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Premier Gorilla Trekking Destinations in East Africa – Uganda and Rwanda
Premier Gorilla Trekking Destinations in East Africa — Embark on an unparalleled adventure to witness mountain gorillas in their natural habitat by exploring the top gorilla trekking locations in East Africa, specifically Uganda and Rwanda. Trek Africa Expeditions provides comprehensive insights for those planning a memorable East African Gorilla vacation, surpassing the conventional focus on the great wildebeest migration.
Gorilla trekking is a transformative experience that demands careful planning. Trek Africa Expeditions recommends booking well in advance, especially during peak season months from June to September and December to February. While there might be last-minute exceptions, proactive planning ensures a seamless and secure gorilla trekking experience in the best and safest countries for encountering mountain gorillas.
The foremost gorilla trekking locations in East Africa are Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Adequate planning guarantees the availability of permits, even during high seasons, making Uganda and Rwanda the ideal destinations for trekking with mountain gorillas in their natural setting.
For those seeking adventure, trek mountain gorillas in the Virunga Volcanoes Massif in Rwanda or the ancient RAMSAR site of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Gorilla trekking safaris can commence from Kigali, Rwanda, or Entebbe/Kampala, Uganda, utilizing road travel or domestic flights. For further details, contact Trek Africa Expeditions.
Where to Trek Mountain Gorillas in Uganda?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Gorilla Trekking Haven
Renowned for gorilla trekking in Uganda, the mystical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers an unparalleled experience. With nearly half of the world’s wild mountain gorillas residing in this natural habitat, Bwindi boasts approximately 550 individuals. The forest also hosts extraordinary biodiversity, including 310 tree species, over 100 luscious fern species, 310 butterfly species, and 346 identified bird species, alongside other wildlife such as elephants, duikers, and antelopes.
Buhoma Region
As the least strenuous gorilla tracking area in Bwindi, Buhoma’s lower altitude provides easily accessible terrain compared to other locations. Boasting various lodging options, from budget to luxurious establishments, Buhoma is home to five habituated gorilla family groups—Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushagura, Binyindo, and Katwe groups. Additionally, visitors may encounter gorilla groups during their stay, enhancing the overall experience. Buhoma also offers diverse activities such as batwa community experiences, village walks, waterfall walks, and mountain bike rides.
Rushaga Region
Located in the upper southern part of Bwindi, Rushaga offers various lodging choices and is home to the highest number of mountain gorilla groups—Nshongi, Kahungye, Busingye, Bweza, Bushaho, Muchunguzi, and Mishaya. Activities in Rushaga include gorilla trekking, hiking trails, village walks, batwa experiences, and birding trips, making it an ideal destination.
Ruhija Region
Situated at an elevation of 2350m, higher than Buhoma, Ruhija offers a diverse area of the park, attracting birders with its four gorilla family groups—Oruzogo, Bitukura, Ukiza, and Kyaguriro. While providing spectacular birding opportunities, Ruhija recommends staying in the region for a more convenient trekking experience.
Nkuringo Region
Known for its scenic beauty, Nkuringo requires some effort for gorilla trekking, especially during the return climb. However, the experience of visiting the Nkuringo and Christmas groups makes the effort worthwhile. Nkuringo offers prestigious lodges with breathtaking views, and additional activities include village walks and the Top of the World walk, providing panoramic views of the Virunga Volcano Massif.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
While Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to over 80 mountain gorillas, only one habituated gorilla family group, SUSA, can be tracked within the park. Mgahinga offers gorilla permits, and visitors can stay between Nkuringo in Bwindi, Lake Mutanda around Kisoro, or choose lodges within Mgahinga.
Explore the popular gorilla trekking safaris offered by Trek Africa Expeditions, with customizable itineraries based on travel dates and budgets, allowing for combinations with wildlife viewing in Uganda.
Where to See Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda?
Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to ten habituated gorilla family groups, welcoming travelers to experience gorilla trekking. With 80 gorilla permits available daily, visitors can engage in treks ranging from shorter durations to all-day expeditions. Rwanda’s gorilla trekking is distinct from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offering a unique perspective as it unfolds on the slopes of the Virunga Massif.
To optimize the gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda, attendees can enjoy a morning orientation with coffee or tea, accompanied by traditional Rwanda Itore Dance performances. The treks, guided by pre-trackers, rarely result in missed gorilla encounters. In case such an occurrence arises, visitors are given a second chance by Uganda Wildlife Authority the following day.
Gorilla Trekking Permits in East Africa
Both Uganda and Rwanda offer safe and accessible gorilla trekking experiences year-round. The primary difference lies in the cost of gorilla permits—$1500 in Rwanda and USD800 in Uganda. While permits can be obtained directly from Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board, it is recommended to book through a tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions. Direct bookings may face delays, and operators streamline the process by booking permits directly without complications.
For those planning a Rwanda gorilla safari or Uganda gorilla safari, it is advisable to book gorilla permits 3-4 months in advance. Trek Africa Expeditions can facilitate the arrangement of a top gorilla trekking safari in East Africa, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.
