Gorilla trekking is a guided hike through the dense mountain forests of Uganda or Rwanda to find and observe a habituated mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat. Treks are led by expert rangers and trackers. Once the gorilla family is located, you will spend exactly one hour with them.

Mountain gorillas live in only three countries in the world. You can track them in:

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (home to nearly half the world’s population) and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park.
• Democratic Republic of Congo: Virunga National Park. (Note: Tours here can be subject to security advisories).

Yes. Gorilla trekking is a cornerstone of conservation. The high price of the permits directly funds:

• Conservation efforts: Paying for rangers, anti-poaching patrols, and veterinary care.
• Community development: A portion of the revenue goes to local communities, providing schools, healthcare, and jobs, which gives them a direct incentive to protect the gorillas and their habitat.
• Habituation: The gorillas you visit are ‘habituated,’ meaning they are accustomed to the presence of humans, a process that takes several years and is done carefully by researchers and rangers.

ermit prices are set by the respective governments and are a crucial part of the conservation funding. As of late 2025, prices are typically:

• Rwanda: $1,500 USD per person.
• Uganda: $800 USD per person for foreign non-residents.

Disclaimer: These prices can change. Always verify the current cost with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or your tour operator.

It is highly recommended to book your permit 6 to 12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons (June-September and December-February). There are a limited number of permits available each day to minimize disturbance to the gorillas.

You can trek gorillas year-round. However, the best time is during the two dry seasons:

• Long Dry Season: June to September
• Short Dry Season: December to February

During these months, the forest trails are less muddy and slippery, making the trek more manageable. The rainy seasons (March-May and October-November) can offer lush scenery and fewer tourists, but be prepared for challenging, wet conditions.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda is 15 years old. This rule is strictly enforced to protect both the children and the gorillas.

Your day will typically start early:

• Morning (around 7:00 AM): Arrive at the park headquarters for a briefing from the head ranger. You will be assigned to a specific gorilla family and a trekking group (maximum 8 people).
• Hike: Led by rangers and trackers, you will hike into the forest. The trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are.
• The Encounter: Once you find the gorilla family, you will spend exactly one hour with them, observing from a safe distance.
• Return: After your hour is up, you will hike back to the headquarters to receive your certificate.

For your safety and the gorillas’ health, you must follow these rules:

• Keep a distance: Maintain a minimum distance of 7-10 meters (23-33 feet).
• No flash photography: It can frighten or agitate the gorillas.
• Stay quiet: Keep your voice low.
• Do not eat or drink: This minimizes the risk of disease transmission.
• If you are sick: You will not be allowed to trek. Gorillas are highly susceptible to human diseases like the flu or a cold.
• Follow the guide’s instructions at all times.

Both countries offer phenomenal experiences. The choice depends on your budget, time, and preferences.

• Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park):
  • Pros: Shorter travel time (2-3 hour drive from Kigali International Airport to the park), generally perceived as easier treks (though not guaranteed), well-established luxury lodge infrastructure.
  • Cons: Significantly more expensive permit ($1,500 USD).
• Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable & Mgahinga National Parks):
  • Pros: More affordable permit ($800 USD), larger gorilla population with more habituated families, option for the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience.
  • Cons: Longer travel time (8-10 hour drive from Entebbe International Airport or a short domestic flight), treks can be more challenging due to Bwindi’s “impenetrable” terrain.

• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots: With good ankle support.
• Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers: To protect against scratches and insect bites. Neutral colours (khaki, green, brown) are best.
• Waterproof rain jacket/poncho: Weather is unpredictable.
• Gardening gloves: To protect your hands as you grip vegetation.
• Hat and sunglasses: For sun protection.
• Gaiters: To cover the top of your boots and prevent insects or dirt from getting in.

• Your passport and gorilla permit.
• At least 1-2 litres of water.
• A packed lunch or high-energy snacks.
• Camera and extra batteries (no flash!).
• Insect repellent (containing DEET).
• Basic first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers).