Where to See Gorillas in Africa

Where to See Gorillas in Africa

If you’re dreaming of a gorilla trekking adventure, Africa is the only place to make that dream a reality. With populations of mountain gorillas found in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), it can be tough to decide where to go. This guide will help you choose the best country for your unforgettable encounter with these incredible primates.

What to Expect from Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is a thrilling experience that involves hiking through lush forests in search of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Once you find them, you’ll have a precious hour to observe their daily activities, take photos, and soak in the beauty of these endangered apes.

Gorilla Trekking Destinations in Africa

1. Uganda
   Uganda is home to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park, which boast several habituated gorilla families. The experience is enriching, and the trekking permits are competitively priced, making it an affordable choice for many travelers.
2. Rwanda
   Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its well-organized trekking experience and luxurious lodges. Although the trekking permits are more expensive, the proximity to Kigali makes it easily accessible, requiring only a short drive to the park.
3. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
   In addition to mountain gorillas, DRC offers a chance to see Eastern Lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. While the trekking experience can be slightly less commercialized than in Uganda or Rwanda, it’s an incredible option for those seeking a unique adventure.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits

The prices of gorilla trekking permits vary significantly among these countries:

• Uganda
  • Foreign Non-Residents: $800
  • Foreign Residents: $700
  • East African Citizens: UGX 300,000
    This permit allows for a one-hour encounter with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
• Rwanda
  • Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500
  • Foreign Residents: $500
  • East African Citizens: $200
    In Rwanda, your permit also grants one hour with the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
• Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
  • High Season (Mid-December to Mid-March and June to October): $400
  • Low Season (Mid-March to Mid-May and Mid-October to Mid-December): $200
    Kahuzi-Biega National Park charges $400 for foreign non-residents, $200 for East African residents, and $20 for Congolese citizens.

Accessibility and Travel Logistics

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the most accessible, just a 2-3 hour drive from Kigali International Airport. This makes it possible for travelers to trek gorillas in Uganda in one day, especially if they fly into Kigali and utilize the East African Tourist Visa, which covers multiple entries into Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.

While Uganda traditionally had a longer travel time (9-10 hours from Entebbe to Bwindi), many travelers now choose to arrive in Kigali for a more convenient trip.

Accommodations

Both Uganda and Rwanda offer a range of lodges, from budget to luxury, catering to different preferences and budgets. Rwanda is known for its high-end options, such as Bisate Lodge and Singita Kwitonda Lodge in Volcanoes National Park, which provide world-class service.

In Uganda, you can find more budget-friendly accommodations ranging from $50 to $100, giving you ample choices for your stay. Whether you prefer a cozy lodge or a luxurious hotel, there are plenty of options available.

Number of Gorilla Families

Uganda boasts more gorilla families available for trekking, with 20 habituated groups in Bwindi, allowing for 160 permits issued each day. In contrast, Rwanda has 12 families, resulting in 96 permits daily, while DRC offers 10 families split between Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega.

This abundance of families in Uganda means greater flexibility when booking your trek, especially during peak seasons.

Overall Experience

Regardless of where you choose to trek, the chances of encountering gorillas in their natural habitat are incredibly high (around 98%). Each country offers a unique experience, but Uganda stands out with the option for longer interactions through gorilla habituation experiences, allowing you to spend up to four hours with semi-habituated gorillas for a fee of $1,500.

Trekking Distances

The distance you walk during your trek largely depends on the specific gorilla family assigned to you on the day of your trek. It’s important to communicate your preference for shorter or longer hikes to park authorities on the day of trekking. While they strive to accommodate your request, the behavior of the gorillas may impact the trek distance.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo

Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo is a year-round adventure, but certain months stand out for the best experience. The ideal times to track gorillas are from June to August and December to February. During these months, the rainfall is at its lowest, resulting in less slippery forest trails and a more enjoyable trek. If you plan your trip during March to May or November, you may encounter higher rainfall, but many lodges offer discounts during this period, making it a budget-friendly option.

How to Maximize Your Time with Mountain Gorillas

To truly immerse yourself in the gorilla experience, consider booking a gorilla habituation experience, available exclusively in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda. This unique opportunity allows you to spend four hours with semi-habituated mountain gorillas, participating in activities designed to help them acclimate to human presence. This experience costs $1,500 per person per trek. Alternatively, you can arrange multiple standard treks on different days for extended encounters.

Which Park is Best for Seeing Mountain Gorillas: Uganda or Rwanda?

When it comes to spotting mountain gorillas, both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, along with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, offer incredible experiences. Each park is home to these magnificent creatures, with no significant differences in the overall trekking experience.

The gorillas in Mgahinga and Volcanoes inhabit the Virunga Mountains, characterized by bamboo vegetation, while Bwindi is a lush tropical rainforest with diverse flora. The chances of seeing gorillas in both parks are about 98%, ensuring that whichever destination you choose, you’re likely to encounter these incredible apes in their natural habitat. Many trekkers find that the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are easier to spot due to the more open bamboo habitat, which allows for clearer photographs compared to the dense forest of Bwindi.

Duration of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

Gorilla trekking typically lasts between 3 to 7 hours. The duration depends on several factors, including the gorillas’ location, their movements, and the weather conditions on the day of your trek. While treks usually begin at 7:45 AM with a briefing on safety protocols and what to expect, reaching the gorillas may take longer or shorter depending on the day. Once you find them, you’ll have a precious one-hour encounter to observe and appreciate these incredible animals.

Daily Limits on Gorilla Trekkers in Uganda and Rwanda

To protect the mountain gorillas and minimize behavioral disturbances, each gorilla family is limited to 8 trekkers per day. This regulation helps reduce the risk of disease transmission and ensures a more intimate experience with these magnificent creatures.

Understanding Gorilla Trekking Permits

A gorilla trekking permit is an essential document that grants you access to track mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda. This permit allows for a one-hour encounter with the gorillas and is valid for just one day. If you wish to trek for more than one day, you’ll need to purchase additional permits. Each permit comes with a unique booking number, ensuring its validity for the specific trekking region.

Costs of Gorilla Trekking Permits

The price of a gorilla permit varies by country. In Uganda, the cost is $800 per person for foreign non-residents, $700 for residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. In Rwanda, the price is higher, with permits costing $1,500 for foreign non-residents. These fees allow for a one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

What’s Included in a Gorilla Permit?

A gorilla trekking permit covers park entrance fees, the services of park ranger guides, and contributes to conservation efforts for the gorillas’ habitats. Your permit ensures that you have a memorable and responsible experience while supporting wildlife protection.

Purchasing Gorilla Permits in Uganda and Rwanda

In Uganda, gorilla trekking permits can be purchased directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. In Rwanda, you can obtain permits from the Rwanda Development Board or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions. Booking through a reputable operator ensures a seamless process. Look for positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and reach out with your planned trekking dates. They will check availability with the respective authorities and guide you through the payment and booking process.

Accessibility for Elderly or Disabled Persons

Gorilla trekking is accessible to elderly individuals or those with disabilities. Special provisions, such as sedan chair carriers, are available to assist those who may find walking challenging. These chairs are operated by porters who will carry you to and from the forest during your trek. You can arrange to hire a sedan chair in advance or on the day of the trek, with prices ranging from $400 to $500.

Age Restrictions for Gorilla Trekking

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is 15 years. This restriction helps maintain a calm environment during the trek, as younger children may behave unpredictably and pose risks to both themselves and the gorillas. The maximum age limit for trekking largely depends on an individual’s fitness level.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Gorilla Trekking

Trek Africa Expeditions is a reputable local tour operator based in Uganda, specializing in sustainable and transformative travel experiences across East Africa. With strong relationships with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and membership in the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, we facilitate seamless bookings for gorilla permits and safaris. Our commitment to sustainability and conservation has earned us high ratings on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda!