Best gorilla trekking destination: Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo?
Best gorilla trekking destination. Gorillas, primates and apes, inhabit the natural African landscape. They’re rare and endangered, scarcely found outside their native habitats, unlike zoo settings. Gorilla trekking, a premier African activity, draws global travelers seeking extraordinary experiences. The adventure, set in African jungles, promises unforgettable memories, fulfilling many lifelong dreams.
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Where to go gorilla trekking?
Mountain gorillas reside in just three African countries: Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. With approximately 880 remaining worldwide, these countries share the gorilla population, each offering trekking experiences in designated national parks.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda
Uganda, boasting the largest mountain gorilla population, ranks as Africa’s top gorilla trekking destination. Trekking here is affordable, with only two national parks housing mountain gorillas: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Forest National Park, both in southwestern Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, hosting nearly half the world’s mountain gorillas, stands out as the premier destination. The park harbors around 400 gorillas, while Mgahinga Forest National Park is home to about 80.
With 18 habituated gorilla families, Bwindi Forest offers four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga, and Ruhijija. Buhoma, the preferred sector, boasts four habituated families. Permits for this sector are in high demand, necessitating advance booking.
Uganda offers safe, affordable trekking, with permits priced at $600 per person, far less than Rwanda’s $1500. The government ensures safety with military and tourism police patrols, crucial for tourist security.
Although trekking involves hiking muddy, slippery hills, and requires physical fitness due to high altitudes, the adventure offers captivating memories in the African jungle.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda:
Rwanda, home to Volcanoes National Park, once offered the best trekking experiences. However, with permit prices doubling to $1500 for foreign non-residents, it’s now a luxury option. The park boasts 15 habituated gorilla families, welcoming tourists year-round.
Despite the high permit cost, Rwanda suits travelers with limited time, just a two-hour drive from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park, allowing for single-day excursions.
Gorilla trekking in DR Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo, another gorilla trekking destination, hosts two parks: Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park. Virunga, part of the Virunga Massif Conservation Area, houses eight habituated gorilla families, while Kahuzi Biega is home to lowland gorillas.
With permits priced at $400, Congo offers affordable trekking, even discounted during low season. This accessibility appeals to budget travelers, making it a year-round option.
In all three countries, permits allow one hour with the gorillas, limited to eight participants due to conservation efforts.
Permits are available at respective government tourism offices, except Rwanda, where online booking is possible. Booking in advance, preferably six months prior, is advisable due to high demand, especially during peak seasons.
Best time for gorilla trekking
The dry season, December to February and June to October, is ideal. With less rain, trekking trails are less slippery, enhancing the overall experience.
