Uganda offers an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience, primarily in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking through dense forests, visitors are guided by experienced rangers to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The trek can last from a few hours to an entire day, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once found, visitors can spend a magical hour observing the gorillas’ behavior, including feeding, playing, and resting. This close encounter provides profound insights into their social structure and natural environment.
Gorilla permits are essential for this experience. In Uganda, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit is USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. These permits contribute to the conservation of gorillas and support community development initiatives.
The best time for trekking is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when trails are less slippery.
Mountain and lowland gorilla trekking in the DRC Congo offers a thrilling adventure through Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Mountain gorilla permits in Virunga cost USD 450 for foreign residents and USD 200 for Congolese citizens. Lowland gorilla permits in Kahuzi-Biega are priced at USD 400 for foreign residents and USD 20 for Congolese citizens.
Mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers an unforgettable adventure, set in the lush Volcanoes National Park. This experience involves hiking through dense forests to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The park is home to several gorilla families, each offering unique interactions. Trekking can last from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas, making it suitable for varying fitness levels.
Rwanda has made gorilla trekking accessible through a well-organized permit system. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit is $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents. For foreign residents, the permit costs $500, while East African citizens pay RWF 150,000 (approximately $150). These fees contribute to the conservation of the gorillas and the development of local communities.
A limited number of permits are issued daily to minimize the impact on the gorillas, so early booking is essential. The permit cost includes the park entrance fee, ranger guides, and one hour of observation with the gorillas. Trekking in Rwanda not only supports conservation efforts but also provides a life-changing encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species.