The Narus Valley is the best area for game drives, particularly in the dry season when animals gather around remaining water sources. You have good chances of seeing:
🦁 Lions
🐘 Elephants
🦬 Large herds of buffalo
🦒 Rothschild’s giraffes
🦓 Zebras
🦌 Hartebeest and other antelope
🐦 Ostriches and many other bird species
3 Day Uganda Gorilla Trek
3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek
5 Day Uganda Trek from Kigali
10 Day Uganda gorillas from Kigali
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a remarkable wildlife experience that takes you deep into the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Guided by experienced trackers and park rangers, visitors hike through beautiful forest landscapes in search of habituated mountain gorilla families. Once you find them, you can spend a precious hour observing their natural behaviour, from playful youngsters to powerful silverbacks and caring mothers. Uganda offers a more intimate and often more affordable gorilla trekking experience than Rwanda, while your visit directly contributes to gorilla conservation and supports local communities around the parks.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers an extraordinary opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park. Located in the Virunga Mountains, the park is home to several habituated gorilla families that visitors can explore with experienced guides and trackers. The trek takes you through beautiful bamboo forests and rugged mountain terrain before reaching a gorilla family in its natural habitat.
Spending time observing these intelligent and gentle animals is an unforgettable experience. Rwanda’s well-organized tourism infrastructure, scenic landscapes, and conservation efforts make it one of Africa’s premier destinations for gorilla trekking.
What to expect during gorilla trekking
A gorilla trek is an exciting adventure through the dense forests and mountain landscapes where endangered mountain gorillas live. The trek can take anywhere from a few hours to most of the day, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Experienced guides and trackers lead the way, helping you navigate the forest and locate the gorillas. Once you find them, you will spend up to one hour observing their behaviour from a safe distance. Expect challenging terrain, muddy trails, changing weather, and an unforgettable encounter with these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.
Fequently asked questions about gorilla trekking
Is gorilla Trekking safe
A gorilla trek is an exciting adventure through the dense forests and mountain landscapes where endangered mountain gorillas live. The trek can take anywhere from a few hours to most of the day, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Experienced guides and trackers lead the way, helping you navigate the forest and locate the gorillas. Once you find them, you will spend up to one hour observing their behaviour from a safe distance. Expect challenging terrain, muddy trails, changing weather, and an unforgettable encounter with these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?
The permit price depends on the country. Uganda’s standard gorilla permit is $800 per person, while Rwanda’s is $1,500 per person. Prices and special offers can change, so it is important to confirm the current rate when booking.
How difficult is gorilla trekking?
The difficulty varies considerably. Some gorilla families are relatively close to the trailhead, while others may require several hours of hiking through steep and dense forest. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
How long does gorilla trekking take?
The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 8 hours or more, depending on where the gorilla family is located. Once you find the gorillas, visitors normally spend up to one hour observing them.
What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
Wear lightweight, comfortable hiking clothes, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Long socks are useful for protecting your legs from vegetation and insects.
What is the best time for gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking can be done throughout the year. The drier months are generally more comfortable for hiking, but the forests remain wet throughout much of the year. The rainy seasons can also offer advantages, including fewer tourists and potentially lower accommodation rates.