Where to See Gorillas in Africa
Gorilla trekking is an unforgettable wildlife adventure, offering a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent primates up close (within a safe distance) in their natural habitat. Gorillas are found only in a few African countries—namely Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo—and represent the richness of Africa’s biodiversity.
Uganda and Rwanda are renowned for providing exceptional gorilla trekking experiences and are considered the best places to see gorillas in Africa. This guide explores various aspects of the trekking experience, including costs, safety, landscapes, difficulty of the trek, and more.
In terms of costs, the expenses involved in gorilla trekking in both countries, from permits to additional fees, will be outlined. Safety considerations for each destination will also be covered to ensure a worry-free adventure.
The landscapes of Uganda and Rwanda differ significantly, influencing the overall trekking experience. The variations in terrain and scenery will be explored, along with the physical demands of the trek, helping you prepare ahead of time and gauge which experience will align with your fitness level.
Beyond gorilla trekking, both countries offer a range of additional activities and attractions. Other wildlife experiences and must-see destinations will be highlighted, ensuring a well-rounded itinerary. Considering travelling with kids? We will discuss the suitability of gorilla trekking for families and provide tips for a smooth experience.
Timing is key, and the best periods to visit Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking will be detailed. Additionally, options for combining a gorilla trekking adventure with other iconic East African destinations will be explored.
Whether you opt for a Uganda safari or a Rwanda safari, both destinations offer extraordinary experiences that rank them among Africa’s premier safari destinations. By the end of this guide, there will be a comprehensive understanding of gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, making it easier to choose the perfect destination for any travel plans.
Costs: Gorilla Trekking Uganda vs Rwanda
When comparing the costs of gorilla trekking in Uganda vs Rwanda, the permit prices are a significant factor. In Uganda, the cost of gorilla trekking permits is $800 per person, making it a more affordable option for a wider range of travellers. Conversely, the cost of gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda is $1,500 per person, reflecting a more premium experience. The higher cost in Rwanda is also often justified by the country’s investment in conservation and community projects.
Additional expenses also vary between the two countries. Rwanda offers more luxurious accommodation options, albeit at a higher cost, while Uganda provides a broader range of mid-range lodgings. Transport costs are generally lower in Rwanda due to its proximity to Kigali, which offers quicker and cheaper transfers. In contrast, Uganda’s longer distances can add to both logistical costs and travel time.
Ultimately, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is more accessible and convenient, ideal for those with limited time, whereas Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers a more authentic and adventurous experience and various additional sights to see. Whether you choose gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, both destinations are among the best places for gorilla trekking.
Is it Safe to Go Gorilla Trekking?
With fully grown male silverbacks weighing around 180 kilograms and standing at six feet tall, it’s understandable to feel some apprehension about gorilla trekking. However, rest assured that the experience is completely safe. As with all wildlife encounters, there are specific guidelines and rules to follow, which your guide will explain in detail.
In addition to adhering to these safety protocols, several other measures are in place to protect both trekkers and gentle-natured gorillas alike. These precautions ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved.
Both Uganda and Rwanda are considered safe for tourists. However, Rwanda has a slightly better reputation for political stability and infrastructure, and as such is considered the safer option between the two. Uganda is safe, but it’s advisable to stay updated on travel advisories.
Landscape
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers a beautifully rugged and dense trekking experience, true to its name. The ancient rainforest, with its steep hills and tangled undergrowth, presents a more authentic and adventurous rainforest experience. The varying altitudes, ranging from 1,160 to 2,607 metres, create diverse ecosystems, making the trek feel like a deep immersion into nature.
The lush, wet environment, filled with towering trees, mosses, and ferns, enhances the sense of being in a raw, untamed wilderness, though the thick foliage can sometimes limit visibility of the gorillas.
In contrast, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park provides a different kind of trekking experience in the Virunga Mountains. The volcanic terrain, characterised by more open spaces, bamboo forests, and meadows, offers a slightly easier navigation compared to Bwindi. Trekking at higher elevations (between 2,400 and 4,507 metres) in Rwanda often allows for clearer views of the gorillas due to the less dense vegetation.
The dramatic volcanic landscape, with its wide skies and panoramic views, combined with the more accustomed gorilla groups, makes for a visually stunning and somewhat more accessible trekking experience.
Is Gorilla Trekking Difficult?
The difficulty of the trek can vary in both countries. Uganda’s treks are generally considered more strenuous due to the dense forest and steep terrain. Rwanda’s treks are relatively easier but can still be challenging, especially at higher altitudes.
In both destinations, gorilla trekking is a considerably physically demanding activity. Because the lengths of a trek can range from one hour to eight, through varying terrains, it is recommended that those embarking on this adventure start training for it several months in advance.
Other Things to Do Besides Gorilla Trekking
Both countries offer a variety of other activities in addition to gorilla trekking. While neither of these destinations is considered a typical safari destination, Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a more traditional safari and is home to the famous tree-climbing lions, whose remarkably unique behaviour remains a mystery to scientists.
Uganda is a sanctuary for 1000 bird species, making it one of the best destinations on the continent for birding. This includes 150 species found nowhere else on the continent. In addition, travellers to Uganda can visit Jinja, the source of the mighty Nile River, whose rapids make for an adrenalin-pumping adventure for those bold enough.
Rwanda offers golden monkey trekking and visits to the Genocide Memorial in Kigali. With over 700 species of bird, Rwanda is renowned for being a birdwatcher’s paradise. If big game and cats are what you are searching for, Akagera National Park is a protected area within the country where you can witness the reintroduction of the Big 5 and other game along the scenic landscapes of its wide savannahs and endless highlands.
Can Kids Go Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is generally recommended for children aged 15 and above. Both countries have similar age restrictions, but Rwanda’s relatively easier treks might be more suitable for families with varying fitness levels and age groups.
When to Go Gorilla Trekking
The best time to visit Uganda and the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. From mid-December to early February in Rwanda, the short dry season brings ideal conditions for these unforgettable adventures as the trails are firm and there is minimal malaria risk, it’s the perfect time to trek.
Uganda is a year-round treasure with its warm equatorial climate. However, Bwindi and Mgahinga’s gorilla forests remain humid and rainy throughout the year, so packing waterproof gear is a must—even during the drier months.
Combining Gorilla Trekking With Other Areas
Uganda and Rwanda offer the unique advantage of being easily combined with other iconic East African destinations like Kenya and Tanzania. This combination provides travellers with the opportunity to experience a diverse array of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural encounters all within one trip.
In Kenya, the famed Maasai Mara delivers unforgettable big game safaris, especially during the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra traverse the plains. Tanzania complements this with its world-renowned Serengeti and the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, offering dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife encounters. These regions provide a stark contrast to the dense forests of Uganda and Rwanda, allowing you to enjoy both open savannas and lush, mountainous gorilla habitats.
For those interested in beach relaxation after their wildlife adventures, the tropical islands of Zanzibar or the Kenyan coast are perfect add-ons, offering white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether it’s trekking to see gorillas, witnessing the big cats of the Serengeti, or relaxing on a sun-soaked coastline, combining Uganda or Rwanda with Kenya and Tanzania offers a truly immersive and varied African experience.
With easy regional flight connections and a well-established tourism network, it’s simple to create a customised itinerary that takes in the full spectrum of Africa’s incredible natural beauty, wildlife, and cultures.
Accommodation Options in Rwanda and Uganda
Both countries provide a variety of accommodations to suit every traveller’s needs, from affordable lodges to high-end retreats. Uganda stands out for its upscale offerings, with world-class luxury lodges such as Asilia’s exciting new Erebero Hills, set to open in 2026. Uganda is known for its more diverse accommodation options, ranging from accessible to exclusive.
Uganda and Rwanda offer unique and unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Your choice will depend on various factors, but whichever you land on, you’re guaranteed a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with these magnificent creatures.
Ready to start planning your dream gorilla trekking adventure? Get in touch with us today to get started!
