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.

• Mountain Gorillas - Uganda is one of the only three countries in the world where you can trek to see the mountain gorillas.

• Big Four Safari – In Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo Valey and Murchinson Falls National Park you can spot leopard, lion, buffalo, and elephants. The rhino can be seen at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

• Adrenaline water sports – white-water rafting, kayaking, boat cruises on Lake Victoria.

• Cultural Interactions – home to over 50 ethnic groups from the Batwa pygmies near Bwindi to the Karamojong in the northeast part of the country, travelers can engage directly with the locals and learn about their music, dance and local traditions.

One of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Africa is visiting with the Mountain Gorillas. This journey centers on the gorilla trek.  Travel into the lush forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to view a gorilla family at close range. Watch as the Silverbacks play with their teenagers and babies cling to their mothers. You will amaze at how very much like us they are. It is the one species that you will feel a real connection. 

Set off early in the morning to the base of your 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 feet 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!

WHICH GORILLA TREK IS FOR YOU - RWANDA or UGANDA?

Rwanda and Uganda trekking experiences can vary for each person that treks. The following is an overall consensus about the basic differences. Whichever country you choose to visit, we can assure you that your close-up visit with the gorillas will be like no other.

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).

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. Trekking is generally done at higher altitudes 7,800 feet + Rwanda offers steeper ascents, but its bamboo slopes are often easier to hike than Uganda’s dense terrain. The terrain in both areas is cleared as best possible by park rangers. 

• Permit cost: current rate of $1500 each

• Accommodations: high-end luxury properties

• Rwanda is 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: Looking for more of selection in accommodations. Also for those those wanting a more immersive, deep-jungle experience and also would like to visit with chimps in their natural habitat. On our longer trips visit Queen Elizabeth National Park to view the Big "Four" - there are no rhinos in Q.E. park but there are lion, lepoard, elephant and buffalo.

• Access: Travelers general fly from Entebbe to base camp unless visiting other parks in Uganda. Straight drive time is 8-10 hours. 

Consensus:

Rwanda can seem to be more expensive than Uganda, but when all is totaled, including permits, flights, and accommodations, prices are about the same. Rwanda would most likely be recommended for those with real concerns about terrain.

Rwanda's permits are more expensive than Uganda, but in Uganda, a flight is required to get to base camp, as the drive is 8-10 hours.

Uganda has more choices of accommodations, so overall cost might be a few hundred dollars lower. 

Born Free can request lower family permits in both countries. Arrangements can be made for those who may have mobility issues for carrying seats. 

Permits for Primate treks must be paid in advance and are non-refundable.

Reservations for accommodations and additional safari arrangements are not made until permits are secured. Permits are limited.

Featured Inclusions:

Flight from Entebbe to base of trek & return to Entebbe

All meals and accommodations

Individual Porters for each participant

Internal Uganda airfare included at current rates

24/7 Emergency US & Africa Contacts

East Africa Medical Evacuation Limited Membership

Preparing for your trip briefing booklet

Born Free Customized Backpack, Luggage tags

Personalized Bound Final Itinerary

Full list of inclusions and tariff details will be sent upon inquiry.

Born Free Exclusive Option: All Private Guide Gratuities can be included.

Journey Priced From: Call for current rates.

Permits must be paid to secure confirmation, permits are non-refundable.

Rates are in US dollars, including current taxes, park, fuel fees.

Rates do not include international airfare.

Have you ever dreamed of coming face to face with the Silverback gorillas? Uganda can provide you with one of the world’s last great adventures – a Gorilla Trek! You can expect a wildlife interaction with no comparison. Sedan carriers are available for those who have mobility issues. 

You must be able to walk long distances (possibly 2-3 miles one way) at altitude. Depending upon what gorilla family you trek will depend on your physical ability. If you can walk and hike only a few miles, then trekking a family in the lower mountain areas is for you. If you are physically fit, you might want to choose a trek where you hike for a few hours to reach the gorilla family. If you feel you can take this on, it will be well worth the efforts. Looking deep into the expressive brown eyes of these gentle giants is an extremely special privilege and an encounter unparalleled in the whole of Africa. 

Tailor-Made Itinerary: All Uganda itineraries are personalized. We highly recommend adding a Kenya or Tanzania big game safari if you are hoping to see the "Big Five" in addition to the primates. All Born Free Safaris are geared around maximizing the wildlife experience. Your research has led you to Born Free Safaris. Now let our Specialists tailor your journey the way you want to experience it.