Gorilla Trekking Safaris
Gorilla Trekking Costs and fees, Permit pricing and application, Tours and Safaris. Unleashing the ultimate gorilla trekking guide to Uganda, Rwanda and Congo 2023 to 2024
Overview of Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and congo
Conquer Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo with Thrilling Gorilla Trekking!
Gorillas are one of the rare primates in the world. This earns them a spot on the critically endangered list. These majestic primates are found in the Virunga massif in the nations of Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo. Your gorilla trekking safari takes you further into the lush tropical forests for close interactions with the gorillas. The majestic stroll of the dominant silverbacks and the playful babies make these interactions a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Unlike conventional game viewing in savanna parks, gorilla encounters offer close interactions in their natural habitat.
Best Gorilla Trekking Safari Tours 2023-2024
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?
The gorilla trekking permit costs vary according to the three countries. These permits allow you to spend an hour with the gorilla family allocated to you. Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost $1,500, $700 in Uganda, and $400 in DR Congo. These costs are used in conservation efforts and giving back to the local community. Community projects like water projects, education, and self-help projects add value to these local communities that have been a part of the conservation process and deter them from poaching.
Gorilla trekking like any Africa safari activity is unpredictable. This is because these gorilla families move in search of food. Depending on their location, the hike can take from 30 minutes to 4 hours before locating them. You would need to be in relatively good physical shape for an enjoyable experience.
Furthermore, different gorilla destinations have different terrain. Bwindi for example is more strenuous due to the hilly terrain and thick undergrowth while Mgahinga is relatively less dense. Before the trek, trackers are sent ahead in search of the gorillas. This is to ensure that you don’t endlessly trek through the forest looking for them. This also provides more chances of spotting the gorillas.
Is gorilla trekking worth it?
Gorilla encounters are some of the most exhilarating safari activities in Africa. Being in close proximity to these gentle giants, looking at those intelligent eyes, the shaggy gorilla babies is an adventure like no other. The trek through the primeval forests is rewarding. The sights and sounds of the forest, the chirping of the birds, and the sweet smell of the morning grass is transcending. The 1 hour spent with the gorillas is never enough. It comes as no surprise when tourists either request another trek or return just to spend more time with the gorillas.
Is gorilla trekking safe?
Gorilla trekking is safe. All gorilla groups trekked have been habituated for a period of around 3 years. That means they are used to being around humans and don’t perceive them as a threat. However, like all wildlife, they can be unpredictable.
Before your trek, you will be taken through the guidelines and the rules of gorilla trekking. Be keen. In case you are charged by the silverback, crouch in the submissive position. Avoid prolonged eye contact with the silverback since it can be perceived as a threatening gesture. Keep in one group and avoid finding yourself in the middle of the gorilla group.
Are gorilla sightings guaranteed?
Sightings of gorillas are 95% guaranteed. Since trackers are sent ahead to locate them, you will trek toward the gorilla family. The 5% is reserved for the rare disruptions in the gorilla’s group. In case there are fights among the gorilla family, you will not be able to trek them since they are already agitated and can easily attack.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda
Where can I trek gorillas in Uganda?
Uganda has two gorilla trekking destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park. Bwindi is by far the most popular destination. With a staggering 21 gorilla families found in the 4 gorilla sectors, Bwindi attracts more tourists. A group of 8 people are allowed to trek each gorilla family per day. 168 permits are issued per day in Bwindi while Mgahinga issues 8 permits. Mgahinga on the other hand offers other activities. These include cultural interactions with the Batwa, golden monkey trekking, and hiking the 3 ranges of Gahinga, Muhabura or Sabinyo.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi.
Gorilla treks in Bwindi begin from any of the 4 trails heads of Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Here, the local communities offer an entertaining traditional dance. You are invited to join in as the Bakiga people jump and vigorously thump the ground with their feet. This creates a rumbling sound that cuts across the dance floor. This is followed by a briefing by the head ranger. Here, you get to learn about the history of the park, the gorillas in the park, and their composition. More importantly, you will be taken through the rules and regulations of gorilla trekking. Pay close attention as they will come in handy during your encounter with these primates.
You will then be divided into groups of 8 and allocated different gorilla families. This will be determined by your preference for family composition and your level of fitness. Then off your go. Depending on your gorilla family, you may start from the park headquarters or drive to a certain point nearer to the gorillas. Arm yourself with a walking stick, and get a porter if you need one. The trek through the forest is something short of a primeval movie scene.Â
The sun rays sipping through the forest canopy, the sounds of the birds, and the sweet smell of the morning grass is an experience like no other. As you draw close to the gorillas, the head guide will motion you to stop, leave your luggage behind, and finally clear the thick grass for better views of the gorillas. As your heart thumps in your chest, your adrenaline pumps as you stare at the 400-pound silverback. His cool gaze is intelligent. One of the most amazing facts is their resemblance to humans. The hour allocated is never enough. Take pictures and videos but remember to switch off the flash mode of your camera or phone.
Gorilla Trekking Accommodation in Bwindi
The majority of the lodges in the Bwindi area are in the Buhoma region. You can trek both the Buhoma and Ruhija trails from your base in Buhoma. Simpler establishments, such as Engagi Lodge and Haven Lodge, have established devoted followings through the years. Mahogany Springs and Buhoma Lodge are popular mid-range options, while Gorilla Forest Camp and Bwindi Volcanoes Lodge are two of the best options available. Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge in the far south offers modern, luxurious lodging, while Nkuringo Lodge offers a slightly simpler, but rapidly improving, alternative.
The majority of the lodges in the Bwindi area are in the Buhoma region. You can trek both the Buhoma and Ruhija trails from your base in Buhoma. Simpler establishments, such as Engagi Lodge and Haven Lodge, have established devoted followings through the years. Mahogany Springs and Buhoma Lodge are popular mid-range options, while Gorilla Forest Camp and Bwindi Volcanoes Lodge are two of the best options available. Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge in the far south offers modern, luxurious lodging, while Nkuringo Lodge offers a slightly simpler, but rapidly improving, alternative.
Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located right at the border of Uganda and Rwanda. The Nyakigazi group (the only gorilla family in Mgahinga) occasionally crosses into Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park. Besides gorillas, the park is home to golden monkeys. Mgahinga offers exclusive gorilla treks since it receives less tourists. But it is a popular destination for those who would like to explore Rwanda but trek gorillas in Uganda where permits are \$700 compared to the \$1,500 in Rwanda. The lava lakes of Mutanda and Bunyonyi offer a nice relaxation before and after your gorilla safari. The 3 volcanoes of Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo offer excellent day hikes
Gorilla Trekking Accommodation in Mgahinga
Mgahinga now has the luxury Mount Gahinga Lodge. The lodge is a stylish and pleasant choice located just a few hundred meters from the park gate, sister property of Volcanoes Bwindi and Kyambura Gorge. Beautiful gardens attract wildlife to your door. The lodge has also done outstanding work in assisting the local Batwa people, who were evacuated from the forests when the park was gazetted. They erected a homestead, developed a cultural center, assisted in the operation of a dance group aimed at assisting the Batwa in their integration with the other local communities, and started a vocational training center.
When is the best time to go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Uganda is a tropical country and experiences a consistent climate throughout the year. However, some more receive more rainfall. The drier months of June-August and December-Feburary are the best times to go gorilla trekking in Uganda. It’s important to note however that since these forests are tropical, they are likely to receive rainfall at any time of the year. As you prepare for your gorilla safari, pack comfortable hiking shoes and a rain jacket.
How difficult is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
You should be prepared to trek for around 3 hours across the difficult terrain of high peaks and valleys, following animal pathways through tangled undergrowth. However, contact can sometimes be made after 45 minutes and sometimes after 6 hours. During the wet season, trekking trails can become extremely slippery and difficult. The rains can sometimes bring the gorillas to lower land, shortening the walk, but you should still be prepared to hike for up to 6 hours. Because gorillas prefer the highlands, the walk becomes more difficult due to severe grades.
What should you wear when gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Trekking through the deep woodland thickets at Bwindi or Mgahinga requires careful planning. Because you’re on the equator, you should be prepared for rain no matter what time you visit. While you will need clothing to protect you from the elements, you will also need to stay cool for the 2-6-hour trip. So choose light and comfortable clothing. The goal is to keep your skin covered to protect yourself from insects (especially fire ants) and spiky plant life. You’ll want to stay dry while being comfortable and cool.
- Good quality, durable, waterproof trekking shoes/boots are required.
- Waterproof trekking pants/trousers that are light.
- Long stockings to pull up over your trousers to protect your skin.
- waterproof jacket
- T-shirt with long sleeves for trekking
- Gardening/outdoor gloves to protect your hands from bushes
How do you Obtain a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?
Permits for gorillas are now set at $700 USD per person. The permits are no longer subsidized during the low season. However, they are easier to obtain on short notice if you are visiting Uganda during the long wet season (March to May) or the short rainy season (June to August) (October to November). Permits for peak travel months (January-February and June-August) often sell out up to a year in advance.
Because permit numbers are tightly limited, we strongly advise that you plan ahead of time. One upside of seeing the gorillas in Uganda is the lower permit cost as compared to neighboring Rwanda, where permit charges are an eye-watering \$1500 USD per person. If one hour of interaction isn’t enough for you or a wildlife photographer, or if you’re simply interested in the behavior of these wonderful animals, you can also join the habituation experience in the Rushaga part of southern Bwindi. This experience costs $1,500 per person and includes up to four hours with the family witnessing the individuals and their interactions.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda is home to some of the best primate tracking in the world. The country is set against a backdrop of undulating hills, forest canopies, and breathtaking mountain peaks. It’s no surprise that most wildlife enthusiasts travel to Rwanda to follow and interact with these critically endangered animals.
What is the best time to visit for Gorilla Trekking?
Most crucially, the greatest time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is when you can obtain a gorilla trekking permit. They are as rare as gold dust, frequently selling out almost a year in advance during busy months. That is when you require our expert to wave the magical availability wand. Between October and November, or March and May, it rains heavily. Tourists tend to avoid certain times, but the gorillas are always present, even if trekking in the rain might be difficult. The dry seasons, from mid-December to early February, and June to September, are ideal for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Trekking is more enjoyable at this time of year.
What is the best time to visit for Gorilla Trekking?
Most crucially, the greatest time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is when you can obtain a gorilla trekking permit. They are as rare as gold dust, frequently selling out almost a year in advance during busy months. That is when you require our expert to wave the magical availability wand.
Between October and November, or March and May, it rains heavily. Tourists tend to avoid certain times, but the gorillas are always present, even if trekking in the rain might be difficult. The dry seasons, from mid-December to early February, and June to September, are ideal for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Trekking is more enjoyable at this time of year.
Is it guaranteed that I will see the gorillas?
Joining one of the Rwanda gorilla trekking expeditions increases your chances of spotting mountain gorillas by 97%. Almost no one on the excursion leaves the forest without seeing one of the endangered big apes. A team of rangers head out early in the morning to find the gorillas before they depart the nest they built the night before.
They stay with them and relay their position to your lead trackers, who use walkie-talkies to determine their whereabouts. The tourists will be led to where the gorillas are feeding. Here, you will spend your allocated hour with them.
How can I obtain a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
A Rwanda gorilla permit, which includes park admission, costs $1,500 per person. The pass is only available to trekkers over the age of 15. The permission can be purchased in advance through our reservations office. Depending on availability, you can also purchase a gorilla permit at the last minute. That seems unlikely, especially during the peak season months of June to September.
Why is gorilla trekking in Rwanda so costly?
The main reason Rwanda gorilla trekking is so expensive is that the conservation campaign to rescue these magnificent gorillas is so expensive. The men and women who provide security, healthcare, and trekking services operate in the most distant and harsh locations. These workers work long hours, days, and sometimes weeks away from their families to guarantee that gorillas receive the attention they require to avoid extinction.
Second, Rwanda has isolated itself from its neighbors by positioning itself as a luxury tourism destination aimed at the luxury traveler. Rwanda offers some of the most opulent hotels and safari lodges to suit indulgent travelers, thanks to wealthy travel investors adopting the focus.
Is it safe to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Experts in the field believe that close interaction with human-habituated mountain gorillas is safe. However, you must keep a 10-meter (32-foot) distance. Although tourism gorilla groups are increasingly accustomed to human presence in the natural habitat, researchers have devised ground rules to protect humans, gorillas, and other wildlife in the protected reserve.
To begin, all trekkers must stay ten meters (32 feet) away from the gorillas and obey ranger instructions during their visit to avoid antagonism and the spread of contagious diseases.
Other essential trekking rules include:
- Do not enter the gorilla forest if you have symptoms of an infectious illness, such as a fever or a cold.
- Avoid looking a gorilla in the eyes (the lead silverback may misinterpret it as aggressiveness).
- Standing motionless or moving slowly and silently when a gorilla approaches
- Not eating, smoking, drinking, or excreting near the gorillas
How difficult is it to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Rwanda gorilla trekking expeditions involve two distinct phases, and reaching the gorillas can be a difficult or simple hike. However, roughness is determined by a variety of circumstances, including the location of the gorillas on the day you visit. The first phase is the hike from the nearest car park to the park boundary, which takes 30-60 minutes depending on the speed of the trekkers and the position of the gorilla group. This one has the potential to be relatively flat and unchallenging. The second step is a trip into the forest in search of gorillas, which can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 2 hours.
It is more difficult to forecast because it is dependent on the gorillas’ exact location on the day of hiking as well as the steepness of the environment en route. Gorilla treks in Rwanda generally necessitate some physical fitness. Furthermore, it occurs at high elevations of 7000 feet or higher.
Gorilla trekking in Congo
Gorilla trekking in DR Congo is done in the two national parks of Virunga and Kahuzi-Beiga national parks. While Virunga national park is home to mountain gorillas, the lowland gorillas are only found in the Kahuzi-Beiga national park. Although the country has experienced a couple of security insecurities, gorilla trekking still takes place. The Congo authorities provide security to its tourists during the entire gorilla excursions.
The price of Congo Gorilla permits
Despite the fact that the permit price for this trip is the lowest, at 450 USD, this is not a prohibitive price that inspires many people to trek gorillas in the Congo as opposed to Uganda, whose permit price is 700 USD, and Rwanda, which is more expensive, at 1500 USD.
When is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Virunga?
The dry season is the best time for gorilla trekking in Virunga national park. The trekking trails in the forest are dry during this period, making it easier for trekkers to navigate them, and there is also less mud on the trails, unlike during the rainy season. When the trails are too slippery and muddy, it makes it difficult for trekkers to navigate and affects the trekking experience.
On the other hand, trekking the gorillas during the wet season has some advantages. One benefit is that there are fewer tourists in the park, allowing for a more intimate trip, and the gorillas may be distributed across the park due to the abundance of food.
Virunga National Park is home to a variety of spectacular primates and mammals, including colobus monkeys, chimps, red-tailed monkeys, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, elephants, buffaloes, topi, forest hogs, and Uganda kob, among others, as well as rare bird species in the Albertine Rift.
The park has two spectacular volcanoes, Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira, with rich soils in the slopes that support forests and other flora species, giving the park a really distinctive panorama. The Virunga National Park is significant because it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Gorilla trekking at the Kahuzi Biega National Park
Kahuzi Biega national park, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is one of the best sites for gorilla trekking and is home to the world’s largest gorilla species, which can be found nowhere else. Mount Kahuzi and Mount Beiga, two inactive volcanoes, inspired the name of Kahuzi Biega National Park. The beautiful Eastern lowland gorillas may be found in Kahuzi Biega National Park, which is one of the best sites in the world to see them. The eastern lowland gorilla trekking experience is well-known among park visitors.
To go gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Kahuzi Biega national park, trekkers are given a briefing by a ranger at 7 a.m., after which the trekkers are divided into different groups of 8 members each, which takes about 1 to 3 hours depending on where the gorillas are located. After finding the gorillas, trekkers are given one hour to observe their behaviors, watching them as they climb the trees, and taking pictures with them
When is the best time to go gorilla trekking Kahuzi Biega National Park?
Because Kahuzi-Beiga is located in the midst of a large rain forest, forecasting the optimal time for Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo’s Kahuzi-Beiga is difficult, although the dry months of January and February, as well as the wet months of May to October, are always suggested.
Tourists should be prepared for rain at any time for gorilla trekking in the park. However, other trekkers prefer traveling during the rainy season since gorillas are easier to find depending on the amount of food in the park, so hiking trails are frequently muddy and slippery.