Gorilla Trekking Tours in Rwanda & Uganda, Safari Adventures & Trip Cost

Trekking to see gorillas in their natural habitat is such a mesmerizing experience that you should be part of while on a Rwanda safari holiday.

There are only 3 countries in the world where treks to view mountain gorillas can be done.

These include Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Rwanda gorilla trekking experience involves exploring the Volcanoes National Park, also popular as Parc Nationale des Volcans, to see mountain gorillas.

As of 2016, Parc Nationale des Volcans consisted of only 7 habituated gorilla families, each trekked by 8 tourists per day.

Today, Rwanda’s Parc Nationale des Volcans has a total of 10 habituated mountain gorilla families, and it is the only destination to visit for gorilla trekking.

About mountain gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda & Congo

Mountain gorillas are a subspecies of Eastern gorillas found in four national parks in the world, namely; Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Bwindi impenetrable forest national park, and Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda.

Mountain gorillas derive their name from their habitat; they live in higher elevations of rainforests in mountainous areas. Their thick and long fur helps them adapt to the environment in which they live.

Mountain gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans and also have nose prints unique to each individual, just like human thumbprints are identical to each of them.

Male mountain gorillas can weigh from 120kg to 191kg, while females can weigh from 70kg to 98kg.

Gorillas have been observed to use 25 vocalizations while communicating, including sounds like grunting, screams, roars, signal alarms, warnings, and barks.

For reasons unknown, mountain gorillas fear some reptiles like caterpillars and chameleons.

Mountain gorillas spend most of their day foraging and rest during midday when they bond and groom each other within the family.

Mountain gorillas mainly feed on vegetation composed of bamboo shoots, stems, roots, leaves, barks, fruits, and sometimes supplement their diet with invertebrates like white ants and insects.

Gorillas feed on up to 149 plant species; female mountain gorillas can eat up to 18 kilograms of vegetation in one day, while males can eat up to 34 kilograms of vegetation in a day.

Mountain gorillas are very calm and gentle animals that only become very aggressive if disturbed.

Even then, mountain gorillas first send warnings to their opponent by making groaning sounds, loud hoots, throwing vegetation, and if the opponent doesn’t back off, then they launch the attack.

Essential African Gorilla Trekking Tips:

• Carry a valid gorilla permit.
• Maintain a social distance of 8-10 meters from gorillas throughout your gorilla trek.
• Use a camera with no flashlight for taking pictures.
• Visitors aren’t allowed to smoke, drink, or eat in the presence of gorillas.
• Bring along insect repellents.
• Have gardening gloves.
• Ensure that you have a rain jacket or poncho, and hiking boots, preferably waterproof.
• Carry a bottle of drinking water and some snacks.

Comparing Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda & DR Congo

A Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda is one of the most beautiful African countries any nature lover should consider a must-visit on an African safari.

Also known as The Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda is a landlocked country with a unique history, and regardless of its dark past, it has tremendously transformed.

Rwanda lies along the Great Rift Valley, a region where East Africa and the Great Lakes of Africa meet. It is a small country, and Kigali is its capital city.

The Republic of Rwanda is surrounded by a number of East and Central African States, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and Uganda.

It is found at a high altitude, and its landscape is characterized by rolling hills, hence the term ‘The Land of a Thousand Hills.’

To the west, Rwanda is largely mountainous, and to the east, it consists of several lakes countrywide.

Rwanda generally experiences varying climatic conditions from temperate to sub-tropical.

Each year, it records 2 phases of wet season and dry season.

Location of Rwanda

Rwanda is found in East-Central Africa, 121kms south of the Equator crossing in the Tropic of Capricorn, 1250kms east of the Atlantic Ocean, and 1416kms west of the Indian Ocean.

To the North, it is bordered by Uganda, to the East lies Tanzania, to the West is D.R.C, and in the south, there is Burundi.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

When you think of visiting Rwanda, there is probably one reason, nothing except gorilla trekking.

This offers tourists the opportunity to enjoy 1 hour face-to-face with mountain gorillas that share 98% of their DNA with humans.

For over 2 decades, Rwanda has committed herself to protecting mountain gorillas.

Today, gorilla tracking in Rwanda is a major safari highlight among most of its tourists who come for a holiday.

All Rwanda gorilla treks are done in Parc Nationale des Volcans, Northwestern Rwanda, which is 2-3 hours’ drive away from Kigali.

This 160sq.kms protected area currently has 10 habituated gorilla families open for gorilla tourism in Rwanda.

The gorilla family groups here include Hirwa, Agashya, Ugenda, Amahoro, Karisimbi (Susa B), Susa A, Kwitonda, Umubano, Sabyinyo, and Bwenge.

A normal Rwanda gorilla trekking experience lasts for 2-6 hours and includes 1 hour of close encounter with mountain gorillas.

You will only be allowed to trek gorillas if you are above 15 years and have a valid gorilla permit.

Rwanda gorilla permits are available for purchase at $1500 and can be booked through a reliable tour operator/company/agency or by contacting the Rwanda Development Board reservation team.

More about Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

The mountain gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda is a once in a lifetime experience every primate lover and visitor to Rwanda, specifically to the famous Volcanoes national park always looks forward to.

Volcanoes national park in Rwanda is one of the only 4 wild natural homes of the endangered mountain gorillas in the world, other being Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is carried out everyday throughout the year in the early morning with only a group of 8 people permitted to trek a given mountain gorilla family at a time.

The treks are always guided with each group escorted by armed park rangers and a head guide for the trek.

Visitors will trek through the Volcanoes forest for about 2-6 hours until they find the gorilla family with which they will spend a full 1 hour with under favorable conditions.

Only and only visitors who have acquired the Gorilla trekking permit are allowed into the Volcanoes forest to trek the endangered mountain gorillas.

A gorilla permit for Volcanoes national park costs 1,500 US dollars per person.

The Private Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda

More people are seeking to have a more personal, private close encounter with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, reason why they do take on private gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park.

For a private gorilla trekking experience, visitors can book to trek a particular gorilla family solos/alone, with close friends or family and or as a couple, on your exclusive honeymoon safari in Rwanda.

Normally, a total of 8 visitors are allowed to trek the gorillas in Volcanoes national park in Rwanda, so, for a private gorilla trekking experience, visitors will be required to pay for all the 8-gorilla trekking permits inclusive of yours and for the other visitors who would have paid for the gorilla trekking experience that day.

Other things remain a constant during the private gorilla trekking experience like the number of trekkers does not exceed 8, the trek starts in the early morning with a briefing at the head offices in Volcanoes National Park and a 1-hour close encounter with the mountain gorilla family from the time you meet them in the jungle before returning from the forest.

You will still be escorted by armed park rangers and a guide. The gorilla trekking experience usually takes 2-6 hours, more or less depending on the location of the gorilla family you are trekking.

Booking for a gorilla permit

Visitors can book for their gorilla trekking permits directly with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or through their chosen reputable tour operators.

It is advisable to book for your gorilla trekking permits in advance as they are on demand in Rwanda as the activity is the most popular among tourists to Rwanda.

Gorilla trekking age limit

Only visitors aged 15 and above and in good health are permitted to trek mountain gorillas in Volcanoes national park.

Best time to trek gorillas in Rwanda in Volcanoes national park

Gorillas in Rwanda can be trekked anytime during the year; however, the dry season is the best time as the park doesn’t receive as much rain during the dry season hence the trekking trails are much drier, less slippery and easy to navigate.

The flora is also not as dense, thus giving you good visibility of the mountain gorillas. June to early October and December to early March.s

Getting to Volcanoes national park

You can access the park by road from Kigali or South Western Uganda using public or private transport.

You can also fly to Volcanoes National Park from Kigali International airport on a private helicopter transfer.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda Gorillas

Rwanda gorilla trekking is a year-round primate adventure. However, the best time to see gorillas in Rwanda’s Parc Nationale des Volcans is during the dry months/season.

The longest dry months start from June to September, making it a perfect time for easier treks along the steep slopes with clearer vegetation.

This period is also considered a peak season, so it’s essential to book your gorilla permit in advance.

Rwanda can also be visited to see gorillas during the wet/rainy season.

The long rainy months are from March to May, and the short rains occur from October to November.

During these months, Volcanoes National Park experiences its low season, which means you must be prepared for slippery steep slopes or muddy ground due to heavy rains.

However, it’s worth noting that rain can be short-lived, allowing you to continue your search for gorilla families.

Popular Rwanda Gorilla Families & Groups

As of 2024, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to several habituated gorilla families, each with its own unique characteristics and history.

Here’s a summary of some of the gorilla families in the park:

• Susa Family (Susa A): This is the largest group in the park, consisting of 33 members including 2 Silverbacks. Originally, it had 42 members before splitting. The family is known for the rare twins found in the group and is located at the lower base of Mountain Karisimbi.
• Karisimbi Family (Susa B): Originally part of the Susa family, this group split off in 2008. It has about 16 members with two Silverbacks and is located on the upper slopes of Mount Karisimbi.
• Hirwa Group: Known as the “Lucky One”, this group was habituated in 2006 and has 16 members. It is located at the foothills of the Gahinga and Sabyinyo volcanoes.
• Sabyinyo Family: This family, inhabiting the slopes between Mountain Sabyinyo and Mount Gahinga, has 13 members and two Silverbacks, including one of the largest in the park.
• Umubano Family: This family split from the Amahoro family due to clashes between Silverbacks and has remained strong allies with Amahoro.
• Bwenge Gorilla Group: Consisting of 11 members with 1 Silverback, this family resides within the Karisoke mountain slopes.
• Agashya Family: Previously known as the 13 group, this family has over 25 members, led by the dominant silverback Agashya. They occupy the same territory as the Sabyinyo group.
• Amahoro Family: Known for its peaceful nature, the Amahoro group has about 18 members and lives on the slopes of Mountain Karisimbi.
• Kwitonda Group: This group is led by Silverback Kwitonda and was originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo before resettling in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
• Pablo Gorilla Family: Named after the lead Silverback, Pablo, this family is under the close monitoring of the Dian Fossey fund.
• Titus Family: One of the first families to be habituated and has a significant history. It’s named after its head Silverback, Titus.
• Muhoza Family: The newest family in the park, led by the young Silverback Muhoza, and located on the lower mountain slopes.

Each of these families offers a unique trekking experience due to their distinct locations, group dynamics, and histories.

Other Things to do in Rwanda

Other than trekking to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, there are many other amazing activities for you to engage in on a Rwanda safari. They include:

Golden monkey tracking in Rwanda

Visiting Rwanda isn’t only about trekking mountain gorillas but also getting up close with golden monkeys in the wild.

Golden monkey treks in Rwanda are done in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, a section of Virunga Conservation Area.

Volcano climbing in Rwanda

Hikers are also not left out when it comes to safaris in Rwanda.

Some of the best hiking spots in Rwanda include Bisoke (3711m) and Karisimbi volcanoes (4507m) in Volcanoes National Park.

More activities include Bird-watching, Kigali city tour, Game drive, Boat cruise, Nature walk, Canopy walk, Visit the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo and Cultural experience among other activities.

Other Reasons to Visit Rwanda

• Hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb: Explore the gorilla conservation legacy of the former researcher and primatologist, Dian Fossey, by hiking to her tomb site. This experience allows you to appreciate her dedication to protecting mountain gorillas and her establishment of the Karisoke Research Centre.
• Enjoy an African safari in Akagera National Park: Located about 2 and a half hours’ drive from Eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savanna park where you can see the big five game.
• Climbing/hiking/trekking: Rwanda offers excellent volcano climbing adventure experiences, including treks to Karisimbi volcano summits (4507m) and Mt. Bisoke, among others.
• Primate encounters: Rwanda is home to various primate species, including chimpanzees, blue monkeys, golden monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, and more. You can encounter them in Nyungwe Forest National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park.
• Bird-watching: Rwanda is an excellent birding destination with over 700 bird species, making it a birder’s paradise.
• Chimpanzee trekking: You can trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park.
• Explore the diverse and exciting activities Rwanda has to offer beyond gorilla trekking for a memorable safari experience.

A Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda is situated in East Africa and boasts the highest population of mountain gorillas, found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park.

The country also offers the best chimpanzee trekking.

Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda starts with booking a gorilla trekking permit through a trusted travel company or directly through Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Once you acquire the gorilla trekking permit, you can then travel to either Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga National Park, depending on where you obtained the permit.

Gorilla trekking in both national parks starts early in the morning with a briefing from the park headquarters.

You will then be allocated to a particular mountain gorilla family, and two ranger guides will take you through the rain-forests in search of the gorilla family.

Once you find the gorilla family, your trekking group is given an hour to get a close look at these human close relatives and take photos.

However, in case of any threats from the mountain gorillas, the visit will end early.

This can be avoided by following the gorilla trekking rules and regulations.

Each day, only a group of eight travelers is allowed to trek one gorilla family.

Trekkers should not show signs of infectious diseases like flu and cough.

Persons under 15 years of age will not be allowed to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda.

Why Trek Uganda Gorillas?

There are many reasons to trek Uganda gorillas, and below are some of the most popular:

Uganda Gorilla Permits are cheap

Uganda offers affordable mountain gorilla trekking permits compared to Rwanda.

Uganda charges $800 per person per trekking, while Rwanda charges $1500 per person per trekking.

Although the Democratic Republic of Congo offers the cheapest gorilla permits at $400 per person, the country is sometimes not considered safe to visit, making Uganda the best place for trekking mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Permits for Ages 15 and Above Only

Accommodation in Uganda

Unlike Virunga National Park and Volcanoes National Park, where most lodges are luxurious and expensive, Uganda’s gorilla national parks offer a wide range of accommodation options, allowing travelers to select a hotel that suits their budget.

Number of Uganda Gorilla Families

Uganda has the highest number of mountain gorilla families compared to the other two countries.

Therefore, there is always availability of gorilla permits, even during the peak season, which is not the case in other gorilla national parks where habituated families are few.

The Uganda Gorilla Habituation Experience

One of the reasons why you should trek Uganda gorillas is gorilla habituation.

Uganda offers visitors a chance to join researchers and rangers in the process of habituating mountain gorillas at the same cost as trekking mountain gorillas in Rwanda.

If you want to experience both gorilla trekking and habituation, Uganda is the best option.

Where to trek gorillas in Uganda

Uganda gorillas can be trekked in the following parks:

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the most visited national parks in Uganda, harboring half the population of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas.

The park is also home to 349 species of birds, 120 species of mammals, 27 species of frogs, 220 species of butterflies, 1000 flowering plants, 104 species of ferns, and 163 species of trees.

In 1932, two blocks of Bwindi National Park were designated as crown forest reserves, and it became an animal sanctuary in 1964.

In 1991, it was established as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

Due to the park’s ecological importance, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest park in Uganda, covering an area of 33 square kilometers.

The park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, with three of the Virunga massif volcanoes found within the park.

It is also home to the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

Uganda gorilla permits

Uganda gorilla permits cost $800 per person per trekking for foreign non-residents, while foreign residents pay $700 per person per trekking, and East African residents pay 250,000 shillings.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Uganda introduced promotional rates for gorilla trekking permits from December to June 30, 2021.

These promotional rates cost $400 for foreign non-residents and foreign residents, while East African residents pay only 150,000 Ugandan shillings.

The promotion may continue for the entirety of 2021.

Popular Uganda Gorilla Families

Below are some of the popular Uganda gorilla families:

Nyakagezi Gorilla Family: Nyakagezi gorilla family is the only fully habituated mountain gorilla family in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The group was originally led by Bujingo, the silverback at the time of habituation, but it’s now currently being led by Mark, who took over from his father. The group is composed of 9 individuals, including 4 silverbacks, 2 adult females, 2 infants, and 1 juvenile.

Busingye Gorilla Family: Busingye gorilla family can be trekked from Rushaga sector of Bwindi National Park. This group was formed when silverback Busingye split from his former group, Kahungye mountain gorilla family, to form his own group. The name Busingye means “peace,” although silverback Busingye is not peaceful as he often fights other gorilla groups to grab individuals.

Kahungye Gorilla Family: Kahungye gorilla family is also found in Rushaga sector of Bwindi National Park. It originally consisted of 23 members at the time of habituation, but the group split to form Busingye mountain gorilla family barely a year after habituation.

Nshongi Gorilla Family: Nshongi gorilla family was one of the largest habituated mountain gorilla groups, consisting of 37 members at the time of habituation. The group split up to form Mishaya mountain gorilla family when silverback Mishaya fought and took away some individuals.

Mubare Gorilla Family: Mubare gorilla family was the first habituated gorilla family in Uganda in 1991 and opened for trekking in 1993. The group was named after Mubare hills in Bwindi, where they were first spotted by rangers. This group can be trekked from Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

Rushegura Gorilla Family: Rushegura gorilla family used to be part of Habinyanja gorilla family until they split up in 2002. The separation was caused by two brothers, silverback Mwirima and Silverback Rwansigazi, who took over the group leadership from their father but had differences. Mwirima preferred foraging within short ranges, while Rwansigazi preferred long distances. The split up was peaceful, and the name of the group was derived from the place where separation took place.

Mukiza Gorilla Family: Mukiza gorilla family is one of the newly habituated mountain gorilla families in Ruhijja sector of Bwindi National Park. Mukiza mountain gorilla family split from Kywguliro mountain gorilla family, which was being led by silverback Mukiza after the death of the dominant silverback Rukina. Another lone silverback, Rukara, a former member of Bitukura gorilla family, started having fights with Mukiza, leading Mukiza to leave with some members to form his own gorilla family.

Bweza Gorilla Family: Bweza gorilla family can be trekked from Rushaga sector of Bwindi National Park. This group used to belong to one of the largest mountain gorilla groups, Nshongi family, until silverback Bweza decided to break off and took some individuals with him.

Mishaya Gorilla Family: Mishaya gorilla family was also part of the Nshongi mountain gorilla family until silverback Mishaya decided to split and form his own gorilla family. The family was opened up for tourism in 2010 and can be trekked from Rushaga sector of Bwindi National Park.

Nkuringo Gorilla Family: Nkuringo gorilla family was first spotted around Nkuringo hills in Bwindi, hence their family name Nkuringo. The group was dominated by silverback Nkuringo until his death in 2008. His sons Rafiki and Safari took over the group leadership. The group has 19 members, including a set of twins, making it one of the most interesting groups to visit in Bwindi.

Kyaguriro Gorilla Family: Kyaguriro gorilla family can be trekked from Ruhijja sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This was one of the earliest habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, although it was set apart for research and not opened for tourism.

Oruzongo Gorilla Family: Oruzongo gorilla family can be trekked from Ruhijja sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. It’s one of the lucky families with twins and many other infants in the group. The group is made up of 17 individuals and is dominated by silverback Bakwate.

Bitukura Gorilla Family: Bitukura gorilla family is one of the newly habituated families and is located in Buhoma sector of Bwindi National Park. What makes this group interesting is that it has four silverbacks, with the second youngest silverback Ndahura leading the group, which is not a common case with gorilla families, as silverbacks usually do not live in harmony, especially with a younger one leading the family.

Habinyanja Gorilla Family: Habinyanja gorilla family can be trekked from Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This is one of the earliest mountain gorilla families in the park and was led by silverback Mukurisi at the time of habituation. His sons split the group to form Rushegura mountain gorilla family after his death.

Bushaho Gorilla Family: Bushaho gorilla family can be trekked from Nkuringo sector of Bwindi. The group is composed of 9 individuals and is dominated by silverback Bahati.

Bikingi Gorilla Family: Bikingi gorilla family was habituated together with Bushaho mountain gorilla family. The group derives its name from its family home ranges where they were first spotted. The group can be trekked from Rushaga sector of Bwindi and is dominated by silverback Bukingi.

Christmas Gorilla Family: Christmas gorilla family derives its name from the dominating silverback Christmas, who was named so because he was born on Christmas day. The group can be trekked from Nkuringo sector of Bwindi National Park.

Katwe Gorilla Family: Katwe gorilla family was opened up for tourism in 2014 at Buhoma sector of the park. The group is composed of 10 individuals with 1 silverback.

Mucugunzi Gorilla Family: Mucugunzi gorilla family was formed when silverback Mucugunzi was chased from Bweza mountain gorilla family and became a lone silverback. Mucugunzi went and attacked Bikingi mountain gorilla family and grabbed some members to start up his own gorilla family.

Best time to see gorillas in Uganda

Uganda offers gorilla trekking permits all year round, and tourists can visit at any time of the year.

However, the best time to see mountain gorillas is during the dry season, which occurs from June to August and December to February.

During this period, roads leading to the park are in good condition, and the trekking trails are not muddy and slippery.

This is also the best time for photographing mountain gorillas because the vegetation is less thick, allowing for clearer photos.

Popular Gorilla Safari lodges in Uganda, Rwanda & DR Congo

For those seeking the height of luxury during their gorilla safari experience, lodges such as One&Only Gorilla’s Nest and Bisate Lodge in Rwanda, or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge and Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp in Uganda, offer top-tier accommodations, high-end amenities, and personalized services.

These lodges provide an immersive experience, combining gorilla trekking with comfort. Other luxury options include Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge and Virunga Lodge in Rwanda, as well as Mahogany Springs Lodge and Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge in Uganda, all of which are known for their exceptional service and exclusive settings.

For travelers preferring mid-range accommodations that balance comfort and affordability, options like Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel and Mountain Gorilla View Lodge in Rwanda, or Chameleon Hill Lodge and Gorilla Safari Lodge in Uganda, are excellent choices.

These lodges offer comfortable rooms and essential amenities without sacrificing the authentic travel experience. Other notable mid-range lodges include Engagi Lodge, Silverback Lodge, and Rushaga Gorilla Camp in Uganda, as well as Virunga Inn Resort and Spa and Villa Gorilla in Rwanda, all offering a good blend of convenience, comfort, and value.

For budget travelers, there are plenty of affordable lodges that provide affordable accommodation. Options like Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge and Fatima Hotel in Rwanda, or Bakiga Lodge and Ruhija Gorilla Mist Camp in Uganda, offer basic but comfortable accommodations close to the gorilla trekking areas.

Budget lodges such as Gorilla Valley Lodge, Bwindi View Bandas, and Ride 4 A Woman Guesthouse in Uganda, as well as Isange Paradise Resort and Best View Hotel in Rwanda, ensure that guests can enjoy their gorilla safari experience while staying within their budget.

Popular Gorilla Trekking FAQs

Here are 30 FAQs based on the provided data about gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo:

1. What countries offer mountain gorilla trekking? Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are the only countries where mountain gorilla trekking is possible.
2. Which national parks are home to mountain gorillas? Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in Congo.
3. What is the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda? A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person.
4. How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost in Uganda? In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs $800 per person.
5. What is the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Congo? In Congo, a gorilla trekking permit costs $400 per person.
6. How many habituated gorilla families are in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda? Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda has 10 habituated gorilla families.
7. How long does a typical gorilla trek last in Rwanda? A typical gorilla trek in Rwanda lasts 2-6 hours, including 1 hour spent with the gorillas.
8. What is the age limit for gorilla trekking? The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years.
9. What should I bring on a gorilla trek? Essential items include a valid gorilla permit, insect repellent, gardening gloves, a rain jacket, waterproof hiking boots, drinking water, and snacks.
10. What are some popular luxury lodges for gorilla trekking in Rwanda? One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge are popular luxury lodges in Rwanda.
11. Which lodges are recommended for mid-range budgets in Uganda? Chameleon Hill Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Silverback Lodge are good mid-range options in Uganda.
12. What is the best time to trek gorillas in Uganda? The best time is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February.
13. What is the experience of trekking gorillas in Congo like?Gorilla trekking in Congo offers an adventurous experience with fewer tourists and the cheapest permits.
14. How many gorilla families are habituated in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda? Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has several habituated gorilla families, with the exact number varying.
15. Can I book a private gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda? Yes, private gorilla trekking experiences can be booked in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
16. What type of accommodation is available near Virunga National Park in Congo? Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, and Tchegera Island Camp offer accommodation near Virunga National Park.
17. What makes gorilla trekking in Uganda unique? Uganda offers the highest gorilla population, varied terrain, and the unique gorilla habituation experience.
18. What is the best way to get to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda? The park can be accessed by road from Kigali or via a private helicopter transfer from Kigali International Airport.
19. Why is Rwanda a popular destination for luxury gorilla trekking? Rwanda offers short trek distances, luxury lodge options, and well-protected gorilla families.
20. What is the typical diet of mountain gorillas? Mountain gorillas primarily feed on bamboo shoots, stems, roots, leaves, barks, fruits, and occasionally invertebrates.
21. Are mountain gorillas aggressive? Mountain gorillas are generally calm and gentle but can become aggressive if disturbed.
22. How many vocalizations do gorillas use for communication? Gorillas use about 25 different vocalizations to communicate.
23. What unique physical feature do mountain gorillas have?Mountain gorillas have unique nose prints, similar to human thumbprints.
24. Which gorilla family is the largest in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park? The Susa Family (Susa A) is the largest in Volcanoes National Park, with 33 members.
25. What should visitors avoid doing in the presence of gorillas? Visitors should avoid smoking, drinking, or eating in the presence of gorillas.
26. What other activities can visitors enjoy in Rwanda besides gorilla trekking? Visitors can enjoy golden monkey tracking, volcano climbing, bird-watching, and cultural experiences.
27. Can gorillas be trekked year-round in Rwanda? Yes, gorilla trekking is available year-round in Rwanda, though the dry season is preferred.
28. What is the name of the youngest gorilla family in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park? The Muhoza Family is the newest gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park.
29. Which gorilla family in Bwindi National Park was the first to be habituated? The Mubare Gorilla Family was the first to be habituated in Bwindi National Park, Uganda.
30. What should be done if gorillas show signs of aggression during a trek? If gorillas show aggression, follow the guide’s instructions, stay calm, and avoid sudden movements.