Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga Region

Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga Region: A Journey into the Heart of Bwindi

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing face-to-face with a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat, the Rushaga sector in southern Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the best places to make it happen. This part of Uganda has quickly become a favorite for travelers seeking a deeply immersive gorilla trekking experience. With the highest number of habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, Rushaga offers not only variety but also better chances of securing a coveted gorilla permit.

In this guide, we’ll explore why gorilla trekking in Rushaga is so special, how to get there, where to stay, and what to expect during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Why Choose Rushaga for Gorilla Trekking?

The Rushaga sector stands out as a top gorilla trekking destination thanks to its exceptional density of habituated gorilla families. Currently, there are seven fully habituated families available for trekking — the highest number of any sector in Bwindi. This means more trekking slots are available daily, which improves your chances of booking a permit on your preferred date.

Even more exciting, Rushaga is one of the few areas in Uganda that offers double trekking. This allows you to visit different gorilla families over two days, offering a richer and more varied experience for wildlife lovers.

Learn more about gorilla trekking in Rushaga.

Gorilla Habituation Experience: Spend More Time with Gorillas

For travelers looking for more than the standard one-hour encounter, Rushaga also offers the exclusive Gorilla Habituation Experience. This unique opportunity, managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, lets you spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family, observing how these majestic primates gradually become accustomed to human presence.

This deep-dive experience costs USD 1,500 per person and is ideal for wildlife photographers, conservation enthusiasts, and anyone craving more time in the company of mountain gorillas.

Affordable Lodging Near the Trek Starting Point

One of the practical perks of trekking in Rushaga is the proximity of its lodges to the park entrance — many are just a short walk from the briefing point. This means you can wake up and head straight to the trailhead without long early-morning drives.

Accommodation options suit all types of travelers, from budget to mid-range:

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

• Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

• Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp

These locally owned lodges offer comfortable rooms, delicious food, and support the surrounding communities.

How to Get to Rushaga: Kigali or Kampala?

Getting to Rushaga is easier than many travelers think. In fact, if you’re flying into Kigali, Rwanda, you can reach the Rushaga sector by road in just 4 to 5 hours, crossing into Uganda at Cyanika or Katuna border posts. This route is especially popular among travelers looking to avoid the high gorilla permit prices in Rwanda, which stand at USD 1,500 per trek compared to Uganda’s USD 800.

Alternatively, you can arrive via Entebbe or Kampala, though the drive is longer (around 8–10 hours). Whichever route you choose, we recommend spending the night near Rushaga before your trek to ensure you’re well-rested and on time for your morning briefing.

Booking Gorilla Permits for Rushaga

Every day, Uganda Wildlife Authority issues 56 gorilla trekking permits in Rushaga — eight per each of the seven habituated families. These permits cost:

• USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents

• USD 700 for foreign residents

• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Permits for the Gorilla Habituation Experience are USD 1,500 each. Due to high demand, especially during peak seasons (June–September and December–February), it’s best to book your gorilla permit at least three months in advance.

Let Trek Africa Expeditions handle the details for you.

Plan Your Trek with Trek Africa Expeditions

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking safaris in Rushaga and beyond. Whether you’re coming from Kigali or Entebbe, we’ll take care of everything — from securing your gorilla permits to arranging transport, lodging, and expert local guides.

We’re committed to responsible tourism and meaningful travel experiences. Our team works closely with local communities and conservation bodies to ensure your adventure has a positive impact.

Explore our budget gorilla trekking tours in Rushaga or read more about why Rushaga is one of Uganda’s top gorilla trekking destinations.

Ready to Start Planning?

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with teens looking for adventure, gorilla trekking in Rushaga promises to be an experience you’ll never forget. Reach out to Trek Africa Expeditions today and let us help you craft your dream wildlife encounter in Uganda.