Gorilla Trekking: One of Africa’s Most Thrilling Wildlife Encounters

Gorilla trekking stands out as one of the most remarkable wildlife adventures in Africa. Both Uganda and Rwanda offer unforgettable opportunities to see mountain gorillas up close in their natural forest habitats. Each country provides a unique trekking experience, with different permit prices and booking procedures. This guide explains where you can trek, the cost of permits based on residency, and how to secure them.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda shelters almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best destinations for this incredible activity. Trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Bwindi is divided into four main trekking regions—Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo—each home to several habituated gorilla families. Mgahinga, on the other hand, features a single habituated group known as Nyakagezi, offering visitors a more exclusive experience.

Gorilla permit fees in Uganda vary according to residency. Foreign non-residents pay USD 800 per person, foreign residents pay USD 700 per person, while East African citizens pay UGX 300,000 per person. Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and can be booked in three ways: directly through the UWA website, at their offices in Kampala, or through a reputable tour operator such as Jango Gates Adventures.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is another premier destination for mountain gorilla trekking. The park hosts several habituated families that can be visited year-round. Treks here are generally shorter and more accessible than those in Uganda, which makes Rwanda an excellent choice for travelers with limited time.

Gorilla trekking permits are managed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and can be reserved online through their website or via licensed tour companies. Permit costs also depend on residency. Foreign non-residents pay USD 1,500 per person, foreign residents pay USD 500 per person, and East African citizens pay USD 200 per person.

Treks are led by experienced rangers who guide visitors through lush, mountainous terrain while sharing fascinating insights about gorilla behavior and conservation. Rwanda’s well-maintained trails make the experience relatively comfortable, while strict regulations such as maintaining a safe distance and avoiding flash photography ensure both visitor safety and gorilla protection.

Since permits tend to sell out fast, booking well in advance is highly recommended. The overall experience is safe, educational, and deeply rewarding, offering travelers a rare opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural environment.