Gorilla Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda
Come face-to-face with the last mountain gorillas on Earth.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda offers far more than wildlife viewing. It leads you into the misty jungles of Central Africa’s ancient rainforests for a deeply personal, immersive experience. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll venture deep into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Volcanoes National Park, where small groups are granted rare access to observe a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat.
This is the kind of travel that shifts your perspective. That funds protection efforts. That stays with you for life.
Gorilla Trekking Tours
Explore our collection of gorilla trekking safaris crafted for travelers ready to move from dreaming to doing. Choose from short fly-in treks or extended itineraries that blend gorilla encounters with classic big game safaris. Each tour is crafted with a focus on conservation access, comfort in the wild, and seasoned local expertise.
Why Trek With Us
Our role goes far beyond booking permits. We deliver thoughtful, purpose-driven journeys—planned with care and led by guides who’ve walked these forest paths their entire lives.
Our gorilla trekking safaris stand apart because:
- We work directly with conservation authorities to secure your gorilla permits in advance.
- Our local guides were born in the shadow of the Virunga Mountains and have decades of experience on these trails.
- Every lodge we use is handpicked for its commitment to sustainability and community benefit.
- You get a dedicated travel specialist from start to finish—no handoffs, no uncertainty.
Journey Makers doesn’t do mass tourism. We craft purposeful, low-impact journeys for those who want to travel differently.
Uganda vs. Rwanda
Which Trek is Right for You?
The decision often comes down to time, terrain, and travel style. Here’s what to consider:
Uganda offers a more rugged, immersive experience. In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, treks are longer, steeper, and more remote—ideal for those seeking a true wilderness adventure. Permits are more affordable, and the experience can be paired with chimpanzee tracking, Big Five safaris, and community visits.
Rwanda, by contrast, offers luxury and accessibility. Volcanoes National Park is just a two-hour drive from Kigali’s international airport, with a well-developed infrastructure, beautiful lodges, and shorter treks. The cost is higher, but the logistics are simpler—perfect for time-strapped or first-time safari travelers.
Quick Comparison: Uganda vs. Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
| Feature | Uganda | Rwanda |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Cost | USD 800 | USD 1,500 |
| Trek Duration | 2–6 hours, depending on gorilla location | 1–3 hours, more accessible |
| Trekking Terrain | Dense rainforest, steeper trails | Open volcanic slopes, less strenuous |
| Accessibility | Longer transfers, remote trailheads | 2-hour drive from Kigali airport |
| Lodge Options | Mid-range to high-end lodges | Primarily upscale and luxury lodges |
| Add-On Safaris | Chimp tracking, Big Five safaris | Limited game viewing beyond gorillas |
What Gorilla Trekking Feels Like
There’s no countdown. No fanfare. Just a sudden shift in silence. A leaf rustles. Your guide signals. And you see them.
A young gorilla swings from vines just meters away. A mother cradles her infant, eyes soft but alert. The silverback watches quietly, aware of your presence but unbothered. You stay low, your breath slow. One hour passes in a heartbeat.
This is not a zoo. It’s their world—you’re just visiting, on their terms. The air smells of moss and bark. The ground is soft, the light filtered through centuries-old canopy. You return changed, unable to unfeel the intimacy of that moment.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Securing a gorilla trekking permit is your first step to experiencing this rare encounter. Each permit grants you one hour with a habituated gorilla family, and demand far exceeds availability—especially during peak seasons.
- Uganda: USD 800 per person (Bwindi & Mgahinga)
- Rwanda: USD 1,500 per person (Volcanoes National Park)
Permit costs go directly into gorilla conservation, anti-poaching patrols, habitat protection, and community development. We handle the process for you—reserving permits as soon as your dates are confirmed to avoid disappointment.
Secure your gorilla permit today and take the first step toward your once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking
Both Uganda and Rwanda are year-round destinations, but seasonal shifts can affect trail conditions and your overall comfort.
Dry Season
June to September & December to February
These are the dry seasons—ideal for trekking. Trails are more stable, and sightings are consistent.
Wet Season
March to May & October to November
These wetter months bring fewer crowds and more flexible permit availability, though trails can be steeper and muddier.
When to Book Your Trek
For high season travel or if combining gorilla trekking with other safari elements, plan to book 6–12 months in advance. Permits are limited to a small number per gorilla group per day and can sell out fast—especially in Rwanda.
Early planning ensures smoother coordination across flights, lodging, and logistics.
Planning & Preparation Guide
Physical Fitness
Treks can last from 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family's location. Trails are uneven, sometimes steep, and can be muddy—especially after rainfall. Moderate fitness and sturdy footwear are essential.
What to Pack
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Rain jacket and gaiters
- Gloves for handling vegetation
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
Health & Safety
A yellow fever certificate may be required for entry. Consult your travel doctor for malaria prevention and vaccination advice.
Conservation Impact of Your Trek
Travel that uplifts, protects, and connects.
Every gorilla trek plays a critical role in protecting one of the world’s most endangered species.
Your visit funds rangers, strengthens habitat preservation, and brings income to local communities who have become stewards of their natural heritage.
By trekking responsibly with Journey Makers Africa:
- You directly support gorilla conservation programs.
- You contribute to employment for local guides, porters, and lodge staff.
- You promote the value of wildlife tourism as an alternative to habitat destruction.