Planning a gorilla trekking tour for 2027–2028 in Uganda or Rwanda requires thoughtful preparation and early action. The opportunity to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is not only one of the most moving wildlife experiences in the world, but it’s also one of the most sought-after. Gorilla permits are limited, and demand continues to grow year after year, making early booking essential for anyone considering this life-changing journey. Booking a Gorilla Trekking Tour

Below is a detailed and carefully crafted guide that answers all your questions about booking a gorilla trekking tour in 2027 or 2028, including when and how to secure a permit, the best times to go, differences between Uganda and Rwanda, and what to expect from the experience.

When Should You Start Booking a Gorilla Trekking Tour for 2027–2028?

To secure your preferred trekking date, especially during high season, it’s advised to start booking at least 12 months in advance. That means if you’re planning to travel in mid or late 2027, you should ideally start your preparations in early or mid-2026.

The same applies to 2028: bookings should begin in early 2027, particularly if you’re traveling during peak months or planning a honeymoon, family trip, or a multi-country safari experience.

Gorilla trekking permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Once fully booked, there are no waitlists or alternatives. Early reservations not only guarantee your permit but also give you more choices for accommodations, transportation, and trekking sectors.

How Do You Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit?

There are two main ways to book a gorilla trekking permit for Uganda or Rwanda:

1. Book Through a Licensed Tour Operator

This is the most common and recommended method. Tour operators are well-versed in the logistics, know when permits open up, and often reserve them in bulk well in advance. They can combine permits with transportation, accommodation, meals, and professional guides, offering you a seamless and stress-free experience.

2. Book Directly with Wildlife Authorities

For Uganda, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) handles permits. In Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is responsible. Booking directly can be done via email or official portals, but it’s more suitable for independent travelers familiar with East African logistics. Tour operators still remain the safer and more efficient route for most travelers.

How Much Does a Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost in 2027–2028?

While permit fees may slightly change depending on policy updates, here are the most likely prices:

Uganda:

• Foreign non-residents: USD $800 per person
• Foreign residents: USD $800
• East African citizens: UGX 300,000
• Gorilla habituation experience (4 hours): USD $1,500

Rwanda:

• Foreign visitors: USD $1,500 per person
• African citizens and residents: USD $500 or less, depending on status

These prices include entry to the national park and a one-hour visit with a habituated gorilla family, led by expert guides and trackers.

What’s Included in a Gorilla Trekking Tour?

When you book with a reputable tour company, a complete package usually includes:

• Gorilla trekking permit
• Airport pickup and drop-off
• Ground transportation in 4×4 safari vehicles
• Accommodation before and after trekking
• Meals and bottled water
• A professional English-speaking guide
• Guided trek in the park with ranger support

Optional extras may include chimpanzee trekking, game drives, birdwatching, cultural visits, boat safaris, or golden monkey tracking.

When Is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which occur from:

• June to September
• December to February

These months offer more stable weather, drier trails, and excellent conditions for photography. However, gorilla trekking is available all year, and some travelers prefer the wet season (March–May and October–November) for its lush scenery, fewer tourists, and higher availability of permits.

If you plan to trek in the dry season of 2027 or 2028, be sure to reserve your permits as early as possible—ideally one year in advance.

What’s the Difference Between Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda?

Uganda:

• Trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
• Uganda has more habituated gorilla families and permits, making it slightly easier to secure a spot.
• The terrain is more challenging, but also more immersive for adventure lovers.
• Uganda is more budget-friendly with lower permit costs.

Rwanda:

• Trekking is in Volcanoes National Park.
• Rwanda has a higher cost per permit but offers shorter, less strenuous hikes.
• Volcanoes National Park is closer to Kigali International Airport, reducing drive time.
• Rwanda is known for luxury accommodations and high-end experiences.

How Many Days Should You Plan for a Gorilla Safari?

For a standalone gorilla trekking tour, you need a minimum of 3 days:

• Day 1: Arrival and transfer to park region
• Day 2: Gorilla trekking experience
• Day 3: Return travel

However, most travelers extend their trips to 5–10 days to include:

• Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale (Uganda) or Nyungwe (Rwanda)
• Safari game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park or Akagera National Park
• Cultural visits to Batwa communities or genocide memorials
• Birdwatching and nature hikes

Can You Combine Gorilla Trekking with Other Destinations?

Absolutely. Many travelers combine their gorilla trekking experience with:

• A classic big-five safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti
• A relaxing trip to Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Kivu
• A hike to the Nyiragongo volcano in DRC
• A beach holiday in Zanzibar or Mombasa

Multi-country tours are popular and cost-effective when using the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows travel between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya on a single visa.

Tips for Booking Your Gorilla Trekking Tour for 2027–2028

1. Secure your permit first. Permit availability dictates your travel dates.
2. Work with experienced tour operators. They understand the terrain, logistics, and can navigate any last-minute changes.
3. Be mindful of weather. Dry seasons are more predictable, but wet seasons offer fewer crowds.
4. Pack smart. Include hiking boots, rain jackets, long sleeves, and insect repellent.
5. Understand fitness levels. Gorilla trekking can be demanding. Inform your operator about your preferences for an easier or more challenging trek.
6. Respect conservation rules. Your time with gorillas is limited to one hour. Maintain distance and avoid flash photography.

Final Thoughts

Booking a gorilla trekking tour for 2027 or 2028 is a rewarding investment in adventure, conservation, and cultural discovery. The earlier you start planning, the more options you’ll have when it comes to permits, accommodations, and activities.

Uganda and Rwanda both offer world-class trekking experiences, each with its own character and charm. Whether you seek affordability, luxury, or pure adventure, these countries offer one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife encounters on the planet.

Now is the perfect time to start preparing for your unforgettable journey into the misty forests of East Africa. Secure your permit, choose the right tour company, and prepare for an adventure that will leave you forever changed.