Gorilla Trekking Tours Starting in Chad

Gorilla Trekking Tours Starting in Chad: Your Ultimate Guide with Trek Africa Expeditions

Gorilla Trekking Tours Starting in Chad — Are you in Chad and dreaming of seeing mountain gorillas in their wild habitat? Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most unforgettable wildlife adventures, drawing travelers from all over the world. While it can be challenging—and sometimes costly—the chance to observe these majestic, endangered apes in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What to Expect on a Gorilla Trekking Safari

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forests, navigating steep terrain, thick vegetation, rivers, and sometimes swamps. It requires a reasonable level of fitness, but the reward is priceless: spending an hour face-to-face with mountain gorillas in their natural environment. For those wanting even more time with these incredible animals, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda offers a rare Gorilla Habituation experience, allowing up to four hours with the gorillas under expert guidance.

Where to See Wild Gorillas in Africa

The best spots for gorilla trekking are spread across three countries in Africa:

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park

• DR Congo: Virunga National Park (mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (lowland gorillas)

All these parks require you to have a gorilla trekking permit. Because permits sell out quickly—especially during the peak season from June to September—it’s wise to book your gorilla trek at least five months in advance. Whether you book directly or through a trusted operator like Trek Africa Expeditions, early planning is key.

Gorilla Trekking Permits and Costs by Country

Uganda:

• Foreign non-residents: $800 per trek

• Residents: $700

• East African Community citizens: $80

Uganda offers 24 habituated gorilla groups, with 23 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga, providing 152 permits daily. For a longer encounter, the Gorilla Habituation permit costs $1,500, allowing four hours with the gorillas in Bwindi. Permits can be booked through Uganda Wildlife Authority or trusted tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Rwanda:

• Foreign non-residents: $1,500

• Foreign residents: $500

• East African citizens: $200

Rwanda has 12 gorilla families, offering 96 permits each day in Volcanoes National Park. You can book permits directly through the Rwanda Development Board or through Trek Africa Expeditions.

DR Congo:

• Virunga National Park (mountain gorillas): $400 in high season (Dec-Mar, Jun-Oct), $200 in low season

• Kahuzi-Biega National Park (lowland gorillas): $400 for foreign non-residents, $200 for East African residents, $20 for nationals

Booking is available via Virunga National Park or trusted tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Important Notes on Gorilla Trekking Costs

Remember, gorilla permits cover only the trekking experience—they don’t include accommodation, flights, ground transport, meals, or other expenses. Be sure to clarify package details with your tour operator.

Uganda stands out as a safe and affordable destination for gorilla trekking, especially when compared to Congo and Rwanda.

Who Can Go Gorilla Trekking? Age and Fitness

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, and while there’s no strict maximum, fitness is essential. For older travelers or those with mobility challenges, Bwindi Forest offers sedan chair carriers—porters carry you through the forest. These chairs can be arranged in advance or on the day of the trek, typically costing between $400 and $500.

Cancellation Policies for Gorilla Permits

Gorilla permits are non-refundable if canceled within 8 days of the trek date, including no-shows. However, due to COVID-19, Uganda and Rwanda have recently introduced some flexibility, allowing affected travelers to reschedule their treks twice.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking

You can trek gorillas year-round, but the dry months—January, February, June through early September—are best. Trails are less muddy, and the vegetation is thinner, making it easier to spot gorillas.

What to Pack for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Pack light but smart for your trek: sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must due to muddy and steep trails. Long-sleeved shirts and pants protect you from insects and thorny plants. Here’s a handy checklist:

• Insect repellent

• Torch or flashlight with extra batteries

• Wet wipes

• Water bottle

• Camera and lenses

• Comfortable hiking boots and socks

• Gardening gloves (helpful for pushing through vegetation)

• Hat and sunscreen

• Rain jacket

• Sweater or fleece

• Binoculars for bird or wildlife spotting

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

Trek Africa Expeditions is your trusted partner for booking gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. We offer a range of packages—from budget to luxury—tailored to fit your needs and include gorilla permits. Our dedicated team is committed to providing excellent service and ensuring your safari is truly memorable. Check out our TripAdvisor reviews from happy clients and contact us anytime with your questions. Let us help you plan an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience straight from Chad.

Feel free to reach out to Trek Africa Expeditions for more information about gorilla trekking tours from Chad!