East Africa Wildlife Experience

Gorilla Trekking

Experience one of the world's most extraordinary wildlife encounters with mountain gorillas in the forests of Rwanda and Uganda.

Plan Your Gorilla Trek

An Unforgettable Encounter With Mountain Gorillas

Gorilla trekking is one of Africa's most unforgettable wildlife experiences.

The experience takes you into the forests of Rwanda and Uganda, where you will trek with experienced park guides in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.

Once the gorilla family is located, visitors are given a limited opportunity to observe these incredible animals in their natural environment.

Every trek is different. The time spent hiking can vary depending on the location of the gorilla family and the conditions of the forest.

Gorilla trekking experience

Gorilla Permit Guidance

Gorilla trekking permits are limited and must be confirmed for your preferred date before travel. Permit availability and pricing can change, so we check the current position with the relevant park authority when preparing your quote.

Once your dates and itinerary are agreed, we explain what the permit includes and confirm whether it is included in your quotation before any booking is made.

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Best Gorilla Trekking Destinations

Gorilla trekking is available in selected protected areas in Rwanda and Uganda.

Gorilla trekking experience

Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park

Located in northern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa's most famous mountain gorilla destinations.

The park is surrounded by the Virunga Mountains and offers a remarkable combination of rainforest, volcanic landscapes and wildlife.

Explore Rwanda
Gorilla trekking experience

Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is one of Uganda's most important wildlife destinations and is known for its mountain gorilla population.

Trekking through the dense forest offers an unforgettable adventure for travelers looking for a more immersive wilderness experience.

Explore Uganda

What To Expect During Gorilla Trekking

01

Early Morning Briefing

Begin your day with a briefing from experienced park guides who will explain the trekking experience and important safety guidelines.

02

Forest Trekking

Enter the forest and begin trekking with your guide. The difficulty and duration of the trek can vary.

03

Finding the Gorillas

Trackers and guides work together to locate the assigned gorilla family.

04

The Gorilla Encounter

Once the gorillas are found, visitors have the opportunity to observe them from a respectful distance.

Best Time For Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year in Rwanda and Uganda.

However, weather conditions and trekking trails can vary depending on the season.

The drier periods are often preferred by travelers because some hiking trails may be easier to navigate.

Popular Travel Periods

June to September Generally drier conditions
December to February Another popular travel period
March to May Wetter conditions and greener landscapes
October to November Rainy season with lush forests

What To Bring

Hiking Shoes

Comfortable and strong shoes are important for walking through forest trails.

Rain Protection

Weather conditions can change quickly in the forest.

Long Clothing

Long trousers and long sleeves can provide additional protection during trekking.

Drinking Water

Carry enough water to stay hydrated during your trek.

Recommended Tour Packages

Gorilla trekking experience

Rwanda

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Experience mountain gorillas and the beautiful Volcanoes region of Rwanda.

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Gorilla trekking experience

Uganda

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Explore Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and experience unforgettable gorilla trekking.

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Gorilla trekking experience

Rwanda and Uganda

Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla Safari

Combine two incredible gorilla destinations on one unforgettable East African journey.

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Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Tell us when you would like to travel and Gorilla Trek Safaris will help you create an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

Plan Your Safari

Gorilla Permit and Extra Cost Guide

Guide price per person: Rwanda gorilla permits are US$1,500 and Uganda gorilla permits are US$800. Permits are date-specific and must be confirmed with the relevant park authority before booking.

Accommodation, transport, meals, guides, park entry fees and other services are additional unless your quotation specifically says they are included.