How to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Tour and Safari in Uganda & Rwanda
A gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and Rwanda is one of the most remarkable journeys any traveler can undertake. It is an intimate encounter with the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, found only in the misty forests of the Virunga Mountains and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Planning such a safari requires careful organization — from securing permits to choosing accommodation, transport, and timing. A well-prepared plan ensures you maximize your experience in both countries.
Choosing Between Uganda and Rwanda — or Combining Both
Uganda and Rwanda offer two distinct but complementary gorilla trekking experiences. In Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park host over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The treks here can be more challenging, with longer hikes, but the reward is a raw wilderness experience and often more affordable permit prices. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, just a few hours from Kigali, is known for its shorter treks and accessibility, making it popular for travelers with limited time. Many visitors now choose to combine both destinations for a richer East African safari, using the East Africa Tourist Visa to move easily between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.
Gorilla Permits and How to Book Them
Securing a gorilla permit is the most critical step. In Uganda, a standard gorilla permit costs USD 800 per person, while Rwanda’s permits are USD 1,500 per person. Each permit grants an hour with a habituated gorilla family under ranger supervision. Permits are limited and must be booked months in advance, especially during high season (June–September and December–February). Travelers can book through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board directly, or work with a trusted tour operator who bundles permits with accommodation and transport.
Transport to the Parks
In Uganda, Bwindi is located in the southwest, about 8–10 hours by road from Kampala or Entebbe. Domestic flights to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips shorten the journey, followed by a short drive to the park sectors. In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is only a two- to three-hour drive from Kigali, making it one of the most accessible gorilla trekking destinations in the world. For combined itineraries, the Cyanika and Katuna border crossings connect Rwanda to Uganda’s gorilla trekking regions.
Accommodation Options
Both Uganda and Rwanda provide a wide selection of lodges and camps near the trekking points. In Uganda, Bwindi sectors such as Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga each have their own range of accommodations, from community-run guesthouses to luxury eco-lodges. In Rwanda, lodges near Kinigi and Musanze cater to both luxury and mid-range travelers, with some properties offering views of the volcanic peaks. Staying near your assigned trekking sector is important to avoid long early-morning drives.
Costs of a Gorilla Safari
Beyond permits, the total cost of a gorilla safari depends on accommodation level, transport, and additional activities. In Uganda, a three-day gorilla trek typically ranges from USD 1,200 to 2,500 per person, depending on whether it is budget, mid-range, or luxury. In Rwanda, where permits are higher, a similar trek often costs between USD 2,500 and 4,500 per person. For travelers combining both countries, costs vary based on the route and number of days, but the East Africa Tourist Visa at USD 100 makes cross-border travel straightforward.
Additional Safari Experiences
Gorilla trekking is often combined with other safaris. In Uganda, travelers add game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, or a boat cruise on the Nile in Murchison Falls. Rwanda offers golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park, cultural tours, and wildlife experiences in Akagera National Park. Combining the two countries allows visitors to experience gorillas, big game safaris, cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes all in one journey.
Preparing for the Trek
Trekking to see gorillas is physically demanding, with hikes lasting from one to six hours depending on the group’s location. Visitors should prepare with sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, rain gear, gloves, and a walking stick provided by the park. Hiring a porter is highly recommended, both for assistance and to support local communities. Most importantly, trekkers must follow ranger guidelines to ensure both visitor safety and gorilla conservation.
Final Thoughts
Planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda is about more than logistics — it is about choosing the journey that best suits your time, budget, and sense of adventure. Whether you opt for Uganda’s rugged Bwindi forests, Rwanda’s accessible Volcanoes National Park, or a combination of both, the experience promises an unforgettable encounter with some of the world’s most extraordinary creatures.