Gorilla Safaris – Gorilla Trekking Tours in Uganda, Rwanda & DR Congo

Gorilla trekking offers a truly unique experience and is often considered one of the world’s most exceptional wildlife adventures.

This exhilarating journey takes visitors deep into the montane rainforests of Bwindi and the Virunga Mountains across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where they encounter the rare mountain gorillas. A gorilla tour in any of these destinations provides an unforgettable opportunity to spend a magical hour observing and interacting with a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat.

Why Consider a Gorilla Safari?

A gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda offers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Sharing 98% of their DNA with humans, these incredible primates provide a deeply moving and immersive wildlife experience.

Travelers often describe the magical hour spent with a habituated gorilla family as one of the most remarkable wildlife encounters. Unlike other species, mountain gorillas cannot survive in captivity and are not found in any zoo worldwide. This makes gorilla trekking a truly exclusive adventure, drawing thousands of visitors to Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo each year.

Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda, Uganda & DR Congo

Gorilla Safaris Overview

Our gorilla safaris take place in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the only three destinations in the world where the endangered mountain gorillas can be found. Currently, around 1,064 mountain gorillas live in these countries, split between two key habitats:

• The Virunga Mountains, spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda.

The national parks that protect these gorillas in the Virunga Mountains include:

• Virunga National Park (DR Congo)

• Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda)

A gorilla safari in any of these destinations offers a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent primates up close. Sharing 98% of their DNA with humans, mountain gorillas exhibit behaviors and family structures similar to ours, making the experience truly unforgettable.

Comparing Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda, Uganda & DR Congo

While the gorilla trekking experience is similar across all three countries, certain factors make each destination unique:

1. Cost of Gorilla Permits

• Rwanda: $1,500 per person

• Uganda:

• $700 for foreign non-residents

• $600 for foreign residents

• UGX 250,000 for East African residents

• DR Congo: $450 per person (most affordable option)

2. Accessibility & Travel Time

• Rwanda: Only a 3-hour drive from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park.

• Uganda: About 10 hours by road from Entebbe International Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

• DR Congo: A 4-hour drive from Kigali International Airport to Goma, followed by 2 hours to Virunga National Park (road conditions are rough).

3. Accommodation & Security

• Rwanda: Offers high-end lodges, making it a luxury safari destination.

• Uganda: Provides a mix of mid-range and luxury options, with well-established tourism infrastructure.

• DR Congo: While it offers budget-friendly options, security concerns persist due to rebel activity in certain areas.

Best Season for Gorilla Safaris

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are the best times for gorilla trekking. During these months:

• Trekking conditions are easier due to drier trails.

• Gorillas roam more freely, making them easier to locate.

• Roads leading to the parks are more accessible compared to the rainy season when they can become muddy and challenging.

Gorilla Permits & Booking

A gorilla permit is required for trekking in any of the three countries. These permits can be booked online through a trusted tour operator or directly from the issuing authorities. Due to high demand, it is recommended to book permits at least 6 months in advance.

Each gorilla family can only be visited by 8 trekkers per day to minimize human impact on the animals.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

Gorilla habituation is a process where wild gorilla groups are gradually accustomed to human presence by researchers and rangers before they are open for trekking.

• The only place where gorilla habituation takes place is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda).

• This exclusive experience lasts 4 hours per day and costs $1,500 per person.

Gorilla Families & Social Structure

Gorillas live in structured social groups known as families, similar to human societies.

• A gorilla family can range from 2 to 25 members, with an average size of 15 individuals.

• Each group is led by a dominant silverback, who serves as the protector and decision-maker.

• The family consists of females, juveniles, and infants, while young males eventually leave to form their own groups.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has the highest number of habituated gorilla groups, making it a prime location for trekking.

Gorilla Trekking Rules & Guidelines

To protect these endangered animals, authorities have established strict rules for gorilla trekking:

• Limited daily visitors (only 8 trekkers per gorilla family).

• Strict time limit (only 1 hour allowed with the gorillas).

• No touching or getting too close (maintain at least 7 meters (23 feet) distance).

• No flash photography to avoid disturbing the gorillas.

• Health precautions: Visitors with contagious illnesses (e.g., flu, colds) are not allowed to trek to prevent disease transmission.

Mountain Gorilla Habitats & National Parks

Mountain gorillas inhabit four key national parks:

•Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) – Approx. 350 gorillas

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) – The largest population (~450 gorillas)

• Virunga National Park (DR Congo) – Around 250 gorillas

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda) – Occasionally visited by gorillas crossing from Rwanda

Accessibility Overview

• Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the most accessible, just 2-3 hours from Kigali.

• Bwindi & Mgahinga (Uganda) are easier to reach from Kigali rather than Kampala.

• Virunga (DR Congo) can be accessed via Goma after flying into Kigali International Airport.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking

Given the challenging terrain and weather conditions, proper gear is essential for a successful gorilla trek. Recommended items include:

• Hiking boots – Sturdy, waterproof footwear for trekking through rugged terrain.

• Rain jacket – Essential due to unpredictable rainforest weather.

• Gloves – Protect hands from stinging plants and rough surfaces.

• Long-sleeved clothing – Helps prevent insect bites and scratches.

• Walking stick – Useful for stability on steep and muddy trails (often provided by guides).

• Water & snacks – Treks can take several hours, so staying hydrated is crucial.

Gorilla Safaris in Uganda, Rwanda & DR Congo

Gorilla Safaris in Uganda

Uganda is one of the premier destinations for gorilla trekking, home to the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the southwest, protects the highest number of these endangered primates, with over 20 habituated gorilla families available for trekking.

Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four trekking sectors:

• Buhoma

• Ruhija

• Rushaga

• Nkuringo

Each sector has designated gorilla families, and trekkers must visit the gorilla group assigned to their specific permit. With the high number of gorillas in Bwindi, there is an almost 100% chance of encountering the allocated gorilla family.

Common Gorilla Families in Bwindi

Some of the most frequently visited gorilla families include:

• Rushegura

• Mubare

• Bitukura

• Habinyanja

• Kyaguriro

• Oruzongo

• Nshongi

• Mishaya

• Nkuringo

Uganda Gorilla Permit Prices

• $700 per person for foreign non-residents

• $600 per person for foreign residents in East Africa

• UGX 250,000 for East African residents

Due to limited availability, travelers should book their gorilla permits at least 6 months in advance.

Gorilla Safaris in DR Congo

Although DR Congo is less popular for gorilla safaris due to security concerns, it offers a unique and diverse primate experience. In addition to mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, visitors can also see eastern lowland gorillas (Grauer’s gorillas) in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

For those seeking a comprehensive primate adventure, DR Congo is the only country where travelers can see two different subspecies of gorillas in close proximity.

Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park has 8 habituated mountain gorilla groups open for trekking:

• Munyaga

• Mapuwa

• Rugendo

• Nyakamwe

• Lulengo

• Bageni

• Humba

• Kabirizi

Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the eastern lowland gorillas, a larger and stockier subspecies. There are 9 known gorilla groups, with 5 habituated for tourism:

• Mpungwe

• Chimanuka

• Bonnani

• Mugahuka

• Nganwa

DR Congo Gorilla Permit Prices

At $400 per person, DR Congo offers the most affordable gorilla trekking permits compared to Uganda and Rwanda.

Safety & Security in Congo’s Gorilla Parks

Due to periodic conflicts in the region, Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks may be temporarily closed for tourism when security conditions deteriorate. Park authorities prioritize tourist safety by deploying rangers throughout the parks.

Rwanda Gorilla Safaris

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, located in northwest Rwanda, is the only destination for gorilla safaris in the country. It is part of the greater Virunga Massif, which extends into DR Congo and Uganda, serving as a critical sanctuary for endangered mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Population & Habituated Families

Volcanoes National Park is home to an estimated 350 mountain gorillas, with 12 habituated gorilla families available for trekking. Some of the most frequently visited gorilla groups include:

• Susa

• Amahoro

• Karisimbi

• Sabyinyo

• Hirwa

• Kwitonda

Gorilla Trekking Guidelines in Rwanda

• Each gorilla family is visited once per day by a maximum of 8 trekkers.

• Visitors are allowed to spend one hour in the presence of the gorillas.

• Permits cost $1,500 per person and can be purchased online through a trusted local tour operator.

Why Choose Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?

Rwanda is considered one of the most ideal destinations for gorilla safaris due to:

✅ Easy accessibility – Only a 2-3 hour drive from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park.

✅ Developed infrastructure – High-quality roads, luxury lodges, and well-organized tourism services.

✅ Exclusive experience – Rwanda offers premium gorilla trekking, making it a top choice for high-end travelers.