Ultimate Guide to Meeting Mountain Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda

From permits, prices, when to go and what the trek is like.

With fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas left in the wild, meeting these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an incredible privilege. These fascinating primates are native to East Africa’s rainforests, residing with Rwanda, Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Mountain gorillas are the endangered primate species and are the most protected primate species in the world, an up-close encounter with mountain gorillas is often described as a life-changing experience and you will agree with this sentiment on a gorilla trek in Uganda and Rwanda.

This ultimate guide to meeting mountain gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda guides you through deep and misty rainforests on foot, led by experienced guides and park ranger plus trackers. As you trek through the rain forests, you will spot playful monkeys, colorful birds and other forest dwellers making this ecosystem so exceptional.

As you are planning your gorilla trekking adventure, talk to one of our Active African Vacation Safaris Travel Planners for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Uganda and Rwanda.

What to know about Gorilla Trekking in Africa

As you are planning your gorilla trekking trip, here are some of the important considerations

• Know where to visit for gorilla trekking, currently gorilla trekking is only done in Uganda and Rwanda. Democratic Republic of Congo is not open for gorilla trekking due to political instability.
• It is important to know that gorilla permits are required to trek gorillas and each permit typically allows for one hour with a habituated gorilla permit. Currently gorilla permits cost US$ 800 in Uganda and US$ 1,500 in Rwanda, these permits sell out quickly, so it is important to book your permits in advance.
• Travel insurance is another requirement
• Children below the age of 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla trekking
• Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, so you need to have some level of fitness
• Other essential travel documents need for your gorilla trip include a valid passport, visa documents, general travel documents, proof of Insurance and health documents.

When to Plan your Gorilla Trekking Experience

The recommended time of the year to go gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry season (December to February/June to September). These warmer months are generally ideal for trekking gorillas as the trails are less muddy and hiking conditions are less challenging. Also, it is easier to spot and photograph mountain gorilla trekking.

Still, gorilla trekking in available all year round and visit during the wet season is possible and it has its advantages including availability of gorilla permits, discounted rates for accommodation and fewer tourists.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla treks starts early in the morning with a briefing from a senior ranger guide who takes you through rules and regulations to follow while in the presence of the gorillas. Led by armed rangers and guides, head into the forest searching for a gorilla family allocated to you. The trek takes approximately 30 minutes to 6 hours or more depending on the gorilla family on the day.

Groups are not more than 8 people and once you find the gorilla family allocated to you, spend 1 hour of observing how these gorilla families go on in their natural habitat, watch mothers care for their babies, playful youths under a watchful gaze of a silverback. Once your hour is over, you hike back to the starting point where you meet your driver and return to your lodge or a cultural experience in the local community.

Choosing Between Uganda and Rwanda

Choosing between Uganda and Rwanda has been a constant debate among travelers planning a gorilla trekking safari in Africa. To summarize, if you are seeking for an experience to immerse yourself in an authentic and unfiltered gorilla trekking adventure in the wild, Uganda is your best choice. Gorilla permits are more affordable costing US$ 800 Vs Rwanda’s US$ 1,500. Also, the hikes through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park tend to be longer and more challenging, but also very rewarding. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers shorter treks that are equally thrilling depending on your fitness level and readiness for adventure.

Rwanda offers the most accessible, remarkable and exclusive gorilla trekking in the iconic Volcanoes National Park. If you are looking for a luxury gorilla trekking safari, Rwanda is the best option for your gorilla trekking adventure. The gorilla permits are pricier, but these fees are in place to ensure that smaller groups thus offering a more personalized trekking experience.

Rwanda has branded itself as a high – end ecotourism destination, the nearby lodges offer world-class accommodation.

Sustainable Gorilla Trekking

The history of gorilla trekking reflects the perfect balance between welcoming tourists and protecting nature. Thanks to gorilla tourism that generates money to fund conservation and supporting local communities, making your journey to meet gorillas a truly fulfilling experiences.

Every gorilla permit you purchase to see mountain gorillas directly contributes to gorilla conservation and funding several local community projects.

Mountain gorilla populations are thriving and increasing by each day thanks to tourism revenue and carefully managed permit system, which restricts daily visitor numbers in respect to mountain gorillas and their environment.

Gorilla Trekking Planning and Packing Tips

For a comfortable gorilla trekking experience, carry the right clothes, items and accessories. Uganda’s climate is tropical with frequent rainfall, so it is always best to be prepared. Since gorilla trekking is done in a tropical rainforest, always expect rain even in dry season.

We recommend packing a strong insect repellent, especially for mosquito protection at night, even though most lodges have mosquito nets over beds. Carry a reusable water bottle along as your gorilla trek can be tiring.

Along the trek, you will have plenty of photo moments in the wild, so make sure your camera is charged and ready. Bring waterproof protective gear for your camera, as rainforest weather can be unpredictable.

For a comfortable and enjoyable trek, it is important you dress comfortably. Wear well-fitting shoes (preferably hiking boots), lightweight long pants, and a lightweight long – sleeved top. This ensures you can manage the heat without exposing yourself to insect bites. Also, you will likely get wet and muddy, so save your stylish clothes for your time at the lodge. For the hike, pack a small backpack with essentials like binoculars, warm layers, a rain jacket, a hat and sunscreen.

Start Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Safari with Active African Vacation Safaris

Are you ready to meet the mountain gorillas? Talk to our safari experts to start planning your experience.