Gorilla trekking in Africa is among the most profound and unique experiences globally. The gorilla, being an endangered species, is exclusively located in certain protected national parks in East Africa.

As safari specialists, we have hosted over 200,000 satisfied guests from across the globe in our continent, encompassing Rwanda, Uganda, and the Republic of Congo.

These nations are the sole locations globally where mountain gorillas can be observed, with slightly more than fifty percent of the remaining mountain gorillas inhabiting the Virunga Mountains or Massif. A series of volcanoes extends along the boundaries of these three nations, with the mountains and their ecosystems safeguarded by designated national parks in the adjacent countries: Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Odzala-Kokoua National Park in Congo, and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.

The optimal period for gorilla trekking occurs during the dry months, specifically from June to September or between January and February. This is attributable to more favorable trekking conditions, as the terrain may become exceedingly slippery during the wet season.

Observing primates in their natural environment is a transformative experience. We can customize an exceptional gorilla trekking experience for you with our experienced guidance.

What Are the Locations for Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking in the Land of a Thousand Hills

Rwanda, characterized by its volcanic summits and densely wooded inclines, is frequently dubbed the “Land of a Thousand Hills” or the “Switzerland of Africa”. It is a premier site for gorilla trekking and hosts over 700 avian species, rendering it an avian enthusiast’s delight.

Trekking with Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is among the premier locations for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. It is the most accessible park, situated within a two-hour drive from Kigali International Airport, the capital of the country.

This location, part of the Rwandan sector of the Virunga Mountains, is where Dian Fossey commenced her study on mountain gorillas. The location serves as the backdrop for the book and film “Gorillas in the Mist”. It is essential to visit, as it houses more than 400 endangered mountain gorillas.

Additional fauna to anticipate includes the golden monkey, around 200 avian species, and other creatures such as elusive groups of elephants and buffalo.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: The Pearl of Africa

Gorilla trekking is also available in Uganda. Referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” it is among the most distinctive and biodiverse nations globally. This location features 13 species of primates, some of which are exclusive to this region. It hosts 330 animal species and over 1,000 avian species, rendering it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, situated in the southwestern region of Uganda, is the nation’s foremost tourism destination. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In addition to around 400 mountain gorillas, the area hosts 120 mammal species, including as forest duikers, L’Hoest monkeys, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, and bushbuck, along with 220 butterfly and 350 bird species. With considerable fortune, one may observe woodland elephants.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park may be the smallest in the nation. Nonetheless, we can guarantee that dynamite is indeed found in compact forms in this instance. The Virunga Conservation Area, situated between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is next to Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park.

In addition to mountain gorillas, one can anticipate observing a remarkable variety of creatures, including the golden monkey, blue monkey, golden cat, leopard, and other bird species.

Gorilla Trekking in the Rainforest of Africa: Congo

The nation’s name originates from the Congo River, the deepest and second-largest river globally. This country is exceptional for trekking due to its relative obscurity compared to other primate trekking locations, which facilitates greater exclusivity and accessibility.

Trekking for Lowland Gorillas in Odzala-Kokoua National Park

Odzala-Kokoua National Park is situated in northern Republic of Congo, within the core of the second-largest tropical rainforest following the Amazon. This location features western lowland gorillas, forest elephants, and more than 444 kinds of birds.

The primary distinctions between lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas are that mountain gorillas are larger, possess longer hair, and have shorter arms. Lowland gorillas are more frequently observed in trees and inhabit flatter, densely forested terrains, in contrast to mountain gorillas, which can only thrive at high altitudes.

Trekking for Mountain Gorillas in Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is inhabited by the mountain gorilla and is recognized as one of the most biodiverse regions globally. Envision a thick forest, molten lava lakes, and expansive savannah plains.

Additionally, you may integrate your gorilla trekking adventure in the Republic of Congo with a wildlife safari across the adjacent savannah plains to observe species such as lions, buffalo, hippos, and elephants.

Essential Gorilla Trekking Guidelines

The legislation for gorilla trekking are largely same across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Republic of Congo. Primarily, anybody intending to engage in gorilla trekking must obtain a permit. This measure safeguards the animals by limiting the number of permits issued, restricting group size, and permitting each group to interact with a gorilla family for only one hour per day.

A permit in Uganda will approximately cost 800 USD. The cost of a single permit in Rwanda is approximately 1,500 USD per individual. The revenue from these licenses is allocated directly to the conservation of these species inside the respective nations.

It is essential to be at least 15 years of age, and be aware that this sport is physically strenuous due to elevated humidity levels, particularly at higher elevations.  Due to the countries’ proximity to the equator, the climate will be warm and tropical throughout the daytime. Nevertheless, the temperature will decrease markedly upon sunset in the mountainous areas of Rwanda and Uganda. Consequently, it is essential to pack appropriate clothing and equipment.

Essential Packing List for Gorilla Trekking Expedition

To prevent scratches and mosquito bites during gorilla trekking in dense jungles, it is advisable to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. Due to the frequently arduous ascent to reach the gorillas, it is advisable to select lightweight, breathable attire.

• Long-sleeved garment
• Cozy sweater
• Waterproof long trousers are preferred
• Impermeable trekking footwear
• Waterproof jacket
• Headwear
• Numerous pairs of socks
• Gardening gloves
• Insect deterrent
• Camera (please be advised that the use of flash photography is strictly prohibited)

What is the cost of gorilla trekking?

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit varies by location, ranging from 800 to 1,500 USD per individual. These funds immediately aid in the preservation of these primates and their habitat. The total expense of your gorilla trekking vacation is contingent upon several factors. Aside from the location and timing of your visit, consider your lodging, transportation, inclusions, and other expenses.

Inquiring whether gorilla trekking is worthwhile is akin to questioning the necessity of breathing. Indeed, affirmative! Gorilla trekking ranks highly on global bucket lists, offering a unique experience that few have the opportunity to undertake, yet all should endeavor to do so.

Trekking for Chimpanzees in Africa

If gorilla trekking is exceptional, is chimpanzee trekking worthwhile? Absolutely, without reservation! Chimpanzees possess a unique majesty. Heed the insights of Jane Goodall, who devoted her life to the study and conservation of these monkeys. Here are few premier locations for chimpanzee trekking in Africa.

Trekking for Chimpanzees in Tanzania

Tanzania has two protected national parks where chimpanzees can be observed: Mahale Mountain National Park and Gombe National Park.

In Mahale Mountain National Park, one can observe their intriguing anthropoid behavior by strolling around the wooded mountain inclines. Mahale is renowned not just for possessing the largest number of chimpanzees but also as the sole location where chimps and lions coexist.

Conversely, Gombe National Park is renowned for primatologist Jane Goodall, who conducted her research on the endangered chimpanzees and their behavior in this location. A sanctuary for chimpanzees characterized by dense forests, it also hosts several other species, including primates such as vervet and colobus monkeys.

Trekking with Chimpanzees in Rwanda

Strategically situated on a hill between the Nile and Congo Rivers, Nyungwe Forest National Park is exceptionally abundant in biodiversity and safeguards one of eastern Africa’s greatest expanses of montane rainforest.

It is inhabited by a resident population of chimpanzees as well as many other primates, such as the Ruwenzori colobus and L’Hoest’s monkey, over 1,050 plant species including 200 orchid species, 85 animal species, 310 bird species, and more fauna. A notable feature of this national park is the suspended canopy walkway, measuring 200 meters in length and 40 meters in height, which provides a distinctive perspective of the forest.

Trekking for Chimpanzees in Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the second-largest park in Uganda. The primary draw is the habituated group of chimpanzees, alongside 95 animal species, including 10 primate species. The park is home to 600 bird species, establishing it as one of the premier birding sites in East Africa.

In the eastern section of the reserve, there exists the “Valley of Apes,” where one may observe chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and red-tailed monkeys. The southern region of the park is renowned for its atypical tree-climbing lions, a unique and remarkable spectacle.

Integrate Your Journey with Additional Bucket-List Activities

Combining your gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure with visits to other African places is straightforward. If you are traveling such a distance, you should fully immerse yourself in all that Africa has to offer!

One of our most sought-after choices is to amalgamate your gorilla trekking adventure with a Great Migration safari in East Africa. Alternatively, you may enjoy the finest aspects of both Rwanda and Congo through our Primate Expedition Tour or our Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tour. Ultimately, experience the pinnacle of Africa by merging your gorilla trekking adventure with a coastal retreat in Zanzibar.

As the premier safari company globally, we have encountered all of the aforementioned and will curate the optimal safari experiences for you. Utilize our expertise and schedule your gorilla trekking trip today! We eagerly anticipate transforming your life by sharing this experience with you.