Gorilla trekking provides essential information for clients about mountain gorillas. These endangered species can only be found in three East African countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They are protected in national parks within these countries. Travelers interested in gorilla trekking can visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the DRC.

Gorilla Population and Conservation

During the 2018 gorilla census, the total population of mountain gorillas showed significant improvement, increasing from 880 to 1,004 individuals across the three East African countries. Bwindi National Park in Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making Uganda a leading destination for gorilla trekking. In addition to Bwindi, gorillas are also found in Mgahinga National Park, located in the southwestern region of Uganda. Mgahinga offers both gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking. The park lies on the border with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Travelers can access Mgahinga through Kisoro District in southwestern Uganda, near the capital, Kampala.

Relationship Between Mountain Gorillas and Humans

Mountain gorillas share a strikingly high percentage of their DNA with humans, ranging from 95% to 99%. This makes them our closest living relatives after chimpanzees and baboons. Gorillas’ natural habitats include tropical and subtropical forests in Sub-Saharan Africa, where they thrive.

When and Where to Go for Mountain Gorilla Tracking in Africa

Travelers visiting Uganda can go gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park, both located in the southwestern region. In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is available at Volcanoes National Park in the south. In the DRC, gorilla trekking can be done in Virunga National Park, located in North Kivu. It’s up to travelers to choose which country among the three offers the experience they desire for gorilla trekking.

Social Structure of Mountain Gorillas

Mountain gorillas, like humans and many other primates, live in groups or families. Each family is typically led by a dominant male, known as a silverback. To see these gorillas, visitors can only visit habituated families within their natural habitat. Travelers participating in this experience are required to show a gorilla permit, a document that allows them to visit the gorillas in the forest.

How to Get to Africa for Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Accessing Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks

Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park are located in Uganda and can be accessed by either road or air transport. By road, the journey can start from Entebbe, a popular entry point in Uganda, or from Kampala, the capital city. The drive takes about 8-9 hours on a good road.

Air Travel Options

For those who prefer a quicker and more comfortable journey, domestic charter flights are available to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park. These flights can be arranged from Entebbe or Kajjansi airstrip, landing at Kisoro or Kihihi airstrip, followed by a transfer to the park. This alternative is ideal for travelers who are not accustomed to long road trips.

Habituated Gorilla Families in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park currently has the highest number of habituated gorilla families in Africa, with 17 families available for gorilla trekking. Sixteen of these families are tracked in Bwindi, while one group resides in Mgahinga National Park.

Bwindi has four sectors where gorilla trekking can take place:

1. Buhoma Sector: The park’s headquarters and the first area where gorilla trekking started.
2. Rushaga Sector: Located in the southern part of Bwindi.
3. Ruhija Sector: Also in the southern part of the park.
4. Nkuringo Sector: Situated in the northern part of the park.

Mgahinga National Park

In Mgahinga, visitors can find the Nyakagezi gorilla family, one of the habituated groups available for trekking.

Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda

A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 for the foreign non residents and $700 for foreign residents and then 300,00 Uganda shillings equivalent to $80 for the East African Citizens. This permit allows for one hour of trekking with the gorillas. Additionally, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers a gorilla habituation experience, which costs $1,500 per permit and includes four hours with the gorillas in their natural habitat.

Flying into Rwanda and Trekking Gorillas in Uganda

One of the easiest ways to trek gorillas in Uganda is to fly into Kigali Airport in Rwanda. From there, you can cross into Uganda via the Cyanika border to the Kisoro area or via the Katuna border in Kabale to reach Bwindi National Park or Mgahinga National Park. The drive time is 3-4 hours, which is significantly shorter and less tiring compared to the 9-hour drive from Kampala or Entebbe. Along the way, you can enjoy scenic stops to view attractions in the countryside.

How to Get to Virunga National Park

There are two easiest ways to access Virunga National Park for gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC):

1. Via Kigali, Rwanda: Fly into Kigali Airport and cross the Gisenyi border into Goma town in Congo. From there, transfer to the park to start your gorilla trekking activities. The drive from Kigali Airport to the Gisenyi border is about 4-5 hours by road.

2. Via Entebbe, Uganda: Fly into Entebbe Airport and transfer to Kisoro town via Kabale, or take a flight from Entebbe Airport to Kisoro airstrip. This option is ideal if you prefer to avoid a long drive to the Bunagana border. For more information on border crossings to Congo, you can contact Adventure in the Wild Safaris.

Price for Gorilla Tracking Permits in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo

• Uganda: Permits are issued directly by the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through registered tour operators. The cost is $600 per permit, increasing to $700 in July 2020.
• Rwanda: Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board and cost $1,500 per permit, making gorilla trekking in Rwanda the most expensive option.
• Democratic Republic of Congo: Permits are issued by the Virunga Tourism Office in Goma and cost $400 per permit, making it the most affordable option for gorilla trekking.

Travelers are advised to book their permits well in advance due to high demand and limited availability.

The Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DR Congo

Gorilla trekking can be enjoyed throughout the year in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, the most preferred time for travelers is during the dry seasons, which span May to October and December to January. These months are considered peak seasons in Uganda due to the minimal rainfall, making the terrain easier to navigate and the trekking experience more comfortable.

Conversely, the wet season, occurring in February, March, April, May, and November, sees more rainfall, but park activities continue without interruption. This period is ideal for budget travelers, as many lodges offer discounts and the parks are less crowded, allowing for a more serene experience.

Booking a Gorilla Trekking Safari

Private Tours or Tour Operators

Gorilla trekking safaris can be booked either as private tours or through tour operators such as Kenlink Tours. We specialize in gorilla tours and wildlife safaris across Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda, providing comprehensive information and arranging life-changing adventures.

Our Services

At Kenlink Tours, we have a team of professional staff dedicated to planning your safari from start to finish. Our office staff is always ready to address your concerns, and our Germany, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, Russian and English-speaking guides ensure you have the best possible experience during your gorilla safari in East Africa.

We pride ourselves on our excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and Safari Booking, which attest to the quality of our services. Our tours are designed to provide unforgettable experiences, whether you are trekking gorillas or exploring other wildlife.

Why Choose Kenlink Tours for a Gorilla Tracking Safari?

• Expertise: We specialize in gorilla tours and have extensive knowledge of the destinations offering gorilla trekking experiences.
• Professional Staff: Our team is dedicated to making your safari seamless and enjoyable, from planning to execution.
• Highly Recommended: Our excellent reviews on google, TripAdvisor and Safari Booking highlight the satisfaction of our clients.
• Personalized Service: We tailor our safaris to meet your preferences and needs, ensuring a unique and memorable adventure.

Contact Us

For an unparalleled gorilla trekking experience in East Africa, reach out to Kenlink Tours. Our commitment to excellence ensures that you will not regret choosing us for your safari. Whether it’s your first time trekking gorillas or you are a seasoned traveler, we are here to provide you with the adventure of a lifetime.