Discover Affordable Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda Gorilla Safaris & Gorilla Habituation Experiences 

For over 13 years, we have expertly crafted personalized and cost-effective gorilla safaris across Uganda, Rwanda and the DR Congo.

Our itineraries include top destinations for  Uganda gorilla trekking, as well as thrilling gorilla tours in Rwanda and Congo.

In Uganda, the awe-inspiring endangered mountain gorillas reside in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is home to several habituated groups of the endangered mountain gorillas seen during gorilla trekking tours/Rwanda safaris.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, mountain gorillas inhabit Virunga National Park, while Kahuzi-Biega National Park protects the rare Eastern lowland gorillas seen during eastern lowland gorilla trekking tours/DR Congo safaris.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park alone harbors 25 habituated gorilla families, according to UWA; Rwanda boasts 12 per RDB, and Congo has 8 habituated families in Virunga and 5+ in Kahuzi-Biega.

Best Africa Gorilla Trekking Destinations and National Parks 

There are five primary and best national parks across three African countries where gorilla trekking is possible:

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks offer unparalleled gorilla tracking experiences with options for 2-day or longer trips.

UGANDA MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKING IN BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Bwindi Forest is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas, with approximately 459 individuals, which is almost half of the world’s remaining population.

There are 25 habituated families spread across four main trekking sectors in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

Uganda Gorilla Permit Prices:

• $800 for foreign non-residents
• $700 for foreign residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

It is important to note that tour operators in Uganda often apply an additional charge of USD 60 to USD 100 for every gorilla permit they secure for clients. They are allowed to purchase up to 20 gorilla permits each month, whereas individual travelers may buy a maximum of two permits per month, starting three months before their intended trekking date.

It is worth noting that besides the Uganda gorilla trekking tours, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park also hosts the only African gorilla habituation experiences.

UGANDA GORILLA HABITUATION EXPERIENCE IN BWINDI NATIONAL PARK

Bwindi Forest National Park offers the rare chance to participate in gorilla habituation, a four-hour experience (twice the length of standard treks) in the Rushaga sector. Visitors observe wild gorillas in the process of getting accustomed to human presence.

Bwindi Forest National Park Habituation Permit Prices:

• $1,500 for foreign non-residents
• $1,000 for foreign residents
• UGX 750,000 for East African citizens

GORILLA TREKKING IN MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK

Mgahinga National Park is home to one habituated group, the Nyakagezi family, which has nine members, including silverbacks and infants that you can track and see during Uganda gorilla tours.

Located in Kisoro District, this small park (Mgahinga National Park) that hosts some of the Virunga Mountains also offers golden monkey tracking and nature walks besides the gorilla tracking tours that visitors can enjoy during Uganda safari holidays.

Top African Uganda Gorilla Safaris & Tour Packages

• 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari
• 4-Day Uganda Gorilla & Wildlife Safari
• 5-Day Gorilla & Murchison Falls Safari
• 6-Day Gorilla & Chimpanzee Tracking
• 10-Day Multi-Country Safari: Uganda, Rwanda, DRC, Tanzania
• 12-Day Uganda Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture
• 14-Day Uganda Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture
• 16-Day Uganda Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda, East Africa 

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is another top choice and the only place in the land of a thousand hills for luxury Rwanda gorilla safaris and shorter 3-day treks.

RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Rwanda gorilla tours take place in one of the best Rwanda National Parks—Volcanoes National Park, home to around 300 mountain gorillas.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers a luxurious and relatively easier gorilla trekking experience amidst stunning scenery, with modern facilities and a high chance of spotting gorillas.

Dian Fossey’s legacy lives on here, with the renowned Susa group among 12 habituated families:

• Susa A
• Karisimbi (Susa B)
• Umubano
• Amahoro
• Agashya
• Sabyinyo
• Kwitonda
• Ugenda
• Bwenge
• Hirwa, etc.

Rwanda Gorilla Permit Prices:

• $1,500 per person

These can be booked up to 6 months in advance due to their limited availability.

Trekking begins at 7:00 AM with a briefing. Trekkers spend one hour with a gorilla family, observing behaviors like grooming and feeding.

Best visited in the dry season, Volcanoes National Park also offers accommodation from budget to luxury levels.

It is worth noting that visitors who go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park during Rwanda safaris can also enjoy other safari activities done in this gorilla park, such as climbing the Virunga Mountains (Karisimbi & Bisoke), golden Monkey Trekking, etc.

Alternatively, tourists who go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park can also combine their Rwanda safaris here with other Rwanda National Parks like Akagera National Park for the Big Five safaris and Nyungwe National Park for Canopy Walks. This could earn them a discount on the Rwanda gorilla Permits as well.

Top African Rwanda Gorilla Safaris & Packages 

• 2-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
• 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla & Wildlife Safari
• 4-Day Rwanda Safari: Gorillas & Wildlife
• 5-Day Rwanda Safari: Gorilla & Chimpanzee Tracking
• 6-Days Rwanda Safari Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Wildlife Tour
• 7-Days Rwanda Tour
• 10-Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture
• 14-Days Uganda, Rwanda & Congo Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture
• 16-Days Uganda, Rwanda & Congo Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture

Mountain and Lowland Gorilla Trekking in The Democratic Republic of Congo 

The Democratic Republic of Congo offers the unique chance to trek both mountain and lowland gorillas in gorilla parks—Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

CONGO MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKING IN VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARK CONGO

Virunga National Park is the only mountain gorilla trekking hub in the DR Congo and it is home to eight habituated mountain gorilla families worth seeing during Congo gorilla tours. These include.

• Kabirizi Gorilla Group
• Bageni Gorilla Group
• Rugendo Gorilla Group
• Mapuwa Gorilla Group
• Munyaga Gorilla Group
• Lulengo Gorilla Group
• Humba Gorilla Group
• Nyakamwe Gorilla Group

Prices of Congo Gorilla Permits for Virunga National Park:

• $400 for foreign non-residents
• $200 for residents and East African citizens

CONGO EASTERN LOWLAND GORILLA TREKKING IN KAHUZI BIEGA NATIONAL PARK 

Kahuzi-Biega offers lowland gorilla trekking in Congo, worth enjoying during Africa gorilla trips/Congo safaris.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park, the sanctuary of Eastern lowland gorillas, has five habituated families worth exploring during a DR Congo gorilla trekking adventure/Congo gorilla safari.

• Chimanuka
• Mpungwe
• Bonnani
• Nganwa
• Mugahuka

Democratic Republic of Congo Gorilla Trekking Permits cost:

• $400 (foreign non-residents)
• $200 (residents/EAC citizens)
• $20 (DRC nationals)

Top African Congo Gorilla Tour Packages

• 3-Day Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari
• 4-Day Congo Gorilla & Wildlife Safari
• 5-Day Congo & Murchison Falls Safari
• 6-Day Congo & Chimpanzee Tracking
• 7-Day Congo Chimpanzee & Wildlife Tour
• 10-Day Multi-Country Safari: Uganda, Rwanda, DRC, Tanzania
• 12-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture
• 14-Day Uganda, Rwanda & Congo Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture
• 16-Day Uganda, Rwanda & Congo Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife & Culture

It is worth noting that some tours combine gorilla trekking with visits to other East African countries like Kenya and Tanzania, offering a broader wildlife experience. 

The Key Highlights of An African Gorilla Tour 

Travelers on African gorilla trips often see these key attractions in the various gorilla trekking destinations.

1)   Mountain Gorillas (Gorilla Beringei Beringei) 

African gorilla tours offer rare, awe-inspiring encounters with endangered mountain gorillas in the misty rainforests of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, and Congo’s Virunga National Park.

Mountain gorillas, sharing 98% of their DNA with humans, live in close-knit family groups led by a dominant silverback and made up of females and their young.

Around 1,064 remain in the wild, mainly in the montane rainforests of DRC, Uganda and Rwanda—habitats that become muddy and challenging to traverse during the rainy season.

These herbivores feed on up to 75 pounds of vegetation daily, including leaves, fruits, bamboo, and shoots.

As they move frequently, they build new nests from twigs and leaves each night.

These endangered gorillas found in Bwindi, Mgahinga, Volcanoes and Virunga National Parks have long, thick black fur to survive in cooler mountain climates, shorter arms, and a more muscular build and can be easily seen by tourists who go gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo.

Gorilla trekking requires hiking through dense, uneven forest terrain, demanding good physical fitness and proper gear. Due to limited permit availability, early booking is highly recommended.

2)   Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla Beringei Graueri) 

Tracking eastern lowland gorillas in Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega National Park reveals Africa’s largest gorilla subspecies. Unlike their mountain cousins, these gorillas inhabit lowland tropical forests and can be seen by tourists who go gorilla trekking in DR Congo during Congo gorilla safaris/Congo gorilla tours.

Unlike their mountain cousins, these gorillas have stockier bodies, larger hands, shorter hair, and a more pronounced jaw, making them the largest of the four gorilla subspecies.

They inhabit lowland tropical forests, and the trek involves scenic rainforest hikes. Visitors who want to go gorilla trekking/gorilla watching hike through dense jungle, guided by experts, to spend an unforgettable hour observing mountain gorilla families in their natural habitat, often seen nesting, feeding, foraging, or nurturing—an intimate and life-changing wildlife experience.

The reward is observing or partaking in a gorilla-watching excursion of these gentle giants in remote, less touristy environments—perfect for travelers seeking a deeper, rawer wildlife experience.

Africa Gorilla Tour Types

1)      Day trips: Short excursions to see endangered gorillas, often from Kigali (Rwanda) or Kampala (Uganda).

2)      Multi-day safaris:  These offer a more immersive experience that involves seeing the mountain gorillas on gorilla safari tours, potentially including other wildlife viewing opportunities and activities.

3)      Luxury tours: They feature high-end accommodations, private transport, and personalized itineraries.

4)      Budget tours: These provide more affordable options, potentially with shared transportation and simpler accommodations.

It is worth noting that most of these tours, if booked properly in advance, may offer discounts!

Gorilla Trekking in Africa: What to Expect on Gorilla Uganda, DR Congo, and Rwanda Safaris 

• Fitness Level:

Treks can range from easy to challenging, depending on the terrain and location of the lowland or mountain gorillas. A moderate level of fitness is therefore recommended for visitors to enjoy mountain gorilla trekking, as trails can be steep and challenging.

• Duration of the Gorilla Trekking in Africa:

Gorilla-watching safaris to track gorillas begin between 7:00 and 8:00 AM with a briefing and can last from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location.

• Group Size:

Treks for gorilla-watching excursions to see the mountain gorillas are typically conducted in small groups of up to eight people, accompanied by experienced guides and trackers in all trekking destinations to minimize disturbance to the gorillas and their habitat.

• Porter Service:

Porters can be hired to carry your belongings and assist you on the trek or gorilla-watching excursion to see the mountain gorillas.

• Time Spent with Gorillas:

Upon finding the mountain gorillas on a gorilla trekking tour, you’ll have a limited amount of time (usually one hour) to observe the habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat.

• Guides and Rangers:

Park rangers and guides will lead you through the forest and provide information about the mountain gorillas and their environment during the Africa gorilla safari.

• Observation Time:

You will spend one hour with a habituated family of mountain gorillas and receive a certificate upon return from a gorilla trekking tour.

• Gorilla Conservation:

Gorilla trekking contributes to the conservation of these endangered animals and the development of local communities.

Uganda Vs Rwanda Vs Congo: Gorilla Trekking Comparison 

• Additional Activities: Uganda offers more wildlife options, while Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo focus mainly on primates.
• Accessibility: Rwanda is easier to access and ideal for short trips in Volcanoes National Park, found just about 2 hours to drive from Kigali International Airport.
• Number of Habituated Groups: Uganda leads with more groups and two trekking parks.
• Terrain: Bwindi, which is found just 10 hours to drive from Entebbe International Airport offers lower altitudes and easier treks compared to the mountainous regions of Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) and Virunga National Park in DR Congo.
• Cost: The Democratic Republic of Congo is the most budget-friendly with permits costing around $400, followed by Uganda and then Rwanda.

. Security: The nations of Rwanda and Uganda are relatively peaceful, while the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo is more fragile due to rebel activities.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations 

Before the Trek:

• Bring your gorilla permit, as it’s the only access key to a gorilla safari trek
• Minimum age is 15
• Avoid trekking gorillas if unwell
• Wash your hands before the gorilla trek
• Groups limited to 8 people
• Maintain silence in the forest
• Follow your ranger’s instructions

During the Trek:

• Stay 7-10 meters away from the gorillas
• No smoking or feeding gorillas
• No littering
• Turn off the camera flash when taking pictures of the gentle giants

African Hotels and Safari Lodges to Stay During Gorilla Tours 

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Africa 

Much as gorilla trekking excursions can be done year-round, the dry seasons from June to August and December to February are ideal since they offer easier gorilla trekking conditions with the trails being more passable with less mud, and photography is better with clearer views.

What To Wear for Africa Gorilla Tracking Safaris?

• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• Sturdy Hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Sunglasses
• Hat or cap
• Long socks

What To Pack for Africa Gorilla Trekking Tours? 

• Camera
• Binoculars
• Sunscreen
• Travel documents
• Insect repellent
• Bottled water
• Walking stick
• Waterproof backpack

Top Gorilla Trekking Safari Operators in Africa 

Many tour operators offer gorilla trekking packages, including gorilla permits, accommodation, transportation, and guiding services. Below is a list of expert African gorilla safari companies:

Wild Gorilla Safaris

Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd

Safari Uganda Safaris

Gorilla Safaris and Tours

A Uganda Safari

Africa Safaris Tours

Gorilla trekking Uganda

Top African Gorilla Safari Packages Offered 

• 3-day Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda
• 4 days Uganda Gorilla Safaris Tour & Wildlife Tour Package in Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions and other wildlife safaris
• 4 days Uganda Gorilla Safari Tour to Bwindi & Lake Mburo National Park
• 5 days Gorilla Safari Uganda & Wildlife Safari to Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, & Lake Mburo National Park
• 5 days Gorilla Safaris Uganda & Wildlife safari Holiday in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• 6 days Uganda Gorilla Safaris Tour & Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
• 6 days Gorillas in Bwindi, Volcanoes Rwanda & Wildlife in Serengeti National Parks
• 7 days Uganda Gorilla safari, Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park and Wildlife Safari Tour in Queen Elizabeth National Park (home of tree-climbing lions), Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park
• 8 days Gorilla Uganda safari, wildlife safaris, and chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park/Kibale National Park.
• 10 days, Uganda, Rwanda, the democratic republic of Congo, and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park
• 12 days, Uganda Trip—Gorilla Walking, Chimpanzee Trekking, Wildlife & Culture

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda? 

Trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi, which has the highest number of mountain gorillas, with around 450 individuals is less strenuous compared to other regions due to lower altitudes, so if looking for a less challenging trek, choose it and remember to pack essentials like hiking boots, insect repellent, etc.

2. Is It Safe to Trek Gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda? 

Yes. Both countries are secure, and treks are conducted with armed rangers for a memorable and safe experience.

The Uganda gorilla safari is done in two gorilla parks—Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park—while the Rwanda gorilla safaris are done in Volcanoes National Park, the only home of mountain gorillas in the country.

3. How Much Is a Gorilla Permit? | What is the Cost of Africa Gorilla Trekking Permits? 

• Uganda: $800 (non-residents)
• Rwanda: $1,500
• Congo: $400

4. Why Is Gorilla Trekking Expensive? 

Gorilla trekking is expensive because the funds raised support gorilla conservation efforts and local communities.

5. Is Gorilla Trekking Worth It?

Absolutely. Seeing these majestic creatures, the mountain gorillas, in their habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth seeing during African gorilla trips.

6. How Many Permits Are Available in Uganda?

Uganda issues 160 permits daily for visitors seeking to go gorilla trekking to see the gentle giants in their natural habitat.

7. Can I See Gorillas on A Budget? 

Yes. Choose low season, budget lodges, or group tours to save during gorilla trips in Africa inorder to enjoy gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

8. How Long Is a Typical Gorilla Safari?

A typical gorilla safari in Africa takes a minimum of 3 days, including travel, trek, and return periods.

9. What Is a Gorilla Habituation Experience?

A gorilla habituation experience is a safari activity that allows tourists to spend 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family in Uganda’s Bwindi Park.

10. Are Sightings of Gorillas Guaranteed on a Uganda Safari? 

Not 100%, but success rates exceed 90%. If you miss out, you may trek the next day, and most probably you will see the gorilla family.

11. Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?

You should choose to go gorilla trekking in Uganda because

• Largest mountain gorilla population (459+ mountain gorillas)
• Two national parks (Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks)
• Affordable gorilla permits ($800)
• Safe and scenic environment

. Stunning views of scenic attractions as you enjoy gorilla trekking, such as the Virunga Mountains, monkey species like the golden monkey, huge chimpanzees, etc.

In conclusion, African gorilla safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo provide once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences. Whether you are seeking budget adventures or luxury primate encounters, these destinations promise unforgettable memories with the world’s last remaining mountain and lowland gorillas.