A Guide to Seeing Mountain Gorillas in Africa’s Wild

A Guide to Seeing Mountain Gorillas in Africa’s Wild

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable adventure to see mountain gorillas in the heart of Africa? Trek Africa Expeditions takes you through everything you need to know about where and how to see gorillas in their natural habitat across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Gorilla trekking is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife experiences in the world, attracting thousands of nature lovers despite the high cost, physical demands, and logistical planning. But the moment you lock eyes with a gorilla in the wild, every effort becomes worth it.

What Is Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking is an immersive wildlife experience that involves hiking through dense rainforests, navigating steep slopes, and crossing streams in search of endangered mountain gorillas. Once found, you get to spend a magical hour in their presence, observing them in their natural environment. If you’re looking for a deeper experience, Uganda offers a special Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you can spend four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group alongside researchers and trackers.

Top Destinations to See Gorillas in Africa

Gorilla trekking in Africa is only possible in a few select national parks that protect the last remaining mountain and lowland gorilla populations:

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
• Democratic Republic of Congo: Virunga National Park (mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (lowland gorillas)

Permits are required to participate in gorilla trekking, and they sell out fast—especially during peak travel months (June to September). We recommend booking your permits at least 5–6 months in advance.

Gorilla Permit Costs and Booking Information

Uganda Gorilla Permits:

• Foreign non-residents: $800 per person
• Foreign residents: $700 per person
• East African citizens: $80 per person
• Gorilla Habituation Experience: $1,500 per person (4-hour visit)

Uganda offers 136 daily trekking slots with 24 habituated families (23 in Bwindi, 1 in Mgahinga). Permits can be booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a trusted local operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Rwanda Gorilla Permits:

• Foreign non-residents: $1,500 per person
• Foreign residents: $500 per person
• East African citizens: $200 per person

Rwanda offers 96 daily trekking permits across 12 habituated gorilla groups. Permits can be secured via the Rwanda Development Board or a trusted operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.

DR Congo Gorilla Permits:

• Virunga National Park (mountain gorillas): $400 per person (high season), $200 (low season)
• Kahuzi-Biega National Park (lowland gorillas): $400 for foreign non-residents, $200 for regional residents, $20 for Congolese nationals

Permits in Congo are typically booked directly through the parks or through experienced operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Please Note: Gorilla permit fees do not include transportation, accommodation, meals, or guide fees. Always confirm full safari package details with your tour operator.

Why Uganda Is a Top Choice for Gorilla Trekking

Uganda is often considered the best place for gorilla trekking in Africa thanks to its high number of habituated gorilla groups, more affordable permit costs, and safe, well-managed parks. Compared to Rwanda, Uganda offers more budget-friendly options, and compared to Congo, it provides a more secure travel environment.

Gorilla Trekking Age Limit

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in all three countries is 15 years. While there’s no official maximum age, physical fitness is essential. In Uganda’s Bwindi Forest, elderly or mobility-impaired travelers can hire sedan chairs (carried by porters) to experience gorilla trekking without the strenuous hike. These chairs can be booked in advance or on the day of the trek, costing approximately $400–$500.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policies

Permits are non-refundable within 8 days of your trek. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo have introduced more flexible rebooking options for affected travelers. In Uganda, for example, affected trekkers were allowed to reschedule their trek dates twice.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa

You can go gorilla trekking year-round, but the best time is during the drier seasons—from January to February and June to early September. These months offer more manageable hiking conditions and better visibility for photography.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Packing the right gear can make or break your trekking experience. Here’s what we recommend:

• Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (for protection against nettles and insects)
• Rain jacket
• Insect repellent
• Hat and sunscreen
• Gloves (gardening gloves work well)
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera and lenses (no flash)
• Binoculars (especially for birdwatchers)
• Torch/flashlight with extra batteries
• Wet wipes
• Sweater or fleece (for cool mornings)
• Swimwear (for hotel pools or hot springs)
• Sandals for post-trek comfort

Plan Your Gorilla Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions

Trek Africa Expeditions organizes unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip or a luxury safari, we’ll help you plan every detail—from permits and accommodations to transportation and local guides.

Don’t just take our word for it—check out our TripAdvisor reviews from happy travelers who’ve explored the wild with us. We pride ourselves on providing honest advice, excellent service, and tailor-made safari experiences. Contact us today to start planning your journey to see Africa’s magnificent mountain gorillas in the wild.