Gorilla Trekking in Africa: Where to Go and What to Expect

Gorilla Trekking in Africa: Where to Go and What to Expect

Gorilla trekking in Africa is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences, offering a rare opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This activity is available in just a few countries: Uganda, Rwanda, DR Congo, and the Central African Republic. These nations are home to the only remaining populations of mountain gorillas in the world, making Africa the sole destination for this unique adventure.

Mountain gorillas, scientifically known as Gorilla beringei beringei, are a critically endangered species. According to the latest census from 2018, there are approximately 1,004 individuals left, living in two separate populations. These gentle giants can be found in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the Virunga Mountain ranges, which stretch across Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.

Trek Africa Expeditions organizes gorilla trekking tours to all three of these countries, offering tailored experiences that cater to different budgets—whether you’re looking for a luxury adventure or a budget-friendly trek. If you’re considering gorilla trekking, you can choose from a variety of packages or customize your own trip with us. Reach out to our team, and we’ll handle all the logistics to ensure you have a smooth and memorable experience.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

When planning your gorilla trekking adventure, the main question is often where to go. Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo all offer incredible opportunities to see mountain gorillas. But which is the best for you? It largely depends on your interests and preferences.

• Uganda offers gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a dense tropical rainforest, as well as in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, part of the Virunga mountain range.
• Rwanda hosts trekking in Volcanoes National Park, where the mountain gorillas live amid bamboo forests and volcanic landscapes.
• DR Congo provides a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience in Virunga National Park, home to one of the largest mountain gorilla populations.

Regardless of the country, your chances of seeing gorillas are almost guaranteed at 98%, making it a high-reward experience in any destination. Uganda stands out for offering both Bwindi’s rainforest and the Virunga mountains, giving visitors a unique option to explore different environments.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Africa?

The cost of gorilla trekking varies by country, but a permit is required in each location to join a trek. This permit grants you one precious hour with the mountain gorillas. Here’s a breakdown of the permit costs in the main gorilla trekking destinations:

• DR Congo: Trekking in Virunga National Park costs USD 400 per person during the high season (mid-December to mid-March, June to October) and USD 200 during the low season. East African residents pay USD 200, while citizens of DR Congo pay just USD 20.
• Uganda: In Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, permits are priced at USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 (about USD 75) for East African citizens. Uganda also offers a unique gorilla habituation experience, where you can spend up to four hours with a gorilla group. This experience costs USD 1,500.
• Rwanda: Trekking in Volcanoes National Park comes with a higher price tag, costing USD 1,500 per person year-round. However, Rwanda offers a 30% discount on permits between November and May if you also visit Nyungwe Forest National Park and Akagera National Park. This brings the permit cost down to approximately USD 1,050.

It’s essential to secure your permit in advance, as there are limited permits available each day in all national parks. We recommend booking your permits 3-5 months before your trip to ensure availability.

Best Time for Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Mountain gorilla trekking in Africa takes place in three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These regions experience a tropical and montane climate throughout the year. Given the unpredictable weather, rain can occur at any time in the national parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Virunga, and Volcanoes National Park. However, the best time to go gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, which fall in December, January, February, June, July, August, and September.

During these months, the trekking trails are drier, making them easier to navigate. The vegetation is also less dense, which improves visibility, making it easier to spot and photograph the gorillas. In contrast, the wet season, which occurs in March, April, May, October, and November, presents more challenging trekking conditions. Trails are often muddy and slippery, and the lush vegetation can obstruct views of the gorillas. As a result, many travelers prefer to avoid these months for gorilla trekking.

Where to Stay During Your Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Whether you’re trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or the DRC, there are numerous accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury lodges to suit different preferences and budgets.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (Uganda)

• Budget options: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Ride 4 a Woman, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Buhoma Camp Lodge (from $90–100 per night per person).
• Mid-range options: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Icumbi Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Buhoma Havens Lodge (from $100–200 per night per person).
• Luxury options: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Gorilla Sanctuary Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Engagi Lodge (from $200–400 per night per person).

Virunga National Park (DRC)

• Budget options: Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp (from $90–100 per night per person).
• Mid-range options: Tchegera Island Camp, Lulimbi Tented Camp (from $100–200 per night per person).
• Luxury options: Mikeno Lodge (from $200–400 per night per person).

Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)

• Luxury options: Virunga Lodge, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge.
• Mid-range options: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Davinci Lodge.
• Budget options: Gorilla Solution Lodge, Villa Gorilla, Virunga Hotel, Faraji Hotel, Kinigi Hotel, Hotel Muhabura, La Palme Hotel.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda)

• Budget options: Kisoro Travelers Inn (from $90–100 per night per person).
• Mid-range options: Lake Chahafi Resort, Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge (from $100–200 per night per person).
• Luxury options: Gahinga Lodge (from $200–400 per night per person).

Simply let us know your preferred budget, and we will help you select the best accommodation that fits your needs.

Why Book Your Mountain Gorilla Trekking with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves on delivering unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. With years of expertise, we are highly rated on TripAdvisor and are known for organizing eco-friendly safaris that preserve wildlife and support local communities.

In addition to gorilla trekking, we offer a wide range of adventures, including chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, mountain hikes, boat cruises, and cultural encounters. Our itineraries can also include top African safari destinations such as Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia. By booking with us, you can be assured of a seamless, impactful, and memorable African safari experience.

Contact us to plan your gorilla trekking adventure in Africa.