Explore Exciting Gorilla Safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo!
Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda
Gorilla trekking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda – Gorilla Trails Safaris specializes in organizing gorilla trekking safari holidays in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. Our Gorilla safaris offer thrilling adventures into the lush rainforest jungles of these countries, where you can encounter magnificent gorillas and other wildlife.
Experience the wonder of meeting gorillas in their natural habitat at renowned locations like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Mgahinga National Park, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. In addition to gorilla trekking, our holiday packages feature diverse wildlife and cultural experiences across Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Congo
Our gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda take you to the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is the gorilla tracking destination as well as Virunga National Park in Congo. These are the only gorilla trekking destinations of the world.
Book guided Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda and hear the sounds of the lead silverback gorillas as they take control of their families. Gorilla walking tours comprise trekking both mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas of Congo’s Kahuzi Biega National Park
Apart from gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, Congo gorilla safaris, Gorilla Trail Safaris also offers other African safaris. We customize wildlife viewing tours, bird-watching tours, chimpanzee trekking safaris, and cultural tours. We have established a strong reputation for delivering exceptional tours across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Congo
We are flexible enough with expertise in customizing short and long safaris with an expert team ready to handle trips for travelers who would love to have whether Luxury, Mid-range or budget holiday tours. We handle private tours, group tours both small and large, student tours, research groups, family trips and all kinds of traveler groups.
We are committed to responsible tourism and excel in customizing not only gorilla tours Uganda but also Kenya wildlife safaris and Tanzania tours to the renowned Serengeti National Park and other destinations. With several successful trips in the past years, some of our clients have appreciated out travel services and reviewed us on our TripAdvisor & Safari Bookings Pages.
Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda
Gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda or Rwanda is an exhilarating experience, allowing you to encounter mountain gorillas up close. It’s an essential activity for anyone exploring East Africa, Gorilla Trails Safaris has been fulfilling this dream for countless travellers, earning a stellar reputation backed by glowing reviews.
Come with us as we venture through Bwindi National Park and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
Our expertise lies in meticulously organizing gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. We provide exclusive insights into Gorilla permit prices, availability, selecting the ideal gorilla family to track, the best time to visit mountain gorillas, packing tips, recommended travel routes, and a range of accommodation options. Whether you are a solo or with a group, based on your budget. You can also spice up your gorilla trip by adding a classic wildlife safari or opt for a shorter route via Kigali in Rwanda. Picking the right destination route is key for an amazing gorilla-tracking adventure.
In Uganda, gorilla safaris are only carried out in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. There is one always mobile, habituated mountain gorilla family in Mgahinga National Park called Nyakagezi with about 9 individuals. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park on the other hand has about 7 mountain gorilla families with each trek tailored to meet your Uganda gorilla safaris needs.
Gorilla Habituation Experience
Gorilla habituation experiences are special chances for people to spend more time with gorillas than usual treks, which typically last only an hour. These experiences are available in Uganda and Rwanda.
In Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population resides. Here, visitors can spend up to four hours with a gorilla family being habituated. It’s an opportunity to learn more about gorilla behaviour and conservation efforts.
In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park, situated in the Virunga Mountains, is famous for its mountain gorillas. Rwanda doesn’t offer as many habituation experiences as Uganda, but sometimes park authorities may arrange similar opportunities for those seeking a more immersive gorilla encounter.
Both countries have strict rules to keep visitors and gorillas safe. Permits for gorilla habituation are limited and should be booked well in advance
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris
Interested in seeing big gorillas in Africa?, consider going on a Rwanda Gorilla safari. Our Rwanda gorilla safaris offer different options for budget, mid-range and luxury travellers. explore the Virunga Mountains and observe mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat.
Gorilla Trails Safaris can help you plan a personalized gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda. They’ll take you deep into the heart of the country, where you’ll encounter lush rainforests, misty mountains, and incredible wildlife.
The highlight of visiting Rwanda is definitely gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. These gentle giants are captivating to see up close, with their human-like expressions and social interactions. Experienced guides will lead you through bamboo forests to find habituated gorilla families. It’s an unforgettable experience
Rwanda has more to offer than just gorillas. You can also explore its rich cultural heritage by visiting local villages and experiencing traditional dances and drumming. Don’t miss out on exploring Kigali, the vibrant capital city, which combines modern life with important historical sites like the Genocide Memorial Center.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages
This amazing safari offers travellers a double gorilla trekking experience as well as wildlife tour in the two countries of Rwanda and Uganda. Arriving at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, you relax in Kigali and thereafter embark on a gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
Best Congo safari packages - Congo Gorilla Trekking Safaris, Mount Nyiragongo Hiking Safaris
Explore Congo gorilla tours in Virunga National Park, located in the eastern province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, withGorilla Trails Safaris. A Congo gorilla tour offers an unforgettable adventure in Africa, leaving lasting memories. Despite fewer visitors, Congo is a unique travel destination, home to a quarter of the world’s mountain gorillas within Virunga National Park, which is part of the Virunga Conservation Area. Additionally, Congo is home to Eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park, located in Bukavu. Gorilla Trails Safaris organizes Congo gorilla tours starting from Kigali, crossing over to Congo. These tours offer gorilla encounters alongside climbing Nyiragongo volcano, creating a complete safari experience in Congo.
FAQs about Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda
What is gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking is a popular adventure where people explore forests in Central Africa in search of habituated gorilla families. It’s mainly done in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo where mountain gorillas live.
To see mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park, Mgahinga National Park Volcanoes National Park, or Virunga, you’ll need to get a gorilla permit first. The process usually involves a morning briefing at the park headquarters, followed by a hike into the forest along gorilla trails. Once you find them, you can spend only an hour with the gorillas before heading back.
When is the best time to trek gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda?
The perfect time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda is usually during the dry seasons. These are from June to September and December to February. During these times, the trails are less muddy, making the trekking easier and more enjoyable. Gorillas also tend to stay at lower places during these dry seasons, which makes finding them simpler.
But you can still go gorilla trekking all year round. Each season has its perks. In the wet seasons (March to May and October to November), the landscapes are lush and green, and there are fewer tourists around. However, trekking might be harder because of the muddy trails and thick vegetation.
The best time for you to go gorilla trekking depends on what you prefer. If you want the best conditions for trekking and clear views, choose the dry seasons. But if you’d rather have fewer people around and see the lush green landscapes, go during the wet seasons. Just make sure to check the weather before you plan your trip because it can vary from year to year.
What is Gorilla habituation Experience?
The Gorilla Habituation Experience refers to a specialized gorilla trekking activity offered in some gorilla trekking destinations, notably in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Unlike traditional gorilla trekking, where visitors spend an hour observing habituated gorilla groups, the habituation experience allows participants to spend an extended period (usually four hours) with a group of wild gorillas undergoing habituation.
Participating in the Gorilla Habituation Experience provides a unique opportunity for visitors to spend more time observing gorilla behavior in their natural habitat
Is Gorilla Trekking Safe?
Going on a mountain gorilla trekking adventure is super safe for you and your safari buddies. In Uganda, when you’re out on your gorilla safari, a ranger and guide will be with you the whole time. These rangers come prepared, sometimes carrying guns just in case any other wild animals show up. And don’t worry, when you’re observing the mountain gorillas, you’ll be standing about 7 meters away from them. This distance helps keep you safe during your Uganda gorilla safari.
What’s the minimum age for gorilla tracking?
The minimum age for gorilla tracking in Uganda and Rwanda, as well as for golden monkey trekking in Uganda, is 15 years. Authorities strictly enforce this rule, so everyone involved must be 15 or older to avoid any issues, like being denied permission to track. Before booking your safari with us, we’ll make sure you know all about these age limits.
For chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, the minimum age is 12 years old. In Rwanda, children aged 10 and up can trek golden monkeys if they’re with an adult. While children under 15 can visit Dian Fossey’s tomb, keep in mind that the hike there is tough, so it’s not recommended for kids under 15-13 years old.
How much does getting a permit to see gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda cost?
In Uganda, for non-residents, it’s $800. If you’re a foreign resident, it’s $700. In Rwanda, it’s $1500 for everyone. This permit is like your ticket to spend an hour with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). If you’re planning a gorilla safari in Rwanda or Uganda, you have to make sure you get this permit beforehand.
How long does gorilla trekking usually take??
The duration of a gorilla trekking experience can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the gorilla group, the terrain, weather conditions, and the movements of the gorillas themselves. However, in general, a typical gorilla trekking experience can last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours.
In some cases, visitors may locate the gorillas relatively quickly, while in other instances, it may take longer, particularly if the gorillas have moved deeper into the forest. Once the gorillas are located, visitors typically spend around 1 hour observing and photographing them before returning to the starting point.
When should I get my gorilla permit for Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda and Rwanda?
It’s best to book your gorilla permit at least three months ahead, especially during busy times, to make sure you don’t miss out. If you want to go gorilla tracking in Uganda or Rwanda on a specific day, let us know your preferred date for your trip. We’ll check if permits are available and help you plan your amazing gorilla trekking adventure.
What’s included with the gorilla permit?
To go on a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda or. Rwanda, you need a permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga National Park and Volcanoes National. With your permit, you get to spend 1 hour with mountain gorillas in the stunning settings of these parks. The permit covers entry fees to the parks so you can see the gorillas in their natural habitat. Plus, experienced guides and rangers from the National Park will accompany you through the forest, making your gorilla trek even more special. We’ll make sure to get your permits well in advance, so you can have a smooth and unforgettable encounter with these incredible animals
What are the chances of seeing mountain gorillas?
Although mountain gorillas are often on the move, making new nests to rest in each night, chances of finding them on a Uganda gorilla safari are pretty high. Some authorities have perceived the chance to be as high as 99%. The gorilla trackers will head out early and find the gorillas then alert your guides of their whereabouts, who will, in turn, lead you straight to them
What other safari activities can I engage in while on a gorilla trek?
There are plenty of activities that you can undertake while on your gorilla safaris and they include; chimpanzee and golden monkey tracking, birding, sight-seeing, game viewing, hiking or mountain climbing and cultural tours. All these activities work together to give you a blissful Uganda gorilla safari
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris
We plan special trips to Uganda so you can have a great time in the “Pearl of Africa.” You can do lots of cool stuff like seeing gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, watching animals in big grassy areas, finding chimpanzees, looking at birds, taking walks in nature, climbing mountains, and learning about Uganda’s culture and history.
The best places to go on these trips are Murchison Falls National Park , Queen Elizabeth National Park, , Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park for seeing animals. Kibale Forest National Park is where you can find lots of primates like chimpanzees and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is good for seeing golden monkeys and gorillas. Mount Rwenzori National Park and Mount Elgon National Park are where you can go mountain climbing.
Bwindi Impenetrabel National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, particularly its population of endangered mountain gorillas. However, beyond its remarkable wildlife, the park also holds significant cultural value.
Wildlife
Nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. tourists can trek through the forest to see these amazing creatures up close, which is a dream come true for wildlife lovers and bird watchers, more than 350 bird species can be found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, including unique ones like the African green broadbill, Grauer’s rush warbler, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers an exciting mix of wildlife and cultural experiences, making it an unforgettable destination for anyone exploring Uganda
Highlights of Cultural Experience at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Batwa People: The Batwa are indigenous hunter-gatherers who historically inhabited the forests of southwestern Uganda, including Bwindi. While their traditional way of life has been significantly impacted by conservation efforts, some Batwa communities still reside near the park. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about their unique culture, traditions, and survival skills through guided cultural experiences.
Cultural Performances: Local communities around Bwindi often showcase their traditional dances, music, and ceremonies for tourists. These performances provide insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region, including storytelling, drumming, and vibrant costumes.
Community Engagement: Various community-based initiatives and eco-tourism projects have been established around Bwindi, aiming to promote sustainable development and empower local communities. Visitors can participate in activities such as village walks, handicraft workshops, and cultural exchanges, fostering mutual understanding and support.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is renowned for its incredible wildlife, offering visitors a chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic creatures. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
- Mountain Gorillas: Just like in Bwindi, this park is a sanctuary for mountain gorillas. Trekking through lush forests offers a rare chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
- Golden Monkeys: Alongside gorillas, the park is home to golden monkeys, known for their vibrant fur. Watch them gracefully swing through the trees, adding to the park’s rich biodiversity.
- Other Wildlife: Beyond gorillas and golden monkeys, the park teems with diverse wildlife like playful chimpanzees, colorful birds, and elusive forest elephants. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the park’s different habitats.
What Our Clients Say & Videos: We are Highly reviewed on TripAdvisor & Safari Bookings
Wild Jungle Trails- immer wieder!!!!! Einfach perfekt!!! Simply the best!!! 4 Tage war unsere Gruppe mit Twaha und George unterwegs in verschiedenen Nationalparks: Lake Mburo, Queen Elisabeth NP und im Kalinzu Forest. Wie immer war die Planung, Organisation und Durchführung perfekt auf unsere individuellen Wünsche abgestimmt. Tolle Unterkünfte, spannende Game drives, Schimpansen- Trecking im Regenwald, eine Bootsfahrt auf dem Kazinga Channel, die leckeren Mahlzeiten und kurzen Stopps zwischendurch und einige Überraschungen machten unsere Tour wieder zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis! Vielen Dank Twaha und George!!!
MonikaLangenOctober 22, 2023Unvergessliches Erlebnis Wieder einmal eine perfekt organisierte Tour, dieses Mal im Lake Mburo Nationalpark, im Kalinzu Forest und im Queen Elizabeth Nationalpark. Dieses Mal mit einem Höhepunkt, den wir noch nicht kannten, obwohl es nicht die erste Tour mit Twaha und seinem Team war: die Twin Lakes - Lake Katinda und Lake Mirambi - . Es war wie immer ein unvergessliches Erlebnis. Für unsere Gruppe, die regelmäßig nach Uganda fährt, ist Wild Jungle Trails die erste Wahl.
Petra HOctober 14, 2023Making the very best out of our group trip! Once again Twaha made the very best out of our 4 days trip to Murchison Falls NP, Rhino Sanctuary and Budongo forest. He made an excellent planning and organized very special boat trips, game drives and walking tours. As always he was absolutely reliable and helpful, also in issues concerning our NGO. And of course: always in best mood! Thank you, Twaha , for this great experience!MonikaLangenNovember 3, 2022Pure Adventure Twaha planned our 4 day trip to Murchison Falls perfectly. The adventure started at the Red Chilli Camp, where you get a very warm welcome. He showed us "the top of the falls" at sunset where beautiful photos were taken. Rhinos in the wild, chimpanzee watching, Nile delta trips with metre-long crocodiles, spectacular thrills are inevitable when you meet an elephant on a night drive and stop right next to him to watch him eat. He knows how to behave when encountering extraordinary animals like lions. He put our wishes together for an all-round feel-good weekend. In the evening by the fire, the day's experiences were told. It wasn't the first tour we did with Twaha and his super nice guides (this time a big thank you to Jamahl).... and certainly not the last 😍 Thanks guys🤝🏿🤝🏻 Brighet 😃 aus Morsbach, Deutschland
Birgit ZOctober 14, 2022The best man you can get in Uganda... Let's be honest... Twaha is the greatest guide you can get. There is no problem/request he can't handle. (He always answers: "No problem!") His drivers are patient and very polite. Even off the trail you can have so much fun with them. For safaris he will do everything to show and explain the true nature of Uganda. So if you want to visit Uganda and need a ride or you want to see the nature, the animals and get some background of where you are, Twaha is your man! We've been there with a group of 13 and all had the same great experience with him and his crew. Twaha, we will visit Uganda with you again! Cya, Ben.
Senf ZOctober 14, 2022Best safari experiences with Twaha The safari experiences together with Twaha and his team are really great. He is always in a good mood, friendly, funny, answers every question and tries to fulfill all wishes.
S LOctober 14, 2022Thank You Wild Jungle Trails Safari We have been waiting for this wonderful journey for more than two years. Because of Covid we could not travel. Then it started, there were four of us and we couldn't imagine what will come. Uganda inspired us from the first second. Fred our wonderful, always happy and safe driver picked us up at the airport and took us to our lodge. A great safari car was our home for 9 days. During our round trip, which took us to 5 national parks, we saw everything that Uganda had to offer in terms of animals, flora, fauna and wonderful landscapes. We were amazed and couldn't get over the joy. Our lodges (midrange) were fabulous, the food was good everywhere. Nice and cheerful people were constantly concerned about our well-being. Fred had an answer to every question about his country and drove us safe over both the good and the sometimes very bumpy roads. Our side program was a community walk, a visit to a salt miner and to a Lokal cooperatives. Really highly recommended !!! Nine days passed like nothing. We had to go home again. I think I will never forget this country. Thank you, Christina from Wild Jungle Trails Safari, wildjungletrails@gmail.com, for your great support, ideas and arrangements!!! Susanne ,Matthias ,Elsa and Marcel from Germany
Susanne COctober 2, 2022Awesome 3 Days in Murchsion Falls NP Everything about our 3-day adventure was amazing! From the time we were picked up until we were delivered back to Kampala, we received top-notch care. Twaha and George showed us the very best that Murchison Falls NP has to offer and answered all of our questions along the way. Highly recommend you make Wild Jungle Trails part of your vacation experience in Uganda!!
Julie SJuly 22, 202213 magical days: Gorilla's, Chimps, Lion, Leopard, and many more. Wildlife, culture and fun We booked a trip for June 2020 with Wild Jungle Trails Safaris. Whilst it was initially an 11 day itinerary, Teresa customise it for us into a 13 day trip to make the most of our leave. Of course, Covid meant that our original plan did not work out and we were forced to reschedule... about four times. Eventually, we made it in June/July 2022. Throughout this whole period, Teresa was brilliant in keeping us informed and helping us rearrange our trip. She was quick to reply, answered all our questions, and ensured we had all the necessary info on Visa's, covid entry requirements, etc prior to the trip. On arriving in Rwanda we met our guide for the next 13 days - Twaha. From there we took an absolutely spectacular tour through Kigali, Ruhengeri and then across to Uganda. We visited Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Bunyonyi, Ishasha, Queen Elizabeth Park, Kibale, Murchison Falls, and finally back to Entebbe. As well as seeing all the wildlife we wanted, we did a range of cultural trips. Whilst The Kigali Genocide Memorial was harrowing, it was deeply moving and a must see when you are in the city. We did a number of different experiences with the Batwa tribes around both Rwanda and Uganda, all a little different, and all extremely interesting and entertaining... though I can't say I'll be on the look out for banana beer again! Whilst we had so many highlights throughout the trip, the hike, and actually seeing the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was absolutely spectacular; simply being in the lush primary rainforest was experience enough followed by an hour in the company of such majestic creatures. Beyond that; Lions, Leopards, Elephant, Buffalo, Serval Cat (and her kitten - another personal favourite!), Giraffe, White Rhino, Hippo, Baboons and other monkeys, Crocodiles, Monitor Lizard, Chameleons, Topi, Hartebeest, Ugandan Kob, Waterbuck, Bushbuck, Duiker, Oribi, Eagles, Vultures, Storks, Grey Crested Crane, and so many other smaller birds. Simply a stunning array of wildlife! The selection of lodges was simply fantastic and the hospitality everywhere was first-class; we felt like royalty! Twaha looked after us from beginning to end, always making sure that we were looked after and had what we needed. He was full of information about both the wildlife and the country, and was a good companion over breakfast and dinner even when it was five o'clock in the morning! He went out of his way to make sure we got the best we possibly could out of the whole trip. In short, one extraordinary adventure - thank you, thank you, thank you... or should I say, weebale :)
AltabasTravelsJuly 9, 2022Thank you for the amazing time in Uganda. Wild Jungle Trails haben unseren Urlaub in Uganda unvergesslich gemacht. Trotz Lockdown und Corona hat die Abstimmung im Vorfeld mit Sylvia sehr gut funktioniert. Problemlos über Mail haben wir alle wichtigen Informationen ausgetauscht und konnten sicher und entspannt in den Urlaub starten. Mit der Abholung am Flughafen in Entebbe begannen 14 erlebnisreiche Tage mit super Essen, phänomenalen Ausflügen und tollen Übernachtungen. Die Mischung aus Fahrten übers Land, organisierten Events und Safari-Touren war perfekt. Wir hatten echtes Glück mit Twaha unterwegs zu sein. Er kannte die schönsten Orte, hat alle Tiere für uns gefunden und uns dabei viel Interessantes erzählt. Alle weiteren Ausflüge (z.B. Gorilla Trekking, Bootsfahren, Community Walks, etc.) waren sehr gut organisiert inklusiver der besten Plätze und wertvollen Tipps. Die Lodges waren ein Traum: wunderschön eingerichtet und der Service hat nichts zu wünschen übriggelassen. On top hatten wir dabei traumhafte Blicke über Nationalparks, See, etc. Vielen Dank für die tolle Zeit.
Sophie HSeptember 28, 2021