Gorilla Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

Gorilla Safaris | Gorilla Trekking Tours Uganda, Rwanda 2024

Gorilla safaris are the most popular tourist attractions in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The 3 countries are the only destinations in the world with mountain gorillas. The Virunga Mountains that straddle the borders of the 3 countries provide the habitat to mountain gorillas.

There are 3 national parks that protect mountain gorillas within the Virunga Mountains. These include Virunga national park in DRC, Volcanoes national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda. The rest of the mountain gorilla population is found in Bwindi impenetrable national park in southwest Uganda. Gorilla safaris take place in all the four parks. Trekkers visit habituated gorilla groups in these parks where they are permitted to spend 1 hour in the presence of animals.

Trending Gorilla Safaris In Uganda and Rwanda

About Gorilla Safaris in Uganda

Gorilla safaris in Uganda offer a unique and thrilling opportunity to observe and interact with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. 

Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where these magnificent creatures can be found, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Half the population of mountain gorillas is found in Uganda.

There are two national parks in Uganda which are renowned for gorilla trekking and they include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

It is located in southwestern Uganda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts the highest concentration of mountain gorillas in the world. 

The actual gorilla trek through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be physically demanding, as the terrain is rugged and dense with vegetation. There are four sectors in Bwindi where gorilla trekking is carried out and they include Buhoma sector, Rushaga sector, Ruhija sector and Nkuringo sector.

The gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are endangered species and approximately 400 mountain gorillas live in the park, making it one of the largest populations in Africa. The gorillas in Bwindi are known for their habituation, meaning they have become comfortable with human presence and can be safely visited by tourists.

Getting to Bwindi national park during a gorilla safari can be either by a domestic flight to Kihihi airstrip or Kisoro airstrips and the second option to get to the park is to embark on a scenic road trip to Bwindi national park which takes approximately 8 to 10 hours but allows for breathtaking views of Uganda’s countryside.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

It is situated on the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area and provides another opportunity to encounter these incredible primates. 

The national park is also found in south western park of Uganda in Kisoro district. Mgahinga national park is home to a habituated gorilla group, known as the Nyakagezi group, which consists of around 10-15 individuals, including several adult males, females, and juveniles. 

Visitors to Mgahinga National Park can go gorilla tracking, which involves hiking through the dense forest to find the gorillas and observe them for a limited time. The experience is truly unforgettable and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Other experiences for tourists during their gorilla safaris in Mgahinga national park includes golden monkey trekking and volcano hiking.

To reach Mgahinga national park from Kampala or Entebbe, visitors can take a domestic flight to Kisoro Airstrip or drive for approximately 8-10 hours.

The gorilla trekking experience in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is the main activity offered in both national parks. It involves hiking through dense forests in search of habituated gorilla families. The trek can be physically demanding, as it often requires traversing steep terrain and thick vegetation. 

However, the effort is well worth it once you come face to face with these gentle giants. To ensure the safety and conservation of the gorillas, only a limited number of permits are issued each day for gorilla trekking. 

It is advisable to book your gorilla permit well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Gorilla permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and can be obtained through authorized tour operators or directly from UWA offices. 

Once you have secured your gorilla permit, you will join a small group led by experienced guides and trackers who are familiar with the gorilla families’ movements and behaviors. 

The gorilla treks usually start early in the morning, and the duration can vary depending on the location of the gorilla group you are assigned to track. On average, the gorilla trek can take anywhere from four to six hours. 

When you finally encounter the gorillas, you will have a strictly regulated amount of time to observe and photograph them. About 1 hour is spent with the gorillas when they are located in their habitat.

 This is to minimize disturbance and ensure the gorillas’ well-being. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the guides to maintain a safe distance and avoid any unnecessary stress to the animals. 

Cost of gorilla safaris in Uganda

The cost of gorilla safaris in Uganda can vary depending on several factors such as the type of safari, duration, accommodation, transportation, and permits required to track the gorillas.

Group safaris are generally more affordable as the cost is shared among a larger number of participants. Private and luxury safaris offer a more exclusive and personalized experience but tend to be more expensive.

The duration of the safari also plays a significant role in determining the cost. Gorilla safaris typically range from 3 days or more. As the duration increases, so does the overall cost due to increased accommodation costs, transportation costs, and park fees.

The choice of accommodation greatly influences the cost of gorilla safaris in Uganda. There are various options available, including luxury lodges, mid-range lodges and also budget lodges.

Transportation costs are another factor to consider when calculating the overall cost of gorilla safaris in Uganda. Some tour operators include transportation in their package, while others may require travelers to arrange their own transportation. The cost of transportation can vary depending on the distance traveled; the type of vehicle used, and fuel prices.

One of the most significant expenses when it comes to gorilla safaris in Uganda is the cost of permits. In order to track gorillas, visitors are required to obtain a gorilla trekking permit. 

These gorilla permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are limited in number to ensure the conservation and protection of the gorillas. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda for non-residents is $700 per person for a single trek in both Bwindi and Mgahinga national park.

In addition to gorilla trekking, Uganda offers a range of other activities and attractions for visitors. These include game drives in national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park, boat safaris on the Nile River, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, and cultural encounters with local communities.

 In conclusion, gorilla safaris in Uganda provide an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. 

The opportunity to witness these mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat is truly awe-inspiring. With proper planning and guidance from experienced tour operators, visitors can embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that contributes to the conservation efforts of these endangered species.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) 

What is Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking refers to the activity of hiking and watching gorillas in their natural habitat typically in dense forests and mountainous regions of Central Africa. Gorilla Trekking allows individuals to venture into the natural habitats of wild gorilla populations and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat going about their normal lives. To go gorilla trekking, one can book any of our Rwanda Gorilla tour packages or Uganda gorilla Safaris listed on our website. For those seeking something special tailored to their needs, get in touch.

A gorilla permit is one of the major requirements for gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park, Mgahinga, Volcanoes NP, or Virunga for one to be able to see these mountain gorillas. The process of gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda normally starts with an early morning briefing at the respective park headquarters, then a hike or walk into the forest following the trail used by mountain gorillas, and once found, you spend only one hour with the mountain gorillas. 

What is Gorilla Habituation Experience?

The Gorilla Habituation Experience refers to the time a tourist spends with a group of specialists as they take part in the habituation process with a troop of gorillas. It’s the extended version of the ordinary gorilla trekking where tourists have the opportunity to spend more time(4 Hours ) in the presence of wild gorillas during the habituation process. Habituation is the process by which wild animals become accustomed to the presence of humans and learn to tolerate them without exhibiting aggressive behavior and it has been available since 2016 with only 4 tourists allowed per day.

When is the best time to trek gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda?

Mountain Gorillas can be trekked with or watched all year-round in Uganda and Rwanda though the dry months of June, July, August, and early September as well as December through February are considered to be the best time to trek Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda and this time is referred to as the high season.

Planning the trek during the low season can be a strategic approach for those mindful of costs while still seeking an enriching gorilla encounter as lodging prices are discounted. For more information about Uganda and Rwanda gorilla treks, get in touch on WhatsApp( +256757341593) or email(info@gorillatrekkingsafarisuganda.com)

How much is a gorilla permit in Uganda or Rwanda?

In Uganda, a gorilla permit costs USD 800.00 for non-residents and USD 700.00 for foreign residents. In Rwanda, the gorilla trekking permit is priced at USD 1500.00 for non-residents. This permit is like your special card that allows you to spend an hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). All Gorilla safaris to Rwanda and Uganda require you to hold a valid gorilla permit which must be booked and paid for in advance.

When should I book my Uganda or Rwanda gorilla permit?

We recommend that you secure your Uganda or Rwanda gorilla permit at least three months in advance, especially if you intend to trek the gorillas during high season to avoid potential shortages. To ensure availability on your preferred date for gorilla tracking in Uganda or Rwanda, please reach out to us with your intended booking date for Uganda holidays or Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris and we will provide guidance on gorilla permit availability for that specific day and assist you in planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

What is included with the gorilla permit?

A Gorilla Trekking permit grants visitors the unique opportunity to spend one hour with mountain gorillas in the breathtaking surroundings of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Mgahinga, or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) and the gorilla permit cost includes entry fees for the respective parks, giving you access to the gorillas’ natural habitat. Additionally, the services of experienced National Park guides and rangers who will accompany you through the forest and enhance your gorilla trekking experience are also part of the package. To ensure a seamless adventure, Engabi Tours and Travel will take care of securing your permits well in advance, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable encounter with these magnificent creatures.

How long does a gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda take?

The duration of a mountain gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda can vary widely, ranging from a brisk twenty minutes to a substantial three-quarters of the day. It’s essential to be prepared for a range of possibilities. Several factors influence the trek’s duration, including the movement patterns of the mountain gorillas, the location where they spent the previous night, and the mood of the gorillas. Additionally, the pace of the trek can be influenced by the individuals in your group, as guides and rangers move at the pace of the slowest person.  Engabi Tours and Travel is more than happy to provide you with all the necessary advice and information to ensure you are well-prepared for this unique and captivating experience.

What are the chances of seeing a mountain gorilla?

We are delighted to assure you that the likelihood of encountering gorillas in either Bwindi National Park or Volcanoes National Park is an impressive 98%. It’s common for some tourists to consider booking multiple gorilla treks, fearing they might miss out on seeing gorillas during the first trek and hoping for better luck on subsequent treks. The reality is that gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes in Rwanda is well-organized. Every day, an advanced team of trackers sets out early to locate the gorilla groups.

Once located, they communicate the whereabouts of the gorillas to the park headquarters and your assigned ranger guide for the day. Your trek then begins from the area where the gorillas spent the previous night until you find them. Throughout the trek, the advanced team maintains communication with your guide to ensure you stay on the right track. If the gorilla family is on the move at a rapid pace, the team will coordinate with your guide. If necessary, and to ensure your safety and enjoyment, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) may decide to redirect you to another gorilla family.

For more detailed information and personalized advice, please feel free to contact us.

What is the age limit for gorilla tracking?

The age limit for gorilla tracking in Uganda and Rwanda, as well as golden monkey trekking in Uganda, is 15 years. It’s important to note that authorities strictly adhere to this age restriction. Therefore, all clients and children must be 15 or older to participate in these activities to avoid any disappointments, such as being refused to track. Before booking your Gorilla Tracking Uganda safari holidays with us, we ensure that you have all the necessary details regarding age restrictions.

For trekking chimpanzees in Uganda, the age limit is 12 years old. In Rwanda, children aged 10 years and older are allowed to trek golden monkeys as long as they are accompanied by an adult. While children under 15 years are permitted to visit Dian Fossey’s tomb, it’s essential to note that the hike to the tomb is challenging, so it is not recommended for children under 12-13 years.

What to pack for a gorilla trekking trip

When planning for your gorilla safari in Rwanda and Uganda, thorough preparation is key. We recommend packing trousers, long-sleeved shirts or blouses, and long socks to tuck into your trousers for added protection. Don’t forget to bring garden gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and hiking boots for comfort and safety on the trek. Insect repellents are essential to ward off bugs in the forest environment. Additionally, pack some energy-giving foods to keep you fueled and energized throughout the trek. Being well-prepared ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable gorilla trekking experience.

Is it possible trek Uganda Gorillas Through Kigali?

Yes, it is indeed possible to track Uganda gorillas via Kigali, Rwanda. By flying into Kigali International Airport, travelers can significantly reduce the drive time to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. This is a more time-efficient option compared to using Entebbe International Airport, where the drive time can range from 8-9, and sometimes up to 10 hours from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The introduction of the East African tourist visa has further streamlined travel between Uganda and Rwanda. With this visa, costing USD 100.00, you can easily visit three East African countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. Additionally, travelers can now apply for a Rwanda visa upon arrival, simplifying the visa acquisition process. For more details about Bwindi gorilla safaris through Kigali Airport and assistance with travel arrangements, feel free to contact Encounter Africa Safaris. They can provide you with the necessary information to plan a seamless and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience.

How many people are allowed to trek a gorilla family?

Only a maximum of 8 people are allowed to trek or visit a given gorilla family in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Park in Uganda and Rwanda. In Bwindi, where there are about 14 habituated gorilla families, each family is limited to hosting a maximum of 8 people per day for one hour. While this is the standard guideline, there may be rare circumstances where park management allows more than 8 people, and if such situations arise, the park authorities will provide explanations.

For gorilla habituation experiences, which involve spending an extended four hours with mountain gorillas under habituation, only 4 people are permitted to be present. This smaller group size ensures a more controlled and intimate experience for those participating in the gorilla habituation process.

For detailed information about Gorilla Trekking, Gorilla Permits availability and cost of securing gorilla permits, please reach out to Engabi Tours and Travel. We can provide assistance and guide you through the process of booking your gorilla permit to ensure a smooth and successful gorilla trekking experience.

Inquire