Combine Gorilla Trekking with a Classic African Safari

Combine Gorilla Trekking with a Classic African Safari

Planning a trip to Africa and torn between a classic wildlife safari and the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking? Why not do both? At Trek Africa Expeditions, we help travelers create unforgettable journeys that blend thrilling big game safaris with the rare opportunity to track endangered mountain gorillas in the wild.

Whether you’re dreaming of the sweeping savannahs of Kenya, the lush forests of Uganda, or the misty volcanoes of Rwanda, combining gorilla trekking with a traditional African safari offers an immersive and deeply rewarding experience.

What is Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is a guided hike through dense rainforest to find a family of endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The trek can involve navigating steep hills, muddy trails, and thick vegetation—but the reward is extraordinary: spending up to one full hour quietly observing these magnificent creatures as they interact, feed, and play.

This experience is offered in only three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. For those seeking a deeper experience, Uganda also offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which allows up to four hours with semi-habituated gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, guided by expert researchers and rangers.

What Does a Combined Gorilla Trekking and Safari Itinerary Look Like?

Combining gorilla trekking with a wildlife safari can be arranged as either a custom-tailored tour or a small group adventure:

Tailor-Made Trips

These are ideal for travelers who want flexibility. You can choose your accommodation, travel dates, and destinations, with the option to extend your journey to include game drives in Serengeti, Masai Mara, or even beach relaxation in Zanzibar. Tailor-made itineraries often include domestic flights for faster travel between regions.

Small Group Tours

A more affordable option, small group safaris typically include up to 18 like-minded travelers. These tours may use comfortable lodges, boutique hotels, or even fully serviced camps for a more immersive, close-to-nature experience—yes, that might include the occasional nighttime visit from curious hyenas or warthogs!

What Else Is Included in These Trips?

Most combined tours also offer other wildlife experiences beyond gorillas, such as:

• Chimpanzee tracking, especially in Uganda’s Kibale Forest or Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda

• Boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to some 30,000 hippos

• Cultural visits to local communities and conservation projects

• Optional activities like white-water rafting on the Nile or hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains

Be prepared for some long drives and bumpy roads—often dubbed the “African massage”—especially if your journey crosses multiple countries. However, the scenic landscapes and vibrant roadside life make every mile worthwhile.

Physical Requirements and Hiring a Porter

Gorilla trekking is not a leisurely stroll—it’s a physically demanding hike through rugged terrain at altitudes of up to 2,600 meters. Expect at least three hours of trekking, sometimes longer, with muddy paths, steep ascents, and dense forest.

Hiring a local porter is highly recommended. Not only will they help carry your gear and offer a steady hand on slippery slopes, but your support also provides valuable income to local communities. Porters can be hired on the day of your trek.

Gorilla Permits and Availability

Permits are required to trek gorillas and are strictly limited, often selling out months in advance. When you book a tour with Trek Africa Expeditions, we handle all logistics—including securing your gorilla and chimpanzee permits—ensuring you don’t miss out.

Uganda

• Permit cost: $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for residents, and $80 for East African citizens

• Parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

• Availability: 152 permits issued daily (24 gorilla families)

• Gorilla Habituation: $1,500 for a 4-hour encounter in Bwindi

Rwanda

• Permit cost: $1,500 for foreign non-residents, $500 for residents, $200 for East African citizens

• Park: Volcanoes National Park

• Availability: 96 permits issued daily (12 gorilla families)

DR Congo

• Mountain Gorilla Permits (Virunga National Park):

  • $400 in high season, $200 in low season

• Lowland Gorilla Permits (Kahuzi-Biega National Park):

  • $400 for foreign non-residents, $200 for East African residents, $20 for nationals

Note: Permit prices exclude accommodation, meals, transport, and other trip costs. Trek Africa Expeditions offers full-service packages to handle all these logistics for you.

Where to Go: Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo?

Each country offers a unique trekking experience:

• Uganda is the most affordable and offers the most permits, making it ideal for availability and budget-conscious travelers.

• Rwanda offers more luxury options and shorter travel times from the capital to Volcanoes National Park.

• DR Congo is the least expensive for permits and offers the rare chance to see lowland gorillas, but it’s best suited for more adventurous travelers due to its less-developed infrastructure.

Among the three, Uganda stands out as a safe, budget-friendly, and richly rewarding destination—perfect for combining gorilla trekking with classic game drives in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, or Kidepo Valley National Parks.

Book Your Gorilla Safari Adventure with Trek Africa Expeditions

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we craft memorable safari experiences that combine gorilla trekking with the best of African wildlife adventures. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly group tour or a luxurious private safari, our team is here to help you plan every step—from permits and park fees to accommodation and transport.

We offer a wide range of gorilla trekking packages across Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo, and our dedicated team of safari experts is ready to answer all your questions and tailor a trip just for you.

Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking and African safari holiday. With Trek Africa Expeditions, you’re in expert hands—just check out our glowing TripAdvisor reviews from happy clients who’ve explored Africa with us.