Gorilla Safaris

Gorilla Safaris

Trek Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda

Are interested in an immersive gorilla safari in Africa? At Rowin Africa Safari we curate personalized gorilla safari packages in Uganda and Rwanda. These two countries found in East Africa are the best gorilla trekking destinations in the world, delivering a unique and unmatched opportunity to witness these gentle giants in their natural sanctuary. Gorilla trekking experience has become a must – do safari experience for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure lovers as well as nature lovers. Imagine standing a few meters from the huge silverback and surrounded by lush landscape of Uganda and Rwanda dominated by rainforests, it is like steeping into a wonder land.

Planning Gorilla Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

Planning is a key point for an incredible and unforgettable gorilla trekking safaris. Both Uganda and Rwanda offer well-regulated gorilla trekking prioritizing the safety of visitors and the protection of gorillas. To take part in the thrilling gorilla trekking experience you are required to have a gorilla permit, note that gorilla permits are limited in numbers compared to demand.

Also, remember to pack the right gears and items such as sturdy hiking gears, comfortable clothing and a sense of adventure.

If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla adventure, our Travel Experts will curate the best package for you, designed to complement other wildlife experience. At Rowin Africa Safaris, we are committed to tailoring each safari package to your preferences and style. Have a look at our gorilla packages below to pick to right package for you.

Uganda Gorilla Safari

Crowned the “Pearl of Africa” by Winston Churchill, Uganda boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, providing a perfect setting for Uganda gorilla safaris with a blend of wildlife viewing and cultural tours. The famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the best gorilla trekking destination in the world and home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a second gorilla trekking destination in Uganda, this park dominated by Virunga Volcanoes is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area which is home to the second mountain gorilla population.

Rwanda Gorilla Safaris

Rwanda offers the most accessible gorilla trekking experience in the world in Volcanoes National Park, which is also part of the Virunga Conservation Area. The park stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to gorilla conservation, the rolling hills and mist-covered mountains create an ethereal atmosphere for gorilla trekking safaris.

Encountering a habituated mountain gorilla family amidst the rainforest foliage is a truly inspiring encounter.

Uganda Gorilla Tour Packages

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Rwanda Gorilla Tour Packages

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The Cost of a Gorilla Safari

The cost of a gorilla safari is influenced by several factions including the location of the safari such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The gorilla destination you choose plays a significant role in transportation costs and convenience for travelers. Additionally, the cost of gorilla permits is a key determinant. With Rwanda offering higher priced permits, catering to upscale experience, while Uganda offering more affordable gorilla trekking experience for a broader range of travelers, all contributing to the cost of a gorilla cost.

Accommodation and other safari experiences you wish to do further impact the cost of a gorilla safari. Both Uganda and Rwanda offer a range of accommodation options, from basic campsites to luxurious lodges. Where factors such as proximity to the starting point and services offered influence the price. High-end lodges with premium services tend to be more expensive, while budget friendly options are relatively low-priced. The inclusions of a tour package, encompassing transportation, guided treks, meals and activities, also influences the overall cost, with private or customized tours usually commanding a premium compared to group tours.

How To Book a Gorilla Permit

To take part in gorilla trekking you are required to have a gorilla permit, which functions as official authorization from the Rwanda Development Board or Uganda Wildlife Authority, permitting individuals aged 15 and above to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

In Uganda, a gorilla permit costs US$ 800 and in Rwanda it costs US$ 1,500.

Note: While gorilla permits grant access to specific mountain gorilla families, they are not reusable.  At Rowin Africa Safaris, gorilla permits are always included in our all-inclusive gorilla safari packages.

What is the Best Time to Go for a Gorilla Safari

Uganda and Rwanda share the same climate and weather conditions , so the drier months of June, July, August and early September are considered to be the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda. These months offer more favorable weather conditions, with less rainfall and less mud on the trekking trails.

The dry season coincides with the peak season for gorilla trekking, so it is important to book your permits well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. The demand for gorilla permits is high and the a few gorilla permits are issued per day.

Alternatively, if you are looking for more affordable option and don’t mind the possibility of rain, the low season months from late October to mid-December and from late February to May can be considered. During these month, there are fewer visitors and some lodges offer discounted rates. However, trekking during the wet season can be more challenging due to heavy downpours, muddy trails and slippery terrain.

Choosing when to go gorilla trekking depends on your preferences and priorities, whether it is optimal weather or budget considerations.

What are the Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is governed by a set of rules and regulations but in place for the safety of gorillas as well as the visitors. These include

• A maximum of 8 visitors are allowed to visit a habituated gorilla group each day – minimizing disruption and the risk of disease transmission.
• During the trek, it is crucial to maintain a low voice to avoid disturbing the gorillas and to appreciate the birdlife and wildlife in the park
• Littering is strictly prohibited, and all items brought into the park must be carried out
• While in the presence of gorillas, a distance of at least of 10 meters should be maintained, ensuring the group remains calm
• Visitors must stay in close-knit group, keep your voices down, and refrain from smoking, eating, or drinking near the gorillas.
• Touching the gorillas is not allowed, and flash photography is prohibited.
• Staying in presence of the gorillas is limited to ony one hour.

Where to Stay

While on a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda, your comfort and experience are very vital. Our carefully curated gorilla safari and wildlife packages feature a wide range of accommodation options catering to various preferences and budgets. From charming eco-lodges nestled within lush rainforests to luxurious safari lodges with breathtaking views of the surrounding forested landscape.

We ensure that your stay enhances the magic of encountering gorillas up close. Each of our listed accommodation is thoughtfully chosen not only for its comfort and amenities but also for its commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring that your gorilla adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and local communities. Whether you choose to wake up to the sounds of the forest or bask in the panoramic vistas, the accommodation of choice will be a haven of tranquility before and after your unforgettable encounters with gorilla families in Uganda and Rwanda.

Take a look at some of our lodges.

Buhoma Lodge

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Sanctuary Gorilla Lodge

Five Volcanoes Boutique Lodge

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge