Combining gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is an exciting and unforgettable experience for first-time visitors. These two countries are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, offering visitors a chance to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitats. If you’re planning to visit both nations for gorilla trekking, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure you get the most out of your trip. Below, we’ve outlined why some travelers prefer a Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking combo and essential things to consider while planning your adventure.
While the gorilla trekking experience is quite similar in both Uganda and Rwanda, many travelers opt to visit both countries for the unique benefits each offers. Here’s why:
Before planning your trek, it’s important to know where the gorillas reside in each country:
If you’re considering combining Uganda and Rwanda for your gorilla trekking experience, the most common and accessible combination is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Here are some important things to consider:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is renowned for having the highest number of mountain gorillas in the world. With over 19 habituated families, Bwindi offers a variety of trekking options across its different regions. Each sector has its own unique features and landscapes, so you’ll have plenty of choices when planning your trek.
Mgahinga National Park is the smallest of Uganda’s gorilla parks, located in the Virunga Mountain range. It only has one habituated gorilla family for trekking, making it more exclusive. The park is only a short drive from Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, making it a great option for those combining the two countries.
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is one of the most popular destinations for gorilla trekking. It has 10 gorilla families available for trekking, and it’s accessible by road in just 2-3 hours from Kigali. This ease of access makes it a favorite for many visitors combining Uganda and Rwanda on their gorilla trekking adventure.
When planning a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and Rwanda, securing your gorilla permits is the first essential step. These permits are not only the highlight of your budget but also the key to an unforgettable wildlife experience. Here’s everything you need to know about booking your gorilla permits and planning your trek across both countries.
Gorilla permits are an investment, but they guarantee a unique encounter with one of nature’s most majestic creatures. Here’s what to expect:
These permits allow you to spend one hour with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The fee also covers park entry, the services of a ranger guide, and a certificate to commemorate your trek.
Because gorilla trekking is such a sought-after activity, we highly recommend booking your permits through a trusted local tour operator. Doing so well in advance (at least a year) ensures you have a smooth and stress-free experience. A local tour operator will also design an itinerary tailored to your needs, factoring in transport, flights, COVID-19 protocols, and the best times to visit Uganda and Rwanda.
Trek Africa Expeditions has years of experience in organizing memorable gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Let us handle the details, so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure.
While Uganda and Rwanda are close in proximity, getting from one country to the other can be tricky, especially with the ongoing border closures. If you’re in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, crossing into Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda used to be straightforward, taking about 1-2 hours via the Chanika border. However, with the land borders currently closed, the easiest way to combine both countries is to fly between Uganda and Rwanda.
You can fly into Uganda, enjoy a gorilla trek in Bwindi, and then fly from Uganda to Rwanda to explore Volcanoes National Park. While this flight option is currently the most convenient, we’re hopeful that the borders will reopen soon, allowing for seamless road travel between the two countries.
Uganda and Rwanda both experience two main seasons: wet and dry. Most travelers prefer visiting during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. This is the best time for easier trekking as there’s less rainfall, making the muddy trails more manageable.
However, gorilla trekking is an activity that takes place year-round, and the chances of spotting gorillas in both countries are above 98%. If you’re looking for discounts, the rainy season (from March to May and October to November) might be the perfect time for you to secure more affordable permits and accommodation.
Accommodation is available to suit all budgets, whether you’re seeking a luxury experience or a more affordable option. Depending on your itinerary, you might need accommodation in Kigali (Rwanda) and Entebbe (Uganda), in addition to your stay near the gorilla trekking parks. Trek Africa Expeditions can recommend the best options, from budget lodges to high-end hotels in both Uganda and Rwanda.
Given the ongoing pandemic, COVID-19 guidelines for travelers to Uganda and Rwanda are constantly evolving. Be sure to check the latest requirements for PCR tests, quarantine policies, and any other health protocols in place before your trip. We recommend contacting your tour operator for up-to-date information.
For your trip, you’ll need a visa to enter both Uganda and Rwanda. Fortunately, both countries offer online visa applications, so be sure to apply at least two weeks in advance to avoid last-minute stress. If you’re planning to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, an East Africa Visa can be a convenient option.
Trek Africa Expeditions can assist with your visa application process and provide necessary documents like invitation letters, which are now required for visa applications.
Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in two countries requires attention to detail—choosing the best route, understanding what to pack, and managing logistics between parks. To ensure everything goes smoothly, it’s best to leave it to the experts.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we have extensive experience organizing seamless gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Send us an email at info@trekafricagorillas.com, and let us handle the details while you focus on the adventure of a lifetime.