Uganda, the "Pearl of Africa," is considered one of the most beautiful countries in Africa. Uganda is situated where the savanna of East Africa meets the volcanic mountains, rainforests and the waters of Lake Victoria. It is where the (White) Nile pushes its way through Murchison Falls. If time permits, spend more time in this beautiful country.

One of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Africa is a visit with the Mountain Gorillas. Travel into the lush forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, base for gorilla trek. Park rangers will discuss the procedures and rules in the viewing before starting off.

A walk can be from one to four hours and at altitudes over 7500 ft to 8400 ft above sea level. Once the family is located, observe them for approximately one hour. Then trek back down to base camp after one of the most fascinating days of your life!  

To ensure the well-being of the gorillas and their habitat, the Rwandan and Ugandan government strictly regulates the number of visitors. Permits are at a premium and should be purchased well in advance. 

ACCESSIBILITY

Arrangements can be made for all those who wish to see the gorillas. Gorilla tracking is physically demanding, especially for those with physical challenges. Seeing the gorillas is still possible. We can pre-arrange for what is called a "sedan chair" that porters will carry you into the gorilla sighting. Carriers are available in Rwanda and Uganda, but the chairs tend to be more comfortable in Uganda.

GORILLA FAMILIES & PERMITS

Gorilla trekking permits are highly regulated with approximately 1,050 mountain gorillas left in the wild. Of that, there are approximately 40 habituated gorilla families in Uganda and Rwanda that can be visited. Permits require booking months in advance, especially for the high demand seasons (June-August, December-February).

Gorilla Trekking - Rwanda or Uganda? - Insider's Guide

RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING (VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK):

• Trekking Difficulty: Generally considered less physically demanding, with steeper slopes in places but more established, clearer paths due to the foliage in the area. Rwanda's bamboo slopes are often easier to hike than Uganda’s dense terrain. Trekking is generally done at higher altitudes (7,800 ft +). The terrain in both areas is cleared as best possible by park rangers.
• Permit cost: current rate of $1,500 each.
• Accommodations: high-end luxury properties
• Rwanda best for those with limited time, prefer not to fly and prioritizing high comfort.
• Access: Beautiful drive from Kigali, only requiring 2-3 hours.

UGANDA GORILLA TREKKING (BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK):

• Trekking Difficulty: Terrain is denser than Rwanda with thicker forests, but as in both Uganda and Rwanda, park rangers clear paths as best as possible. Trekking is at a lower average altitude of 3,800-8,500 feet.
• Permit cost: current rate of $800 each for foreign non-residents.
• Accommodations: More choices available than Rwanda - mid to high end.
• Uganda best for those looking for more of selection in accommodations. Also, for those wanting a more immersive, deep-jungle experience and would like to visit with chimps in their natural habitat. Add a possible stop at Queen Elizabeth National Park for encounters with predators and elephants.
• Access: Travelers general fly from Entebbe to base camp unless visiting other parks in Uganda. Straight drive time is 8-10 hours.

Consensus:

Uganda is best for those who may want to visit other safari areas. With permits less and required flights, cost can come up about the same as Rwanda. Trekking and families are just about the same. Rwanda would most likely be recommended for those with real concerns about the heavy brush terrain.