Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda & Rwanda
Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Park with licensed guides and guaranteed permits.
Why book your trek with Insight Safari Holidays
- Small-group treks led by expert rangers and local guides
- Guaranteed gorilla permits and flexible start dates
- Tailored routes across Uganda (Bwindi, Mgahinga) and Rwanda (Volcanoes)
- 24/7 support, reliable vehicles, and vetted lodges across budget levels
- Add-ons: golden monkey tracking, chimp tracking, classic game drives, Kigali or Lake Bunyonyi stops
Where you can trek
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)
Dense montane forest with multiple trailheads (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo). Treks range from short to strenuous depending on gorilla family location and terrain.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda)
Part of the Virunga massif with scenic volcano slopes. Fewer permits than Bwindi; great for combining gorillas with golden monkey tracking and volcano day hikes.
Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
Well-organized briefing at Kinigi, efficient trail access, and a wide lodge selection near the park; typically higher permit fees and shorter drive from Kigali.
Uganda vs Rwanda: which is right for you?
| Factor | Uganda (Bwindi / Mgahinga) | Rwanda (Volcanoes) |
|---|---|---|
| Permit fee (per person) | $800 (Foreign Non-Resident); $700 (Foreign Resident). Includes park entry on trek day. | $1,500 (all foreigners). |
| Travel logistics | Longer road journeys; ideal to combine with savanna parks (Queen Elizabeth, Kibale, Murchison). | Shorter drive from Kigali; easy fly-in weekends. |
| Typical trek time | 2–6+ hours depending on group; steeper trails in places. | Often 2–4+ hours; terrain varies by assigned family. |
| Golden monkeys | Available in Mgahinga (tracking & habituation experiences). | Available in Volcanoes NP as an add-on. |
Sample Packages & Starting Prices
```3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trek – Bwindi
- 1 gorilla trek (Bwindi), comfortable lodge near the trailhead
- All ground transport, English-speaking guide
- Optional Lake Bunyonyi boat ride
From: budget, mid-range, and luxury options available
Get Today’s Quote3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trek – Volcanoes
- 1 gorilla trek (Volcanoes NP) with pre-trek briefing at Kinigi
- Short transfer from Kigali; curated lodge list
- Add golden monkeys or Kigali city tour
From: tailored to your preferred lodge level
Check Availability7 Days Uganda & Rwanda Gorilla Adventure
- 2 treks across Bwindi/Mgahinga and Volcanoes NP
- Scenic cross-border route with culture stops
- Add chimp tracking or classic game drives
From: custom-built around your dates
Design My TripPlan your trek
```Best time to go
Dry seasons offer firmer trails and clearer paths: June–September and December–February. Treks run year-round; rain can occur any month in these equatorial forests.
Permit fees & booking
- Uganda: $800 FNR / $700 FR per person per trek; limited daily spaces.
- Rwanda: $1,500 per person per trek (RDB).
- Permits are date-specific and non-transferable; secure early for peak months.
Age & fitness
Minimum age is 15 years for both countries; trails can be steep and muddy, so moderate to high fitness is recommended.
Trek etiquette
- One hour with gorillas; keep the recommended distance and follow ranger instructions.
- No flash; keep voices low; do not eat or drink near the group.
- If sick, skip the trek to protect the gorillas.
What to pack
- Light, breathable hiking pants and long-sleeve top
- Waterproof jacket; daypack with rain cover
- Sturdy hiking boots; gaiters if you have them
- Reusable water bottle (or hydration bladder)
- Garden gloves for gripping vegetation
- Insect repellent & sunscreen
- Snacks; personal meds; spare socks
- Camera with spare batteries (no flash)
Traveler feedback
“Guides were calm, organized, and knew the forest. We found the family within two hours and had a clear view.”
“Permit handling and lodge choices were spot-on. We added golden monkeys last minute—seamless.”
“Clear advice on fitness and gear helped a lot. Communication was fast from the first inquiry.”
Ready to secure your gorilla permits?
Tell us your dates and group size—our team will check availability and hold spaces where possible.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book?
For peak months (June–September; December–February), aim for 4–9 months in advance so we can secure permits and your preferred lodges.
What’s included in a gorilla permit?
On the trek day, permits include the ranger guide fee and park entry; Uganda permits follow the UWA tariff schedule. Lodging and transport are separate and arranged in your package.
Can children trek?
The minimum trekking age is 15 years in both countries, set for safety and welfare considerations.
When is the best time to go?
Dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer firmer trails. Shoulder months can have availability advantages with a chance of showers.
What fitness level is needed?
Expect 2–6+ hours on uneven, sometimes steep and muddy terrain. We match you to suitable trailheads and arrange porters on request.
Key references for fees, timing, and rules: Uganda Wildlife Authority Conservation Tariff 2024–2026 (gorilla permit $800 FNR, $700 FR; habituation $1,500); Rwanda Development Board permit rates ($1,500); dry-season timing guidance.
