Gorilla Trekking Tours from Madagascar

Gorilla Trekking Tours from Madagascar: A Guide to Trekking Mountain Gorillas in Africa

If you’re in Madagascar and have always dreamed of encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, then a gorilla trekking tour is an unforgettable experience to consider. Gorilla trekking in Africa has become a sought-after adventure for wildlife enthusiasts, and despite the challenges involved—such as the costs, long travel times, and physically demanding treks through dense forests—it’s an experience that offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these endangered apes up close.

In this guide, we explore the best destinations for gorilla tours from Madagascar, including the top national parks in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Whether you are planning a short getaway or an extended safari, this article will help you plan the ideal gorilla trekking adventure.

Where to Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Gorilla trekking takes place in only a few regions of Africa, specifically in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. These countries are home to the only remaining populations of mountain gorillas in the wild. The four main national parks that you can visit for gorilla trekking are:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda

2. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

3. Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo

These parks are protected sanctuaries for mountain gorillas, and trekking here provides the rare opportunity to observe these majestic animals in their natural environment. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, Uganda’s Bwindi Forest offers Gorilla Habituation Experiences, where you can spend four hours with the gorillas instead of the usual one-hour trek.

Gorilla Trekking Permits: Costs and How to Get Them

Uganda: Gorilla Trekking Permits

In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs:

• $800 per person for foreign non-residents

• $700 per person for foreign residents

• UGX300,000 per person for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan)

This permit allows you to trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for one hour with the gorillas. Uganda has 20 habituated gorilla families, so 152 permits are available daily for trekking.

For those wanting a more in-depth experience, the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi allows you to spend 4 hours with the gorillas, giving you a deeper insight into their behavior. The cost for this permit is $1,500 per person.

Gorilla permits in Uganda can be obtained directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through trusted tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking Permits

In Rwanda, the cost for a gorilla trekking permit is:

• $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents

• $500 per person for foreign residents

• $200 for East African citizens

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 gorilla families, with 96 permits available daily for trekking. These permits offer a one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas.

You can book gorilla permits for Rwanda directly through the Rwanda Development Board or with trusted operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Congo: Gorilla Trekking Permits

In Congo, gorilla trekking is available in Virunga National Park (for mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (for lowland gorillas). The cost of gorilla trekking permits in Congo is:

• Virunga National Park:

  • $400 per person during the high season (Mid-December to Mid-March and June to October)

  • $200 per person during the low season (Mid-March to Mid-May and Mid-October to Mid-December)

• Kahuzi-Biega National Park:

  • $400 per person for foreign non-residents

  • $200 for East African residents

  • $20 for Congolese residents

You can secure your permits through Virunga National Park or a reputable tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Booking Gorilla Permits and Planning Your Safari

When booking your gorilla trekking tour, remember that the permit price does not include accommodation, flights, ground transport, or meals. These additional costs should be discussed with your tour operator as part of the overall safari package.

It’s crucial to book your gorilla trekking permits in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak seasons of June to September. Permits can sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to book at least 5 months in advance to secure your spot.

Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?

If you’re considering your options, Uganda offers several advantages:

• Affordability: Compared to Rwanda, Uganda is more cost-effective for gorilla trekking while still offering an exceptional experience.

• Safety: Uganda remains one of the most stable and safe destinations for travel in East Africa.

• Accessibility: Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides a more affordable and diverse wildlife experience compared to Rwanda and Congo.

What Is the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, and the maximum age is 85 years, though this depends on individual fitness levels. For older adults, gorilla trekking is still accessible, particularly in Bwindi Forest, where sedan chairs are available for those who are unable to trek due to physical limitations. These chairs are carried by potters, allowing individuals to be transported to and from the forest during the trek. You can arrange to hire a sedan chair either in advance or on the day of your trek, with prices typically ranging from $400 to $500.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policies in Africa

To participate in gorilla trekking, you must have a gorilla permit. It’s essential to keep in mind that cancellations are subject to penalties. If you miss your trek date, especially within 0-8 days before your scheduled trek, you will not receive a refund for the permit. However, cancellation policies in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo have become more flexible due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Uganda, for example, travelers affected by the pandemic have been allowed to reschedule their gorilla trekking dates up to two times.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking Tours from Madagascar

Gorilla trekking tours from Madagascar are available throughout the year, but the best time to go is during the drier months of January, February, and June through early September. During these months, the trails are more accessible, and the forest is less muddy, making trekking easier and giving you a better chance to spot the gorillas. The reduced vegetation during these times also improves visibility, offering clearer views of these magnificent animals.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking requires preparation, especially in terms of clothing and gear. Here’s what you should pack to ensure a comfortable and safe experience:

• Insect Repellent – To protect against bites

• Torch/Flashlight and Spare Batteries – In case of low light conditions

• Wet Wipes – For cleaning hands during breaks

• Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is essential

• Camera and Lenses – For capturing the moment (a zoom lens is recommended)

• Comfortable Walking/Hiking Boots & Socks – The trails can be muddy and slippery

• Gardening Gloves – Helpful for pushing through thick vegetation

• Hat and Sunscreen – To protect against the sun

• Rain Jacket – The forest can be rainy, even during dry seasons

• Sweater/Fleece – Temperatures can be cool, especially in the mornings

• Swimwear – For enjoying any lodge or hotel pools

• Binoculars – For bird and wildlife watching in the forest

Why Book Gorilla Trekking Tours from Madagascar with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Booking your gorilla trekking tour with Trek Africa Expeditions ensures a seamless and memorable experience. We specialize in arranging gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo, offering various safari packages ranging from budget to luxury. Our expert team is ready to assist you with the booking process, ensuring that all permits and accommodations are arranged ahead of time.

Feel free to explore our TripAdvisor reviews, where you can hear from our satisfied clients. With Trek Africa Expeditions, you can be confident that you’ll receive exceptional service and enjoy a wonderful safari experience. Our team of dedicated tour consultants is always available to answer any questions and assist with your travel plans.

Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today for more details and to book your gorilla trekking tour from Madagascar.