Gorilla Trekking Africa | Best Gorilla Safaris & Tours Packages
Gorilla Trekking Africa | Best Gorilla Safaris & Tours Packages in Uganda, Rwanda & Congo. Gorilla trekking in Africa offers a life-changing encounter with endangered mountain gorillas, primarily in Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park), Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest/Mgahinga), and the DRC (Virunga). Permits cost $1,500 in Rwanda, $800 in Uganda, and $400 in Congo. The best time to visit is during dry seasons, June–September and December–February.
Gorilla Trekking Destinations
- Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park): Known for shorter, slightly easier treks and luxury options, with gorillas often found in more open, higher altitude terrain.
- Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga): Offers more affordable permits and an intimate experience, with trekking through thick, older forests.
- DR Congo (Virunga National Park): Offers the most budget-friendly permits ($400) and is a great option for seeing the mountain gorillas.
Gorilla Trekking Details and Tips
- Permits: Essential for all visits; must be booked well in advance (up to 18-24 months for peak season).
- Costs: Permits cost $1,500 per person in Rwanda, $800 for foreign non-residents in Uganda, and $400 in Congo.
- Physical Fitness: Hiking is physically demanding, lasting 2 to 6 hours through steep, muddy terrain at high altitudes.
- Best Time to Go: June–September and December–February are driest, making trekking easier and providing better photography conditions.
- Rules: Visitors are limited to one hour with gorillas, with a 7-meter distance required to protect them from human illnesses.