Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda : Imagine yourself in a rare moment, a few meters for a huge mountain gorilla, crouched on the forest floor, avoiding eye contact respectfully while observing these beautiful gorillas going on with their life in the forest up close.
Mountain gorillas are rare-endangered species only found in three countries – Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and live in four national parks including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park.
Our gorilla trekking tours offer an exclusive opportunity, a privilege to witness them in their natural habitat in the tropical forests.
Mountain gorillas are social animals living in family groups led by a dominant silverback male and are majestic, highly intelligent and social creatures. They communicate through a repertoire of up to 25 distinct sounds, they share strong family bounds and are known to create and use tools. Seeing them build nests on the ground or in tree using branches and leaves is fascinating, they do this during the day and at night.
Sadly, mountain gorillas are critically endangered according to the IUCN Red List.
A gorilla family divides its day between rest periods and traveling or feeding, covering a small home range on any given day. Tracking them is, therefore, reasonably manageable.
Join us on gorilla trekking adventures of a lifetime. Let them leave an indelible mark on your conscience, inspiring a deeper connection with nature and a renewed commitment to conservation. This experience is not just a journey but a soul-stirring connection with these magnificent creatures and natural world.
Where To Go Gorilla Trekking
- Volcanoes National Park , Rwanda
Rwanda – the land of a thousand hills is the ideal destination for an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking adventure. On a Rwanda gorilla safari, you will join an expert guide and a small group of up to eight people to visit one of the habituated gorilla families in the mist forests of Volcanoes National Park.
During your permitted one-hour stop, you can observe and photography these gentle giants in their unspoilt environment as they interact with each other, feed, play and rest.
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and the world as well, the park is hosts half of the remaining population of mountain gorillas with the most habituated gorilla families open for gorilla trekking.
This wildlife sanctuary offers stunning scenery, lush rainforest and diverse wildlife. You can choose between different gorilla families and various trekking options, you will have a once in a life time experience you will never forget.
We arrange seamless and exciting travel adventures using our network of trusted transportation, superb accommodation and conservation partners.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – the smallest national park in Uganda offers an iconic gorilla trekking adventure. You can track endangered mountain gorillas, hike the Virunga Volcanoes and witness abundant wildlife. The park has one habituated gorilla group that lives there, although tracking these great apes is sporadic due to their occasional wanderings into neighboring Rwanda, the group has remained in Uganda for the past three year making gorilla trekking possible.
When To Go Gorilla Trekking
The best time to go gorilla trekking is June to September and December to February, the periods are the optimal dry seasons in Rwanda and Uganda. The trails teddy to be less muddy, the vegetation cover is sparser and the gorillas tend to stay in the lower attitudes making them easier to spot.
The dry seasons also offer clear views and favorable photography conditions, peak season gorilla trekking means higher lodge costs and high demand for gorilla permits.
The wet seasons from March to May and October to November, are more challenging but possible. The trails are slippery and the gorillas are additionally elusive and unpredictable. However, the wet season have advantages such as reduced prices and fewer crowds, while the forests are lush and green.
Good To Know
Fitness And Etiquette
Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding adventure that can take one to eight hours. You will be hiking up steep slopes on muddy trails and through thick vegetation, often at high altitudes. It is essential to start exercising at least six months before your trip to prepare for gorilla trekking, by hiking with a backpack and getting used to the shoes you plan to wear.
During gorilla encounters, keep a minimum distance of 7 meters (23 feet) from gorillas, do not touch, feed or provoke them, and avoid making eye contact, pointing or using flash photography. Due to our close genetic relationship, gorillas are vulnerable to human disease. Speak softly and refrain from making sudden movements or noises.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a memorable encounter and contribute to their conservation and protection. Remember, you are a guest in their forest.
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