Best Places for Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Best Places for Gorilla Trekking in Africa: Your Ultimate Guide

Gorilla trekking is an incredible experience and Africa is home to the only remaining mountain gorillas in the world. You can trek these magnificent creatures in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which host the four national parks where mountain gorillas are found. These parks include:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda
• Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
• Virunga National Park in DRC

Additionally, if you’re interested in seeing lowland gorillas, Kahuzi-Biega National Park in Congo offers this opportunity.

A gorilla permit is required to trek in any of these parks. It’s essential to book your trek well in advance as permits and services can sell out quickly, particularly during the peak season from June to September. We recommend booking your trip at least five months ahead of your planned dates.

Gorilla Permit Costs and Booking in Uganda

In Uganda, a gorilla permit costs:

• $800 per person for foreign non-residents
• $700 per person for residents
• $80 per person for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi and South Sudan)

This allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda has 18 habituated gorilla families (17 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga), which means 136 permits are available daily.

If you want to spend more time with the gorillas, consider the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which costs $1500 per person. This allows you to spend four hours with semi-habituated gorillas, accompanied by trackers and researchers. You can book your gorilla permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.

Gorilla Permit Costs and Booking in Rwanda

In Rwanda, a gorilla permit costs:

• $1500 per person for foreign non-residents
• $500 per person for foreign residents
• $200 per person for East African citizens

This permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, which has 12 habituated gorilla families, offering 96 permits per day. You can book your gorilla permit through the Rwanda Development Board or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.

Gorilla Permit Costs and Booking in DR Congo

In Congo, gorilla trekking is available in Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas and Kahuzi-Biega National Park for lowland gorillas.

• In Virunga National Park, the price of a gorilla permit varies:
  • $400 for high season (mid-December to mid-March and June to October)
  • $200 for low season (mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December)
• In Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a permit costs:
  • $400 for foreign non-residents
  • $200 for East African residents
  • $20 for national residents

You can purchase your gorilla permits directly through Virunga National Park or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.

Note: Gorilla permit prices cover only the trekking experience. Accommodation, transport, meals and other expenses are not included, so be sure to discuss these details with your tour operator.

Age Limit and Accessibility for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. There is no maximum age limit, as long as the trekkers are physically fit. Elderly individuals, including grandparents or those with mobility issues, can also enjoy the experience. Sedan chairs are available to carry trekkers who cannot walk into the forest. These chairs are provided by porters and can be hired in advance or on the day of your trek. The cost for hiring a sedan chair ranges from $400 to $500.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policies Across Uganda, Rwanda and Congo

Gorilla trekking permits are non-refundable if canceled within 0 to 8 days of the trekking date. For cancellations made earlier, the following policies apply:

• 9 to 45 days before the trekking date: 75% refund (25% cancellation fee)
• 46 to 90 days before the trekking date: 50% refund (50% cancellation fee)
• 91 days and above before the trekking date: 70% refund (30% cancellation fee)

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Gorilla trekking can be done year-round but the best time to go is during the drier months of January, February and June to early September. These months offer more favorable conditions for trekking, as the trails are less muddy and the dense vegetation is not as high, giving you a clearer view of the gorillas. During these months, travel to the parks is easier and you’ll have a more comfortable trekking experience.

What to Pack for a Successful Gorilla Trekking Experience in Africa

When preparing for a gorilla trek, comfort and practicality are key. The terrain in the forest can be muddy, especially during the rainy season and some areas have steep uphill sections. It’s essential to pack the right gear to ensure you stay safe and comfortable. Here are some must-haves:

• Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots – Essential for navigating muddy and uneven trails
• Long-sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers – These will help protect you from stinging nettles, ants and other undergrowth
• Insect Repellent – To keep pesky insects at bay
• Torch/Flashlight – With spare batteries, in case you find yourself trekking in the early morning or late afternoon
• Wet Wipes – Handy for freshening up during or after the trek
• Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while hiking
• Camera and lenses – Capture the unforgettable moments with the gorillas
• Gardening gloves – Useful for gripping branches and navigating the forest
• Sandals or walking shoes – For comfort when not trekking
• Hat and Sunscreen – Protect yourself from the sun
• Rain Jacket – Weather in the forest can change quickly
• Sweater/Fleece – For warmth during cool mornings or evenings
• Swimwear – If you plan on relaxing in a lodge pool
• Binoculars – For game or bird watching during your safari

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is your trusted partner for booking an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. We offer a range of gorilla trekking safari packages, from budget to luxury and will handle all the details, including securing your gorilla permits.

Our team of dedicated tour consultants is always available to answer your questions and guide you through the booking process. With Trek Africa Gorillas, you can rest assured that you’ll have a safe, memorable and hassle-free trip. Don’t just take our word for it – check out our TripAdvisor reviews and read about the experiences of our happy clients.

We’re committed to providing excellent service and ensuring your trip is everything you dream of. Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trek in Uganda, Rwanda or the DRC. We guarantee an incredible adventure that you’ll never forget!