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Gorilla trekking in Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that nature enthusiasts should not miss.

Rwanda and Uganda are two of the most popular destinations for gorilla trekking.

Both offer unique opportunities to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to a large population of mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places in Africa to see these majestic creatures.

The gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda is well-organized, with experienced guides leading visitors through the forest to find the gorillas.

One of the advantages of gorilla trekking in Rwanda is the ease of access.

The park is just a few hour’s drive from the capital city of Kigali, making combining a gorilla trekking trip with other activities easy.

Visitors can also choose from a range of trekking options, from short one-hour hikes to longer, more challenging treks.

Another advantage of gorilla trekking in Rwanda is the country’s commitment to conservation.

The government has invested heavily in protecting the gorillas and their habitat, and a portion of the revenue from gorilla trekking permits goes directly to conservation efforts.

This has resulted in a healthy population of gorillas and a well-maintained park.

When is the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking?

The best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, which are from mid-December to early February and from June to mid-September.

During these months, the weather is generally dry, and the gorilla trekking trails are less muddy and slippery, making it easier to hike through the forest to see the gorillas.

However, it is essential to note that gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be done all year round, and there are advantages to visiting during the rainy seasons as well.

The wet seasons, which are from mid-March to mid-May and from mid-September to mid-December, offer lower gorilla permit fees, fewer visitors, and a lush, green landscape that is great for photography.

During the wet seasons, however, the gorilla trekking trails can be more challenging due to the muddy and slippery conditions.

The rain can also make it more difficult to spot the gorillas, as they tend to move deeper into the forest in search of food.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.

If you prefer drier and more comfortable trekking conditions, then the dry seasons are your best bet.

However, if you want to save money, avoid crowds, and experience the beauty of Rwanda’s rainforest in full bloom, then the wet seasons can be a great option as well.

What are the best places to stay in Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?

There are several great places to stay in Rwanda for gorilla trekking, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some options:

Bisate Lodge

This luxury lodge is located near Volcanoes National Park, making it an ideal base for gorilla trekking.

The lodge offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and features spacious villas, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious meals.

Virunga Lodge

This luxury lodge is also located near Volcanoes National Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

The lodge features comfortable cottages with fireplaces, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious meals.

Gorilla Nest Lodge

This mid-range lodge is located just outside Volcanoes National Park and offers comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

The lodge features a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine and offers easy access to gorilla trekking in the park.

Kinigi Guesthouse

This budget-friendly guesthouse is located near the park headquarters of Volcanoes National Park and offers basic but comfortable rooms.

The guesthouse features a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine and is an affordable option for budget travelers.

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

This luxury lodge is located near Volcanoes National Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The lodge features spacious cottages, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious meals.

Ultimately, the best place to stay in Rwanda for gorilla trekking will depend on your budget and preferences.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget accommodations, there are plenty of great options to choose from in Rwanda.

How many days are recommended for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

The recommended number of days for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is typically three to four days.

This allows you to acclimate to the altitude and climate, complete your gorilla trekking experience, and explore other attractions in the area.

what is the average budget for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

The average budget for gorilla trekking in Rwanda can vary depending on several factors, including the time of year, the type of accommodation you choose, and the tour operator you book with.

Here are some cost estimates to give you an idea:

Gorilla trekking permit

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is currently $1,500 per person for all nationalities.

This permit allows you to trek for one hour with a gorilla family and includes the services of a guide.

Transport

The cost of transport to the national park where you will be trekking can vary depending on your location and mode of transport.

If you are traveling in a group, you can hire a private vehicle or join a scheduled tour that includes transportation.

Accommodation

Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose to stay in lodges, campsites, or budget accommodations.

The cost of accommodation can vary widely, but you can expect to pay between $50 and $1,000 per night.

Other expenses

You may also need to factor in other expenses such as food, drinks, and tips for guides and porters.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is nearly three times more expensive compared to Congo and Uganda.

What are the best-combined trips with gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

Rwanda is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, and gorilla trekking is one of the top activities that visitors come to experience.

There are several combined trips that you can do in Rwanda along with gorilla trekking, some of which are:

Golden monkey tracking

You can combine gorilla trekking with golden monkey tracking in the Volcanoes National Park.

The golden monkeys are an endangered species found only in the Virunga Mountains and tracking them is a unique experience.

Akagera National Park

You can combine gorilla trekking with a safari in Akagera National Park.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and many others.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

You can combine gorilla trekking with a visit to Nyungwe Forest National Park.

The park is known for its rich biodiversity, including 13 species of primates, over 300 species of birds, and a canopy walk that offers breathtaking views.

Lake Kivu

You can combine gorilla trekking with a relaxing stay on the shores of Lake Kivu.

The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers plenty of activities such as kayaking, swimming, and fishing.

Kigali City Tour

You can combine gorilla trekking with a city tour of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city.

The tour includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which is a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s past and a symbol of hope for its future.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is another excellent destination for gorilla trekking in Africa.

The park is home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas, offering visitors a unique opportunity to see these animals up close.

One of the advantages of gorilla trekking in Uganda is the chance to see other wildlife.

The park is also home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and a range of birds and mammals, making it a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Visitors can also take a boat ride on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos, crocodiles, and a range of water birds.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be more physically demanding than in Rwanda, as the terrain is often steeper and more rugged.

However, it is also an opportunity to see more gorillas, as Uganda has a larger population of mountain gorillas.

What are the best parks to visit in Uganda to see Gorilla?

Do you know that Uganda is home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, and there are two national parks where gorilla trekking takes place? These are:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

This park is located in southwestern Uganda and is home to over 400 mountain gorillas, making it the best place in Uganda to see gorillas.

 Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers several gorilla trekking options, ranging from short hikes to more challenging treks, depending on your fitness level.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda, and it shares a border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The park is home to one gorilla family, which can be visited during gorilla trekking tours.

Both of these national parks offer a unique opportunity to experience gorillas up close and personal.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the best option for gorilla trekking in Uganda, as it offers more trekking options and a larger gorilla population.

What is the cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda?

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda varies depending on the season and the park you choose to visit. Here are some general cost estimates:

Gorilla trekking permit

What are the other costs for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is currently $700 per person for foreign non-residents, $600 per person for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for East African residents.

The permit allows you to trek for one hour with a gorilla family and includes the services of a guide.

Transport

The cost of transport to the national park where you will be trekking can vary depending on your location and mode of transport.

If you are traveling in a group, you can hire a private vehicle or join a scheduled tour that includes transportation.

Accommodation

Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose to stay in lodges, campsites, or budget accommodations.

The cost of accommodation can vary widely, but you can expect to pay between $50 and $500 per night.

Other expenses: You may also need to factor in other expenses such as food, drinks, and tips for guides and porters.

When is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and from December to February.

During these months, the trails are drier, making them easier to hike, and the gorillas tend to stay in the lower altitudes, making them easier to find.

However, gorilla trekking can be done year-round in Uganda, so you can still go during the rainy seasons if that’s the only time you’re able to travel.

The rainy seasons are from March to May and from October to November.

During these months, the trails can be muddy and slippery, making trekking more challenging, but the vegetation is lush and green, and the gorillas tend to move higher up in the mountains.

It’s also important to note that the weather in Uganda can be unpredictable, so even during the dry season, you may still encounter rain.

However, overall, the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, as the conditions are generally more favorable.

Is it possible to combine gorilla trekking with other trips in Uganda?

Yes, it’s possible to combine gorilla trekking with other trips in Uganda.

Uganda has several other attractions and activities that you can combine with gorilla trekking to make your trip more diverse and exciting. Here are some examples:

Wildlife safaris

Uganda is home to several national parks where you can go on wildlife safaris to see animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and hippos.

Some of the popular national parks include Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park.

Cultural experiences

Uganda has a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience this by visiting local communities, attending cultural events, and learning about traditional crafts and practices.

Nature walks and hikes

Uganda has a diverse landscape, including mountains, forests, and wetlands, which you can explore on nature walks and hikes.

Some of the popular hiking destinations include the Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Elgon, and Sipi Falls.

White-water rafting

Overall, white-water rafting in Uganda, particularly on the Nile River, is a thrilling and memorable experience.

It combines the adrenaline rush of navigating through rapids with the breathtaking beauty of the natural surroundings.

Whether you are an experienced rafter or a first-timer, Uganda’s white-water rafting offers the adventure of a lifetime for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled escapade in the heart of Africa.

Chimpanzee trekking

Uganda is home to several chimpanzee populations, and you can go chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park and other locations.

Combining gorilla trekking with other trips in Uganda can help you make the most of your trip and experience the country’s diverse offerings.

It’s important to plan your trip with a reputable tour operator who can help you design an itinerary that suits your interests and budget.

How to visit Rwanda and Uganda for gorilla trekking?

Visiting Rwanda and Uganda for gorilla trekking is relatively easy and can be done through several options.

Here are some ways to visit both countries for gorilla trekking:

Cross-border gorilla trekking

You can obtain gorilla trekking permits for both countries and do a cross-border trek.

The Virunga Mountains where the gorillas are found straddle both countries, so it’s possible to do a trek that starts in Rwanda and ends in Uganda or vice versa.

Fly between countries

You can also fly between Rwanda and Uganda to visit both countries.

There are regular flights between the capital cities of Kigali in Rwanda and Entebbe in Uganda, and several airlines offer this route.

Overland travel

You can also travel between the two countries overland. This can be done by road or by taking a combination of road and ferry services.

It’s important to note that this option can take longer than flying, and you may need to obtain a visa for each country.

Book a tour

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can book a tour that includes gorilla trekking in both countries.

Many tour operators offer this option, and they can help you plan your trip and take care of all the logistics.

Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to plan your trip well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season.

Gorilla trekking permits in both countries are limited, and they tend to sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to book early.

Additionally, make sure to obtain all necessary travel documents including visa and insurance

Conclusion

Both Rwanda and Uganda offer unique opportunities for gorilla trekking in Africa and the decision on which destination to choose will depend on personal preferences and priorities.

Rwanda’s well-organized program and commitment to conservation make it an excellent choice for those looking for a straightforward trekking experience.

Uganda’s larger gorilla population and additional wildlife experiences make it an excellent option for those looking for a more adventurous trip.

Regardless of which destination you choose, gorilla trekking is a life-changing experience that is unforgettable while in Africa.

If you need more information about gorilla trekking, feel free to talk with Blessing Safars Team

We recommend the following trips to Rwanda and Uganda:

10 Days Rwanda Experience Safari 

7 D ays Tanzania and Uganda Safari 

5 Days  Amazing Rwanda