Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Gorilla trekking in Africa is such an amazing adventure that allows travelers to get up close with the gentle giants.  The other gorilla species, western gorillas and cross-river gorillas can be found across the central and other regions of the African continent. Therefore, one has an opportunity to interact directly with the enormous mountain gorillas while on an East African gorilla safari. The two species can be distinguished by the thickness of their fur and the difference in body size. Eastern gorillas are larger and have more body fur than the western gorillas. According to the recent census, there are roughly 5,000 eastern gorillas in the world, of whom about 1064 are mountain gorillas. Even though gorillas and humans live in very different settings, it is thought that they share a common ancestor. The DNA of gorillas is 98% similar to that of humans.

The world's toughest primate species is the gorilla. They are sociable animals that live in troop-style communities. Each troop is commanded by a dominant male, known as "a silverback". Female Gorillas are the majority in any group and have the responsibility of reproduction and nursing the young ones. Silverback keeps the entire group safe and explores new areas each day as they go. They own the forest, therefore each day they move from one territory to another.

How is gorilla trekking in Africa done? 

A typical gorilla trekking session in Africa (Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo) starts with a briefing at the Park headquarters. It is important to start with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation facility - usually a safari lodge near or within the park. Meet and greet your guide at about 6:30 am and then drive or walk to the park headquarters. For Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you will visit the park headquarters depending on the sector you are in. Remember, Bwindi National Park has 4 sectors namely; Buhoma Sector, Ruhija Sector, Nkuringo Sector, and Rushaga Sector. In Mgahinga National Park, you will visit the Ntebeko Park headquarters. For Volcanoes National Park, you will report at Kinigi park headquarters. 

During the briefing, you will learn about the dos and don't of mountain gorilla trekking rules and regulations in Africa. Each gorilla family is tracked by 8 people per day. This is meant for the good of both trekkers and the gorillas. You will then embark on a walk to forests with an experienced and armed ranger. The rangers take time (usually the night before the trek) to know where the gorillas are. Gorillas are wild animals and they  move in a natural and not fixed pattern. But with the help of an experienced guide or ranger, encountering gorillas in Africa is possible. 

The precious hour in the presence of gorillas 

Every African safari goer on a gorilla trekking tour in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo dreams of the one special hour spent in the presence of gorillas. Averagely, gorilla trekking takes between two to eight hours of the day. The walk in the forests and rugged terrain is a moment to beacon. Upon meeting the gorillas, trekkers or travelers are allowed to spend one hour in the presence  of the gorilla family. This is the best time during a gorilla trekking safari or gorilla adventure tour in Africa. Trekkers take photos, and learn about the different behaviors of these gentle giants. Visiting a gorilla family with many babies is a double blessing. Seeing these little ones play and jump on the backs of their mothers cerates everlasting memories. Ensure to follow the gorilla trekking rules and regulations during your gorilla trekking tour. 

Once this hour is done, trekkers return to their lodges for lunch and relaxation. Usually, trekkers are advised to pack lunch boxes during the gorilla trekking. This is because no one is always sure of how long it takes to meet the gorillas. You do not want to starve in forests of Bwindi or Virunga national parks. 

Comparing gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo

One of the frequently asked questions about gorilla trekking tours in Africa, is compare gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. Generally gorilla trekking in all the three safari destinations is the same except a few things make the difference. Except lowland gorilla trekking in Congo, mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga, Volcanoes, Bwindi, and Mgahinga national parks is identical. The differences only lie in the terrain, gorilla trekking permit prices, and the number of habituated mountain gorilla families. For instance, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is made up of 4 gorilla trekking sectors. Each sector has a different terrain and specific number of gorilla families. Bwindi Impenetrable National has 26 habituated mountain gorilla families available for trekking. On the other hand, Volcanoes National Park has 10 habituated mountain gorilla families. Mgahinga National Park has one habituated mountain gorilla family known as Nyakagezi gorilla group. 

In terms of price mountain gorilla permits in Uganda and Congo are cheaper than those of Rwanda. A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs USD 800 per person per trek. On the other hand, a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs USD 1,500 per person per trek. In Congo, a gorilla trekking permit costs USD 450 per person. In terms of accessibility, Volcanoes National Park can easily be accessed from Kigali International Airport (3 hours). This is easier than the 8-hour drive from Entebbe International Airport to Bwindi or Mgahinga parks. This should not scare you though, one can do a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda from Kigali. It takes only 4 hours to drive from Kigali International Airport to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. 

Booking a gorilla trekking permit in Africa 

Are you planning a gorilla trekking tour or safari to Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo and wondering how to book gorilla permit? Do  not fret. Booking gorilla trekking permits in Uganda can be booked through a reputable tour operator or tour company. Your local tour operator will then contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority and process your gorilla trekking permit to Bwindi or Mgahinga parks. In Rwanda gorilla trekking permits are also booked through tour operators. The body in charge of issuing these permits is Rwanda Development Board. In Congo, gorilla trekking permits can be got at the park entrance or gate. But booking with Native Africa Tours Ltd takes away the hustle.

Please note that gorilla trekking permits in East Africa are issued on a first-come-first-serve basis. During the high seasons, permits are highly demanded and one can miss out if they do not secure their permits early enough. You are therefore encouraged to book your gorilla permits at least 3 months before your trip. 

Feeding habits among gorillas 

Vegetables, fruits, stems, and insects are occasionally fed upon by these gorillas. Water is obtained from dew in the morning and from leaves and fruits they consume. Moms breastfeed their young, milk them, assist in tick removal, and rest on the fur. Infants move around, eat, play, and carry out activities like climbing trees and picking out fruits all day long. Gorillas will have moved into a new territory in two days, building their nests in the twilight.

Gorilla trekking is a component of any gorilla tour in Africa. It is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and trekkers will be able to encounter gorillas in their natural habitat. The exercise begins very early in the morning after a 30-minute registration and pre-trek briefing, during which the ranger guides will go over the rules with visitors. These include not littering the park, not making noise, keeping a distance of about 7 meters from gorillas when taking photos, not looking directly into their eyes, properly disposing of human waste, and more.

Before being attached to a habituated family, the trekking paperwork will be verified. The trekking activity lasts between two and eight hours, depending on your hiking pace and the gorilla family’s movements, and there is a possibility to spot many plant species, birds, forest creatures, and primates. You will be granted one hour to take pictures and see gorillas up close while the ranger guide answers your questions. The ranger guide will walk you through this process when you come across the gorillas during their feeding, grooming, and playing sessions.

What to pack for a gorilla trekking tour in Africa? 

A gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo is never right with a wrong packing list. This does not however mean that you must carry everything. Some items can be purchased from the local markets while others can be got at the park entrances. Some of the items to park for a gorilla trekking safari to Africa include; sturdy hiking shoes, a refillable water bottle, a backpack to carry your essentials, travel documents, a camera or smartphone to capture moments, insect repellants, a rain jacket, and power-bank to keep your gadgets charged. Read the full list of things to pack for a gorilla trekking safari in Africa.

Where to stay on a gorilla trekking safari in Africa? 

Spending a night near a rainforest on a gorilla trekking tour to Rwanda or Uganda is a rewarding adventure. Safari lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offer a tranquil stay to travelers on a Uganda safari. These lodges range from budget to mid-rang and luxury. It all depends on the number of days you intend to stay and the your travel budget. Volcanoes National Park on the other hand is famous for having some of the best luxury lodges and accommodation facilities. Rwanda is by far a luxury gorilla trekking destination. This implies that one needs to be financially prepared to take a tour to Rwanda. This should not scare you through. All you need is talking to an Africa Travel planner for an amazing trip. 

Where to see Gorillas in Africa - Gorilla Trekking Destinations

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The Popular destinations that host incredible Gorilla and Wildlife Tours in Africa. This national park is located in south southwestern corner of Uganda and is a sought-after world-class tourism destination. It harbors more than half of the world’s surviving mountain gorillas with a total population of 650 registered in the census carried out in 2018. This census will be carried out after every 5 years. There are 26 habituated gorilla groups in Bwindi National Park, although it should be noted that the gorilla habituation process takes two - to three years to complete. These gorilla groups are dispersed throughout the park's four regions: 

After a general briefing session, gorilla trekking begins at 8:00 a.m. The tour guide will then direct visitors to the assigned gorilla group in cooperation with an advanced team of trackers. By 6:00 am, trackers trace the gorillas from where they were left the day before until they find them and connect with the guide who with the tourists to make the task of tracing them easier. Since there is no shelter in the wilderness, it is advisable to carry adequate water and packed lunch when hiking because it may take longer than expected. You should also bring rain gear to prevent unforeseen weather changes and be prepared for rain. Bwindi National Park is one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking tours  in Africa.  

Gorilla trekking sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park 

Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is mainly done in 4 sectors. Each sector has habituated  mountain gorilla families available for trekking. A Uganda gorilla trekking and wildlife safari will take you to at least one of the four sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The gorilla trekking sectors of Bwindi National Park include; Buhoma sector, Ruhija sector, Nkuringo sector, and Rushaga sector.  In all these sectors, there are about 26 habituated mountain gorilla families ready to be tracked. Trekking gorillas in any of these sectors of Bwindi costs USD 800 per person per trek. Please note that this price is exclusive of other safari related expenses like accommodation and transportation. Read more about gorilla sectors of Bwindi.

How to access Bwindi Impenetrable National Park? 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be accessed by both air and road transport means. By road, one can drive for about 8 hours from Kampala or Entebbe International Airport. This seems like the longest way to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. However, the distance and time are worthy your commitment. It involves passing by the roadside lush green vegetation - a testament that Uganda lies within the tropics. Driving the Kampala - Masaka - Mbarara - Kabale Highway allows you to enjoy scenic views of the landscapes. Taking this route allows you to visit the Uganda Equator in Kayabwe.

At the Equator, you will take pictures and perform some experiments  in addition to stepping into the two hemispheres of the earth at the same time. More so, you may stop over at the Igongo Cultural Centre. Here, you will learn about the history of Ankole Kingdom. You will also hike the Eclipse Monument at Igongo Hill. Alternatively, you may visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via Kigali International Airport. From Rwanda, you will drive for about 4 hours to reach the park. This journey involves crossing the Katuna border between Uganda and Rwanda. Therefore ensure to have all the necessary travel documents. You will pass through the rolling hills of Rwanda and witness why the country is known as "the land of a thousand hills".  

By air, travelers to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park board a chartered plane from Entebbe or Kajjansi Airfield and fly to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The flight takes you to either Kihihi Airfield or Kisoro Airfield. From here, you drive by car for approximately 30 minutes depending on the sector you are visiting. Book your Bwindi flying safari now and create everlasting memories. 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the Popular destinations that host incredible Gorilla and Wildlife Tours in Africa. One of Uganda's ten national parks, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to mountain gorillas just like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is found in the south-western region of Uganda, at the base of the Giant Virunga Mountain range. There is only one gorilla troop available for trekking in this less crowded park. The practice of trekking begins very early in the morning. It lasts for between 2 to 8 hours under the direction of knowledgeable ranger guides. One of the smallest wildlife parks in the nation, it is secure and abundant in both plants and animals. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking tours  in Africa.  

Gorilla trekking in Uganda costs 800 USD for non-resident foreigners. 700 USD for foreign residents, and 250,000 UGX for East African nationals. The money goes toward park admission, environmental protection, and paying the ranger guides who show you around. Accommodation, transportation, porters, and extra activities are not included.

Volcanoes National Park 

Located in the Virunga Conservation Area, Volcanoes National Park is a haven for mountain gorillas in Africa. The park was gazette in 1925 and is one of the oldest national parks in Africa. Volcanoes National Park is home to over 10 habituated mountain gorilla families available for trekking. The most popular gorilla family in this park is Susa A gorilla group. This gorilla family is famous for being one of the few families that Dian Fossey once tracked back in time. Dian Fossey was an American primatologist and conservationist who spent almost her life saving mountain gorillas. It is believed that she succumbed to poachers.

A gorilla trekking tour in Volcanoes National Park involves visiting the Dian Fossey's grave. This grave is found in the Karisoke Conservation Centre - a conservation Centre that was established in commemoration of Dian Fossey's work. Volcanoes National Park is one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking tours  in Africa. After a gorilla trekking session in Volcanoes National Park, tourists usually visit the Gorilla Guardians Village. Other safari activities done in this park include; golden monkey trekking tours, hiking adventures, community tours, birding safaris, guided nature walks and many more. 

Virunga National Park 

Located in the eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Virunga National Park is an amazing safari destination for gorilla tours in Africa. The park is close to Rwanda's border and can easily be combined with safari activities in Rwanda. Like any other mountain gorilla destination in East Africa, gorilla trekking tours in the Virunga National Park involve walking through the lush green vegetation. Upon encountering with these gentle giants, travelers are allowed to spend one hour in the presence of the gorillas. 

Kahuzi Biega National Park 

Kahuzi Biega National Park is one of the best gorilla trekking destinations on Africa. The park is located in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It is famous for being home to lowland gorillas. The lowland gorillas are a subspecies of gorillas dwelling in lowland areas. Unlike mountain gorillas, trekking lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park is less demanding. This is because these gorillas do  not stay in high altitude areas. Gorilla trekking adventures in this park can easily be combined with activities in Rwanda's Nyungwe National Park as well as Lake Kivu. 

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda stands out as one of the must-visit locations on the African continent for gorilla trekking safaris. The activity is available in Northeastern Volcanoes National Park, a two to three-hour drive from the country's capital, Kigali. One-fourth of all mountain gorillas in the world reside here. It is located at the base of the massive Virunga Mountain range, which spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Park opens to tourists at 7:00 am, with pre-trek briefing starting at 8:30 am. The exercise lasts for 1-8 hours, depending on how far the gorillas have migrated, with an additional hour for photography and listening to the guides' comments.

How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda? 

For foreign non-residents, nationals, and residents, gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda cost 1,500 USD, which includes park access, a ranger guide, and conservation fees. It does not include further pursuits, lodging, transportation, or other personal services. Along with other things, you will appreciate the rich tropical forest's splendor. Booking at least 3 months in advance is advised in Rwanda. Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda should be booked through a reputable tour company or local tour operator. After you have made your booking with a company like Native Africa Tours, they will go ahead an book your gorilla permits to Volcanoes National Park. 

A typical gorilla trekking safari or gorilla tour to Rwanda offers a thrilling adventure. It allows travelers to walk through the impenetrable lush green forests. With the help of an experienced guide, a gorilla trekking expedition in Rwanda becomes an easy venture. The terrain and vegetation of Volcanoes National Park make the whole gorilla trekking activity a rewarding adventure. Imagine dodging thorns, walking through slippery but beautiful trails as you listen to sweet melodies of the many bird species in the park. 

How much does a gorilla trekking trip or tour cost in Rwanda? 

The cost of a gorilla trekking trip in Rwanda is more than just booking an air ticket or gorilla trekking permit. It is rather a combination of many expenses like any other safari or trip. While many travelers perceive Rwanda gorilla tours as expensive, with the right planning, one can do a budget gorilla trekking safari or trip in Rwanda. There are many ways of cutting costs for a gorilla safari in Rwanda. Generally, the cost of a gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda depends on several factors. These include among others but are not limited to the following; mode of transport, the number of days, they type of accommodation, and other safari activities. 

To begin with, a 3 days Rwanda gorilla trekking safari may cost between USD 2500 and USD 3500 per person including a valid mountain gorilla trekking permit. Please note that a gorilla trekking tour does not necessarily have to include visiting the gorillas only. A Rwanda gorilla trekking tour can be combined with other Rwanda safari destinations. These include among others but are not limited to Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Lake Kivu, and Gishwati Mukura National Park. Within these parks several safari activities are done. These include; chimpanzee trekking, canopy walking tours, big five safaris, Kigali city tours, guided nature walks, boat cruise excursions, and many more.  

What is the best time to take a gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda? 

The best time to take a tour in Rwanda depends on several of factors including; the seasons of your trip, your budget, and permit availability. To begin with, for many travelers, taking a gorilla trekking tour or gorilla safari in Rwanda is best during the dry seasons. These seasons run through June to September and December to February. During such times, the forests of Volcanoes National Park have a less thick vegetation and little undergrowth. Additionally, the gorilla trekking trails are less slippery and can be easily walkable. This is not the case with the wet seasons, where gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is physically challenging an demanding. During this period (October to November and March to May), there are high chances of rain and gorilla trekking becomes more than just a walk in the forest. 

The wet season is never the worst time 

However, taking a gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda during the wet seasons can be equally rewarding. This is because, not every traveler wants an easy venture. In the past, we have had clients asking for a challenging gorilla trekking region especially in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Are you such a kind of traveler seeking a challenging gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda? The best time to visit is the wet seasons. More so, the wet seasons have less traffic and permits availability is guaranteed. Additionally, accommodation facilities or lodges in Rwanda offer discounted prices during low seasons. This is not the case with the high or peak seasons. If you are planning a Rwanda budget gorilla trekking safari, the wet season can be the best time to visit.  

Overall, Rwanda is an all-year-round open safari destination for gorilla trekking tours or gorilla safaris. This is not restricted to gorilla safari destinations but also others. The parks are open for travelers including on weekends and public holidays. Therefore the best time to planning your safari to Rwanda is when you wish to. If you have any personal questions, feel free to talk to a tour consultant and plan your trip accordingly. 

Budget and luxury gorilla safaris in Rwanda 

Rwanda is one of the few African safari destinations with both luxury and budget safari destinations. One thing that makes Rwanda look like a luxury safari destination is the price of their gorilla permit (USD 1500 per person per trek). The truth is that one can trek gorillas of Rwanda on budget. Are you a traveler planning to do a budget gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda, we are here to help you. With the help of our safari expert planners, you will not need to break the bank to do a safari in Rwanda. You can easily reduce costs on your trip and take an amazing Rwanda budget gorilla tour. 

On the other hand, we understand that not every traveler wants to travel on budget. Some want to spend lost of money on a safari. Rwanda offers some of the best luxury gorilla tours or luxury vacations in Africa. On top of the seemingly expensive gorilla permit, you can stay in high-end accommodation facilities during your stay. Planning a Rwanda luxury gorilla safari, talk to us and we make the job easy. 

What is the best time to do Gorilla trekking tours in Africa?

Are you wondering about the best time to do Gorilla trekking tours in Africa? Gorilla trekking tours in Africa are year-round activities. But when it's a little dryer, like from June to September and from December to February, it works best. Visitors frequently receive discounts and go to less crowded locations during the wet months of November, March, and May.

What do you need to pack for a gorilla trekking tour in Africa?

The length of your stay in a given location will determine what to pack. Simple packing facilitates your trips and reduces the expense of your luggage. You will need a decent pair of hiking boots, a sweater, hand gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, a pesticide. A professional camera for photography, and more in addition to the trekking permit and other travel documentation. What you need to know is that gorillas are exclusively found on the continent of Africa, and are the closest cousins to humans with an over 98% DNA resemblance. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, this is! It is important to know about the best time to do your gorilla trekking tours in Africa (Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo). This will help you plan well and book your gorilla trekking permits in advance. 

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