Gorilla trekking is one of the most exhilarating wildlife experiences in Africa. Unlike traditional game drives, trekking takes you deep into lush forests to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Found only in Uganda and Rwanda these great apes share 98% of their DNA with humans, making encounters both emotional and awe-inspiring.
Travelers are drawn to this experience not just for its rarity, but for the profound connection it fosters with nature. The trek itself is an adventure, leading visitors through misty mountain jungles, past cascading waterfalls and exotic flora, before culminating in an unforgettable face-to-face moment with a gorilla family. Observing these gentle giants interact—whether playing, feeding, or nurturing their young—offers a deep sense of wonder and respect for their intelligence and social bonds. It’s an experience that leaves many travellers with a renewed appreciation for conservation and a lasting emotional imprint.
This guide provides detailed insights into gorilla trekking, covering costs, permits, best times to visit, and essential travel tips.
Where to Go Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is limited to four national parks across three countries because these are the only places where mountain gorillas naturally exist. The dense, high-altitude rainforests of the Virunga Massif and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provide the perfect ecosystem for these primates, offering both food and protection from human encroachment. Conservation efforts in these parks ensure that the gorillas are protected from poaching, habitat destruction, and disease transmission from humans. Additionally, strict regulations limit the number of visitors allowed each day to minimize stress on the gorilla families and maintain the delicate balance between tourism and conservation.
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda): Home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers multiple trekking sectors, each with habituated gorilla families.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda): Part of the Virunga Conservation Area, this park has one habituated gorilla family and provides scenic volcano views.
- Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda): Made famous by Dian Fossey’s research, Rwanda’s gorilla trekking experience is well-organized and easily accessible from Kigali.
The best parks for gorilla trekking are Bwindi and Volcanoes, as they offer the most accessible, well-maintained, and rewarding trekking experiences. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and features diverse trekking routes through its ancient, misty forest. The Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, shorter treks, and the legacy of Dian Fossey’s conservation efforts. Additionally, Volcanoes National Park is the most accessible from an international airport, being only a two-hour drive from Kigali, making it a convenient option for travellers with limited time.
However, it is also the most expensive due to Rwanda’s premium pricing strategy. In contrast, Bwindi offers a more affordable trekking experience with a variety of sectors to explore, though reaching the park requires a longer journey from Entebbe or Kigali. These factors make each park appealing in its way, depending on budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. Both parks provide a high chance of encountering gorilla families in their natural habitat, making them favourites among travellers.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking?
The cost of gorilla trekking varies by country and is influenced by permit fees, accommodation, and transportation expenses.
Gorilla Permits.
A permit is mandatory to track gorillas and must be booked in advance.
- Uganda: $800 per person.
- Rwanda: $1,500 per person.
Permits grant access to a habituated gorilla family for one hour and contribute to conservation and community development efforts.
Other Expenses.
- Accommodation: Budget ($50–$130), Mid-range ($150–$300), Luxury ($400–$2,000+ per night)
- Transport: Car hire ($70 per day), Domestic flights ($250–$600), International flights ($600–$2,500)
- Meals & Drinks: $30–$50 per day.
- Porters: $15 per trek (recommended for carrying bags and assisting on steep trails)
- Tips: Optional but appreciated for guides, trackers, and lodge staff.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking.
- Dry Season (June–September, December–February): The best conditions for trekking with less rain, clearer skies, and better visibility. The trails are drier and easier to navigate, making the trek more comfortable. Wildlife activity is also at its peak, offering a higher chance of encountering the gorillas in open areas. However, because of the favourable conditions, this season attracts more visitors, leading to higher demand for permits and accommodations.
Wet Season (March-May, October–November): The forests become lush and vibrant, creating a stunning setting for trekking. However, trails can be muddy and more challenging due to frequent rains. The advantage of trekking during this period is that permits and accommodations are often discounted, and the parks are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience with the gorillas. Additionally, some travellers prefer the wet season as the gorillas may not travel as far in search of food, reducing trek durations.
What to Expect on a Gorilla Trek.
A typical day of gorilla trekking begins early in the morning, with trekkers having stayed overnight in a lodge near the trekking start point. Since the trek begins at 7:30 AM, it is essential to be well-rested and ready for the day’s adventure. After an early breakfast, visitors head to the park headquarters for a mandatory briefing conducted by experienced rangers. During the briefing, trekkers receive guidelines on gorilla behaviour, safety precautions, and trekking protocols to ensure both the gorillas’ and visitors’ well-being.
Once assigned to a gorilla family, trekking groups, limited to eight people, embark on their journey into the dense rainforest. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family that day. Along the way, guides provide insights into the flora, fauna, and other wildlife inhabiting the forest. The terrain can be rugged, involving steep slopes and thick vegetation, making it a physically demanding yet thrilling adventure.
Upon encountering the gorillas, trekkers are allowed one hour to observe and photograph them as they go about their daily activities—feeding, playing, and interacting with each other. This intimate experience fosters a deep appreciation for these magnificent creatures and the conservation efforts protecting them. After the encounter, the trek back to the starting point offers another chance to soak in the beauty of the rainforest before receiving trekking certificates as a souvenir of the remarkable journey.
- Duration: Treks last 2–6 hours, depending on gorilla location.
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness is required; altitude and rugged terrain can be challenging.
- Group Size: Limited to eight trekkers per gorilla family.
- Time with Gorillas: One hour of observation to minimize disturbance.
Rules: Maintain a 7-meter distance, avoid direct eye contact, and follow the guide’s instructions.
Packing List for Gorilla Trekking.
Gorilla trekking requires preparation, and having the right gear is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The trek involves walking through dense forests, climbing steep terrains, and potentially encountering unpredictable weather conditions. Proper clothing and equipment help protect against the elements, keep you comfortable, and enhance your overall experience. Below is a list of essential items every trekker should carry:
- Waterproof hiking boots.
- Long-sleeved shirts & trousers.
- Rain jacket & backpack.
- Garden gloves for handling vegetation.
- Insect repellent & sunscreen.
- Camera (no flash photography).
- Walking stick (provided at the park).
How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Safari.
Booking a gorilla trekking safari can be overwhelming, but Otter Africa Safaris makes it simple and hassle-free. Our experienced team handles all the logistics, from securing permits to arranging comfortable accommodations and reliable transportation.
While permits can be booked directly via:
- Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) – www.ugandawildlife.org
- Rwanda Development Board (RDB) – www.visitrwanda.com
Otter Africa Safaris offers tailor-made gorilla trekking packages, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or in a group, our expert guides and planners will craft the perfect itinerary to match your adventure style and budget.
Plan Your Dream Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Otter Africa Safaris.
A gorilla trekking experience is unlike any other—an intimate and breathtaking encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species. However planning such a trip requires careful coordination, from securing limited permits to choosing the right accommodations and transport. Otter Africa Safaris specializes in crafting unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures, providing expert guides, well-planned itineraries, and exclusive access to the best lodges and permits.
Why leave the details to chance? Let Otter Africa Safaris handle everything, ensuring you get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking safari and turn your dream wildlife adventure into reality!
