Your comparing which is the best country to go gorilla trekking in Africa by looking steadily at the view of either visiting Rwanda or Uganda for the true Primate Safari experience. Primate Safaris Rwanda has done a comprehensive analysis of the best things to consider and select either to trek the gorillas in Uganda or in Rwanda for an adventure.
Uganda and Rwanda are both fantastic places to go gorilla trekking, offering unforgettable experiences in beautiful forests. Deciding which country is best depends on what kind of adventure you want. Uganda is home to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can trek through thick, wild jungles.
The hikes can be tough, with steep and muddy trails, but they feel like a true adventure. Bwindi has many gorilla families, so your chances of seeing them are high. Uganda is also more affordable, with lower permit prices and cheaper accommodation options, making it a great choice for budget travelers. Rwanda, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious and convenient experience in Volcanoes National Park.
The forest is less dense, and the gorilla groups are often easier to reach, which makes the treks shorter and less physically demanding. Rwanda has better infrastructure, and it’s only a few hours’ drive from Kigali, the capital, to the park. However, the permits are much more expensive, and overall costs can be higher.
Gorilla Trekking Uganda Guide 2025- See the gorillas in Uganda
Uganda is one of the top destinations in the world for gorilla trekking, particularly in the famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both of these parks are located in the southwest of Uganda, near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Gorilla Trekking Experience- Practical information about Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Mgahinga
The gorilla trekking experience in Uganda is truly unique. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park is known for its lush, thick forest, which makes trekking quite an adventure. You’ll hike through steep and muddy trails, crossing streams and dense undergrowth, which gives you a real sense of wilderness. The treks can be physically demanding, with some treks lasting between 2 to 8 hours, depending on where the gorilla families are located.
Because of the dense vegetation, the trek can sometimes be difficult, but it also feels like a true jungle adventure. The effort of hiking through the rugged forest makes seeing the gorillas even more rewarding. Many travellers appreciate the sense of discovery and the feeling of being fully immersed in the natural world.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
One of the major advantages of choosing Uganda for gorilla trekking is the cost. Uganda is typically more affordable than Rwanda in terms of permits, accommodation, and other expenses. As of 2025, the price for a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is around $800 per person. While this is still a significant expense, it is much lower than Rwanda, making Uganda a more budget-friendly option for travellers. Additionally, Uganda offers a range of accommodation options, from basic campsites to luxury lodges. This gives travellers the flexibility to choose their level of comfort based on their budget.
The Gorilla Families in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to 18 habituated gorilla families, with over 400 gorillas living in the area. This gives trekkers a good chance of seeing gorillas, as the park is divided into several sectors, each with its own group of gorillas. This means that even if one group is difficult to reach, you can trek to another group without much delay.
Another key aspect of gorilla trekking in Uganda is the opportunity to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is home to three habituated gorilla families. Although this park is smaller and less visited than Bwindi, it offers a more peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience. The treks in Mgahinga can also be shorter and less strenuous, making it a good alternative for those who want a slightly easier trek.
Wildlife and Scenic Views
Beyond gorilla trekking, Uganda offers plenty of other wildlife experiences. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park itself is home to over 350 bird species and a variety of other animals, including monkeys, duikers, and forest elephants. Additionally, the park’s steep hills and mist-covered forests provide stunning panoramic views, making the trek through the park even more beautiful.
For a more diverse wildlife experience, you can combine your gorilla trek with visits to other national parks in Uganda, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, or Kibale National Park. Each of these parks offers the chance to see different animals and landscapes, including tree-climbing lions, elephants, and chimpanzees.
The Trekking Permit Process
In Uganda, obtaining a gorilla trekking permit is relatively straightforward. You can book your permit through a registered tour operator. It’s advisable to book your permit in advance, especially during the high season, as permits can sell out quickly. However, Uganda has a higher number of permits available each day compared to Rwanda, so you may find it easier to secure a permit here.
Accommodation and Comfort
In Uganda, accommodation options range from budget campsites to mid-range lodges to high-end luxury resorts. Many of the lodges near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are set in beautiful natural settings, offering amazing views of the surrounding forest and mountains. However, some of the more remote lodges may not have all the luxuries that some travellers expect, especially in more budget-friendly options.
Accessibility
Uganda is generally more remote compared to Rwanda, and getting to the trekking areas can involve long drives or flights from the capital, Kampala. The roads can be rough, especially during the rainy season, so travellers should be prepared for bumpy rides. However, the adventure of the journey itself is often part of the appeal for many travellers.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guide 2025/2026
Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is another fantastic destination for gorilla trekking, with Volcanoes National Park being the primary location for seeing mountain gorillas. Rwanda is known for its stunning landscapes, with lush green hills and towering volcanoes, which provide a beautiful backdrop for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to about 350 mountain gorillas, which are divided into several habituated families. The trekking experience here is different from Uganda in terms of ease and convenience. The treks in Rwanda tend to be shorter, thanks to the park’s less dense forest and the fact that the gorilla groups are often closer to the park’s headquarters. On average, treks in Rwanda last 1 to 3 hours, although they can sometimes be longer if the gorillas are farther away.
The trails in Volcanoes National Park are also well-maintained, making the trek more comfortable, and you’re more likely to encounter the gorillas sooner. This can make Rwanda a better option for people who may not be as physically fit or those who prefer a less strenuous experience.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda’s gorilla trekking permits are significantly more expensive than Uganda’s. As of 2025, a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs around $1,500 per person. While this higher cost might be a downside for some, it does include the convenience of shorter treks, higher-end services, and often a more luxurious experience overall.
Rwanda also offers a range of accommodation options, from basic guesthouses to high-end lodges like the famous Bisate Lodge and Volcanoes Virunga Lodge. These lodges offer fantastic views of the surrounding volcanoes and provide a more upscale experience compared to Uganda. If you’re looking for a luxurious and comfortable experience, Rwanda’s gorilla trekking options might be more suited to your preferences.
The Gorilla Families in Rwanda
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 habituated gorilla families, and the park has made significant efforts in gorilla conservation. The gorillas here are well protected, and the park is part of Rwanda’s broader conservation strategy, which has led to an increase in the mountain gorilla population. Rwanda’s gorilla groups tend to be more accessible compared to those in Uganda, and the treks are often shorter and easier, making it easier to encounter the gorillas.
Wildlife and Scenic Views
While Rwanda is best known for its gorillas, it also offers beautiful landscapes and other wildlife experiences. Volcanoes National Park’s dramatic volcanic mountains and rolling green hills make for a breathtaking trekking experience. Rwanda’s unique scenery, combined with its efforts to preserve the environment, makes it a stunning country to visit. Additionally, you can visit Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is home to chimpanzees, monkeys, and a variety of bird species, for a more diverse wildlife experience.
The Trekking Permit Process
The process for obtaining a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is similar to Uganda’s. You can book permits through a registered tour operator. However, since Rwanda’s permits are in high demand and more expensive, it’s crucial to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Rwanda offers a limited number of permits each day, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
Accommodation and Comfort
In Rwanda, the accommodation options tend to be a bit more upscale, with several luxury lodges and boutique hotels located near Volcanoes National Park. These lodges offer comfortable rooms, great views of the volcanoes, and fine dining options. Rwanda’s infrastructure is more developed, so travellers can expect a higher level of comfort during their stay, especially when compared to some of Uganda’s more rustic options.
Accessibility
Rwanda has better infrastructure and is easier to access compared to Uganda. The capital city, Kigali, is just a short 2–3-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park. The roads are well-maintained, and the journey to the park is more comfortable. Many visitors find this aspect of Rwanda’s gorilla trekking experience appealing, as it makes the overall trip less tiring.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a more adventurous, rugged experience at a lower cost. Uganda offers more families to visit, more challenging treks, and a variety of wildlife experiences outside of gorilla trekking. It’s a great option if you want to explore Uganda’s beautiful national parks and enjoy a more remote and immersive trekking experience. While if you prefer a more comfortable, accessible trekking experience with shorter treks and luxurious accommodation options. Rwanda is ideal for travellers who want to enjoy gorilla trekking without the challenging hikes, and its infrastructure makes it easier to travel around.
