight? Would you recommend bringing binoculars?

Thanks, Marco

15th March 2022 at 6:44 pm

Thanks Marco! So I would recommend trying to keep it as light as possible, although if you think it’s going to be too heavy you might consider hiring a porter. For binoculars, we left our behind as it was just an extra weight. We’d definitely recommend binoculars in general in Uganda, but not on this trek unless you are very keen to see a specific bird. In that case, try to bring a lightweight pair!

Denise Sigworth says

15th March 2022 at 3:26 pm

Thank you so much. We will be in Bwindi in September and your guide is perfect. Many many thanks.

15th March 2022 at 3:36 pm

Our pleasure Denise, glad you found it useful. Have an amazing time, let us know how it goes, and if you have any questions about gorilla trekking or visiting Uganda in general we’re happy to answer them.

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How To See Gorillas In Rwanda – Complete Guide

UPDATED 01 AUGUST 2021

RWANDA TRAVEL GUIDE AND ALL YOU NEED TO PLAN A MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREK

“In all my travels, I’ve never seen a country’s population more determined to forgive, and to build and succeed than in Rwanda.”  Rick Warren

We went to Rwanda for the mountain gorillas. We left with our pre-conceived notions about Sub Saharan Africa in tatters.

The primates are magnificent. The story of Rwanda’s climb out of the dark and devastating chasm of genocide to be counted among the safest and most progressive countries in the developing world is no less impressive.

If safety concerns are holding you back from embarking on that bucket-list mountain gorilla trek, you should know that Rwanda ranks 31 on the WEF Safety and Security index 2019 .

Our visit was an add on to our longer Tanzania itinerary, and one that we dithered over due to the high cost. We are so glad we took the plunge. Then again, our gorilla safari permits cost us exactly half of what it would today.

The subject of human intrusion into the habitat of this endangered species is a real worry. It is my understanding that the pros of wildlife tourism – properly handled – far outweigh the cons.

The gorilla story, as also the success of tiger conservation in India, are cases in point. Community development is critical in anti poaching efforts and poor countries are hugely dependent on tourism dollars to fund them.

There have been reports of Coronavirus lockdowns and the attendant loss of livelihoods increasing instances of poaching across Africa and Asia. Proof that wildlife tourism and conservation are interdependent even with allowances for corruption.

This guide is focused on the mountain gorilla experience with a link to my post on the genocide. I’ve tried to include every little detail that you’ll need to get up close to those gentle giants of the wild.

THINGS TO DO IN RWANDA

The two featured stories linked to below cover two primary things to do in Rwanda:

1. A Gorilla safari in the Volcanoes National Park in the Virunga Mountains.

2. A city tour and visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Rwanda – Rubbing Shoulders With Silverbacks!

All about our trek with mountain gorillas in Rwanda. One precious hour with the silverbacks that is our most memorable Rwanda travel moment.

The Extraordinary Renewal Of Rwanda

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a powerful tribute to the victims of genocide. It is also a testament to the tenacity of a people and their remarkable rise up from that dark and devastating chasm into hope and renewal.

MORE THINGS TO DO IN RWANDA

As an add on to a Tanzanian safari, we just had three full days dedicated to the silverbacks. Rwanda has so much more to offer. Allow ten to twelve days to experience most of it. This is a good ten day itinerary.

• Track more primates, including chimpanzees, in Nyungwe Forest National Park , one of the oldest rain forests in Africa. It is also home to 1,068 plant species, 140 orchid, 320 bird and 120 butterfly species.
• Visit a tea plantation. We were surprised by the excellent quality of Rwandan tea served at the Serena hotel in Kigali.
• Visit the reconstruction of a traditional king’s ‘palace’ in Nyanza.
• Visit the Ethnographic museum in Huye .
• Kayak on lake Kivu at Gisanye
• Go on an overland safari in Akagere National park where the big 5 of Africa have been successfully re-introduced.
• Visit Dian Fossey’s Research Centre and grave at Karisoke .
• Tour the Musanze Caves .

OUR RWANDA ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival Kigali. Transfer to hotel. Overnight Kigali. City tour including visit to genocide museum. Day 2: Drive (approximately two hours) north to Ruhangeri. View twin lakes. Overnight Ruhengeri (Musanze) Day 3: Gorilla trekking day! Visit to Musanze market. Return to Kigali late afternoon / early evening. Overnight Kigali Day 4: Dawn departure to KIG airport to board Coastal Air flight to Arusha, Tanzania.

The gorillas were undoubtedly the highlight. The genocide memorial is unmissable for the insight it provides into Rwanda’s recent history. The two other things that stood out in our all too brief itinerary were the drive up to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo and the market in Musanze where we got to interact with a few locals.

WHAT WE’D DO DIFFERENTLY

I would have liked to have at least one extra day in Ruhangeri to be able to visit Dian Fossey’s grave in Karisoke. It’s a 30-minute drive from the park headquarters and then two or three hours hike (one way) through the forest

Most people – with deeper pockets than ours – reserve two mornings for the Gorilla safari and one afternoon for the golden monkeys (also in the same park). We would have liked to do the same but at $750 per person (at the time) for the gorilla trek and an extensive Tanzanian safari to follow, we settled for the one night in Ruhangeri. We were fortunate to have gotten to the gorillas early on our safari day.

GORILLA TREK INFO

Gorilla permit cost – rwanda or uganda.

The most expensive part of a Rwanda trip is the gorilla safari permit that has now been doubled to US$1500 per person . Visitors planning to visit all three national parks can avail the discounted price of US$1050.

The costs are geared to keep visitor numbers low while aiding their much lauded conservation and community development efforts whose results have indeed been spectacular. But it is a huge blow to low budget wildlife enthusiasts.

If gorilla tracking is your primary focus, costs in Uganda are much cheaper at US$700 . The longer distance to be covered between Entebbe and Bwindi National Park (it takes nine hours by road as opposed to two hours from Kigali to Musanze) that entailed an extra night’s stay made it less favourable for us in 2014 when the difference was around US$150 per person. It might be worth considering now.

You can also fly from Entebbe to Bwindi in just over an hour. Remember to factor in the extra costs. The treks in Uganda are said to be relatively more arduous, although that will depend more on luck and the gorilla family you are allotted. Uganda also offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience which costs US$1500 but you get to spend four hours with the gorillas vs one hour on a regular trek in both countries.

GORILLA TREK DETAILS

Gorilla trekking is highly regulated keeping in mind the safety of visitors as well as the health of the silverbacks.

• Only twelve families are habituated to humans. A maximum of 8 visitors are allowed to visit a single family of habituated gorillas per day in oder to minimise contact and risk of disease.
• Viewing time is limited to one hour.
• Gorilla Trek permits can be purchased directly on the Rwanda Development Board site or through safari/tour operators.
• Permits are limited so you need to book well in advance if your dates are not flexible.
• Minimum age for a gorilla trek is 15 years.
• Once confirmed permits cannot be cancelled, changed or transferred.
• Those showing visible signs of illness after having travelled all the way to Ruhengeri. They will not be allowed to join a trek and will be offered a 50% refund.
• Visitors who fail to track gorillas the whole day as a result of the Gorilla group’s movement shall be given another chance or receive full refund on their permit. 
• However, those who would have tracked the whole day and failed to make contact with a gorilla family for whatever reason will be refunded 75% of the tracking fee.
• You’ll need to indicate your preferred type of trek – Easy, Medium or Hard – in advance. Gorilla families will be allotted accordingly.
• It is a moderately high altitude trek, so expect to get slightly breathless in the steeper parts.
• If on a tour, your driver will drive you to the briefing point at the RDB Tourism & Conservation offices in Kinigi. Registration time is 7am. You’ll be served beverages and biscuits and get to watch an Intore dance troupe perform.
• The driver will then drive you to the departure point and wait there for your return.
• If you aren’t on a tour and are not self driving, your hotel will be able to hire transport. Cost will depend on distance to the park.
• Each group will be accompanied by a guide, some armed guards and several trackers who’ll help hack through the jungle. A group of forward trackers stay connected via radio. You can also hire porters for a small fee.

GORILLA VIEWING RULES:

• Opt out if you have the slightest sign of a cold or flu coming on. You’ll get a 50% refund if you show visible signs.
• Maintain a distance of 7 meters (about 22 feet) from the gorillas. And do not touch any of the gorillas even if they approach you.
• Do not eat or drink around the gorillas. And do not spit in the park. Use tissues and bring them back!
• Cover your mouth and turn away from the gorillas if you feel the need to cough or sneeze.
• Do not talk loudly in the presence of the gorillas.
• Turn off your flash and avoid sudden movements so as not to startle them.
• Staring is rude even in the wild. If a gorilla, especially the lead male, approaches you, stay still and adopt a submissive crouch with eyes downcast.
• Respect the fact that you are a guest of the gorillas. Do not leave behind wrappers or litter of any kind.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO RWANDA

Rwanda fast facts.

• Capital :  Kigali
• Currency :  Rwandan Franc – RWF ( Latest exchange rate. )
• Language(s) :  Kinyarwanda, French, English and Swahili
• Population :  13 million
• Area: 26,338 sq km (10,169 sq miles)
• Electricity Voltage: 230V
• Electricity Sockets: Type C and J

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO RWANDA

Rwanda enjoys temperate weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F). The Virunga mountains are the coldest. Kigali is in the middle with average temperatures around 21°C (70°F).

Primate tracking in Rwanda is possible year round. The dry season between June to September and mid December through Jan is recommended for gorilla tracking. The wet season through March and April apparently affords better Chimpanzee sightings.

GETTING TO RWANDA

Many American, European, Middle Eastern and Asian airlines operate flights to Kigali. We flew Qatar Airways from Chennai to Kigali and returned from Dar es Salaam.

RwandAir is the flag carrier that connects many African destinations. We flew onward to Arusha (in Tanzania) with Coastal Aviation.

Search for the best flight connections on Skyscanner .

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR RWANDA

Since 2018, travellers from most countries are eligible for free visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days. Citizens of countries not on the prescribed list can also avail visa on arrival for a fee ranging from $30-$100. Credit cards are accepted. Check latest visa regulations on the Rwanda immigration website .

Travellers wishing to visit Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda simultaneously can apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) on arrival. It can also be availed online, pre-departure, at this Rwanda EGovt services portal or from Rwanda Diplomatic missions abroad. If acquiring the EATV visa before travel, your first entry point must be the country through which you applied for the visa.  The East Africa Tourist Visa costs US$100, is valid for 90 days and is multiple entry (if staying within the three countries).

VACCINATIONS

Rwanda is yellow fever free, so a yellow fever vaccination certificate is not required for travellers coming from yellow fever non-endemic countries and those without an active transmission outbreak. Check out this list in case you are travelling to or from any of the countries in the endemic list . And please check your home country advisory for travel to Africa.

India requires citizens travelling to Rwanda to be vaccinated against yellow fever and carry an international certificate as proof. Failing to do so might entail institutional quarantine upon your return.

Here’s a list of GOI authorised yellow fever vaccination centers across the country. Some of them only function a few days a week so make sure you book an appointment well in advance. You’ll need to carry your passport. Current charges are ₹300/- per dose. It is valid for ten years.

WHERE TO STAY IN RWANDA

Kigali has a variety of mid-range options. We stayed in the Kigali Serena which was pure comfort.

Ruhengeri/Musanze is limited in the mid price range. It’s either over the top – think US$1500 – US$3000 per person per night! – or very basic.

We opted to stay in Mountain Gorillas lodge in Kinigi , close to the Volcanoes Park entrance. It is rather basic for the price, and food, at the time, was nothing to write home about. But the setting is picturesque and cottages large and comfortable, if a bit cold. They light log fires in the rooms every evening and place hot water bottles in the super comfortable beds. Our request for an electric portable heater was instantly met. All things considered, a solid choice given the limited offering. Going by current reviews it continues to be the most popular mid range option.

The Ingagi Park View Lodge and Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge are new properties that appears to have good reviews.

Amohoro Guest House , owned by people who run a safari outfit of the same name, is a great low budget option close to town.

With the trek fee hike and the burgeoning of several high end properties, Rwanda is clearly positioning itself as a luxury safari destination. If budget is no consideration the Bisate Lodge , Singita’s Kwitonda Lodge , Virunga Lodge , Sabinyo Silverback Lodge and One & Only Gorilla’s Nest are all stunning properties in fabulous settings that will organise transfers and multiple experiences for you.

The Bishop’s House , a beautiful new property located in Musanze town (approx. a 25min ride to the park.) appears marginally less pricey.

Check availability and accommodation options for other towns and parks in Rwanda in Booking.com or Expedia.com

WHERE TO EAT

Most lodges catering to the gorilla trek crowd are all inclusive. A few decent restaurants service those staying in or around Musanze. Pailotte seems to be a favourite.

Kigali has a relatively buzzing restaurant scene. Disclaimer: The restaurant we ate at on our first night is currently closed. We dined at the Serena on our final evening. The following are highly recommended by seasoned traveller friends whose opinions I trust.

• Mocha Cafe – What to order: Hummus topped with meat, Yemeni chapatis, avocado sandwich, Yemeni coffee.
• Repub Lounge – African, Fusion. Request table with view. What to order: Sambaza (fried sardines), Liboke Chicken, Vegetarian Matoke Stew
• Alfa Organics – Vegan – What to order: Wraps, sandwiches, Tofu ‘eggs’, smoothies.

RWANDA TRAVEL TIPS

Getting around rwanda.

We used JK Safaris to work out all the logistics of our trip from booking our hotels and permits to our onward flight tickets. They did an excellent job. Rwanda Eco Tours also comes highly recommended.

You can easily organise a trip independently. Book your gorilla permits well in advance and then get your hotels to organise your transfers. Guides are not really required if you have a knowledgeable English speaking driver.

If on a budget, and hotels are unable to organise transfers, you can hop on a Virunga Express bus to Musanze for under 2000 francs. You can get your lodge to arrange transport to and from the gorilla trek briefing centre in Kinigi next morning. Read entry above for trek details.

Self-driving around Rwanda will require an international driving licence. Most of the main roads are well paved but the smaller rural roads are not and can get pretty messy during the rains.

Although there are many car rental companies that charge more or less the same rates, make sure the vehicles are roadworthy and the air conditioning in order. You’ll need to allow plenty of time to change vehicles if it does not meet your standards. Limoz was the company recommended by our Kigali hotel.

Employing a local driver might cost just marginally more than driving yourself and save you much of the hassle.

PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR A GORILLA TREK

Generic travel items including electronics and photography gear are covered in my essential packing list . Listed below are a few things you’ll need for the gorilla trek.

• Sturdy shoes with good grip. Good sneakers are fine but waterproof shoes might be handy in case it rains. Hiking socks that you can tuck your pants into can keep bugs from crawling up your legs. Most hotels and lodges can arrange for gaiters for a small fee. You shoes will invariably be coated with mud. Hotel staff usually offer to clean them upon your return.
• A pair of gloves – gardening gloves are best – will protect your hands from scratches.
• Weather can change from warm and humid to wet and cold, but you’ll have to contend with nettles, so long pants and long-sleeved shirts are a must. Not too thin. I had two layers on. Stick to neutral colours.
• A light jacket and waterproof outer layer in case of rain.
• A small backpack for documents, snacks and water. Carry non messy snacks like sandwiches, energy bars or fruit.
• Tap water is not safe to drink. Filtered water dispensers are common in hotels. While bottled water is plentiful and reasonably priced in most places, carrying refillable water bottles and portable water filters would be eco friendlier options.

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS WHILE TRAVELLING IN RWANDA

• Local currency is preferred but USD is accepted in larger establishments at a pinch. Just make sure you are carrying newish bills dated 2008 or later.
• Have a reasonable cash back-up. It is best to change money in Kigali. Smaller towns might not have ATMs. Credit card usage while apparently on the rise is still limited to larger establishments. You’ll need cash for local markets.
• Non-biodegradable plastic is banned in Rwanda. Any plastic bags in your possession can be confiscated at border checkpoints and might incur fines.
• It is mandatory to buy travel insurance with adequate medical cover before you arrive. We never travel without insurance.
• Taking photographs of military buildings and of army personnel in town is prohibited.
• Drones will need to be pre- registered by a Rwandan national .
• Tipping, usually in cash, is discretionary. Preferably in local currency since exchanging small bills is not an easy task for porters and service staff. A ballpark figure for tipping guides is the equivalent of $10 per day and for drivers around $2 per day.
• Homosexuality isn’t illegal, but it isn’t widely accepted either. LGBT travellers are advised discretion.
• The genocide is a sensitive subject. Be respectful and refrain from joking about it or bringing it up in irrelevant conversations.

ESSENTIAL READING

Explorers & Conservationists Of The Virunga Volcanoes (PDF EBook) A Good Man In Rwanda (BBC Story) Portraits of Reconciliation (Photo Essay) The Triumph Of Evil (Reports & Interviews) Left To Hell (Book)

RWANDA ON YOUR RADAR? 📌 PIN FOR LATER

REMEMBER TO STAY SUBSCRIBED SO YOU NEVER MISS A NEW GUIDE

This is not a sponsored post. The Urge To Wander is part of the affiliate programs of some of the resources mentioned on these pages and will earn tiny commissions from qualifying purchases without any extra cost to you. Disclosure policy .

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For a unique adventure check out our Trans-Serengeti Balloon Safari!

Gorilla trekking – everything you need to know.

From best time to visit, what to expect and how much it costs, this blog tells you everything about gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

29 Aug 2022

10 oct 2022.

Gorilla trekking is often described as a life-changing experience, and with so few of these gentle giants remaining in the world, seeing them up close in their natural habitat is not something you’ll ever forget.

Whether you’re looking to book a gorilla trek, or just find out more about it, below we’ve got all the information you need about how to see mountain gorillas in the wild, acquiring a permit, how much you can expect to pay and so much more.

What Is Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking involves hiking in the dense, tropical rainforests of Africa to witness gorillas in their natural habitat. Treks can range from a half day through to full-day habituation adventures.

A gorilla trek is a highlight of all Uganda and Rwanda safaris and certainly, mountain gorillas are a key draw to these two destinations.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most unique and memorable wildlife activities in Africa, offering a totally different experience from standard safaris or game drives. Though more physically demanding, it is much more up close and personal.

These critically endangered primates are fascinating to sit and watch, not only because of their sheer size and beauty but also in that their behaviour and relationships so closely mimic our own.

Though these experiences aren’t cheap, money goes back into the conservation of mountain gorillas and preservation of their habitat, along with local communities and has a high degree of success as numbers are increasing.

What Format Does Gorilla Trekking Take?

The majority of gorilla treks are one day – out and back. You will stay in your accommodation the night before so that you can rise early on the day of your trek and kick off with a briefing around 7.30am.

Briefings cover the plan for the day, safety and how to act when around the gorillas, so there is no need to prepare in advance.

Typically, each group of visitors will be allocated a different route, allowing a maximum of eight people plus their guides. The guides are professionals with a history of tracking so as to maximise the chances of seeing the primates. Though there are no guarantees with animals in the wild, virtually everyone gets to experience what they came for.

Soon after the briefing each group will head to the forest accompanied by rangers and their guides to begin the search. In many places the forest is dense, humid and hot – so prepare to sweat. However, the challenge is not without reward as en-route you may get to see a variety of other primates, birds and plants.

The time it takes to find a gorilla family varies but once you reach them you will get exactly an hour to observe these gentle giants go about their daily lives. You can take photos without flash and your guide will provide information about various rituals and interactions.

After the trek you will head back to your accommodation, though some tours offer a stop-off – for example a cultural village experience nearby of the Batwa pygmies (if trekking in southwestern Uganda).

Is Gorilla Trekking Ethical?

Mountain gorillas are critically endangered, so getting to see them up close is a privilege that must be undertaken in a sustainable, ethical way.

However, unlike playing with tiger cubs in Florida, or showering elephants in Thailand, gorilla trekking tours are highly regulated and don’t allow you to interfere with the families. Permits are limited and you can’t visit without one. On top of that, permits offer a short window of time with the animals in a maximum group of eight to ensure minimal disruption and stress to the gorillas.

Specific government bodies in gorilla destinations are responsible for these legal limits on number of travellers. These bodies are the Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA), Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN) in Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC respectively.

If you are surprised by the high price of the tours, remember that your money directly contributes to the conservation of mountain gorilla communities.

This money is used in a variety of ways. The first is that you essentially pay for a 24/7 guard that keeps habituated gorilla families safe from poachers. Some of the trackers and porters were once poachers themselves, but with the influx of tourist money, they are given the opportunity to change profession and earn a more honest, sustainable livelihood.

The money you invest in treks, accommodation, food and drink and local cultural experiences all aid local communities – meaning that there are fewer desperate people needing to resort to poaching in the first place.

Looking after the endangered populations also involves significant investments in research, from scientists and conservationists, as well as rangers.

Around 15% of the money collected from gorilla permits goes to the government, 10% to the local communities and 75% to gorilla conservation. If the prices were to be reduced, visitor numbers would likely rocket, affecting the wellbeing of the few habituated gorilla groups.

Some people may question the ethics of gorilla habituation - the process of gently introducing wild mountain gorillas to the sight and presence of humans for research, care and conservation purposes. Although it is adding a degree of human intervention to their natural life, the long-term benefits (of money and efforts invested in conservation) are vast.

As mentioned above, tour briefings cover the dos and don’ts to ensure the safety and overall welfare of the gorillas as much as your own. You are setting foot in these animals’ homes, so be respectful of all rules outlines by the guides. If you are at all unwell, with a cough or a cold, you should avoid trekking as gorillas are highly susceptible to human infections.

Is Gorilla Trekking Safe?

In a nutshell, yes. Whether you intend to travel alone, with a partner or as a family (over 15’s only), gorilla trekking is suitable and safe for pretty much everyone.

Although mountain gorillas are inherently dominant and strong mammals, they are also shyer and gentler than you might think.

The key requirement is that trekkers are required to keep a low tone and profile. Visitors are encouraged to take photographs with a camera or iPhone but flash must be turned off to avoid scaring the gorillas, which may cause them to charge.

Loud noises and sudden movements can upset the gorillas, which is why tours are generally not suited to young children. That said, gorillas are habituated by rangers and researchers for a period of three years, so they are not easily startled. This is what makes gorilla trekking so safe.

It is also possible to join a habituation training tour, which is held in a much smaller group.

Gorillas live in hierarchical families where the dominant silverback dictates how the group moves and behaves. Avoid direct eye contact with both the dominant silverback and other adults. Depending on the time of year you visit, you might see females nursing or juveniles casually entertaining the family. Thanks to habituation practices, parents are generally no more or less defensive or aggressive during these seasons.

Gorilla groups vary in size, up to 30 or more, but you’ll tend to see families of around 10.

Guides will keep you at a distance of seven to 10 metres away from the gorillas. On the off chance you are approached by a gorilla, simply keep quiet, calm and let them pass. Running or shouting may cause them to behave instinctively and wildly, despite being habituated.

Gorillas communicate through a variety of sounds – with 25 documented by researchers so far - like roars, grunts and shouts. Although they might sound aggressive to us, they are rarely anything more than a family conversation.

As mentioned, it is as much about keeping this endangered species safe as yourself, so all trekkers are advised to turn away when sneezing or coughing to avoid the transmission of diseases

Where Are The Best Places To Go Gorilla Trekking?

The best places in the world to see gorillas in their natural habitat are Rwanda, Uganda and Congo. This region of Central Africa offers a forest ecosystem that is perfectly suited to these primates.

Whilst you might want to do a safari in East Africa to see the ‘ Big Five ’, there are no gorillas or other large primates in Tanzania or Kenya . However, Rwanda combines easily with a safari in these places, with daily flights from Nairobi and parts of the Serengeti , and it is only a 2.5-hour drive to get to the rainforest.

Rwanda and Uganda are the top destinations for mountain gorilla treks. These gorillas are the rarest primates in the world, with around just 800 remaining in the wild. Note that although you can also find mountain gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a history of conflict and instabilities means that the area is not as well set up for treks and tours. As mentioned above, gorilla trekking and tourism is crucial to Rwanda and Uganda, meaning that they have continued to develop and improve their tour options and infrastructure.

Take a closer look at gorilla trekking in Uganda , or find out more about trekking gorillas in Rwanda .

Whether you opt for Uganda, Rwanda or Congo, gorilla trekking can be done all year round. That said, like any rainforest, it’s easier to trek in the dry seasons, which are mid-December to early February and June to September. Weather is fairly similar across all three countries and temperatures don’t fluctuate massively across the year.

June to August is the peak season thanks to the low rainfall. Because the parks are drier and therefore easier to hike, permits run out quickly. The average high in July is around 25°C, getting down to around 14°C at night.

January and February constitute the low season, meaning there will be fewer crowds and permits are easier to come by. There is very little rain during this window too.

March, April and May are pretty wet, making trekking even more challenging with slippery slopes. If you don’t mind muddy boots and are up for the challenge though, the opportunities are still there. In this season, the air is crystal clear, allowing for unrivalled views of the volcanoes, plus the gorillas tend to hang out on the lower mountain slopes.

Your destination of choice will be influenced predominantly by cost as well as other activities and wildlife offerings in the region. For example, permits in Rwanda cost significantly more than Uganda (over twice as of 2022).

How Long Do Gorilla Trekking Tours Take?

The most common trek length is one day, though you can choose to do multiple days (permits need to be purchased in advance) allowing for multiple sittings with the gorillas. Visitors who undertake double gorilla trekking (tracking for more than one day) are assigned different gorilla families each day, so they can experience different groups, behaviours and environments.

The time it will take your group to track a family of mountain gorillas can be unpredictable, ranging from half an hour to most of the day. Depending on the weather and other factors, some families reside close to the park offices and lodges, whilst others will be deep within the forest or park.

As wild animals, they may move further away from trackers and rangers for a few hours before eventually settling – particularly if they are early on in the habituation process.

Visitors to Uganda that choose a gorilla habituation experience will get to spend more time with the primates, but be warned these gorillas are not yet habituated and so may be less comfortable in the presence of humans.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular wildlife activities in the world, and carries with it quite a high price tag. To take part you first need to acquire the expensive gorilla permit.

In Uganda, the permits currently cost $700, while in Rwanda it is $1500 per person and $450 in Congo. For those who want to take part in the gorilla habituation experience, it will cost you $1500 for the day in Uganda.

You must carry a valid gorilla permit – which comes with a receipt bearing the names of the trekker and the sector of the national park - along with your passport. Aim to secure your permit at least six – ten months in advance of your travel date.

The permit fees are a key consideration, but not the only cost to account for when planning a trek in any of Uganda, Rwanda or Congo.

Gorilla treks will also vary significantly on price depending on whether you are staying in budget or luxury facilities.

As an idea of costs for different length trips, in Uganda budget accommodation in Bwindi National Park costs around $75-100 per night and your permit is $700 (£585). On the flipside, if you want to upgrade your experience to a luxury trekking safari in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, a nine-day tour costs in excess of $15,000 (12,500). Just $1500 (£1250) of this covers your permit, and the rest goes towards luxury lodges and higher-quality meals.

Hotel staff, guides, rangers and other staff will go out of their way to make sure that your experience was flawless, and tipping is greatly appreciated though not compulsory.

Some other costs to consider are internal or chartered flights from the airport to close to gorilla trekking points, which tend to be around £500-600. We recommend to hire local porters for $20 dollars a day. Porters are available to carry food/drink, heavy equipment, bags or video cameras and lend a hand during the difficult sections of the trek. They can be particularly useful for older visitors.

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What To Wear And What To Pack For A Gorilla Trek

What you pack for your trek will depend on the time of year, but you should be prepared for wet weather either way. Temperatures are fairly steady throughout the year, with layers being key. This is both for when the temperatures drop at night but also because it becomes cold and wet at high altitude.

Below are some key items to bring with you

• ·A comfortable day pack
• ·A reusable water bottle
• ·Waterproof (or at least resistant) hiking boots with a decent grip
• ·Knee-high hiking gaiters
• ·A lightweight rain jacket or shell
• ·Insect repellent
• ·Binoculars – though some tours will provide these
• ·Long pants or trousers
• ·Some people also choose to bring a pair of gardening-style gloves for forest trekking

Do you need to be fit to go gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is very different to a normal game drive, with long hikes on difficult terrain, through thick vegetation, up hills or valleys and sometimes through water. There are no defined paths or predictable tracks to follow, which is why gloves can come in handy when pushing through the forest.

Although it is exceptionally rewarding, the activity can be challenging and strenuous – even for those who are physically fit. Visitors often have to deal with with biting insects, rain and sometimes altitude sickness.

However, don’t be put off - 98% percent of people successfully complete the activity. The opportunity to spot birds, smaller primates and stunning scenery also helps to take your mind off the challenge.

For those who feel that they would enjoy the trek more by carrying less, porters are available for the day. Porters tend to be students looking to top up their school fees or men supporting their families, some are ex poachers.

The first step is mentally preparing for the trek, rather than assuming it will be a walk in the park, and doing a bit of hill-walking in advance,

Each destination brings with it its own set of challenges. In Bwindi, it is the rivers, streams and thicker forest, whilst in Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park, visitors have to contend with mist, higher altitude and bamboo forests.

The right mindset, boots, clothing and repellent will go a long way in making your adventure more comfortable.

Gorilla trekking of the elderly or the less abled is not impossible but more complicated as it involves the use of Sedan chairs and about eight porters to lift them up to the tracking point.

Special note:

Gorillas share around 98% of our genes, meaning that they too can contract coronavirus. and other airborne diseases.

As such, COVID-19 a big threat to the survival of the gorillas. So please observe the following when trekking:

• · Avoid sneezing nearby
• · Sanitize and observe other SOP guidelines
• · Observe a distance of seven metres at all times
• · Wearing of masks may be advised

Is Gorilla Trekking Worth It?

All of our team who have been fortunate enough to go gorilla trekking would say 100%, absolutely worth it, and our clients who complete a gorilla trek hail it as the experience of a lifetime.

Picture yourself hiking deep into Central Africa’s dense forests, encountering birds, smaller primates, butterflies and forest antelopes before stumbling across a majestic silverback and his family. It is a scene that will stay with you forever.

If you are unsure if it is right for you, talk to one of our team who has been.

Gorilla trekking is significantly more expensive than your average wildlife tour because mountain gorillas are critically endangered and demand to see them in the wild is so high. The increased demand has forced many governments to raise the price of permits, and the need for funds to protect the primates is ongoing.

As with other safaris, the cost is also affected by the level of luxury you opt for, and you can reduce your spend by reducing the level of luxury.

Gorilla trekking is not only a bucket-list dream ticked off, but you are also directly contributing to the conservation of a species for generations to come.

Looking for some more inspiration? Take a look at our best safari holidays ideas , our favourite family safaris or our top African safari honeymoon suggestions .

To find out more about gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, please call us on 01768 603 715 to speak to one of our experts.

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The Definitive Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Published on: December 4th, 2020

Last modified: December 6th, 2023

Some 13 million years have passed since our common ancestors roamed the forests of Africa . But when you find yourself among a family of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park , Rwanda, time simply fades away. Their eyes resemble ours, as do their fingers. Their facial expressions and body language seem uncannily familiar. It’s this powerful feeling of kinship, and the thrill of entering their misty, leafy world on foot, just for an hour, that make a gorilla trekking experience absolutely unforgettable.

In recent years, Rwanda ’s status as a wildlife-watching destination has grown from strength to strength. With diverse habitats ranging from forests and lakes to biodiversity-rich grasslands, this tiny East African country exceeds expectations.

While its mountain gorillas are the main draw for travellers, what makes Rwanda particularly special is its commitment to conservation. The country invests in reforestation , research and wildlife vet services, and fosters nationwide environmental action through its single-use plastic ban and its umuganda scheme, which requires Rwandans to devote three hours on the last Saturday of the month to community work, keeping the streets immaculate. Importantly, Rwanda also ensures that rural communities benefit directly from positive impact travel.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Mountain gorillas are found in just a few pockets of highland rainforest. By far the most popular places to track them are Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . No two treks are alike, since much depends on where the gorillas you’re tracking have moved to that day, and the parks differ in climate and terrain. In both, footpaths are limited, the going can be steep and rain can fall at any time. However, while Bwindi tends to be stickily tropical and dense with tangled vegetation, Volcanoes is usually a few degrees cooler, with more open areas, making hiking and wildlife-watching a little easier.

Located in Rwanda’s mountainous northwest, Volcanoes National Park shares an inseparable bond with the renowned American primatologist Dian Fossey and her dedicated team of rangers. It’s home to fewer gorilla families than Bwindi, with the number fluctuating when groups split or merge. For now, ten families have been habituated to tourism, a gentle process that takes several years; it’s only once the park rangers have gained their trust that visitors can approach at an appropriate distance.

Led by a dominant male, each family includes a mixture of subordinate silverbacks (mature males), blackbacks (younger males), females and infants, typically 10 to 20 in number. The largest group, Susa, is currently 38-strong. 

While you won’t normally meet conservationists on your trek, you can contribute to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, which works shoulder to shoulder with Gorilla Doctors, a team of wildlife vets who treat ill and injured gorillas when needed.

Planning Your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Everyone wishing to track mountain gorillas in Rwanda must obtain a date-specific tourist permit from the Rwanda Development Board. The cost for foreign visitors is US$1500, and the age limit is 15 years. Since there are currently ten gorilla families that can be visited, Rwanda issues no more than 96 permits per day. Jacada will arrange these on your behalf while planning your trip.

While it’s possible to track mountain gorillas in Rwanda at any time of year, dry weather brings easier hiking conditions. Rwanda has two dry seasons , June to September and mid December to early February. Since some gorilla families live in areas that are easier to reach than others – and since youngsters are particularly fun to watch – it’s possible to request a specific group, although success isn’t guaranteed.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

It’s easy to get caught up in the moment on a gorilla safari, but since gorillas are susceptible to stress and human illnesses, it’s crucial to follow a few points of etiquette. 

Your experience begins with an informative briefing by your seasoned guide, ensuring your safety and imparting valuable insights into the mesmerising world of gorillas. Prior to the briefing, you will be asked to choose between the easy, medium, or hard trekking routes and decide if you’d like a porter to accompany you on the hike.

You won’t be allowed to trek if you have a cold or any other contagious illness. During your hour-long encounter, wearing surgical face masks is compulsory ; if you need to cough, turn away from the gorillas. Throughout, keep your voice low and avoid sudden, rapid movements.

Tempting though it may be to get close, try to stay between seven to ten metres away at all times. If a gorilla approaches, follow your guide’s directions, which will normally be to stay still, avoid eye contact, and let them pass. If they sit near you, gently back away to resume your seven-metre distance.

While your trek won’t necessarily be long and arduous, physical fitness will enhance your enjoyment, and good footwear and clothing that protects your legs and arms from nettles are essential. The gorillas live at high altitudes (2,500–4,000m), so pace yourself and keep hydrated. It’s also wise (and community-friendly) to hire a porter to help carry your kit and haul you up the trickiest slopes. Many of them are former poachers.

The Gorilla Naming Ceremony (Kwita Izina)

Mountain gorillas are a conservation success story. Though endangered and naturally slow-breeding, they’re the only great apes whose numbers are steadily increasing. To celebrate this, and to engage the local and international community in their conservation, Rwanda organises an annual ceremony, Kwita Izina, at which the previous year’s newborns are given a name. It’s a festive event, held at an open-air showground near Volcanoes National Park. Visitors are welcome, and high profile invitees – from activists and entrepreneurs to footballers – are invited to godparent each infant, amid a rousing programme of speeches, traditional music and dance. The gorillas themselves aren’t present, of course, but their habitat looms large in the background.

Beyond Gorilla Trekking – Exploring Rwanda

Kigali , the capital city, has undergone significant transformation over the years. Before, it was a city marked by the wounds of the 1994 genocide that devastated the country. The aftermath left Kigali, like the rest of Rwanda, in a state of recovery and rebuilding. In recent years, however, Kigali has become a symbol of resilience and progress.

Today, the mood in Kigali is progressive and forward-thinking: it’s a clean and vibrant city with an international community and a flourishing creative scene. Museums like the Kigali Genocide Memorial offer a poignant journey through the country’s tumultuous history, providing a deep understanding of the genocide against the Tutsi. Places like the Murambi Genocide Memorial, with its preserved remains and exhibits, serve as educational hubs, fostering a collective remembrance and an unwavering hope for a harmonious future. Visitors can also explore historic houses that have been preserved to reflect the country’s cultural heritage, showcasing traditional architecture and lifestyle.

For wildlife enthusiasts, there’s much to enjoy up-country. As well as mountain gorillas, Rwanda protects other primates: in Volcanoes you may see golden monkeys, sociable monkeys that navigate the treetops with great agility, and in Nyungwe Forest you can track wild chimpanzees. In the east, you can enjoy a traditional East African safari, complete with big cat sightings: thanks to an ambitious rewilding programme, Akagera National Park , Rwanda’s only Big Five destination, is a wilderness rich in lions, zebras and giraffes, with Wilderness Magashi Camp situated in a private concession serves as a supremely comfortable base.

Our Team's Favourite Gorilla Trekking Trips in Rwanda

Where to Stay in Rwanda

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants in Kigali

Volcanoes National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Akagera National Park

Gishwati Mukura National Park

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Rwanda Airports Guide

Day Trips From Kigali

7-Day Itinerary

Things to Do in Rwanda

Things to Do in Kigali

Top Museums in Kigali

How to Go Gorilla Trekking

How to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

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What to Expect

What to wear, how to get a permit.

• How to Budget

Other Attractions

Best time to go.

• Getting There

The African continent is renowned for its once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters. Few are more memorable (or so frequently featured on traveler bucket lists) as coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas in their natural environment .

There are approximately 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild, divided across two distinct populations. The first lives in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . The second, larger population lives in the Virunga Mountains, at the point where the boundaries of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) meet. Each country has its own national park in the Virungas. Respectively, these are Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Virunga National Park. 

Of these, Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park is considered the best option for gorilla trekking. It is a safer country to visit than the DRC, with more developed infrastructure and a better choice of reliable tour operators. Meanwhile, Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is much smaller than its neighbors, and home to just one habituated gorilla troop. This means that there are far fewer trekking permits available, and, because the troop often moves across the border, there is a chance of missing the gorillas completely. 

Although Rwandan permits are considerably more expensive than Ugandan ($1,500 versus $700), they sell out less quickly, making it more likely that you will be able to travel on your chosen dates. Additionally, a day trip from Kigali is possible, which cuts down on extraneous costs.

From the best time to go to our favorite tours, here's what you need to know to plan your gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park.

Volcanoes National Park has 12 gorilla troops that have been habituated for tourist encounters. Each one is made up of at least one alpha male, or silverback, and his harem of females and juveniles. Your adventure starts at the park headquarters in Kinigi at 7 a.m., when your group will be assigned to a troop and given a briefing on rules for visiting the gorillas. These rules include maintaining a distance of around 22 feet, and not hiking when sick with any contagious diseases that could infect the gorillas. Basic rules for safe interactions will also be outlined, from not using flash photography to keeping voices low and movement to a minimum. 

Your group will be the only one to interact with your allocated troop on the day of your visit. The maximum number of people in each group is eight, ensuring that the experience is kept as unobtrusive as possible for humans and gorillas alike. As nomadic creatures, gorillas spend their days on the move, foraging for the vast quantity of vegetation required to support their huge size. Because of this, it is difficult to predict exactly where each troop will be from one day to the next, although they tend to stick to a preferred general area. Much of the trekking experience consists of hiking through the misty forest to find them—a process that can take anywhere from 30 minutes to five hours or more. Generally, troops are assigned according to the fitness levels of each group and porters are available to help carry cameras and backpacks. 

Once your guide has located the troop, you will spend up to an hour sitting quietly within a few feet of them, watching as they continue to go about their daily routines unfazed by their human visitors. Encounters are strictly kept to this time limit to ensure that each troop is impacted on as little as possible. Gorillas are our closest relatives after chimpanzees and bonobos, sharing 98 percent of our DNA. As such, much of their behavior feels familiar—whether it’s a mother grooming her infant, or juveniles play fighting with one another while the adults forage for food. 

The climate in Volcanoes National Park is both cool and wet, so whenever you travel, you should be sure to dress appropriately. This means plenty of layers so that you can stay warm when sitting with the gorillas, but strip off when hiking. It also means waterproof jackets and pants, and sturdy hiking boots or shoes with sufficient grip for slippery, uphill terrain. There are plenty of stinging nettles, so thick-woven clothing and gaiters are also recommended. If you’re susceptible to sunburn, bring sunglasses, a sunhat, and sunscreen for when the sun makes an appearance in between downpours. 

With eight people permitted to visit each of Volcanoes National Park’s 12 habituated gorilla troops every day, there are only 96 permits available for any given date. This means that they sell out months in advance and getting hold of one can be quite competitive. Do not wait to book your permit until you are in Rwanda. Instead, book your permit first and then build the rest of your itinerary around it. You can purchase your permit independently through the Irembo government website ; however, the site is in Kinyarwanda and most visitors prefer to have their chosen tour operator navigate the process.

How to Budget 

Rwanda is often hailed as the world’s best destination for gorilla trekking. However, it is also the most expensive with permits costing $1,500 per person. Ten percent of this fee goes towards local community initiatives and may also be used to compensate farmers if the gorillas venture onto their land and damage their crops. This helps to keep the relationship between conservationists and residents amicable, as well as increase local support for gorilla conservation. 

In addition to the trekking permit, you will need to consider the cost of flights, accommodation, transportation, meals, tips, and optional extras. Often, the easiest way to budget is to book an all-inclusive package with a company that specializes in gorilla safaris. This way, you will know the total cost well in advance and have plenty of time to save up without worrying about unexpected expenses. Having said that, package prices vary considerably depending on the style of accommodation and other variables. Read on for our pick of the best package tours for all budgets. 

With trekking permits costing $1,500 per person, there’s no such thing as a cheap Rwandan gorilla trekking tour. However, locally owned company Katona Tours caters to budget travelers by offering an in-and-out experience that starts and ends in Kigali on the same day (eliminating the cost of accommodation in Volcanoes National Park). $1,850 per person includes transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle, the services of an English-speaking guide and driver, your gorilla trekking permit, park entrance fees, and lunch at the local Muhabura Hotel. 

For a more immersive experience, consider extending your stay in Volcanoes National Park with this four-day itinerary from Intrepid Travel . It also begins and ends in Kigali, starting with a tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Then, you’ll sleep overnight at a lodge on the outskirts of the national park before heading out on your gorilla trekking adventure the following day. The third day is reserved for other park activities, including visiting the Karisoke Research Center and tracking golden monkeys. On the last day, you'll head back to Kigali for a walking tour of the city. $4,835 includes transportation, accommodation, most meals, your trekking permit, and both activities in Kigali. 

South Africa-based luxury travel company andBeyond offers luxury gorilla trekking packages starting from $5,504 per person. Lasting five days and four nights, the tour starts and ends in Kigali and includes one day dedicated to tracking the gorillas and a second reserved for tracking golden monkeys (at an additional cost). Accommodation is included and involves stays at the luxurious Kigali Serena Hotel and Virunga Lodge. Also covered are your airport meet-and-greet, gorilla permits, most meals, soft and alcoholic drinks, scheduled transfers (including the exclusive use of a luxury vehicle), a nature walk, and a complimentary post-hike massage. 

Although gorillas are top of the wish list for most visitors, a hike through Volcanoes National Park also yields an opportunity to spot many other interesting species. These include endangered golden monkeys (of which there are two habituated troops), forest elephants, black-fronted duikers, buffaloes, forest hogs, and more than 200 bird species. Many of the park’s birds are endemic to the Albertine Rift, making them especially sought-after by keen birders. 

Also of interest is Karisoke Research Center , where legendary primatologist Dian Fossey began her 18-year research project on mountain gorillas in 1967. It’s also where she wrote her seminal book, "Gorillas in the Mist," made many discoveries about gorilla behavior that continue to form our understanding of the species today, and was eventually murdered in 1985. Today, visitors can tour the research center to learn more about the valuable work being carried out by resident scientists, as well as conservation initiatives put in place to ensure the future of the park’s gorillas. It is also possible to hike to Dian Fossey’s grave. 

Due to its proximity to the equator and its high elevation, temperatures in Volcanoes National Park stay consistently cool throughout the year. Expect average daytime temperatures of around 61 degrees F, and chilly nights that can drop as low as 43 degrees F. Rain and mist are also ever-present, although less so in the drier months from June to August. Lighter rainfall at this time of year makes it the best time to visit for gorilla trekking since the terrain is easier to navigate and the gorillas themselves are often more active. October, March, and April are the wettest months and are typically best avoided.

Getting There 

For most international visitors, the main port of entry to Rwanda is Kigali International Airport (KGL), located roughly 6 miles east of the Rwandan capital. From there, it’s just over 70 miles and a little under three hours by road to Musanze, the park’s closest town. Then, it’s another 30-minute drive to the park headquarters at Kinigi, from where all gorilla trekking tours depart. Most visitors either hire a car and driver to get to Volcanoes National Park or choose an organized tour with transfers included.  

Tourist visas are required for most nationalities and can be purchased on arrival at Kigali International Airport or any land border. You can opt for a single entry tourist visa (priced at $50 and valid for 30 days), or the East African Tourist Visa, which costs $100 but lasts for 90 days and permits entry into Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.  

Before traveling to Rwanda, remember that the CDC recommends a variety of vaccinations, including hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and rabies . Proof of yellow fever vaccination is an entry requirement if you are traveling from any country where this disease is prevalent. Additionally, malaria medication is recommended for travel throughout Rwanda. Be sure to book a consultation with your physician to discuss which option is best for you.

World Wildlife Fund. "Wild mountain gorilla numbers grow to more than 1,000." Retrieved on December 6, 2021.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Rwanda." Retrieved on December 6, 2021.

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How to Choose a Uganda Gorilla Trek (Best Time to Go, Tour Companies, Price…)

Planning your Uganda gorilla trek? Perfect! In this post, you’ll learn what to expect, the best time to go, prices, and how to choose. I also include a list of the top 3 trekking tour companies.

What should you bring on your gorilla trek? Don’t forget anything with our Complete African Safari Packing List

How to Choose a Uganda Gorilla Trek

The Impenetrable National Forest. Does that sound interesting?

It probably brings up visions of green mountains and low lying mists, the sounds of mysterious animals off in the distance. If you’re lucky, it might mean the sight of some of the rarest gorilla groups in the world.

That’s right. Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest is one of the locations of Uganda’s famed Gorilla Treks. If a Uganda gorilla tour isn’t on your bucket list yet, it should be. Here’s why…

More reading: How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter

Uganda has had its share of problems in the past, but the country is currently on the road to recovery. It’s more stable, there are fewer threats of violence, and a resurgence in tourism has greatly contributed to the country’s infrastructure.

One of the biggest draws to Uganda is the remote area home to the country’s rare gorilla families . While gorilla safaris in Uganda aren’t the cheapest or easiest trips to take, they’re well worth the time and expense.

There are other locations to view rarely seen gorilla families in their natural habitat, and we will discuss in a section below the pros and cons of each to help you make your best decision. For now, let’s take a look at what Uganda has to offer.

3 Ugandan Gorilla Trek Tour Companies

Here are three of the most popular gorilla trek companies covering Uganda:

• Insight Safari Holidays : This company covers both Uganda and Rwanda and have been in the tour business since 2000. They take a 3 day gorilla safari into the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Wild Whispers Africa : They offer 14 tours around Uganda, including 8 specific gorilla treks.
• Kori Safari : This company is based out of Kampala, Uganda and offers 11 different gorilla safaris – the most of these companies.

What To Expect on a Ugandan Gorilla Tour

Gorilla treks are not guaranteed to spot any gorillas although tour companies are staffed with experts who know how to give you the best chance to see them.

When the day arrives, it usually starts at a designated meeting point. Some treks begin directly from here while others meet up at a spot further away. You don’t always know which your tour will be.

Tour groups receive some short training, usually in the form of a video and a briefing from the Ugandan Wildlife Authority, about what to do and what to expect during the trek. If the group is too large to trek safely, it is divided into more manageable groups of eight people or fewer .

The Ugandan gorillas are known by families that live in different parts of the park. The trek usually tracks one of these known families through their usual territories through the mountains. The group contains a guide who helps locate the families and usually an armed guard or two for safety.

It can take anywhere from one to five hours to locate the gorillas and sometimes longer. The groups are mobile because gorillas are vegetarian and must travel vast distances to keep up with nutrition demands.

The guides must track their movements through their usual territories. This can take quite a bit of time considering that the guide is also leading a group of people through the forest.

Learn more: Uganda Currency: 12 Things to Know

Once you find the gorilla family, you spend about an hour watching from a safe distance. Any longer has the potential to cause agitation and danger. Tours are not allowed to eat anywhere near the gorillas, nor are groups permitted to feed the gorillas. There is no flash photography allowed.

If you follow the rules in place, you should have about an hour to watch the group interact with each other. If you get really lucky, some of the gorillas might approach you under the watchful eye of your guide.

After the hour is up, the guide leads you back to the meeting point, and you head back to your accommodations or another activity for the day. It’s best to leave the day completely open should it take longer than expected to find the gorilla family.

Overall, the trek is mildly difficult, but most average hikers should be able to keep up without too much trouble. If you go during the rainy season, the trek may be more uncomfortable, but still doable.

More reading: How Strong is a Gorilla?

What’s Involved on a Gorilla Trek

You can’t just show up in Uganda and expect to sign up for a tour. The Gorillas are a protected species, and their habitats are protected ecological areas. It’s far too dangerous to allow just anyone to wander out into the forest.

You’ll need to get a permit first. Permits allow you to access the section of forest where the different Gorilla families live, and each permit is issued for a specific part of that forest. If you have an interest in a particular gorilla family or a particular park area, you should make that request either of the tour group or when applying directly.

Uganda Gorilla Trek Pricing

Permits in Uganda are around $600 per person during the high season and as low as $450 during the low season. High season permits sometimes sell out months in advance, so if you plan to go during the busy season, you must book out as far as you can.

Going during the low seasons means smaller groups and easier permits, but the weather might not be as accommodating. The most significant complaint is the rain, so plan accordingly.

More reading: What do you call a group of gorillas?

Getting To Bwindi

It takes about 10 hours to get to Bwindi from the nearest city ( Kampala to Bwindi is 550 km). You’ll need to budget for the car if you plan to drive yourself, or for the driver and car if you aren’t comfortable driving.

Some smaller airlines offer charter flights from the nearest airfield in Kihihi. You’ll still require some transport from the airfield to your accommodations, but the flight will cut down on the transport time to the national park.

Many tour companies figure in the cost of transport to your package if you’d prefer not to deal with the details. This will free you up for thinking about other things though it is indeed possible to manage the transport yourself.

Bwindi Accommodations and Lodges

There are lodges located in many of Uganda’s national parks including Bwindi. Accommodations include running water, en-suite bathrooms, and fantastic views of the forest.

Many of the cabins are eco-friendly and offer solar power along with designs that are intended to blend into the natural view. They are smaller lodgings that will give you a more intimate feel and make it easier to meet new friends if you so choose.

Some of the rooms are also family friendly, offering cabin style lodgings with a little more space. Many of the tour groups will be able to book accommodations that will fit your preferences to help you before and after your gorilla experience.

Check out our Guide to Uganda’s 10 National Parks (and 4 Wildlife Game Reserves)

Best Time to Go Uganda Gorilla Trekking

There are several options for Uganda gorilla trekking best time to go. The weather is much more accommodating during Uganda’s high season.

January and February are reasonably dry, but this time of year is still considered the low season. It offers the best time to view gorillas without the huge crowds but before the rains hit.

March, April, and May are the rainiest months. Although many tour groups still operate during this time, more planning is involved in making sure that permits are still being issued. If they are, you’ll practically have the gorillas to yourself although the rain might make the trek uncomfortable for you. Pack accordingly.

June, July, and August are considered the high season. The weather is excellent and many tourists combine this trek with a trip to view the wildebeest migration in neighboring Tanzania. This time is the most difficult time to get a permit, and you must purchase a permit months in advance . This also means more gorilla watchers, making locating the skittish families much more difficult.

September and October are good months if you plan to combine with a trip to Mt. Kilimanjaro. The conditions should be just about right to handle the trek to high altitudes, but the second rainy season won’t quite have arrived.

November and the beginning of December are part of the second, smaller rainy season, and few tourists go during this time. Again, this is good for a quieter experience, but it might make planning difficult if the country doesn’t issue permits during this time.

Around Christmas and on into the following months are good times to go when the weather has greatly improved, but it’s still considered Uganda’s low season.

When you decide to go depends on your preferences, tolerance for rain, and any other trips you’ll combine.

How’s your Swahili? Check out our guide to 100+ animal names in Swahili .

Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda, Uganda or DRC?

You have three choices for finding the gorillas: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Most people consider Rwanda vs Uganda gorilla trekking, but don’t forget the DRC.

Permits are the most expensive in Rwanda at $1500. Uganda costs around $600 during the high season and $450 during the low season. DRC issues permits around $400. Although Rwanda might seem like a massive price increase, it’s actually much more expensive to travel to both Uganda and DRC than it is to Rwanda, so the cost somewhat evens out in the end.

It’s best to fly into Rwanda for trips in all three countries. From Rwanda, it’s a simple car transfer of two to three hours to Ruhengeri Park. To get to Uganda, it’s a four-hour car ride with a border crossing for Bwindi. To the DRC, it’s three hours to cross the border before another 90 minutes to the national park.

All three countries offer equal chances to view the rare gorilla families, and each trek is staffed by people who are trained to locate the families. Although the most families live in Rwanda, this doesn’t increase your chances by too much since the families all have patterns of travel well known to the trackers.

Rwanda and Uganda both offer plenty of luxury and budget accommodations within the parks. DRC only has two choices at the moment, but each offers amenities and tranquil forest views. In one camp, gorillas have been known to make their way directly into the center of the lodgings.

DRC is currently in conflict , and while tour operators do their best to keep your safety in mind, concerns for safety should be at the top of your list. It offers the most as far as out of the way travel and serious adventure tourism, but heed warnings .

Rwanda is the best if you are looking for a more comfortable trek, either for personal preference or physical needs. It’s also best if your gorilla trek is merely a small part of a larger excursion. You’ll appreciate that everything is well laid out with minimal effort on your part.

Best Country for Gorilla Treks: Uganda

For the best of both, adventure and safety, gorilla safaris in Uganda are the best choice . It’s a beautiful safari destination in its own right offering stunning views, out of the way parks, and a variety of accommodations.

It’s still considered off the beaten track, even in the high season, so your Uganda gorilla tour will have a personal feel. It’s also a perfect trip to pair with time spent at Lake Victoria , one of Uganda’s most beautiful natural sites. Many tours operate out of Lake Victoria and will handle all the transfers necessary to get to Bwindi.

More reading: 18 Interesting Facts About Lake Victoria

Bottom Line

Uganda is one of the most promising places in Africa to visit due to its unique history and geography, and still being off the beaten path. Visiting Uganda is a perfect way to get to know a culture and area that are sure to be some of the best stories you’ll ever tell.

Although a Uganda gorilla trek isn’t cheap, spending time with some of the world’s rarest animals is a chance you won’t want to miss. Pretty much everything in your life leads up to that moment, right?

Your own opportunity to meet the gorillas in the mist and experience something few people in the world will ever get to see. Learn more about 6 common gorilla sounds

Need help choosing your binoculars? Check out this Buyers Guide to Safari Binoculars .

Are you planning your Uganda gorilla trek? What do you think about Rwanda vs Uganda gorilla trekking? Let us know the details in the comments below.

Hi, I'm Dena Haines . And I'm co-founder of Storyteller Travel . I love to cover food, animals, and destinations around the world.

I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech .

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A gorilla Trek is an amazing experience. We did one last year in Bwindi where we saw the Rushegura group consisting of 19 gorillas. I can recommend the company Gorilla O’Clock which we used. We had 8 days where we saw a lot of the highlights in Uganda.

Very informative. Entertaining, and complete. I can now confirm that i know more about gorilla trekking. the author is awesome. Keep it up guys.

Hi, I was just wondering if I must book a Gorilla Trek in Uganda through a tour company or not. I am travelling through Africa and cannot specify the exact dates I would be in Uganda. I was also wondering if I would have to book the permit in advance since it is the wet season, or could I just rock up and expect to be ok? I am happy to wait around for a few days if I have to, waiting for a spot to open up. Cheers, Ben.

Hey Ben, Depending on your safari expedition, you can contact Amazing Gorilla Safaris a tour company operating in Uganda and Rwanda who are specifically into gorilla safaris in Bwindi, Mgahinga in Uganda, the top gorilla destinations.

Thank you, Hope this helps!

Great write up!

My wife and I travelled from Australia to see the Gorillas in Feb2 2018. An incredible experience that we would love to do again.

We used a company called True Vine Safaris who were outstanding from start to finish and who I would highly recommend.

We flew to Kigali and drove to Uganda and loved every minute of it.

Thanks Matt! Would love to see your photos – did you blog about it? Feel free to share a link!

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Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking africa: top gorilla safaris for first timers + guide.

A Beginner’s Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Africa. Gorilla Trekking in Africa is truly an exclusive wildlife adventure of a lifetime. A Mountain Gorilla or Lowland Trekking is frequently ranked second to a classic Big 5 wildlife drive in Kruger or Serengeti National Parks on travel bucket lists. The Bespoke African Safari Co will plan a Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safari according to your interests, priorities, and fitness levels.

Gorilla trekking in Africa is one of the most moving and exclusive experiences in the world. And because the gorilla is an endangered species, you can only find them in some protected national parks in East Africa .

Our African Gorilla Trekking Destinations

All-inclusive gorilla trekking in africa.

As Gorilla Trekking safari specialists, we’ve welcomed more than 150 happy visitors to our continent , including those from Rwanda , Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo .

Only in these nations can you see mountain gorillas ; the Virunga Mountains or Massif is home to more than half of the remaining mountain gorillas in the world. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda , Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda are the nearby national parks that safeguard the mountains and people who live there. These three nations share a range of volcanoes that run along their borders.

The Best time to go gorilla trekking is between January and February or between June and September when it’s dry. This is because the ground is simpler to trek through, as it may become fairly slick during rainy seasons.

A life-changing experience is getting to watch primates in their natural environment. We can create the gorilla trekking trip of your dreams for you with the help of our professional assistance.

Tailor-make your Gorilla Trekking Safari

Combine Your gorilla trekking Trip with Other Bucket-List Experiences . Your gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure can easily be combined with travel to other African locations . If you’re traveling so far, you might as well take advantage of everything that Africa has to offer!

Combining gorilla trekking with an East African Great Migration safari is one of our most well-liked choices. Or, you may take our Primate Expedition Tour or our Gorilla and Chimp tour to see the best of both Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Finally, combine your gorilla trekking with a beach vacation in Zanzibar to experience the finest of Africa.

We specialize in tailor-made African safaris because we are Africa’s Leading Safari Company. Each safari is therefore distinct and tailored to your tastes and wish list. Our travel specialists have also explored every corner of Africa in search of the best experiences possible so they can share their knowledge with you and ensure that your safari is flawless. The best way to experience our homeland is on a gorilla trekking safari. Get in touch with our travel specialists right away to begin arranging!

Gorilla Trekking ideas to get you dreaming

Our favorite gorilla trekking packages showcase the best of Gorilla trek & Chimp Trekking. Book With Confidence.

Gorillas & Wildebeest Migration Days: 12 | Nights: 11 Gorilla Trekking and Great Migration in this one-of-a-kind luxury bucket list Gorilla Trekking and Great Wildebeest Migration showcasing 4 iconic wildlife destinations.

A Silverback Gorilla Safari Days 4 | Nights: 3 This 4 Days Silverback Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda. Trek through the Volcanoes National Park in search of the rare Silverback Mountain Gorilla and Golden Monkey.

A Rwanda Gorilla Trek Days: 4 | Nights: 3 4 Days Gorilla Trek Rwanda offers an Experience of Africa’s mountain gorillas on an adventure through Rwanda. Visit Rwanda, home to some of Africa’s last remaining mountain gorillas.

Congo Gorilla Trek Safari Days: 12 | Nights: 11 The 12 Days Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari, Get off the beaten Gorilla tracks on this Lowland Gorilla Trekking Safari through the Congo and Central African Republic jungles.

Masai Mara, Gorillas & Cape Town Days: 16 | Nights: 15 16 Days Masai Mara Gorillas and Cape Town Safari itinerary to match your routing preferences, pick an accommodation of your choice or choose from a whole host.

Congo Gorillas & Beach Holiday Days: 11 | Nights: 10 Gorillas and Beach Safari Sao Tome & Principe Congo. Start your 11 Days Gorilla Trekking through the Jungles of the Congo before flying to the remote islands of Sao Tome for a beach Safari.

Rwanda, Botswana And Mozambique Days: 18 | Nights: 17 Flying Safari in Rwanda Botswana and Mozambique (Gorillas & Wildlife). Experience mountain gorilla safari, big game safaris, and island adventures in the ultimate Flying Safari.

Rwanda And Zambia Safari Days: 14 | Nights: 13 14 Days Luxury Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Zambia Safari. Experience walking safari in Zambia and gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Visit Victoria Falls & Volcanoes National Park.

Gorillas And Golden Monkey Trekking Days: 5 | Nights: 4 5 Days in Rwanda Best for Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking. Mountain gorilla trekking is the ultimate primate experience in the African jungle.

Gorillas And Tanzania Safari Days: 15 | Nights: 14 The 15 Days East Africa Safari Package combines Rwanda and Tanzania. This Ultimate East Africa Safari see you visit four wildlife meccas in Rwanda and Tanzania.

Exclusive Rwanda Safari Days: 6 | Nights: 5 6 Days Rwanda Safari takes you deep into gorilla country — Volcanoes National Park, which is home to gorillas! There are few better opportunities to discover Rwanda’s nature.

A Classic Uganda Safari Days: 17 | Nights: 16 17 Days Uganda Safari – Explore the ‘Pearl of Africa’ in detail! Uganda is rich in treasures big and little, from the source of the Mighty Nile to breathtaking waterfalls.

Tarangire, Serengeti And Volcanoes Days: 13 | Nights: 12 This Luxury 13 Days Honeymoon Tanzania and Rwanda Safari has all the ingredients required to create a Romantic Safari masterpiece.

Uganda, Rwanda And Kenya Safari Days: 13 | Nights: 12 This 13 Days journey through Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya the Wild dreams come true. Enter the realm of the endangered mountain gorillas.

A Uganda Gorilla Safari Days: 4 | Nights: 3 4 Days Uganda Safari is Gorilla Trekking Bwindi & Wildlife Tour in Lake Mburo National Park. Travel to Uganda and encounter one.

Uganda And Rwanda Safari Days: 14 | Nights: 13 14 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari offers Primates tracking and Wildlife tours. Uganda and Rwanda are blessed with incredible primates including gorillas.

Rwanda, Tanzania And Zanzibar Safari Days: 12 | Nights: 11 12 Days Rwanda Tanzania Zanzibar Safari Package offers Gorilla Trekking, a Tanzania Safari, and a beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Rwanda And Zimbabwe Safari Days: 12 | Nights: 11 12 Days Rwanda Zimbabwe Safari combines Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, Wild Dogs, and Victoria Falls Falls in Zimbabwe.

Rwanda And Madagascar Safari Days: 12 | Nights: 11 12 Days Rwanda Madagascar Safari combines Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda and Lemurs and beaches in Madagascar. Rwanda & Madagascar Primate Safari offers to track the largest primate.

Rwanda, Kenya And Seychelles Safari Days: 12 | Nights: 11 12 Days Rwanda Kenya Seychelles Safari for Gorilla, Big Game, and Beach safari. Track Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda before heading to the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Gorilla Trekking Experience Days: 8 | Nights: 7 The Unforgettable 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari Adventure of a Lifetime. This Uganda Rwanda Safari offers Double Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Lowland And Mountain Gorilla Trek Days: 8 | Nights: 7 8 Days Congo and Rwanda Safari Trip includes Trekking Lowland Gorillas in the Congo’s jungles before moving on to Rwanda to pursue their larger cousins, mountain gorillas.

Primates And Wildlife Safari Days: 8 | Nights: 7 The star attractions of this 8 Days adventure Safari to Uganda are endangered mountain gorillas and fascinating chimps. Track and observe habituated primates.

Rwanda And Tanzania Safari Days: 10 | Nights: 9 10 Days Rwanda and Tanzania Safari combines tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes, Rwanda, Chimpanzee trekking in Rubondo Island National Park, and Serengeti.

Why Go Gorilla Trekking?

Because mountain gorillas in Africa can only be seen in the wild and cannot be kept in zoos, hiking to see them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda are the two greatest locations to see mountain gorillas. Their population has decreased to an estimated 900 individuals, who are desperately clinging to life in these two distant sanctuaries. They are critically endangered due to deforestation and hunting.

The likelihood of the survival of the western lowland gorilla has been significantly impacted by bush meat hunting and wood harvesting in Congo. Lowland swamplands and primary and secondary forests are home to lowland gorillas, the smaller and less shaggy cousins of mountain gorillas. Lowland gorillas are critically endangered. People who live close to the Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo have begun to respect conservation more as a result of studies on primates and gorilla trekking tourism. Communities are collaborating with research and tourism projects for a brighter future for the Congo Basin and all of its resident’s thanks to investments and employment creation in the region. Odzala-Kokoua National Park is home to one of Africa’s most diversified primate populations and around 100 other animal species.

One of the most therapeutic and personal wildlife interactions you can have in Africa, if not the entire world, is sitting a few meters away from a family of gorillas and witnessing your humanity reflected in their social rituals and beautiful brown eyes.

Gorilla trekking in Africa

Traveler frequently asked questions and are Answered!!

Will I Definitely See Gorillas?

Guides often know where the various families are because they are so constantly monitored and in daily contact with either researchers or hikers, so there is a 99 percent likelihood that you will see them. Although there are no certainties when dealing with wild animals, it’s possible that scouts will take up their route again shortly. A nocturnal thunderstorm or an unforeseen encounter with a predator could compel a flock to move abruptly in a whole other direction. On a gorilla trekking excursion, it is quite rare for tourists to miss the apes.

Your ranger will instruct you to abandon everything but your camera when you eventually come upon a gorilla family. Then, without endangering them, he will get you close enough to watch the gorillas closely. There are no barriers standing between you; only respect.

The gorillas have grown accustomed to human observers and are fearless when engaging in their normal activities, such as foraging, grooming, and resting. In fact, the little ones’ constant curiosity in people and their playful demeanor try the patience of their teenage gorilla babysitters. It’s lovely to witness the gorilla family in their peaceful state, but keep in mind that the family’s imposing silverback male patriarch is keenly aware of your presence. We advise you to spend some of the time taking pictures, but set aside at least 20 minutes to simply observe the gorillas; you’ll feel much more like you’ve seen them in their natural environment.

Can I Touch Gorillas?

Without a doubt, no. Despite the fact that we entirely comprehend the urge to reach out and embrace a cute newborn. First off, because they are wild creatures, you run the risk of being seriously hurt because they are powerful and unpredictable. In addition to being very vulnerable to human diseases, gorilla populations are already gravely threatened by logging, poaching, and human encroachment on their natural habitat. You are not only not allowed to engage with them, but you may also be required to wear a face mask in specific situations and maintain a constant distance of at least seven meters (22 feet) from them. Make sure you are in perfect health before you visit and take steps not to pick up any diseases because you won’t be able to go on a gorilla trek if you’re sick.

To avoid upsetting the gorillas , keep in mind that you are only permitted to spend an hour with them after you locate them. The opportunity to witness these creatures in the open is quite rare, so don’t spend your entire time behind a camera. Instead, put your camera down after a few minutes and simply observe them.

Do I Have to Use a Porter While Trekking?

Even if you are well enough to handle the terrain, altitude, humidity, and daypack on your gorilla walk, we strongly advise you to utilize a porter if their services are made available to you. You will be supplying a living for a number of villagers in the neighborhood for a small sum of money—roughly $20.

Former poachers are frequently porters. Many will be compelled to return to finding and capturing or murdering gorillas for bush meat or the illicit wildlife-trafficking trade if they can’t find work or make a living in the gorilla conservation field. Poaching syndicates’ rewards can be quite profitable for underprivileged communities with few other options for making a life. It is preferable to kindly accept their assistance, pay the cost (which will be equivalent to a few coffees back home), and contribute to the ongoing preservation of gorillas.

Keep in mind that every person in Africa with a legal job provides for seven to nine more people. Without as much participation from people as possible, conservation efforts cannot be successful, so the more porters you can recruit, the better.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost?

Your gorilla trekking permit may cost anything from 700 to 1,500 USD per person, depending on where you go. These funds directly support the preservation of these primates and their natural habitat. Your gorilla trekking vacation’s overall cost will vary depending on a number of variables. In addition to where and when you are traveling, other expenses include your lodging, transportation, meals, and other inclusions.

It’s like asking if breathing is required to question if going to see the gorillas is worth it. Definitely, yes! Gorilla trekking is a luxury that only a select few have the opportunity to enjoy, but it is something that everyone should do!

How Fit Do I Have to Be?

The more fit you are, the better for any rigorous activity. However, this does not imply that in order to go gorilla trekking, you must be able to bench press three times your body weight or compete in a triathlon.

The trekkers are sorted into groups based on their age and fitness ability, and those who are older and less fit are typically assigned to the gorilla family that is closest to the beginning location. You won’t be separated from family or friends, but you will need to slow down to the pace of the slowest hikers in order to maintain the group’s safety. This is the hiking equivalent of the golden rule.

The group that is farthest away will be located by the fittest or youngest members. Your guides will pause when necessary for a break, to drink water, to take in the scenery, or even to have a snack. They are very skilled at gauging how the group is doing. Water and sometimes energizing foods like roasted cashews or peanuts, bananas, apples, chocolate bars, muffins, miniature sandwiches or bread rolls, and regional specialties like “rolled eggs,” a type of cold omelette, are included in packed lunches.

Trekking is always more convenient during the dry season. Mud can make routes slick and the hike more difficult during the rainy season. Additionally, primates may seek shelter from the rain in nests or trees, making them more elusive and difficult to spot. Bring along a pair of compact binoculars to get a clear view of their facial expressions and antics.

Additionally, some gorilla families will be moving rather than lounging around, chewing leaves, and soaking up the sun. You’ll need to be able to keep up with them because they are much more suited than we are to traveling through their jungle habitat.

When to Go Gorilla Trekking

Although gorilla trekking is thought to be a year-round sport because Uganda and Rwanda have similar climates, the optimum time to visit the rainforests is during one of the two dry seasons. The first one lasts about from mid-December to the end of February, while the second one lasts from early June to the end of September. While these times are the most comfortable for trekking, the weather is still very humid, wet, and muddy (so remember your gaiters!).

The tropical rainforest of the Congo Basin has three distinct seasons that are best described as wet, wetter, and wettest since rain is a crucial component of its delicate ecosystem. Congo’s “low rainfall” season, which lasts from June to September, and the “gentle rainfall” season, which lasts from December to February, are the best times to go gorilla trekking. The driest and coolest months of the year are generally regarded to be July and August.

What to Pack for a Gorilla Trekking Trip?

Gorilla Trekking Packing List : Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants is advised to prevent scratches and mosquito bites while your gorilla trek through dense rainforests. Choose light, breathable clothing because getting to the gorillas will frequently require a difficult trek.

• Long-sleeved shirt
• Warm jersey
• Long trousers, preferably waterproof
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Multiple pairs of socks
• Gardening gloves
• Insect repellent
• Camera (but please note that flashlight photography is strictly prohibited)

Important Gorilla Trekking Tips

The guidelines are largely the same whether you go gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo . Anyone who wishes to go gorilla trekking must first obtain a permit. This is done to safeguard the animals since there are a finite amount of permits available, the permitted group size is limited, and each group is only permitted to interact with a gorilla family for one hour each day.

In Uganda, a permit will set you back about 700 USD. It costs about $1,500 USD in Rwanda (as of May 2022). The money from these permits is used to safeguard these species in the respective nations.

Facts About Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Trekking for gorillas in a high rainforest frequently entails hours of trudging through the thick bush while being trailed by a scout who uses a machete to cut a way through the undergrowth. The guides make sure you take lots of breaks, so you should be at least walking fit and equipped for a challenging situation. We advise wearing well-worn hiking boots that cover your ankles, thick outer socks made of cotton, and knee-high gaiters. You will not be permitted to embark on a gorilla trek if you have a cold or any other contagious sickness because gorillas are very susceptible to human infections.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

Land of a thousand hills: gorilla trekking in rwanda.

Rwanda is frequently referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills” or the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its volcanic peaks and heavily forested slopes. A birder’s paradise, it is one of the most well-liked locations for gorilla trekking and is home to over 700 different species of birds.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

One of the best spots in Rwanda to go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park . It’s also the easiest park to get to because it’s only a two-hour drive from the airport in Kigali, the nation’s capital.

This is where Dian Fossey began her research on mountain gorillas since it protects the Virunga Mountains’ Rwandan portion. It also serves as the backdrop for the book and movie “Gorillas in the Mist.” It’s a must-see because it is home to approximately 400 critically endangered mountain gorillas. You can also expect to witness the golden monkey, about 200 different bird species, and other animals including the elusive elephant and buffalo herds.

Read Reviews About Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

The Pearl of Africa: Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda also offers gorilla trekking opportunities. It is referred to as the “Pearl of Africa” and is one of the most distinctive and biodiverse nations in the world. There are 13 different species of primates that can be found here, some of which are unique to this region. It is a nature enthusiast’s paradise with 330 animal species and more than 1,000 different bird species as well.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The most visited tourist destination in Uganda is the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park , which is situated in the southwest of the nation. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is situated on the Democratic Republic of the Congo border.

Along with the 400 or so mountain gorillas that call this area home, there are 120 different animal species, including bushbuck, forest duiker, L’Hoest monkeys, olive baboons, and black and white colobus monkeys. There are also 220 different butterfly species and 350 different bird species. If you’re very fortunate, you might see some woodland elephants.

Read Reviews About Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park 

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The smallest national park in the nation may be Mgahinga Gorilla National Park . However, we can guarantee you that in this instance, little packages really do contain explosives. It is surrounded by the Volcanoes National Park and the Virunga National Park , which are both parts of the Virunga Conservation Area between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. You can anticipate witnessing a diverse range of creatures in addition to mountain gorillas, such as the golden monkey, blue monkey, golden cat, leopard, and other bird species.

Read Reviews About Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Africa’s Rainforest: Gorilla Trekking in Congo

The Congo River, the second-largest and deepest river in the world, is where the name of the nation comes from. This country is excellent for trekking because it is less well-known than other primate trekking locations, which allows for greater exclusivity and availability.

Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Odzala-Kokoua National Park

Northwestern Congo is home to Odzala-Kokoua National Park , which is situated right in the middle of the second-largest tropical rainforest after the Amazon. You can observe forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and more than 444 different bird species here.

Mountain gorillas are larger than these lowland gorillas, have longer hair, and have shorter arms as their main distinguishing characteristics. In comparison to mountain gorillas , which can only survive at high altitudes, lowland gorillas are also more likely to be sighted in trees and inhabit the flatter, densely forested terrain.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Mountain gorillas live in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, the Virunga National Park , Africa’s first national park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Imagine a huge savannah plain, lava lakes, and a dense forest.

You can also embark on a wildlife safari across the nearby savannah plains to see creatures like lions, buffalo, hippos, and elephants in addition to your gorilla trekking adventure in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Read Reviews About Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Destinations for The Best Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Africa

A selection of our favorite places for The best gorilla trekking safari in Africa

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Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi National Park

A mountain gorilla safari is a truly special experience that becomes all the more magical when done within the confines of  Bwindi Impenetrable National Park  in  Uganda . Located in South-Western Uganda, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and  boasts some of the highest numbers of endangered mountain gorillas in the world . The high population can be attributed to long-term gorilla conservation efforts carried out by rangers and the support of communities in the area.

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Great measures have been taken to revive populations of mountain gorillas,  which were once on the brink of extinction. Today, you can also find mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in  Rwanda  and   Virunga National Park  in the  Democratic Republic of Congo . However, the price tag of gorilla safaris is much higher in Rwanda’s national parks, and the populations of mountain gorillas are much lower in the Congo. In fact, to go on a gorilla trek in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, the permit alone costs over twice as much as it does in Uganda.

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The Time To See Mountain Gorillas On A Uganda Gorilla Safaris Is Now!

Gorilla Trekking Uganda

Uganda is the  second most popular destination for Mountain Gorilla trekking  in the world. It’s safe, it’s affordable, and as a destination, it offers a variety of activities aside from gorilla trekking. 

There are  15 habituated mountain gorilla groups in Bwindi National Park in Uganda , spread across three different sections of the park. Five habituated groups are located in the Rushaga sector, three in the Buhoma sector, two in the Ruhija sector, and one group can be found in Nkuringo.

Gorillas in  the Buhoma sector are the most accessible , making this the best destination for Uganda gorilla tours for those who don’t fancy hiking for hours. Buhoma also offers some nature walks to nearby waterfalls and an opportunity to visit the Batwa community. 

Rushaga is home to the most gorilla groups , but to get to them, you must be prepared for some hiking through the forest. The last two only have a couple of gorilla groups and thus are less popular with visitors.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permits

A gorilla trekking permit  in Uganda costs $ 700 /person,  and although in previous years, it was possible to score a low season discount (50% off), this discount was eliminated in 2018.

Similar to  Rwanda ,  gorilla permits  in Uganda need to be arranged well in advance , especially now that the price increase in Rwanda is expected to bring a significant increase in the number of visitors to Bwindi. For gorilla trekking, Uganda consistently ranks high on lists of desirable destinations, so be prepared to have everything planned well in advance – from scheduling your gorilla permit to booking a spot with a tour operator.

How Difficult Is It To Track Gorillas In Uganda?

There are  no hard and fast rules for how difficult it will be  for you to track gorillas in Uganda. The difficulty of the trek is determined by how deep within the park your assigned gorilla family is and the terrain in which you have to pass over to get there.

That being said, sometimes habituated Uganda gorillas  can be found hanging out at the park’s edge . In this case, it takes no time at all to find them. 

On the other hand, a group that is deep within the forest could take upwards of 4 hours to reach. More  often than not, participants spend an hour or two trekking  before finally coming across these beautiful mammals. 

Uganda gorilla safaris are no Everest, but they  do require participants to be in decent shape . The group moves only as fast as its slowest walker along the worn paths of the National Park. There is no off-path action on the trek towards the gorillas, but the park definitely lives up to its ‘impenetrable’ description.

In Uganda, if you do not want to carry your daypack on one of the gorilla safaris,  you can hire a local porter  to carry it for you.  Porters are former animal poachers,  so by hiring a porter, you are supporting ongoing conservation efforts inside the park.

Aside from carrying your pack, the  local porters have been known to help navigate or lend a hand  to people during swathes of difficult terrain.

What To Expect: Gorilla Trekking In Uganda

Typical Uganda gorilla  trekking tours  begin at 7 or 8 in the morning . All safari-goes will gather with the park ranger within Bwindi National Park. 

The  ranger will give everyone an initial briefing  on how the trek is supposed to progress, as well as the rules, then split everyone into smaller groups and assign their gorilla families. Groups are no larger than 8 people because anything bigger might agitate the gorilla families.

The  rangers usually have a general idea of how far within the park the gorilla families are . So, if you prefer a particular length of trek, this is the time to ask. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, and all the groups may be deep within the forest that day.

There are several gorilla groups in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, but only about half of them can be visited for gorilla trekking. The remaining families are wild, with some undergoing the habituation process. 

The rangers also have knowledge of how many silverbacks or babies are amongst the individual clans. The  babies are always a joy to watch !

Ensure you  follow the rules which are designed for your safety and the safety of the gorilla group . They are enforced by your Uganda gorilla safaris guide. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, new protective measures have been put in place in order to protect the gorillas. The endangered species is very susceptible to human viruses, especially COVID. Visitors are required to take a COVID-19 rapid test before they are allowed to enter the park, and wear a mask when you get to the gorilla family. Before you travel to Uganda, it’s best to check up on current precautionary measures, as they may change. Your tour operator is a great source of information – they’ll know exactly what you need to do. 

Here are some other rules and tidbits to keep in mind for your gorilla trek:

• Gorillas are curious animals, especially the little ones, and they may approach you. However, you  must keep a  10 -metre distance  between the gorilla group and yourself at all times.
• 1 hour  will fly by but for the sake of the gorilla group that is the  maximum time  Uganda gorilla tours can observe the animals
• Do not participate in Uganda gorilla safaris if you are ill. To protect them from human diseases,  do not cough, sneeze, or spit  next to the gorillas. 
• You are free to have a snack along the way but  no drinking, eating, or smoking  is permitted near the animal groups.
• You must  disable your flash  on your camera or video.

READ NEXT:   Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

How To Prepare For Gorilla Trekking In Uganda

To make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible, we recommend  planning this trip no less than 6 months out . This will give you plenty of time to set up lodging and secure permits.

Where To Stay

Most travellers include gorilla tracking in their  Uganda itinerary organised by one of the many safari companies  in the region. If you do it this way, then lodgings and permits will be taken care of for you, and it will be a weight off your shoulders.

If you are looking for a good safari tour operator in Uganda,  we recommend   Crystal Safaris  (ask for Jonna as your driver/guide).

If you would prefer to organise the trek yourself, that’s an option, too. If that’s the case,  your planning needs to start with the lodges.  There are numerous lodges conveniently located outside of Bwindi National Park in Uganda, but this is our recommendation:

Gorilla Safari Lodge, Bwindi National Park, Uganda

Gorilla Safari Lodge  is one of the first lodges in Rushaga Sector of Bwindi National Park and is  conveniently located just a 5-minute walk away from the trailhead . It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the park and save on transport time on the day of your gorilla tracking.

The lodge offers full board accommodation starting at $250/night in lovely eco-style cabins. There is no pool on-site, but the cabins are set up to help you  fully immerse in the lush environment .

Since the lodge is located just outside of Bwindi National Park, the Wi-Fi connection is limited but enough to stay in touch with friends and relatives. The lodge staff can help you  organise gorilla trekking permits, hikes in Bwindi National Park, community visits and other activities  in the area. They can also give you a realistic expectation of what your total gorilla safari cost will be.

An amazing excursion that the Gorilla Safari Lodge can help arrange is the  Gorilla Habituation Experience . This is more involved than a typical gorilla safari – it’s a more intimate experience where you get to spend up to four hours with the gorillas. You’ll be accompanied by porters, guides, and researchers who aim to habituate the gorillas to the presence of humans.

Learn more about Gorilla Safari Lodge and book your stay here

What to bring on your gorilla trekking experience.

Your gorilla trekking in Uganda is  first and foremost a hiking trip, so dress the part . We suggest wearing lightweight and breathable   hiking pants  and a long-sleeved shirt. Complemented by   good hiking boots  and  gaiters  for comfort and protection. 

Regardless of what the sky looks like the morning of your Uganda safari, bring a   rain jacket  and   rain pants  just to be safe.  Biwindi is a rainforest and the weather changes on a dime . 

We always bring our   collapsible hiking sticks , on hiking trips like this one, and found them very useful for the terrain within the park. However,  if you forget yours at home, you can purchase a pair or rent hiking poles from the park ranger .

Sunblock, eco-friendly   insect protection , a hat, sunglasses, water, and snacks are essentials. Pack at least 1-2 litres of water for the journey.

Of course, you will want to remember this experience, so bring a camera along. Not only will you see mountain gorillas, but  you will more than likely see smaller primates, a variety of birds, and interesting flora en route  to your assigned family. 

It took us a long time and lots of trial and effort before settling on the cameras we use in our travels, so we compiled a list of the best travel cameras based on our experiences here.

While everything we’ve said so far is important, it’s just as important to remember this:  you can’t fully prepare for this wildlife experience .

No matter how prepared you are, seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat will take your breath away.

Other Things To Do In Bwindi National Park

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a popular destination for gorilla trekking, but there is so much else to explore and see in the park. 

You can  go for a scenic hike along the Kashasha River , through a bamboo forest, to the Munyanga Waterfall – you are spoilt for choice when it comes to trails.

The  Batwa Cultural Experience  includes a hike to the local Batwa village, where you’ll learn about the forest’s original keepers. The Batwa people will teach you how they hunt, gather honey, use herbs for medicine, and build dwellings in the forest. 

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is considered to be  one of the best birdwatching destinations on the continent . To date, there are 348 recorded bird species at Bwindi, including three species that are last of their kind. 

READ NEXT:   Ultimate Uganda Safari Guide

Other National Parks To Visit In Uganda

Queen elizabeth national park.

Located about 4 hours north of Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth National Park is an amazing savanna park and home to  rare tree-climbing lions . Over half of Uganda’s bird species can be found in this park, and game drives give visitors a chance to see leopards, giraffes, elephants, and more.

Mgahinga National Park

Just a couple of hours away from Bwindi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another popular destination for gorilla trekking.  Home to three dormant volcanoes , this park is a great hiking spot. While the hikes can be strenuous in spots, no special equipment is required and they can be completed in under 8 hours. 

Kidepo Valley National Park

Located in northern Uganda, Kidepo is the most isolated national park in the country, making it a great place for wildlife viewing. Wildlife species that you can see during a safari include Rothschild giraffes, African buffaloes, and elephants.

Murchison Falls National Park

Home to the famous Murchison Waterfall, this park has attracted many notable visitors and even served as the setting for the 1951 film  The African Queen , starring Humphrey Bogart. This is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, with the Victoria Nile River squeezing through an 8-metre wide gorge and plunging over a rift valley wall. 

Would You Like To Experience One Of The Uganda Gorilla Safaris? Who Would You Take With You?

Disclaimer:   Our trip to Bwindi National Park and our stay at Gorilla Safari Lodge was provided courtesy of Crystal Safaris, but all opinions expressed in this article are our own. 

READ NEXT:  Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Congo (DRC) 

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

3 thoughts on “guide to gorilla trekking in uganda’s bwindi national park”.

Thank you for sharing with the world this amazing information about gorilla trekking in Africa. A small update: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park hosts now 14 habituated gorilla groups. There is also a new adventure – Gorilla Habituation Experience where travelers can spend a maximum of 4 hours with the gorillas. This activity costs USD1500 per person.

Thank you for the update. That’s wonderful news!

Hi, Thanks for the article, very useful! 🙂 Just one comment: the permit in Uganda is $600 not $750. We just booked our trek there for July 2018. Cheers, Emma

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The Ultimate Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Uganda

Published: November 17, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Raven Johnston

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Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide to gorilla trekking in Uganda! Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Uganda is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Home to over half of the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas, this incredible destination offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Gorilla trekking has gained international recognition as one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences on the planet. Uganda’s dense jungles and mist-covered mountains provide the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable adventure.

Not only does gorilla trekking offer the chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural surroundings, it also contributes to the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them. By partaking in this extraordinary activity, you are directly supporting the conservation of these endangered species and the preservation of their fragile ecosystems.

Uganda’s commitment to conservation has made it a premier destination for gorilla trekking, with several national parks offering treks to encounter these gentle giants. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the main gorilla trekking locations, each providing a unique experience to visitors.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Uganda. From permit requirements and booking procedures, to the best time to go and what to pack, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also provide insights into the gorilla trekking rules and regulations, as well as safety tips to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

But gorilla trekking is not the only highlight of Uganda. The country is also a haven for other wildlife species such as chimpanzees, elephants, and lions. With its diverse landscapes, including the iconic Rwenzori Mountains and the stunning Lake Victoria, Uganda offers a myriad of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including birdwatching, hiking, and cultural experiences with local communities.

So, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime as we delve into the world of gorilla trekking in Uganda. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Uganda promises to leave you awe-inspired and forever changed.

Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?

When it comes to gorilla trekking, Uganda stands out as an exceptional destination. Here are some compelling reasons why you should choose Uganda for your gorilla trekking adventure:

• Largest Population of Mountain Gorillas: Uganda is home to over half of the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas. With approximately 480 individuals spread across two national parks, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda offers a high chance of encountering these incredible creatures.
• Diverse and Pristine Habitat: Uganda’s national parks provide a unique and diverse habitat for the mountain gorillas. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts dense rainforests, steep valleys, and rugged terrain. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, situated in the virunga volcanic range, offers a mix of bamboo forests and open meadows.
• Authentic and Unspoiled Experience: Unlike some other gorilla trekking destinations, Uganda offers a more intimate and authentic experience. The limited number of permits available each day ensures that only a small number of visitors can explore the gorilla habitats, minimizing the impact on the environment and providing a more exclusive encounter.
• Varied Trekking Routes: Uganda’s national parks offer a variety of trekking routes, allowing visitors to choose the one that suits their preferences and fitness levels. Whether you opt for a shorter and less strenuous trek or a more adventurous and challenging hike, Uganda caters to all types of trekking enthusiasts.
• Opportunity for Cultural Immersion: Gorilla trekking in Uganda provides an opportunity for cultural immersion. Interact with local communities and gain insight into their traditional way of life. You can visit local villages, learn about their customs and traditions, and even participate in community-led activities.
• Exceptional Wildlife Viewing: While gorilla trekking is the main highlight, Uganda offers an abundance of other wildlife species. Enjoy sightings of chimpanzees, golden monkeys, elephants, and a rich variety of bird species. The country’s extensive network of national parks and reserves ensures incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.

Choosing Uganda for your gorilla trekking experience means not only witnessing the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas but also immersing yourself in an unforgettable adventure in a country renowned for its warm and welcoming hospitality. Uganda’s commitment to conservation, diverse landscapes, and unique cultural experiences make it the perfect choice for an authentic and memorable gorilla trekking expedition.

Permit Requirements and Booking Process

Gorilla trekking in Uganda requires a permit, and it is essential to understand the permit requirements and booking process to secure your spot for this incredible adventure. Here’s what you need to know:

• Permit Requirements: A gorilla trekking permit is a mandatory requirement for anyone wishing to go on a gorilla trek in Uganda. Each permit allows for one person to trek for one day in a specific gorilla group. It is important to note that permits are limited, and it is advisable to book well in advance.
• Booking Process: Gorilla trekking permits can be obtained through Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or authorized tour operators. It is recommended to book through a reputable tour operator who can assist in securing permits, arranging transportation, and organizing the logistics of your trekking experience. The tour operator will require your personal information, desired trekking date, and payment to start the permit booking process.
• Advance Booking: Due to the limited availability of permits, it is highly advisable to book your trekking permit well in advance. Permits are often sold out several months in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons. Booking at least six months ahead is recommended to ensure availability, particularly if you have a specific travel date in mind.
• Permit Cost: Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are priced differently depending on the season. The cost for foreign non-residents is higher than for East African citizens or foreign residents. The fees contribute to the conservation efforts in the national parks and support the protection of the mountain gorillas and their habitats.
• Identification and Passport: When booking your gorilla trekking permit, you will need to provide a scanned copy of your passport. It is crucial to have a valid passport that will still be valid for at least 6 months after your intended trekking date.
• Group Size and Trekking Date: During the booking process, you will be asked to specify your preferred trekking date and group size. Each gorilla group is limited to a maximum of 8 visitors per day to minimize disturbance to the gorillas. It is advisable to be flexible with your trekking date to increase your chances of obtaining a permit.

Remember, gorilla trekking permits are in high demand, and availability is limited. It is essential to plan ahead, book early, and be prepared for possible permit availability challenges during peak seasons. Working with a reputable tour operator can greatly simplify the permit booking process and ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

By securing a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, you are embarking on a remarkable adventure to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and contribute to their conservation. So, start planning your trip, gather the necessary documentation, and get ready for an experience you will treasure for a lifetime.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Choosing the right time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is crucial for a successful and enjoyable experience. While gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year, certain seasons offer better conditions for trekking and wildlife sightings. Here’s a breakdown of the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda:

• Dry Season (June to September & December to February): The dry season is considered the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda. During this period, the weather is generally favorable, with minimal rainfall and clearer skies. The trails are drier and easier to navigate, making the trekking experience more comfortable. Additionally, wildlife sightings are often better as animals tend to gather around water sources, and the foliage is less dense, improving visibility.
• Wet Season (March to May & October to November): The wet season in Uganda, also known as the “low season,” has its own advantages and considerations for gorilla trekking. Although rainfall is more frequent during this period, the landscapes are incredibly lush and vibrant, creating stunning backdrops for photography. The vegetation is also denser, which can make spotting gorillas a bit more challenging. However, the low season offers some advantages, such as fewer tourists, lower permit prices, and the opportunity to witness the baby gorillas playing in the rainforest.
• Shoulder Season (January to February & September to October): The months of January and February, as well as September and October, are considered the shoulder seasons in Uganda. These periods offer a balance between the dry and wet seasons, with fewer crowds and reasonably good weather conditions. Visitors can take advantage of lower permit prices, relatively fewer tourists, and pleasant temperatures for trekking.
• Considerations: It is important to note that weather patterns can be unpredictable, and there may be variations within different regions of Uganda. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trek and be prepared for occasional rain showers, even during the dry season. Regardless of the time of year, gorilla trekking is a unique and extraordinary experience that can be enjoyed year-round.

Ultimately, the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda largely depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer drier weather and easier trekking conditions, the dry season may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy lush green landscapes and don’t mind the occasional rainfall, the wet season can offer a unique and rewarding experience.

Whether you choose to trek during the dry season, wet season, or shoulder seasons, encountering the majestic mountain gorillas in Uganda’s pristine wilderness will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, prepare for an adventure, and get ready to be captivated by the beauty of these incredible creatures.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Proper packing is essential for a successful and comfortable gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda. Here’s a list of essential items to pack for your gorilla trek:

• Sturdy Hiking Boots: A good pair of hiking boots with ankle support is crucial for navigating the rugged and sometimes muddy terrain during the trek. Make sure they are well broken-in to avoid discomfort or blisters.
• Lightweight, Quick-Drying Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures. Opt for lightweight and breathable clothing that dries quickly in case of rain or sweat. Long-sleeved shirts and pants help protect against nettles, bugs, and sunburns.
• Waterproof Jacket or Poncho: As rain can occur at any time, it’s important to have a waterproof jacket or poncho to keep you dry during the trek. Look for lightweight and packable options for convenience.
• Daypack: A comfortable and waterproof daypack is essential for carrying your belongings during the trek. Choose a smaller-sized backpack to carry essentials like water, snacks, camera, and extra layers of clothing.
• Insect Repellent: Uganda is home to various insects, including mosquitoes. Apply insect repellent with a high concentration of DEET to protect against bites and potential diseases.
• Sunscreen and Hat: Protect your skin from the strong sun by applying sunscreen with a high SPF. Also, bring a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck from direct sunlight.
• Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is important during the trek. Carry enough water in a refillable bottle and pack lightweight snacks like energy bars or dried fruit for quick fuel.
• Camera and Extra Batteries: Capture the incredible moments with a reliable camera. Ensure you have extra batteries or a power bank to avoid missing out on precious photo opportunities.
• Binoculars: Enhance your wildlife viewing experience by bringing a pair of binoculars. Spotting other animals and bird species in the distance can be an added delight during the trek.
• First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
• Comfortable Gloves and Hat: Thick gardening or leather gloves are recommended for protection against thorny bushes and to maintain a good grip while trekking. A beanie or warm hat can also come in handy during early morning or cooler treks.

Remember to pack lightly and only carry the essentials to avoid unnecessary weight during the trek. Check with your tour operator or guide for additional recommendations specific to your gorilla trekking experience.

By packing the right gear and being prepared, you can fully enjoy the extraordinary experience of trekking through the jungles of Uganda and encountering the incredible mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Preparing for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Uganda requires physical preparation and careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some important steps to take when preparing for your gorilla trekking adventure:

• Get in Shape: Gorilla trekking involves hiking through uneven terrain, steep slopes, and dense forests. It is important to be physically fit to handle the physical demands of the trek. Incorporating regular exercise, such as cardiovascular workouts and strength training, can help prepare your body for the trekking challenges.
• Consult with a Doctor: Before embarking on the trek, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist. Discuss your travel plans, ensure you are up to date on vaccinations, and seek advice on any specific health concerns related to the region.
• Obtain Travel Insurance: It is essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation in case of any unforeseen circumstances during your gorilla trekking adventure. Check with your insurance provider about the extent of coverage and ensure it includes activities such as trekking and wildlife encounters.
• Pack Necessary Medications: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or require specific medications, make sure to pack an ample supply. It is also advisable to carry a copy of your prescriptions in case you need to refill medications while in Uganda.
• Acquire the Right Gear: In addition to appropriate footwear and clothing, make sure you have the necessary gear for the trek. This may include a walking stick or trekking poles for added stability, gaiters to protect against nettles and thorns, and a headlamp for early morning treks.
• Stay Hydrated and Well-Rested: Proper hydration and adequate rest are essential for endurance during the trek. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the trek and ensure you get enough restful sleep to prepare your body for the physical exertion.
• Follow Packing Restrictions: Check the weight restrictions for luggage and the permit regulations regarding what you can and cannot bring on the trek. Pack your essentials accordingly, keeping in mind the need for comfort and mobility during the trek.
• Learn about Gorilla Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with the gorilla trekking rules and regulations, including guidelines for maintaining a safe distance from the gorillas, avoiding abrupt movements, and minimizing the risk of transmitting diseases. The briefing before the trek will provide important information on how to behave during the encounter.
• Embrace the Adventure: Gorilla trekking is a unique and thrilling experience, but it can also be physically challenging and unpredictable. Embrace the adventure and be prepared for different weather conditions and possible longer treks to find the gorillas. Remember to enjoy the journey and cherish the incredible moments with these magnificent creatures.

By following these preparations, you will be better equipped physically and mentally to fully enjoy the gorilla trekking experience in Uganda. Remember to respect the gorillas and their habitat, adhere to the guidelines provided by your guides, and savor every minute of this remarkable encounter.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a privilege, accompanied by certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the gorillas and the preservation of their habitats. It is important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines before embarking on your gorilla trekking adventure. Here are some key rules and regulations to keep in mind:

• Maintain a Safe Distance: While gorillas share a genetic similarity to humans, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance (at least 7 meters or 23 feet) to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Respect their space and follow the instructions of your guides regarding appropriate behavior during the encounter.
• Limit Group Size: Each gorilla group can only be visited by a maximum of 8 visitors per day. This is to reduce stress on the gorillas and ensure a more intimate experience for visitors. Adhere to the group size limit and do not attempt to touch or get too close to the gorillas.
• No Flash Photography: Flash photography is strictly prohibited when capturing images of the gorillas. Flash photography can startle and agitate the gorillas, potentially putting their safety at risk. Utilize natural lighting or a low-light setting on your camera to capture stunning photos of these magnificent creatures.
• Silence is Golden: While observing the gorillas, keep noise to a minimum. Loud noises and sudden movements can alarm and disrupt their natural behavior. Speak softly, avoid making unnecessary noise, and follow the instructions of your guides to maintain a calm and peaceful environment.
• Follow Guide’s Instructions: Your guides are experienced professionals who understand gorilla behavior and know how to ensure a safe and respectful encounter. Listen carefully to their instructions and follow their guidance throughout the trekking experience.
• Do Not Eat or Drink in Gorilla Presence: Eating or drinking in the presence of gorillas is not allowed. Food or drinks can attract their attention, create unnecessary disturbances, and potentially endanger their well-being. Consume snacks or drinks only when you are a safe distance away from the gorillas.
• Do Not Leave Behind Litter: It is crucial to keep the gorilla habitats pristine by not leaving any litter behind. Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and water bottles. Leave nothing but footprints and take with you only memories of this extraordinary experience.
• Respect Wildlife and the Environment: Gorilla trekking is part of a broader ecosystem, and it is important to respect and protect the entire environment. Avoid touching or disturbing other animals, plants, or natural features encountered during the trek. Appreciate the biodiversity of the area while treading lightly on the trails.
• Follow Health and Safety Precautions: To protect the gorillas from potential diseases, do not attempt the trek if you are experiencing any contagious illnesses, such as the flu or a cold. Follow any health and safety guidelines provided by your tour operator or guides to ensure the well-being of both humans and gorillas.

By adhering to these rules and regulations, you will not only ensure a safe and meaningful gorilla trekking experience but also play a crucial role in the conservation of these incredible creatures. Respect their natural habitat, be mindful of their well-being, and cherish the opportunity to witness these gentle giants in their natural splendor.

Gorilla Trekking Locations in Uganda

Uganda boasts two primary locations for gorilla trekking, each offering a unique and captivating experience. Here are the gorilla trekking locations in Uganda:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Trekking through Bwindi’s dense forests, steep valleys, and rugged terrain provides an immersive and unforgettable experience. The park is divided into different sectors, and each sector offers different gorilla families to trek. With its remarkable biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a must-visit destination for any gorilla trekking enthusiast.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Situated in the southwestern corner of Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers another incredible location for gorilla trekking. The park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans three countries. Mgahinga is renowned for its dramatic scenery, consisting of volcanic peaks, rainforests, and bamboo forests. In addition to mountain gorillas, the park is home to the endangered golden monkeys, which can also be encountered during nature hikes. Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga offers a unique blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural encounters with the Batwa people, the original inhabitants of the forest.

Both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer an intimate and authentic gorilla trekking experience, ensuring minimal disturbance to the gorillas and their habitats. The treks may vary in difficulty and duration depending on the location of the gorilla families, so it is important to select a trek that aligns with your fitness level and preferences.

It is worth noting that the location of gorilla families is subject to change as the gorillas move within their natural habitats. The specific gorilla group assigned to each trekking group is determined on the day of the trek, allowing for a diverse and unpredictable encounter with these magnificent creatures.

Whichever location you choose, gorilla trekking in Uganda promises to be an awe-inspiring adventure that takes you deep into nature’s embrace, granting you unforgettable moments with the iconic mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.

A Day in the Life of a Gorilla Trekker

Embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda offers a unique and exhilarating experience that immerses you in the world of these gentle giants. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day in the life of a gorilla trekker:

Early Morning: The day begins with an early wake-up call as you prepare for an unforgettable encounter with the mountain gorillas. After a hearty breakfast, you will meet your guide and fellow trekkers at the designated meeting point. Here, you will receive a briefing on the trekking guidelines, safety precautions, and expectations for the day ahead.

Trekking Preparation: With excitement and anticipation building, you will head to the starting point of the trek. Before embarking on the journey, ensure you have all the necessary gear, including sturdy boots, comfortable clothing, a daypack with essentials, and a packed lunch. Your guide will provide walking sticks or trekking poles to assist you during the hike.

The Trek Begins: Led by experienced guides and armed with permits, your group will venture into the lush forests and rugged terrain. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, depending on the location of the gorilla family assigned to your group. As you hike through the beautiful landscapes, your senses will be awakened by the sights, sounds, and scents of the wild.

Encountering the Gorillas: After trekking through the forest, your guides will lead you to the location of the gorilla family. The duration of the encounter can last up to one hour, allowing you to observe and appreciate these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. You will have the opportunity to witness their social interactions, feeding habits, and unique behaviors while maintaining a respectful distance.

Magical Moments: As you observe the gorillas, it’s time to savor the extraordinary experience. Capture the precious moments with your camera, immersing yourself in the beauty and grace of these magnificent creatures. The silence is punctuated by the whispers of awe, as everyone present is captivated by the sheer wonder of the encounter.

Return to Base: After bidding farewell to the gorillas, you will begin the journey back to the starting point. The return hike provides an opportunity to reflect on the incredible encounter and the privilege of being in the presence of these endangered animals. The trek back offers its own rewards as you absorb the sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness.

Celebration and Reflection: As you reach the end of the trek, a sense of accomplishment and gratitude fills the air. Your group will gather to celebrate the successful gorilla encounter and share stories of the day’s adventure. Take a moment to reflect on the immense importance of gorilla conservation and the role you played in supporting their preservation.

Evening Rest and Reflection: After a day filled with excitement and wonder, you will return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest. Spend the evening reminiscing about the remarkable experience, flipping through your photos, and relishing in the extraordinary privilege of having witnessed the world of the mountain gorillas up close.

A day in the life of a gorilla trekker in Uganda is an extraordinary journey that combines physical exertion, natural beauty, and poignant encounters with the magnificent mountain gorillas. It is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul and a deeper appreciation for the importance of wildlife conservation.

Other Wildlife and Activities in Uganda

Uganda is not only renowned for its incredible gorilla trekking experiences but also offers a wealth of other wildlife encounters and activities. Here are some of the remarkable wildlife and activities to explore in Uganda:

• Chimpanzee Tracking: Uganda is home to a significant population of chimpanzees, and several national parks offer opportunities for chimpanzee tracking. Kibale Forest National Park and Budongo Forest Reserve are popular destinations for observing these intelligent and charismatic primates in their natural habitat.
• Big Game Safaris: The diverse landscapes of Uganda provide a haven for a wide array of wildlife species. Take a thrilling safari adventure in Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, or Kidepo Valley National Park, where you can spot elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species.
• Boat Safaris: Experience Uganda’s stunning waterways on a boat safari. Cruise along the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, or Queen Elizabeth National Park to witness hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife. The boat safaris offer a unique perspective and an opportunity for close encounters with fascinating aquatic wildlife.
• Birdwatching: With over 1,000 bird species, including rare and endemic species, Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Explore the diverse habitats of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, among others, to spot iconic birds such as the shoebill stork, African grey parrot, and the great blue turaco.
• Nature Walks and Hiking: Uganda’s scenic landscapes offer numerous opportunities for nature walks and hiking adventures. Explore the stunning Sipi Falls in Mount Elgon National Park, trek through the lush trails of Rwenzori Mountains National Park, or take a leisurely walk around Lake Bunyonyi, and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with the rich cultural heritage of Uganda by visiting local communities and interacting with the diverse tribes. The Batwa Experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers insights into the traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle of the Batwa pygmies. Additionally, the Ndere Cultural Center in Kampala presents vibrant displays of music, dance, and folklore from different Ugandan tribes.
• Rhino Tracking: Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can track white rhinos on foot. This conservation area offers an up-close encounter with these endangered giants and provides an opportunity to learn about rhino conservation efforts in the country.

These are just a few examples of the incredible wildlife and activities that Uganda has to offer. Whether you choose to embark on thrilling safaris, engage in cultural experiences, or explore the diverse natural landscapes, Uganda promises an adventure-filled journey that will leave you in awe of its breathtaking beauty and thriving wildlife.

Safety Tips for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an incredible adventure, but it is important to prioritize safety during the experience. Here are some essential safety tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gorilla trekking adventure:

• Follow the Guidance of Guides: Listen carefully to the instructions provided by your guides throughout the trek. They are experienced professionals who understand gorilla behavior and can ensure a safe encounter.
• Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a distance of at least 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas to minimize the risk of disease transmission and to respect the privacy and space of these magnificent creatures.
• Do Not Touch the Gorillas: Avoid any physical contact with the gorillas. While they may approach you out of curiosity, it is important to maintain your distance and allow them to initiate any close interactions.
• Stay in Your Group: Always remain with your assigned group and adhere to their pace and movements. Straying from the group can pose safety risks and can also disrupt the gorillas’ natural behavior.
• Do Not Eat or Drink in Gorilla Presence: Refrain from consuming food or drinks in the presence of gorillas, as it can attract their attention and potentially endanger their safety. Consume snacks or drinks only when a safe distance away from the gorillas.
• Respect the Wildlife and Environment: Observe and appreciate the wildlife and environment without disturbing or provoking other animals. Avoid littering and leave nothing behind except footprints.
• Wear Appropriate Attire: Dress in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and long pants to protect against nettles, bugs, and sunburn. Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking boots that provide ankle support for traversing uneven terrain.
• Bring Adequate Supplies: Pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and a rain jacket or poncho. Carry enough water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the trek.
• Listen to Your Body: Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. Pay attention to your body and know your limits. Take breaks when necessary and communicate with your guide if you need assistance or have any concerns.
• Observe Wildlife Etiquette: Be mindful of other wildlife you encounter during the trek. Do not disturb or approach other animals, and always follow your guide’s instructions regarding appropriate behavior.
• Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation. Confirm that it covers gorilla trekking activities and any potential medical emergencies during the trip.

By following these safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enriching gorilla trekking experience. Remember, the safety of the gorillas and the preservation of their habitats are of utmost importance, so always prioritize their well-being and abide by the guidelines set forth by your guides.

Embrace the adventure, respect the wildlife, and cherish the opportunity to witness the incredible mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in Uganda.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that immerses you in the enchanting world of the mountain gorillas. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and commitment to conservation, Uganda offers an unrivaled experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

From the mist-covered forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the volcanic peaks of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda’s gorilla trekking destinations provide an intimate and authentic encounter with these gentle giants. The opportunity to observe their behavior, marvel at their majestic presence, and contribute to their conservation is an experience that will stay with you forever.

Beyond gorilla trekking, Uganda offers a range of activities and wildlife encounters that further enrich your journey. From chimpanzee tracking and big game safaris to boat safaris and cultural experiences, the country’s natural and cultural treasures abound.

As you plan your gorilla trekking adventure, ensure that you adhere to the rules and regulations, prioritize safety, and make the necessary preparations. Work with reputable tour operators, obtain the required permits, and pack the essential gear to make the most of your experience.

Ultimately, gorilla trekking in Uganda offers more than just an opportunity to see magnificent creatures in the wild. It allows you to be part of the conservation efforts, support local communities, and create lasting memories and connections with nature.

So, embark on this extraordinary journey, explore the untamed beauty of Uganda, and be captivated by the magic of gorilla trekking. Discover the thrill of encountering these incredible animals and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes that make Uganda a truly exceptional destination.

Get ready to experience a world where humans and gorillas coexist, where nature flourishes, and where adventure awaits at every turn. Start planning your gorilla trekking expedition in Uganda and let the wild wonders of this beautiful country leave an indelible mark on your heart.

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13 Practical Tips for GORILLA TREKKING in UGANDA (How to Plan, Prepare, and Stay Safe)

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Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that needs to be on your bucket list of things to see and do.

Having just returned from gorilla trekking in Uganda, I must say that no other wildlife encounter in Africa compares to the incredible time I had trekking in Uganda and spending face-to-face time with the gorillas in a natural habitat.

However, some advance planning and preparation are necessary to make gorilla trekking in Uganda one of the most memorable experiences of your life. Here are my 13 practical tips for gorilla trekking in Uganda:

Check Out These Helpful Posts and Plan a Great Trip to Uganda:

How to Photograph Gorillas in Uganda (9 Helpful Tips for Great Shots)

15 Amazing Facts About Mountian Gorillas in Uganda (Read Before Gorilla Trekking)

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• 1. 13 Practical Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• 1.1. When Is the Best Time to Do Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• 1.2. Where Do You Go for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• 1.3. How Many Days Do You Need for Gorilla Trekking
• 1.4. What Are the Requirements for Traveling to Uganda
• 1.5. What Is the Difference Between Gorilla Trekking vs Gorilla Tracking vs Gorilla Habituation Experience
• 1.6. How to Get Gorilla Trekking Permit and How Much Does it Cost
• 1.7. What to Bring for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• 1.8. What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• 1.9. Should You Hire a Porter
• 1.10. How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• 1.11. What to Expect While Trekking the Gorillas in Uganda
• 1.12. How to Stay Safe During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
• 1.13. Where to Stay During Trekking the Gorillas in Uganda
• 2. Intrepid Scout's Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda - Is Gorilla Trekking Worth All the Money

13 Practical Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

When is the best time to do gorilla trekking in uganda.

Ok, here is a breakdown of when is the best time of the year to do gorilla trekking in Uganda as far as the weather is concerned.

Uganda has 2 rainy seasons and 2 dry seasons in a year. Let’s take a quick look at each season so that you can make sense of it all.

Rainy Seasons in Uganda:

• The short rainy season is from October to November
• The long rainy season is from about mid-March till to the end of May

Dry Seasons in Uganda: 

• The short dry season is from December to February
• The long dry season is from June to August

With that being the case, one of my top tips for gorilla trekking is to do it during the months of June, July, August, or September. And, keep in mind that June and July are the driest months of the year, BUT it can still rain!

The second option is December, January, and February.

The months of June, July, August, and September are considered the high season . You need to expect plenty of company everywhere. All the treks will be fully booked (or even overbooked) and the accommodations will be crowded.

The month of December is the peak month for gorilla trekking in Uganda. It is not only the busiest time of the year but also, the most expensive time for planning a trip to Uganda. Be prepared to pay extra for accommodations and flights.

Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

If you can’t stand the crowds and if you are on a tight budget, then the good news is that Gorilla trekking is conducted year-round in Uganda and you can plan your gorilla trek during the low season (rainy season).

What the rainy season in Uganda means is that most of the days will have some sunshine, but the extra rainfall will make dirt roads extremely muddy and forest trails more challenging to traverse. But, if you do not mind the extra rain and can tolerate challenging conditions, then you will be able to save some money.

As far as temperatures throughout the year , you do not have to worry about huge temperature fluctuations. They range from 21-25C (70-77F) throughout the entire year.

Where Do You Go for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

There are 2 places for mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda:

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park 
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Hands down, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the top place for gorilla trekking not only in Uganda but in the world.

First of all, about 300-400 gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is roughly half of the gorilla population in the world!

Second, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the home of the largest number of habituated gorilla families in Africa.

Currently, there are 18 habituated gorilla groups or families in Uganda that you can trek, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest has 17 of these groups.

There are 4 treks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and each trek has specific gorilla families.

Following is the list of all the treks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and gorilla families found around these treks. Keep in mind that not all of these listed gorilla families are habituated:

• Ruhija Trek – gorilla families: Mukiza, Oruzogo, Bitukura and Kyaguliro
• Buhoma Trek – gorilla families: Habinyanja, Katwe, Mubare, Rushegura
• Nkuringo Trek – gorilla families: Christmas, Nkuringo, Bushaho
• Rushaga Trek – gorilla families: Kutu, Bikingi, Mishaya, Bushigye, Kahungye, Rwigi, Bweza, Nshongi, Mucunguzi

How Many Days Do You Need for Gorilla Trekking

You need to plan a minimum of 3 days (2 nights accommodations) for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Basically, the first day should be reserved for travel. It takes a good portion of the day to fly from Entebbe to Kihihi Air Strip and then at least 1.5 hours of driving from Khihi to Bwindi.

The second day should be reserved for gorilla trekking which can last from 2 hours to more than 7 hours depending on which trek you get and where the gorilla family you are trekking is located.

The third day is again your travel day wherever you are going next.

My recommendation is to stay an extra day and enjoy a few other activities offered around Bwindi. Any of these activities can easily be arranged by your lodge management. Just ask and they will have a list of guides that you can hire for half or full-day:

• Go on Bird Watching Tour

If you have a passion for birds then Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the top destinations for bird watching in Africa! 348 bird species have been recorded at Bwindi.

Bwindi has three bird species that are the only surviving representatives of their respective genera: African Green Broadbill, Grauer’s Warbler (Graueria vittata), and Short-tailed Warbler (Hemitesia Neumann).

If you are interested in bird watching, let me know and I will connect you with the birding guide that my daughter had and who was excellent!

• Go on Butterfly Watching Tour

Are you into butterflying? Bwindi has at least 220 butterfly species including 8 Albertine rift endemics. Three butterflies occur only in Bwindi including the Cream-banded swallowtail (Papilio leucotaenia), Graphium gudenusi, and Charaxes fournierae. The threatened African giant swallowtail (Papilio antimachus) is also found in Bwindi.

• Join the Coffee and Tea Tour

There are lots of coffee and tea tours that you can join and learn how coffee and tea are grown, collected, and prepared. It is also a good idea to purchase some coffee and tea to support local communities.

• Visit Craft Market

Just outside the entrance to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, there is a craft market. Here, you will find all kinds of local crafts that are perfect to buy and take home as gifts. Again, you will be supporting the communities surrounding Bwindi.

Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda 

What Are the Requirements for Traveling to Uganda

It is important that you check your local Uganda Embassy continuously while planning a trip to Uganda since the entry requirements can change at any time.

Currently, the following entry requirements are in place:

All foreign visitors to Uganda must have a passport and it needs to be valid for at least 6 months.

Passports must have a clean and full visa page for endorsement.

• Yellow Fever Vaccine Certificate

All visitors to Uganda must have a valid yellow fever vaccine certificate.

For most people, a single dose of the yellow fever vaccine provides long-lasting protection, and a booster dose of the vaccine is not needed . However, travelers going to areas with ongoing outbreaks may consider getting a booster dose of the yellow fever vaccine if it has been 10 years or more since they were last vaccinated.

Citizens of most countries traveling to Uganda will need a visa.

If you are a citizen of any of these countries, then you do need a visa. For a complete list click: HERE

Apply for your visa through Uganda E-Immigration System .

A visa to Uganda costs $50 and is valid for 90 days. The approval process takes just a few days and you will be notified via your email when it is approved. It is important that print your visa in color and take it with you .

• Covid Vaccine Certificate

I decided to add Covid Vaccine Certificate to the list since I asked for it at numerous security checkpoints at Entebbe Airport.

Intrepid’s Tip: 

If you are visiting Uganda, Kenya, and/or Rwanda, then apply for an East African Tourist Visa .

East African Tourist Visa is a multiple entry visa. it costs $100 and it is valid for 90 days.

For those beginning their trip in Kenya, apply for the East African Tourist Visa by visiting https://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html . Or click this  link  for more information.

For those beginning their trip in Rwanda, you can apply through the Rwanda Online Visa Application System. Under “Type of Visa” select “East Africa Tourist Visa.” For more information contact your local Rwanda embassy.

For those beginning their trip in Uganda, you can find information on the visa application process on the consular section of your local Uganda embassy or its website.

What Is the Difference Between Gorilla Trekking vs Gorilla Tracking vs Gorilla Habituation Experience

While you are planning and researching your trip to Uganda, you are going to come upon a few terms pertaining to visiting the gorillas, namely: gorilla trekking, gorilla tracking, and gorilla habituation experience. What is the difference?

• Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is defined as a guided hike into the rainforest jungles. You will be in a small controlled group of 8 travelers accompanied by an expert guide and 2 armed rangers. Once you reach the gorilla family, you will have 1 hour to observe them and take pictures. The cost for a gorilla trekking permit is $700.

• Gorilla Tracking

Gorilla tracking is done by expert ranger guides, park staff, or researchers. This involves tracking down a specific habituated gorilla family and locating them based on their last known location, where they spent the night, and their feeding area.

• Gorilla Habituation Experience

The Gorilla habituation experience is the process of introducing gorillas to the sight and presence of humans. There are only 4 tourists allowed in each habituation experience and you have at least 4 hours to spend with the gorilla family. The process is more demanding and requires a good level of physical fitness. The cost for a gorilla habituation experience is $1,500.

How to Get Gorilla Trekking Permit and How Much Does it Cost

The best way to obtain a gorilla tracking permit is either through a tour operator or safari company which purchased them from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). However, you can purchase them directly from Uganda Wildlife Authority .

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit Is $700 and the cost of a gorilla habituation experience is $1,500.

It is important that you purchase your permit at least 6 months in advance to guarantee availability.

What to Bring for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

It is important that you are prepared for gorilla trekking. Here is the most condensed and comprehensive list of things you need to bring for gorilla trekking:

1. Camera!!!

Gorilla trekking is a photographer’s dream! If you are like me, you will be taking hundreds, if not thousands, of photos. It is an incredible experience!

I have a Nikon COOLPIX P1000 Super Telephoto Camera that I bought a couple of years ago and I really like it. So, check it out and see if you might like it.

2. Spare battery for the camera

Make sure to have a spare battery for your camera. I think there is nothing more frustrating than knowing that you still have half a hike ahead of you, yet your camera’s battery is gone.

I like to use a tripod since it gives me more stability when taking close-ups of wildlife. I have Manfrotto Befree Live Carbon Fiber Tripod with Fluid Head . It is only 3.0 pounds and it fits nicely in my backpack.

4. Binoculars!

If your camera does not have a good zoom, then binoculars are a must. What a treat to see these amazing animals up close.

5. Bottled Water

Pack water! It will be hot and humid and you will sweat a lot! Your lodge will probably provide you with bottled water. Take as many bottles (at least 4 bottles) as you can!

6. Sunscreen

Protect your skin from the sun and apply sunscreen. The sun is very strong at these high altitudes around midday. My favorite is EltaMD UV Sport Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Sport Lotion .

6. First aid kit

Prepackaged first-aid kits for hikers is a must!

6. Insect Repellent

Insect repellent is an important step against mosquitoes and ticks that can spread diseases like West Nile and Lyme.  When selecting an effective insect repellent, do not look at the brand names, but rather, look at the concentration of the active ingredients. Concentrations of DEET at 25 to 30% are the best to keep you protected.

7. Gardening Gloves

You are going to need sturdy, thick, and cut-resistant gardening gloves! As you are trekking in thick vegetation, you will need to grab and hold on to branches and vines to help yourself up or down the mountainside. Check out these Handson Gardening Gloves from Amazon.

8. Energy Snacks

The lodge where I was staying packaged the entire lunch for me. And, although, it all looked good, it was way too much food for me and it was not packaged efficiently. My recommendation is to bring and pack some high-energy bars. I like RXBAR . It is a high-protein bar, gluten-free, and it is super yummy! Make sure to get a variety pack to keep it interesting.

9. Day Pack

Obviously, all this stuff mentioned above needs to be packed into a sturdy day pack. My favorite day pack that I had for years is Osprey Daylite Plus Pack Special Edition . It is perfect for hiking or traveling.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is not a walk in the park! It is not like your typical hiking either. There is no trail. You are trekking through the jungle. Here is a list of what you need to wear for gorilla trekking:

1. Waterproof Hiking Boots

Waterproof hiking books are a must! I would say that this is one of the most important things you need to have. Make sure that your hiking boots are waterproof because it might rain, besides the ground is usually wet and muddy. Next, ensure that your boots have good traction because the path can be very slippery. Lastly, your hiking boots need to offer good ankle support.

For my gorilla trekking in Uganda, I bought Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots from REI . I like them a lot! I am definitely recommending them.

My daughter bought HOKA Anacapa Mid GTX Hiking Boots  also from REI and she is very happy with how well they performed.

2. Thick Over-the-Calf Socks

Thick over-the-calf socks are another absolute must for gorilla trekking. Make sure they are at least knee-high so that you can tuck your pants into the socks to protect yourself from insects crawling under your pants.

My favorite are Darn Tough Function 5 Over-The-Calf Padded Cushion Socks . They are made with merino wool that helps to regulate the temperature of your active feet, offering breathability at the same time.

3. Long Pants

For all my hiking trips I always pack KUHL Trekr Pants from REI. They are made of woven fabric that is peached for a soft feel with a built-in stretch that allows freedom of movement. There are plenty of zippered pockets that I like as well. Another nice feature is the waistband which is slightly higher in the back and lower in the front.

4. Sun Shirt

My favorite sun shirt is REI Co-op Sahara Solid Long-Sleeve Shirt . It is made of cool, moisture-wicking stretch nylon with UPF 50 sun protection. You can roll up and secure the sleeves. There are back vents to keep you cool and plenty of pockets to stash small necessities.

5. Lightweight Rain Jacket 

A lightweight rain jacket is another must item to bring on gorilla trekking. The weatherman is not always right and it might rain in Uganda at any time with no advance warning. For my gorilla trekking in Uganda, I bought KUHL Stretch Voyagr Jacket  at REI. I love it and I will definitely use it for my future travels!

A wide-brimmed hat is always a good idea. Check out the ones from REI and see which one you might like. Personally, I like trucker hats or caps .

Gaiters were recommended by my travel agent and I am glad I bought them. They protected my legs from thorns, insects, mud, and water. My recommendation is to buy good quality gaiters made from ballistic nylon so that they will resist tearing. The ones that I bought are Black Diamond GTX FrontPoint Gaiters .

Should You Hire a Porter

Yes! You most definitely should hire a porter .

Once you arrive at the trailhead, you will find a group of uniformed men and women. They offer their services as porters.

They will not only carry your backpack but also help you out along the way . A little push or pull, and a helping hand will go a long way as you are trekking, and trust me, at the end of your trek you will be grateful that you hired a porter.

These porters provide their services for a small fee of $20.

However, above all, think about giving back to the community . Hiring a porter provides jobs to locals. Your contribution of $20 will provide a livelihood to several people.

Also, keep in mind that these porters are often people who depended on the protected jungle as their means of survival. Providing them with jobs will ensure the conservation of gorillas.

How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

So to put it in perspective and give you some idea of how difficult is gorilla trekking in Uganda, you need to realize that about 60% of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park  has an elevation of over 6,600 feet .

The elevation of the entire park is from 3,904 feet to 8,553 feet.

There are some steep elevation changes in many areas.

There are no well-defined hiking trails or paths . You are trekking in the jungle. Your guide will clear the narrow openings through thick vegetation with the machete and you will follow the guide in a closely controlled group. The ground will be wet, muddy, and slippery, that is why you need to invest in good hiking boots . Your sneakers or sandals are of no use in these conditions.

Make sure to wear your gloves and grab branches and vines and pull yourself up or steady yourself going down. Again, my recommendation is to hire a porter. They are familiar with the terrain and will help you out.

It might take 2 hours of trekking until you reach your gorilla family, or your trek might stretch to up to 6-8 hours. Once you reach your gorilla family, they might be resting, grooming, or socializing and it will be easy to observe them and take pictures. However, some families might be on the move and you will be following them until they settle down.

I saw people from all age groups and fitness levels doing gorilla trekking in Uganda. And, it can be done and you can do it!

Now, if you think you are not up for a strenuous or long trek, then make sure to talk to your guide. The guides pretty much know where the gorilla families are located and how long it will take to reach them.

If you have any concerns, the guides will assign you to a proper group for your fitness level.

What to Expect While Trekking the Gorillas in Uganda

On the day of your trek, expect to get up super early . I got a wake-up call at 5:15 am and had breakfast at 6 am.

Right after breakfast, your local guide will take you to the briefing point .

Your temperature will be taken and you will be asked to sanitize your hands and have a mask and wear once you reach your gorilla family.

The briefing will start at about 7:30 am and first, you will watch local dances and presentations. Right after, all the visitors will be assigned to different groups each trekking a gorilla family.

Personally, my trek was not exceptionally long or strenuous. However, I have to admit that the terrain was rugged and steep and the jungle was thick. My group followed the expert tracker and was protected by two armed rangers .

The expert tracker cleared the narrow path for us with the machete. He was constantly on his walkie-talkie communicating with other rangers and trackers.

The other rangers and trackers usually go out at dawn to find the gorillas before they leave their nests and stay with them throughout the day. Then, they send coordinates to your tracker and make your trekking less challenging.

When you finally find the gorillas, your trekking guide will ask you to wear your facemask .

You will only have one hour with the gorillas , so you need to be fast taking pictures and be super observant. Observe them in silence and stay at the safe distance.

I did hire a porter and I was glad that I did. He gave me a helping hand on many occasions along the trek. He also picked ants off my shirt that were frantically biting me (very ferocious little creatures), as I was completely mesmerized by the gorilla family and totally focused on taking pictures.

I found the female gorillas very calm and gracious , totally engaged in their activities of grooming and socializing.

At one point, the silverback came down loudly from a higher spot letting us know who was in charge. We were all very impressed by his huge size and powerful demeanor.

The baby gorilla was the superstar throughout the entire hour and I ended up with more pictures of the baby than anything else.

Needless to say, seeing the gorillas in their natural habitat was a life-changing experience for me.

How to Stay Safe During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The gorilla family you are going to visit has been habituated to human presence. However, mountain gorillas are wild creatures and are unpredictable.

Your trekking group will be accompanied by two armed rangers . They will escort you into the jungle and ensure you are not in danger from an attack.

It is important to know and follow these rules during your trek and encounter with the gorillas:

• Stay with your trekking group and do not wander off.
• Always follow your guide’s instructions.
• Wear a mask and maintain a distance of at least 10 meters (32 feet).
• Do not reach out and touch the gorillas. They are vulnerable to human disease. However, be prepared that sometimes usually the younger gorillas can reach out to you and touch you. It is important that you do not engage with them and avoid their contact.
• Be aware that the silverback might loudly announce his presence and dominance, or he might charge at you. In such instances, do not run or yell, but rather lay down, and curl up to let him know that you acknowledge his presence and dominance and he will back away.

Where to Stay During Trekking the Gorillas in Uganda

First of all, my entire trip to Africa was planned by Gamewatchers Safaris . I am highly recommending them. They have done an awesome job from accommodations to flights, to ensure I had all the necessary documents.

During gorilla trekking in Uganda, I stayed at Mahogany Springs Lodge . It is a beautiful lodge perched on a hillside, offering spectacular views of Bwindi from its panoramic terrace.

The rooms are spacious and bright with high ceilings and beautiful views of the surrounding area. My room had its own private terrace, large en-suite bathroom, and walk-in terracotta shower.

All the meals were delicious and beautifully presented.

Above all what stands out is their customer service skills which they take to the next level. They care about their guests and will go over and beyond to make you comfortable and accommodate all your requests.

I need to mention that I am not getting compensated by Gamewatchers Safaris or Mohogany Springs Lodge for my review. This is my honest opinion.

Intrepid Scout's Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda - Is Gorilla Trekking Worth All the Money

I always get asked if gorilla trekking in Uganda is worth spending all that money. Needless to say, gorilla trekking in Uganda is an expensive endeavor: flights, transfers, accommodations, permits, and visas, it all adds up and you only get 1 hour with the gorillas.

So, to honestly answer this question, I need to say that of all my world travels, gorilla trekking in Uganda ranks at the top of my world chart of bucket-list-worthy experiences and places to visit.

Observing the mountain gorillas in the wild is awe-inspiring. It is a 10 out of 10 experience that you will never forget!

More Helpful Posts About Uganda:

15 Amazing Facts About Mountain Gorillas in Uganda (Read Before Gorilla Trekking)

You Might Also Like:

Read All the Posts About Africa in: 

Africa Travel Guide

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Where we trek

There are only two populations of mountain gorillas left in the world – and you can visit either of them with Intrepid. The first population lives in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the other is in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. But, what differences can you expect between the two?

Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park

There are 12 habituated gorilla families in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The terrain you will be trekking through in Rwanda may be slightly less dense and more open than in Uganda, which means some people find it to be an easier trek. The park is also quite established and has good infrastructure, is only a three-hour drive from the international airport and has comfortable accommodation close by. The gorilla trekking permit for Rwanda is significantly more expensive than in Uganda.

Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

There are 10 habituated families in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It normally sees more rain than Rwanda, meaning the terrain can be a little slippery and the trek is considered more difficult. This park is less established and is a 12-hour drive from the international airport. However, the gorilla trekking permit for Uganda is about half the price of Rwanda, making it a more attractive option for travellers on a budget.

How fit do I need to be to trek to see the gorillas?

You'll need to be fit enough to trek to the location of your family of mountain gorillas. This may involve anywhere from one hour up to six hours of walking up and down hills, in hot and humid conditions and through tropical (and at times thick) foliage. There may be mud underfoot which will make the trekking slippery. But don’t let this put you off, because the end result is worth it.

At the pre-trek briefing, travellers will be divided into groups of eight based on their age and fitness. The rangers usually have a good idea of where each gorilla family group is and the expected trekking time for each family. The fitter groups will trek the families in more challenging locations, or longest distances away.

Can I hire a porter to help me?

You'll be expected to carry your own personal items for this trek including water, a rain jacket and cameras, however, you can absolutely hire a local porter to assist you. Hiring a porter on a gorilla trek is a common practice by travellers of all ages and abilities. The porters will carry your bag, and help to you navigate some of the steeper, or trickier sections of the trek. Not only does it make the trek easier for you, but you’re also providing a valuable source of employment for locals. The minimum cost of hiring a porter on a gorilla trek in Bwindi is USD20, or USD10 in Virunga, plus any tips you may choose to provide in addition to that.

How long do I get to spend with the gorillas?

Once you track your gorilla family you have one hour with them. This is to minimise the possibility of disturbance or transmission of disease to the animals. No more than eight people per day can visit any one habituated family.

Is there a chance I won’t see the gorillas on my trek?

It's not 100% guaranteed that you will see gorillas, but it is highly uncommon not to. Gorilla trackers head off at dawn every day to locate gorilla families and radio the co-ordinates back to headquarters. So, that means that before you even begin your trek the trackers have a good idea of where your family is or will be.

How do I arrange a gorilla trekking permit?

Permits are included in the cost of Intrepid’s trips and we will secure the permit for you once you pay your trip deposit. At this time, all we require from you are your passport details. On some trips, travellers might also have the opportunity to trek to see the gorillas for a second time. These additional permits should also be organised prior to departure while you’re booking.

What does my permit cost go towards?

The cost of your permit contributes significantly to mountain gorilla conservation efforts. The mountain gorilla population living in the Virunga mountains has grown significantly over the last decade, largely due to the contribution to conservation efforts by travellers purchasing trekking permits. The rise in numbers follows the introduction of park guards, veterinary care, community support projects and regulated tourism. Combined with a separate mountain gorilla population living in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, this brings the number of mountain gorillas up to more than 1,000 individuals.

Can I opt to trek a second time on the trip?

On our trips there is often the chance to take an optional additional trek to see the mountain gorillas. Only a limited number of permits are issued for each gorilla family each day, so we recommend that you pre-book your trek and permit through your booking agent to avoid disappointment – especially in peak season.

Can I request to trek with a specific gorilla family?

It's possible to request to trek with a particular gorilla family once you’re at the briefing, but this can’t always be guaranteed.

What’s the age limit for trekking to see the gorillas?

As per national park requirements, you must be a minimum of 15 years old to trek to see the gorillas in either Uganda or Rwanda.

What’s the best time to trek to see the gorillas?

You can trek to see the gorillas all year-round. The dry season is June to September and December to February, while the rainy seasons is considered March to May and October to November. The rainy season can make trekking more challenging, so a lot of people opt to trek during the dry season. However, it’s important to remember that you’re trekking in tropical rain forests and it’s common to have rain throughout the year irrespective of which season it is.

What if I’m not feeling well on the trek?

There are a few basic gorilla trekking guidelines and rules your ranger will brief you on before your trek. If you are feeling unwell, or you are carrying a contagious disease, we recommend you stay behind and an alternate visit will be arranged for you. Gorillas are susceptible to the transmission of germs and diseases and you could put them at risk.

Will I be trekking with my Intrepid Travel group?

No more than eight people per day can visit any one habituated family so your Intrepid Travel group will be split into smaller trekking groups. You may even trek across two different days depending on permit availability.

Do I need special equipment or clothing for my trek?

Tracking gorillas in the dense forest can sometimes be wet, muddy and uncomfortable. You will need a comfortable pair of waterproof hiking boots, or shoes. Some of the foliage in the forest has sharp spikes and can be prickly. A typical gardening glove with a hard surface on the palm will make it easier to grab onto trees and bushes as you pull yourself up the hillside. It's also a good idea to pack a pair of long socks so that you can tuck your trousers into them and avoid any ants or insects getting to your ankles. Long sleeved, lightweight shirts will also protect your arms without being too hot. You can pick up a trekking pole at your local lodge or the trek headquarters. A small backpack to carry camera, personal items and a water bottle is a good idea.

Is gorilla trekking dangerous?

Treks are only conducted within 'habituated' groups of gorillas and it takes a period of about two years for a gorilla family to become familiar with humans. To ensure that travellers are safe while trekking there are set rules and regulations that everyone must observe at all times. You will be briefed on these before you depart in search of their assigned habituated gorilla family. While on the trek, the park ranger guide who accompanies you will be there to ensure everyone follows the rules.

Do your guides carry first aid kits?

All gorilla treks are led by well-trained National Park guides, rangers and trackers. The ranger or head guide carries a first aid kit and will provide a comprehensive safety briefing at the start of each trek.

Why choose Intrepid

Guaranteed departures

A guaranteed departure means that there is no minimum number of bookings required on a trip for it to run, so no matter how many people are booked on your gorilla trekking trip, you can be sure you're heading off on the adventure of a lifetime.

Local leaders

The best folk to show you the heart of a destination are the ones that live there, which is why we work exclusively with local leaders. Our leaders are not just travel experts, but they’re also your teacher, travel guru and enthusiastic purveyor of grassroots experiences.

Responsible travel

At Intrepid, we’ve made a commitment to being a responsible business. So, when you hit the road with us, you’ll leave a lighter footprint, know your trip is carbon offset and invest your dollars in local communities while learning about different cultures along the way.

How we're giving back

Just by trekking to see the gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda you are contributing significantly to mountain gorilla conservation efforts. The mountain gorilla population living in the Virunga mountains has grown significantly over the last decade, largely due to the contribution to conservation efforts by travelers purchasing trekking permits. The rise in numbers follows the introduction of park guards, veterinary care, community support projects and regulated tourism Combined with a separate mountain gorilla population living in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, this brings the number of mountain gorillas up to more than 1,000 individuals.

Combine your trek with other African adventures

Seeing the gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there are plenty of other amazing things to see and do in Africa too. You could head to the Serengeti or Masai Mara on a safari to spot the Big 5 or continue with the trekking and tackle the highest peak in Africa – Mt Kilimanjaro . Make your gorilla trek part of your longer African adventure with any of the trips below.

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A Guide to Gorilla Trekking

A Guide to Gorilla Trekking on Your Uganda Safari

Gorilla trekking is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for these magnificent creatures. It is an experience that is well worth the time and money.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is not just a journey; it’s a privileged encounter with the world’s endangered gorilla population. When you do meet them, the utmost respect for these incredible creatures and their habitat is paramount. Uganda proudly hosts almost 50% of the world’s mountain gorillas, making it a premier destination for an awe-inspiring gorilla trekking safari adventure.

The expedition commences with an anticipation-filled preparation as you step into the enchanting Bwindi forest. The allure of encountering endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat adds an exhilarating thrill to the entire experience.

The emotional spectrum experienced during gorilla trekking ranges from sheer joy and amazement to a profound appreciation for the natural world. Participants often find themselves moved by the deep connection established during this extraordinary encounter.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda:

While gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year, the drier months offer optimal conditions with less rainfall. Average temperatures in Uganda range from 23-29°C (73-84°F). In the southwestern highlands home to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park, temperatures vary from 7°C (45°F) at night to 20°C (68°F) during the day.

Monthly Overview:

• December, January, and February: Drier months, though considered low season with fewer gorilla trekking tourists.
• March, April, May, October, and November: First and second rain seasons make trekking challenging due to slippery slopes.
• June, July, August, and September: Peak season; it’s crucial to secure permits early as they may run out. This period is the prime time for a gorilla safari in Uganda and Rwanda.

Park Altitudes:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Elevations range from 1160m (3805ft) to 2607m (8553ft), with about 60% of the park above 2000m (6561ft).
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Situated at altitudes between 2227m (7306ft) and 4127m (13540ft).

Altitude Sickness: Considering the altitude variations, some visitors may experience altitude sickness, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a doctor before travel.

Choosing a Gorilla Trekking Location:

Uganda offers two primary locations for gorilla trekking:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: The most popular choice, boasting a higher number of gorilla families to track. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers diverse landscapes, teeming with flora and fauna, and houses 21 habituated gorilla families, providing multiple trekking options.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: A smaller park nestled against the Virunga Volcanoes, offering a unique trekking experience alongside golden monkeys. Only one gorilla family calls Mgahinga home, providing a more intimate encounter.

Obtain a Gorilla Trekking Permit:

Gorilla trekking permits are a mandatory requirement, obtainable in advance through licensed and reputable tour operators like Kwezi Outdoors. Due to limited availability, securing permits well in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. The cost of a permit is US $800. A portion of the permit fee goes to returns to the communities near the gorilla parks. It is used to support projects like education and health in these communities. 

Fitness Level:

The trek can be physically demanding, necessitating good physical condition to navigate uneven terrain and varying elevations. For those trekking with Kwezi Outdoors, informing them in advance of any health or physical challenges ensures appropriate advice.

Gorilla Trekking Essentials: 

What to Pack for a Comfortable Adventure:

Ensure you are fully prepared for the gorilla trekking adventure with the following essentials:

• Long trousers and sleeves for protection against insects and nettles. Avoid bright colors, blue, and black to minimize insect attraction.
• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. Break into boots before the trek to avoid discomfort.
• A pair of gardening gloves are recommended for hand protection against thorns and branches you will hold onto as you trek.
• Rain jacket or poncho and a waterproof bag for electronic devices.
• Hat or cap for sun and rain protection.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent for a comfortable trek in insect-heavy environments.
• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack.
• Snacks or energy bars for an energy boost during the trek.
• Quality camera or phone with charged batteries and spares.
• Charging essentials with necessary cables and an international adapter for Uganda’s specific plug type (G).

Local Porters and Community:

Hiring a local porter is highly recommended, especially for those with limited physical abilities. This not only aids in carrying belongings but also contributes to the well-being of local families and communities.

Trekking Experience:

Gorilla trekking involves physically demanding hikes through dense forests and steep terrain. Treks can range from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the specific gorilla family’s location. Experienced ranger guides and trackers accompany visitors, leading them to the gorillas.

Meeting the Gorillas:

Once located, visitors have a magical hour to observe gorillas in their natural habitat, witnessing their social interactions, playful behavior, and the strong family bonds.

Rules and Regulations for Trekking Gorillas:

Strict guidelines are in place to ensure a safe and respectful experience for both visitors and gorillas. Maintaining a safe distance, minimizing noise, and avoiding direct eye contact are imperative to protect the gorillas and ensure a positive experience.

Who goes on a gorilla trekking:

If you have a respiratory infection like a cold, flu, or cough, you will not be allowed to go trekking with the gorillas. The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. So teenagers are welcome on the trek as long as they are physically fit.

Will I be able to see the gorillas?

So far, every participant in our gorilla treks has had the incredible opportunity to witness mountain gorillas. Uganda stands out as an exceptional gorilla trekking destination, boasting 26 habituated gorilla groups available for tourism as of October 2023, as per the latest Uganda Wildlife Authority report. This marks the highest number of groups, with 25 gorilla families situated in the renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, our primary gorilla trekking location. The remaining group is accessible at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, another stunning destination in Uganda.

Photography:

Flash photography is not allowed during gorilla trekking or wildlife viewing. Ensure your camera or phone is fully charged and has enough space for photos before the trek. The day before, confirm the flash is turned off to avoid disturbing the gorillas.

Accommodation:

Various accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly campsites to luxury lodges, are available near gorilla trekking locations. Booking in advance, particularly during peak trekking seasons, is advised.

Safety and Sustainability:

Follow the instructions of your guide, minimize waste, and dispose of trash responsibly. Respect the environment and local communities, choose licensed tour operators prioritizing responsible tourism practices and contributing to gorilla conservation efforts.

Making the Most of Your Gorilla Trekking Experience:

Embrace the adventure, be prepared for unexpected encounters, and prioritize respect over perfect shots. Immerse yourself in the natural environment, appreciate the beauty of the rainforests, and share your experience responsibly, encouraging others to support gorilla conservation efforts.

Gorilla trekking is a unique and unforgettable adventure connecting you with magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Adequate preparation ensures a safe, enriching, and sustainable experience, leaving a lasting positive impact.

Beyond Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi:

Explore additional wildlife and cultural experiences in Uganda:

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Seeing the World One Step at a Time

Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

July 4, 2022 by Michael Makonzi Leave a Comment

Unlike the usual African big game safaris, gorilla trekking in Rwanda involves active participation where you will engage in a trek through the forest, steep slopes, at times in muddy floor to search for a gorilla group. It is long day trekking before you come a gorilla group in Volcanoes National Park and then you spend one hour face to face with mountain gorillas.

Volcanoes National Park, its Location and gorilla families The Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is located in the North-western side of the country, about 2-3 hours’ drive from Kigali. The park is located in Ruhengeri/Musanze district, close to the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Over 80% of travelers who go on Rwanda safaris do not miss going on gorilla treks in the Volcanoes National Park.

The Volcanoes National Park is positioned within the Virunga Region making it one of the Virunga Conservation Areas (VCAs). This Rwanda safari park was gazetted in 1925 and its boundaries spread covering up to only 160sq.kms, inhabiting some hundreds of the remaining 1063 mountain gorillas.

Of about 18 gorilla groups in the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, 12 of them are fully habituated and ready for tracking each day. The gorilla groups include Karisimbi gorilla family, Agashya, Sabyinyo, Susa A, Kwitonda, Hirwa, Amahoro gorilla family, Titus, Ugenda, Bwenge, Umubano, etc.

Gorilla trekking in the volcanoes begins early morning after briefing at Kinigi offices. Strictly eight tourists are allocated to visit a single gorilla group. The grouping of visitors is done during the briefing time at the park offices and experienced ranger guide will lead each group.

From 8:00am, the park guide will take you through a search for your gorilla group a trek most likely to last for 2 to 6 hours but this may depend on your physical fitness level, location of gorillas, etc. Getting to Rwanda Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking

The Volcanoes National Park is located a short distance drive from Kigali, about 2-3 hours and from Bwindi or Mgahinga in Uganda, about 3-5 hours’ drive. A comfortable 4×4 vehicle is more preferable for all your road trips to the park. Gorilla Trekking permits in Rwanda To go gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park, you must have a valid gorilla permit. Each of gorilla trekking permits for Volcanoes National Park costs US Dollars 1500 per person and they can be booked via the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or through the reliable local tour company/operator.

Is Rwanda gorilla tracking safe? All Rwanda gorilla safaris are safe and secure for all tourists on gorilla tour. All treks to see mountain gorillas are done in gorilla groups that have undergone through habituation (this takes a period of 2 years to make these apes get used to human presence before they are fully opened for tracking). For visitor and gorilla safety, there are gorilla trekking rules to be observed while on a visit to see gorillas; they include among others:

• Strictly 1 hour should be spent during a close encounter with gorillas upon locating them. • No visiting a gorilla group when sick or ill • No photography using flashlight camera • You can be allowed to buy a gorilla permit or visit gorillas if you are 15 years and above. • Valid gorilla permits are a must to book for all Rwanda gorilla safaris. • Shouting in the wild while on a trek is highly prohibited. • Wearing facemasks is mandatory to limit spread of COVID-19. • Continuously wash or hand sanitize before and while in the forest to see gorillas.

When is the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park Rwanda to see gorillas? Rwanda mountain gorillas can be trekked at any time of the year, but the dry season stands out as the most favorable time. This falls in June, July, August, September and December, January to February of every year, when low or no rains are recorded and the ground floor remains drier. This makes the dry season the best for trekkers to smoothly navigate via the dry trails rather than muddy floor during the wet season from March to May or October to November.

What carry and wear for gorilla tracking in Rwanda? The essentials every safari traveler should have when visiting the Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorilla trekking include long socks, trousers, long sleeved shirts, daypack, waterproof walking/hiking/trekking boots/shoes, waterproof rain jacket/raincoat, insect repellent, camera with no flashlight, bottled drinking water, basic first aid kit, snacks, toiletries, sweater and others.

Is Rwanda gorilla trekking worth it? Mountain gorilla trekking is a wildlife experience that comes once in a lifetime. Visiting mountain gorillas in the wild is such a thrilling experience offered to tourists in only four parks. Besides the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda , the other gorilla parks include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park & Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda as well as the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). A close encounter with a family of massive mountain gorillas in the wild is priceless.

Where to stay on gorilla safari in Rwanda? The Volcanoes National Park is a complete gorilla tourism destination with all kinds of accommodation choices- budget, mid-range and luxury. The accommodation in and around Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park include La Palme Hotel, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Five Volcanoes National Park, Hotel Muhabura, Gorilla Solution Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Mountain Gorillas Nest Lodge, Villa Gorilla Lodge, Virunga Volcanoes Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, etc.

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What to Expect

Trekking to see mountain gorillas at a close distance in Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda is one of the incredible and unique experience in the world. In the northwestern part of Rwanda, the park stretches over an area of 160 square kilometers of rainforests and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga mountains and these are; Karisimbi , Bisoke , Muhabura , Gahinga and Sabyinyo . Bordering Virunga national park of Congo and Mgahinga Nnational Park of Uganda, Volcanoes Park is not only a home to the endangered mountain gorillas but also other species including; golden monkeys, and several bird species. As you are travelling to the park, here’s what you can generally expect during a gorilla trek ;

Preparation and Briefing : Before the trek, you’ll receive a briefing from park officials. This typically covers safety guidelines, gorilla behavior protocols, and what to expect during the trek.

Group Allocation : Visitors are divided into small groups, each assigned a specific gorilla family to track. Groups are usually formed based on trekking difficulty preferences and fitness levels.

Starting the Trek : Gorilla trekking usually starts early in the morning. You’ll meet your guide and possibly armed guards at the park headquarters who will lead you into the forest in search of the gorillas.

Trekking Duration : The duration of the trek can vary widely depending on the location of the gorilla family you’re tracking. It can range from 1 to 6 hours or more, involving hiking through dense vegetation and steep terrain.

Encountering Gorillas : Once the gorillas are located, you’ll spend a precious hour observing them in their natural habitat. Visitors are usually allowed to spend up to one hour in close proximity to the gorillas, although this can sometimes be shorter or longer depending on circumstances.

Observation : You’ll have the opportunity to observe the gorillas as they feed, play, groom, and interact with each other. This is an incredible chance to witness their behavior up close and capture photos.

Respectful Behavior : It’s important to follow the guidelines provided by the park authorities and your guide to ensure minimal disturbance to the gorillas and their habitat. This includes maintaining a safe distance, keeping quiet, avoiding flashlights, and refraining from making sudden movements.

Return Trek : After your time with the gorillas, you’ll trek back to the park headquarters. This may involve retracing your steps or taking a different route.

Debriefing and Certificate : At the end of the trek, there’s usually a debriefing session where you can share your experiences and ask questions. Visitors are often presented with a certificate to commemorate their gorilla trekking adventure.

Optional Activities : Depending on your itinerary and preferences, you may have the option to engage in additional activities such as visiting the Dian Fossey Tomb, exploring nearby villages, or participating in community experiences.

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while contributing to their conservation efforts. It’s an experience that’s both exhilarating and deeply rewarding for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

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Gorilla Tours & Trips

Gorilla trekking finds its way on travellers bucket lists more and more these days. The best countries to see mountain gorillas are located in Africa: Uganda and Rwanda make the perfect destinations for a gorilla safari adventure! Discover the best gorilla tours on TourRadar.

250+ Gorilla Trekking tours with 478 reviews

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15 days Uganda Wildlife and Activity Holiday

Great tour very well planned and handled by Jackson of Primate Safari, and driver Rémy. Good lodges, good food, friendly people, and of course lot of wildlife. All terrain vehicle was good too.No hesitation in recommending Tour Radar and Primate Safari.

3-Day Gorilla Trekking Mist and Batwa Experience

Sedrick was unique and stood out from the rest in the high quality communication he provided since the first inquiry. He called me to provide information about the itinerary and see if I had any questions even before booking the tour. We communicated through WhatsApp for any other questions that came to mind after that call. After picking me up from the airport, he and Pilot (additional tour guide) provided plenty of information about the country to give me some context and we started our long drive to the impenetrable forest. The food was delicious with many options; the accommodation was very clean with exceptional service; and the transportation from Entebbe to Bwindi park was very comfortable (although long). As a solo female traveler, both tour guides (Sedrick and Pilot) did an exceptional job at enduring I accomplished everything intended to in Uganda, and always made me feel safe. I highly recommend to book your safari with this company because the quality and professionalism will not let you down.

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Express Gorilla Safari in Uganda

It was the most incredible experience in my life! Adili was the best guide ever. Acommodation, transportation, transfers, and the trek in itself were perfect. I really recommend Ubuntu Voyages, It's really worth it!!!

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Uganda to Rwanda: Gorilla Treks & Safari Drives

Gorilla experience was amazing and accommodation was better than I expected.

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This was my first time in Africa & I was totally taken by this beautiful country, the breathtaking scenery & the so friendly, happy people. Every day was a different experience: beautiful Zanzibar beach, various tours, safari's, village, school & orphanage visits, seeing wild animals up close in their natural habitat was amazing, but the highlight has to be ' the mountain gorillas', this is an experience I will never forget. I will def' return to this wonderful country.

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The absolute Safari was an amazing experience, very much worth every penny spent, with Philippa our guide being the best guide I've ever had when going away. The guides knowledge on area's and animals was very impressive, she was an excellent chef and a good laugh to be around. Would 100% recommend this trip! JB our driver was also amazing and would always help out when needed.

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It was a very different experience from any travel I’ve done before and was a little outside of my normal comfort zone but both the guides and fellow travelers were awesome, very helpful and very patient.

10 Days Experience Uganda’s Exclusive Gorillas and Wildlife ( Private tour)

I had the most fantastic experience with Mukisa Safaris. The booking process was so seamless, and Richard could not have been more helpful. He replied promptly to my emails and made sure I had all the information I needed. He organised a jam-packed 6 days full of activities. I originally got in touch with him because I wanted to do the gorilla tracking, but the trip Richard organised offered so much more. I feel that I learnt lots about Uganda and it was lovely to be able to see so much of the country. Our guide, Allen, and driver, Solomon, were both absolutely wonderful and shared their knowledge about their country, making sure to show us things and take us to places that we told them we were interested in. As well as the main attraction, gorilla tracking, we also did a safari, chimp tracking, visited a traditional village, went on a boat ride, and did a city tour. Everything was arranged for us and we were picked up and dropped off at the airport either side of our trip. If you want a bespoke trip that caters to your needs and interests, then I couldn't recommend Mukisa Safaris more!

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14 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking, Big 5 & Big Cats Tour

I enjoyed an excellent experience on this 14 day tour. It provides the opportunity to see almost all of the African animals that you would hope to see on any safaris in Africa with the addition of viewing gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys close-up in beautiful jungle environments. The tour also provided the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Uganda from the amazing countryside landscape to the fascinating people that live there. I have traveled in several other African countries on previous safaris and adding this tour to my resume allowed me to have a more total experience when is comes to enjoying all that Africa has to offer in terms of its rare animals and stunning environments.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

4 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari

Do it! Fantastic experience. Beautiful country. Wonderful people. Sitting with the gorillas is indescribable. Devine Safaris were excellent. I was the only one booked on the tour. It went ahead and I was very lucky to have Emma as my driver, guide and friend. He was exceptional and made sure I had the best possible experience

10 Days Uganda's Gorillas Encounter, Wildlife & Kigali City Tour ( Private tour)

I had a great time on the safari. I was on my own and was happy to have a female guide (seems to be one of the few companies that employ women). I liked that I had a separate driver too, so he was able to focus on the roads and not worry about the next reservation or lunch spot. The vehicle was well maintained, and it had a pop top so I could stand when we drove to see the animals. We stayed a variety of lodges -- each one having some unique component -- a stunning view of the plains, a lakeside setting, or my favorite, the Bush Lodge, where you had to be accompanied after dark because of the roaming hippos and elephants. Overall, I felt very well taken care of and thoroughly enjoyed my experience.

5 Gorilla and Chimps Safari

Ask for their guide Jaz, he was superb. Really knowledgeable and friendly. Get a list of the accommodation in advance and look them up on line to see you are happy with them.

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Our guide Remmy was the best. He was extremely knowledgeable about all the flora and fauna. He especially accommodated the birders in our group. We enjoyed his good natured demeanor. As far as accommodations and tour schedule, we were very pleased. We will be happy to recommend Tourradar and Primate World Safaris to all our friends and family. Respectfully, Dan and Karen Flanagan

We had a fabulous time on this trip. Our guide Arthur was very knowledgeable and friendly. The lodge we stayed it was located in the rain forest, it was lovely. The food was definitely a highlight. The Gorilla trekking was very well organised and really was absolutely amazing! Will be recommending to all!!

It was the most incredible experience in my life! Adili was the best guide ever. Acommodation, transportation, transfers, and the trek in itself were perfect. I really recommend Ubuntu Voyages, It's really worth it!!!

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Packing Guide For Gorilla Trekking

Whether you are trekking through Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park to see families of Mountain Gorilla, or traveling to the Republic of Congo to witness distinct Lowland Gorilla, each experience will take your breath away. Being so close to the equator, the weather in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Republic of Congo is generally pleasant, but often misty and humid. The temperature can drop quite significantly at night and continue into the morning with some rain expected even in the ‘dry season’. We've used our on-the-ground knowledge and expertise to compile this essential packing guide for gorilla trekkers.

TOP TIPS WHEN PACKING FOR A GORILLA TREKKING

• Purchase good quality, ethical-leather or heavy canvas gardening gloves. You will be grabbing onto vines for support and encountering many varieties of plants, some of which have thorns or stinging properties.
• Brightly-colored clothing is to be avoided. The aim is to blend into your surroundings and be as unobtrusive as possible to the gorillas. Blue and black clothing is also to be avoided as they can attract insects such as tsetse flies.
• Buy and wear-in a pair of sturdy hiking boots well in advance to avoid blisters while trekking. You will be traversing muddy and often slippery terrain, so you will need boots that provide ankle support and protection from plants and insects.
• Remember, when you travel with Mahlatini, you will receive a special 10% discount at The Safari Store (remember to use your unique discount code!) Perfect for investing in quality items that will serve you again-and-again on safari adventures.

While trekking, you will be hoisting yourself up by grabbing onto vines and plants. We suggest purchasing thick, gardening-style gloves that will protect your hands from thorns, stinging nettles, and insects. Be ready for the jungle weather by bringing waterproof trousers, a rain suit, or a poncho with a hood.

Lightweight trousers are essential and we recommend tucking them into your socks or boots to fend-off insects and sharp vegetation. Just as essential to pack, are warmer clothes for when the temperature drops. Be sure to also pack short-sleeved shirts or t-shirts for when the weather heats up.

Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck from the sun's rays during your gorilla trek and your casual clothes and pajamas for relaxation once you return to the lodge.

Hiking boots should be light, sturdy, and waterproof, protecting your ankles from sharp plants and general strain from climbing the mountain. Your socks should be long and thick, acting as protection from the elements and insects. Don’t forget to pack a pair of casual shoes for when you are relaxing back at the lodge.

RECOMMENDED EXTRAS

We recommend bringing a small, lightweight, frameless, waterproof backpack and be sure to include a waterproof bag in your backpack to ensure your camera equipment is extra protected. Remember no flash photography is allowed on the trek as it will startle the gorillas, but your encounter with these incredible primates is the perfect time to invest in a quality camera.

A water bottle or canteen is essential for the long days on the mountain. An optional extra is to pack hydration sachets to mix into your water which will help to replenish lost electrolytes. Good quality sunscreen and insect repellent will become your best friend and should be applied frequently. Finally, some people bring along trekking poles which can help with balance while hiking.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• At our select properties, you will likely be offered the assistance of a porter for an additional cost and tip. We highly recommend the services of a porter as they will help with your belongings and make the trek so much easier. Many of these porters are reliant on the income from trekking to both support their families and keep them out of poaching groups.
• Pack very lightly as your trip may include a light aircraft transfer. Depending on the airline, bags must weigh between 15kg – 20kg (33lbs – 44lbs), have maximum dimensions of approximately 25 x 65 x 30cm, have soft sides, and no wheels. Please speak to your Travel Expert if you have any queries.
• Camouflage clothing is illegal in many African countries.
• Animal print is advised against as it may startle the gorillas.

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