A gorilla safari is an unforgettable experience, offering the rare opportunity to observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. While Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) all share the privilege of being home to these endangered primates, each country provides a unique adventure shaped by its geography, culture, and conservation efforts. From the lush rainforests of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the rugged terrain of the DRC’s Virunga National Park, each destination promises a distinct gorilla trekking experience. Understanding these distinctions can help travellers choose the best option for their adventure and make the most of their once-in-a-lifetime journey to see the mountain gorillas.

1. Location and Geography

Gorilla safaris in the DRC are centred around Virunga National Park, which is Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in the eastern part of the DRC, near the borders with Uganda and Rwanda. The park is known for its stunning landscape, which includes lush rainforests, bamboo forests, and the dramatic volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains, including Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano. In Uganda, gorilla safaris are mostly done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which are both part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area. Bwindi is known for its dense, hilly rainforest, and Mgahinga is situated at the base of the Virunga volcanoes, offering spectacular views and challenging treks.

Rwanda’s gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park, which is also part of the Virunga Mountains and is just a short distance from the border with Uganda. This park is famous for its beautiful rolling hills, picturesque scenery, and lush landscapes that make trekking enjoyable and memorable.

2. Accessibility and Travel Logistics

Traveling to the DRC for a gorilla safari is more complicated and can be less straightforward than visiting Uganda or Rwanda. The nearest major city to Virunga National Park is Goma, which can be reached by plane from Kigali, Rwanda. From Goma, travellers usually take a 1–2-hour drive to the park headquarters. However, travel in the DRC may require crossing borders, obtaining special permits, and taking precautions due to security concerns in the region.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking is relatively easier to access, with many visitors flying into Entebbe or Kampala and then taking a scenic drive to the parks. Depending on traffic and road conditions, this journey can take anywhere from 8-10 hours to Bwindi or Mgahinga. Domestic flights are also available to make travel faster, but these are often more expensive.

Rwanda’s location makes it an easier and more convenient choice for gorilla trekking. Visitors can fly directly to Kigali, the capital city, and then take a 2–3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park. The roads are generally good, and the trip is less challenging compared to Uganda or the DRC.

3. Safety and Security

Safety is an essential consideration when choosing a destination for gorilla trekking. Rwanda is known for being very safe and stable. The country has made significant progress since the 1994 genocide, and it has become a model of stability and development in East Africa. Travelers usually feel secure, and the government prioritizes the safety of tourists.

Uganda is also considered a safe country for gorilla trekking, especially in the areas around Bwindi and Mgahinga. While it is generally safe, travelers should stay updated with travel advisories and avoid certain regions that are far from the main tourist routes.

The DRC, unfortunately, has a reputation for conflict and political instability, especially in the eastern region where Virunga National Park is located. This area has experienced security challenges due to armed groups and political unrest over the years. While Virunga National Park has its own dedicated team of rangers and security measures to protect tourists, travellers need to stay informed and consult with tour operators or embassies for the most current information before planning a trip.

4. Cost of the Safari

Cost is often a deciding factor when choosing between these destinations. Rwanda is the most expensive option, with a gorilla trekking permit typically costing $1,500 per person. This high price includes the expertise of guides, park fees, and a portion that goes towards conservation efforts and local communities.

Uganda offers a more affordable option. A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs between $800 and $1500, which is significantly cheaper than in Rwanda. This makes Uganda a popular choice for travellers who want to see gorillas without the high price tag. Despite being cheaper, Uganda’s permits still include top-notch guides and well-organized experiences.

The DRC has the most budget-friendly permits, usually priced at around $400 to $450. This lower cost can make a trip to the DRC highly appealing, especially for those looking to save money. However, the lower price comes with some compromises in terms of accessibility, security, and infrastructure. It’s important to remember that while the permit cost may be lower, other travel expenses, such as flights, transport, and possible security fees, can add up.

5. Gorilla Viewing and Experience

The gorilla viewing experience in each country has unique features. In Uganda, the trekking routes can be more challenging due to the rugged terrain of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This can make trekking physically demanding, but it also adds to the adventure and sense of achievement when you encounter the gorillas. Bwindi’s dense forest offers a rich, immersive natural environment, making it a more traditional rainforest experience.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park provides a slightly different experience. The terrain is generally less dense, making it easier to trek and offering a shorter, less strenuous hike in most cases. The park has a well-established system that focuses on minimizing the impact on the gorillas and ensuring a safe experience for visitors. This makes Rwanda a great option for those who may not be in top physical condition but still want to enjoy seeing mountain gorillas.

The DRC’s Virunga National Park offers a thrilling, off-the-beaten-path experience. The trekking can be more difficult and unpredictable due to the park’s rugged landscape and variable weather conditions. This adds an element of adventure and excitement, but it also means that travelers should be prepared for a physically demanding journey. The experience in Virunga can be rawer and more intense, offering a deeper connection with the wilderness.

6. Conservation and Wildlife Protection

Conservation is a significant focus in Rwanda. The government prioritizes protecting the gorillas and has put in place strict regulations to limit the number of visitors and control the human impact on their habitat. The revenue from tourism contributes directly to the conservation programs and supports local communities through eco-tourism initiatives. This commitment has led to a steady increase in the mountain gorilla population in Rwanda.

Uganda has also seen positive results from its conservation efforts. The Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA) works closely with local communities to protect gorillas and promote eco-tourism. The revenue from trekking permits is reinvested into park conservation and local development projects.

In the DRC, Virunga National Park has faced significant challenges, including poaching, illegal mining, and conflicts that impact conservation. However, the park is protected by a dedicated team of rangers and supported by international conservation organizations. Tourism plays an important role in funding these efforts, so a visit to Virunga contributes directly to the park’s protection and ranger salaries. Despite the challenges, Virunga remains one of the best places for conservation-driven tourism, as it helps provide jobs and income for the local population.

7. Wildlife Diversity

While the focus of gorilla safaris is obviously on the mountain gorillas, wildlife diversity can vary. In Rwanda, besides gorillas, you may also see golden monkeys, various bird species, and other animals. Volcanoes National Park is close to other protected areas, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts who want a chance to see more than just gorillas.

Uganda is known for its exceptional wildlife diversity. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, for instance, is home to over 350 bird species, primates like colobus and vervet monkeys, and other animals such as forest elephants. The nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park offers safari experiences with lions, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, giving travellers more options for wildlife viewing.

The DRC is incredibly rich in wildlife, and Virunga National Park is no exception. In addition to the mountain gorillas, the park is home to rare forest elephants, hippopotamuses, chimpanzees, and a variety of bird species.

8. Accommodations and Facilities

The accommodation options vary greatly between the countries. In Rwanda, the accommodations near Volcanoes National Park are well-developed, with options ranging from luxury lodges and boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. The facilities are modern, and there are more choices for different budget levels.

Uganda has a wide range of accommodations as well, from basic lodges to mid-range hotels and luxury safari camps. Bwindi and Mgahinga have several options that provide a cozy and authentic experience. However, some roads leading to the park may not be in the best condition, which can affect the ease of travel.

The DRC has fewer and more basic accommodations. While there are high-end lodges and camps available, especially in Goma and near Virunga, options may be limited and less consistent. Some lodges are comfortable but not as luxurious as those in Rwanda or Uganda. Travelers should be prepared for fewer amenities and simpler facilities, especially in more remote areas.

9. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for gorilla trekking in all three countries is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate, and the chance of rain is lower. However, in Rwanda, the weather is more temperate year-round, so you might find that the trekking conditions are manageable even in the wet season.

Uganda is known for its year-round trekking opportunities, but the wet seasons (from March to May and November) can make trekking more challenging and the trails muddier. The DRC is also best visited during the dry season, but unpredictable weather can still make treks more strenuous than in Uganda or Rwanda.

Conclusion

Choosing between a gorilla safari in the DRC, Uganda, or Rwanda ultimately comes down to your preferences for cost, safety, comfort, and adventure. Rwanda is best for those looking for a top-notch, accessible experience with a high focus on conservation. Uganda offers a balance of cost-effectiveness and wildlife diversity, making it an excellent option for travellers seeking more variety. The DRC provides a true adventure into less-trodden paths, but with added challenges related to accessibility and security. All three destinations provide an unforgettable experience that allows you to come face-to-face with the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Rwanda Gorilla Trek Cost – Rwanda Safaris : Primate Safaris .

Volcanoes National Park is a national park in northwestern Rwanda. It covers 160 km2 (62 sq. mi) of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo. It borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. It is home to the mountain gorilla and the golden monkey, and was the base for the primatologist Dian Fossey.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is best known for mountain gorilla trekking but the park is also rich with many other exotic activities to engage in. Rwanda hosts almost a third of the world’s estimated population of about 900 mountain gorillas. These great apes are protected in the Volcanoes National Park.

The unique opportunity to see gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable, some even say life changing. Encounters with gorillas as they go about their daily lives are carefully managed, with expert trackers and guides leading small groups of tourists up bamboo-covered slopes to spend a precious and awe-inspiring hour just a few feet away from the gentle creatures.

The mountain gorillas are the prime attraction in volcanoes national park with gorilla trekking happening all year round. Because of the high altitude it is generally cold, especially early morning and the evenings, you are advised to carry a light sweater for these times. The park is located only 2 hours from Kigali in the north of Rwanda.

Gorilla trekking price in Rwanda

A gorilla permit is an authorization card that allows you to visit the mountain gorillas, be it in Uganda and Rwanda. With this permit per person, you pay to spend one hour in company of one family of mountain gorillas.

The fees for a gorilla permit are important because they limit the number of tourist access to the parks and also contribute to the conservation efforts of the gorillas. It doesn’t matter how long you take to see the gorillas, it’s still the same price and for one hour.

A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $ 1500 per person. Rwanda provides luxury trekking options and high end accommodation options for those who intend to enjoy a luxury gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda.

Rwanda gorilla permit availability

You can buy your permit up to two years in advance through the Rwanda Development Board or through a registered tour company.

Gorilla Trekking Guidelines in Rwanda are put in place so that travelers abide by them to ensure that at the end of the activity trekkers and gorillas are safe.

1. Gorilla permits

Gorilla trekking permits are a must to have for every trekker intending to trek mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Visitors can obtain their gorilla trekking permits at $1500 per person through a recognized, reliable and trustworthy tour operator or through reservationist at Rwanda Development Board (RDB). A group of eight individuals per day are able to visit each group of gorillas in Rwanda for about one hour.  This means that there are 80 gorilla permits available in Rwanda on a single day.

Please Note: Permits get booked quite early and it’s very necessary to book well in advance.

2. Gorilla trekking process

Before accessing volcanoes national park to carry out gorilla trekking in Rwanda. You have to go through the security check point where you will have be checked for any security threats such as knives, deadly weapons, fire arms than can harm other trekkers and animals .

Tracking the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park involves hiking through the dense vegetation and steep slopes while in search for endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. Gorilla trekking is a strenuous yet also the most rewarding primate adventure that requires you to be physically well. A trek to view mountain gorillas can last you about 3-6 hours but depends on your hiking speed, nature of habitat and location of mountain gorillas. A gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park usually starts with briefing at 7:00am on the set safety measures and actual trek begins at 8:00am. Visitors are accompanied by a professional park ranger guide after you have been assigned to gorilla group to trek.

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is not only about viewing mountain gorillas in the wild but it also gets you opportunity to see other wildlife species. Volcanoes National Park is a home to over 200 bird species and many other primates, mammals, unique flora most of which will be spotted while on a trek to view mountain gorillas.

If you miss the briefing, you will not be allowed to take part in the Rwanda Gorilla Safari even in the event that you’ve purchased a gorilla permit.  Noting this, it goes without saying that being on time is very important.

3. Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

Gorilla trekking rules and regulations serve as guidelines or safety measures not only to ensure survival of mountain gorillas but also to safety of trekkers while in the wild with these creatures. Visitors are always briefed on the set gorilla trekking safety measures early in the morning at Kinigi park headquarters prior embarking on actual trek.

They include among others-gorilla trekking is restricted to only 8 visitors per gorilla family per day, only persons above 15 years are allowed to take park in gorilla trek or obtain gorilla permit, no visitor is allowed to trek gorillas when he or she is sick or not feeling well, visitors are not allowed to eat, drink or smoke while on trek to view mountain gorillas, a distance of 7 meters should be kept at all times away from gorillas, keep your voice low but feel free to ask as many questions as possible and many others.

4. Where to go for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is only conducted in habituated gorilla families, each of which offers trekkers a unique experience. Every habituated gorilla family is assigned to visitors to trek in a group of 8 visitors each day. The habituated groups that have been set for gorilla tours in Volcanoes National Park include;

The Amahoro group this group is usually found between the Karisoke and the Visoke peaks of the Virunga volcanoes. This group has about 17 gorillas. Together with the Umubano group of 11, they are the furthest from the park headquarters.

The Sabinyo Group is usually found between Mt. Sabinyo and Gahinga. It has about 12 individuals, with a couple of silverbacks in the group.

Agashya Group, formerly referred to as “Group Thirteen”, is often found close to the Sabinyo group, and has about 25 gorillas including two silverbacks.

The Susa Group is the largest in volcanoes NP with about 40 individuals, including 3 silverbacks. This group is usually found high up on Mount Karisimbi, which makes for a relatively more challenging hike, but it is well worth the effort.

The Karisimbi Group, which split from the Susa group a few years ago, can be found in the Mt. Karisimbi area. Tracking these two groups requires a full day hike.

The Kwitonda Group has 18 members and was habituated in the DRC. They crossed the border into Rwanda in 2005, and are now open for visitation.

The Hirwa Group has around 11 members including one silverback and a pair of twins.

The Bwenge Group, named after the group silverback, has 11 members and can be a tough trek.

The Ugende Group, whose name means “on the move” – because its 11 individuals are always moving to new areas is also quite difficult to track.

5. When to go for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park can be done at any time of the year. However, it is best to visit Volcanoes National Park to trek mountain gorillas during the dry season which starts in the months of June, July, August, September and December, January, February. During the dry season, gorilla habitat remains relatively drier which makes it a bit simpler for trekkers to hike through the dense rainforest and steep slopes of Volcanoes National Park while in search for mountain gorillas. But you can also pay a visit to Volcanoes National Park to trek mountain gorillas during the wet or rainy season and this usually begins in the months of March, April, May and October, November. The challenge with rainy or wet season is that there is plenty of rainfall and the habitat normally becomes muddy, slippery thus making it a bit challenging to hike through the slippery steep slopes and dense rainforest.

6. Packing list for gorilla trekking

Visitors going for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park are required to pack appropriately starting with essentials first. In your packing list, make sure you include water proof hiking boots that are light weight and offer support to your ankle, water proof day back, drinking water, energy giving snacks, camera but with no flashlight and if it has, please turn it off when taking photos, gardening gloves, long sleeved shirts, trousers, walking stick-this can be got at the park headquarters or lodge, first aid kit to mention but a few.

7. Where to stay in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park comprises of many accommodation options ranging from luxury to budget. They include Mount Gorilla View Lodge/Bisate Lodge/Virunga Lodge/Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (Luxury), Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Midrange), and Kinigi Guesthouse (Budget).

8. Getting to Volcanoes National Park

A gorilla visit to Volcanoes National Park starts by you landing at Kigali International Airport and then drive to northwestern Rwanda to the park about 2-3 hours. Alternatively, drive from Kabale/Bwindi National Park or Mgahinga National Park which is about 3-4 hours’ drive via Katuna or Cyanika border.

In conclusion, the popular Volcanoes National Park is that one exceptional destination that allows you get close to mountain gorillas while in the wild-a magical encounter you need not to miss out in Rwanda.

Kahuzi Biega National Park has suspended all the safari activities in the park, according to the meeting held yesterday at the park offices in Bukavu, they thought it important to close the park to conserve the eastern lowland gorillas .

Effective 18 /03 /2020. The Communication from Virunga national park states that Mountain gorilla trekking in the magic democratic republic of congo till 1/06/2020. it’s just an update following the closure of gorilla trekking in Gabon since these primates suffered more loss during those days that the Ebola disease extended to the western lowland gorillas.

As many of you may have heard, Virunga National Park has taken the decision to close all gorilla tourism in the park due to the rapidly unfolding situation regarding the global spread of COVID-19.

The Park’s temporary closure of mountain gorilla tourism is being undertaken as a precautionary measure and is in line with WHO’s recommendation to restrict movement and limit social contact. For Virunga in particular, it has been taken following advice from scientific experts indication that primates, including mountain gorillas, are highly likely susceptible to complications arising from the COVID-19 virus. We must remain steadfast in safeguarding our population of this endangered species.

We will not be taking any new bookings until the 1st June 2020 but we are committed to reopening our Gorilla tourism as soon as the situation allows.

For all of you who are holding bookings with us in the next two months, we will honor a postponement up to June 2021.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your continued support through this challenging time.

Gabon closed tourist activities in their parks to avoid any risk of transmissions between the humans and the animals.  Gabon, a forest-covered haven for gorillas and chimpanzees, will stop allowing tourists to see its great apes fearing that humans could give the novel coronavirus to the animals, the country’s forest agency said Monday.

The Central African nation has one only confirmed COVID-19 case so far, but fears linger after an Ebola epidemic in 1995 wiped out more than 90 percent of the gorillas in the verdant north.

“We have decided to close tourist activities for viewing the great apes in our parks to avoid any risk of transmissions between humans and the animals,” said Christian Tchemambela of the country’s National Agency for National Parks (ANPN).

“The respiratory viruses that affect humans are easily transmitted to great apes because the two species are so closely related,” he told AFP.

Gabon has taken drastic measures to counter the spread of the virus, closing schools, bars and nightclubs since Friday, a day after the country confirmed its first case — a 27-year-old man who had recently returned from France.

Almost 80 percent of Gabon is covered by forests, and primate habitation programmes have been set up in its parks in recent years to attract tourism and use the income to further finance wildlife protection.

“Because of the new coronavirus, humans being in contact with gorillas pose a threat,” said Tchemambela.

He added that staff working in the parks will be placed in quarantine for 14 days before being able to enter areas near the gorillas.