Gorilla tours in Rwanda and Uganda
Experiences such as gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda are unique. In contrast to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 habituated gorilla families and provides a less strenuous walk. Rwanda and Uganda is a home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Ruhija, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Rushaga are hiking destinations in Uganda. Permits for Rwanda are more costly but might be quicker to get whilst those for Uganda are less costly but might require more waiting. Gorilla tours in Rwanda and Uganda
Gorillas are frequently sighted in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park’s bamboo forest zone. Which offers an amazing setting for observing these large primates.
Volcanoes National Park
The Virunga Mountains, which border Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, contain the forested area known as Volcanoes National Park. The most popular tourist destination in Rwanda is this park. Which is located in the country’s far northwest and preserves the steep slopes of the stunning mountain range. That is home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
For every tourist seeking incredible experiences and one-of-a-kind moments to treasure forever. This gem located in “the land of a thousand hills” is the best of its type. The park has long rewarded its guests with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and heart-stopping encounters with elusive species. A remarkable tourist attraction, Volcanoes National Park is home to unusual fauna, bird species, mountains, water basins. And stunning scenery, among many other things.
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest in Uganda is a tropical rainforest. As the name suggests, it’s a stunning location, although sometimes it’s difficult to see the gorillas because of the dense forest.
Bwindi impenetrable National Forest
According to estimates, 459 mountain gorillas, or about half of the world’s population, call southern Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park home. There is also a wide variety of other wildlife in the park. Such as chimpanzees, baboons, and many kinds of birds and butterflies. The dense vegetation, which includes bamboo, vines, shrubs, and plants, renders Bwindi Impenetrable National Park “impenetrable” for the purpose of making it difficult to navigate. The landscape is referred to as “impenetrable” due to the dense ground cover and canopy, which make it practically impenetrable.
What is the cost for a gorilla permit in Uganda and Rwanda?
As of 2025, foreign visitors to Rwanda must pay US$1,500 for a single gorilla permit. Also known as a mountain gorilla tracking permit. For residents of Rwanda and other East African nations, this price is reduced to $200 USD. Foreign residents of Rwanda, as well as citizens and residents of other African nations, must pay US$500 for a permit.
In Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, for example, a gorilla permit costs US$800 for foreign visitors, US$700 for foreign residents, around US$80 for East African nationals. And US$500 for inhabitants of other African nations.
Is Rwanda better than Uganda in gorilla tours
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda differs. In actuality, there is no significant difference in the experience gained at the conclusion of your gorilla journey between Rwanda and Uganda, both of which are home to mountain gorillas. The Rwandan mountain gorillas are found in the Virunga hills, where bamboo is the predominant vegetation. In Uganda, however, the mountain gorillas are found in a rain forest that is home to a variety of trees and plants. There is a 99% possibility of seeing gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda. So you will be able to witness these magnificent endangered primates in their native habitat no matter which nation you travel to. Gorilla tracking in Uganda and Rwanda is a well-organized activity. And the walk is always fantastic regardless of the country you trek in. However, some think that Rwandan gorillas are easy to view because of the greenery.
Accommodation facilities in Uganda and Rwanda while on a gorilla tour
During your walk, you can select between budget, mid-range, and upscale lodges in both national parks. The greatest place to go gorilla trekking if you want to stay in ultra-luxurious lodges that meet international standards is Volcanoes National Park, not Bwindi. These lodges provide excellent and opulent services; some, like Bisate Lodge. And Singita Kwitonda Lodge in Volcanoes National Park, are regarded as some of the greatest in Africa. And the entire nation. However, if you’re looking for a lot of affordable lodging. Bwindi is the greatest choice because you can choose from a variety of lodging alternatives that range from $30 to $100 depending on your package.
What is the best time to visit Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking?
In Rwanda and Uganda, the optimum times to undertake gorilla trekking are from December to February and June to September. However, because the weather is variable, you should anticipate some rain occasionally. The only drawbacks of this time of year are the large crowds, the scarcity of lodging options, the high cost of going without reservations. And the fact that gorilla trekking is typically more costly during this time.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking is possible all year round in both countries. But the optimum time to go is from December to January and June to September, which is the dry season. Compared to the rainy season, when it is difficult to trek due to the rain and muddy, slippery paths, the trek routes are easier to utilize and less slippery during this time. Wet season, often called the low season, is still a good time to go gorilla trekking, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
