Gorillas & Rwanda
Into the Mist – A Journey to Meet Our Closest Relatives
Africa's Most Intimate Wildlife Encounter
Mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda offers a life-changing encounter with fewer than 1,100 remaining mountain gorillas in their misty volcanic forest habitat.
Coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla is one of the most moving wildlife experiences on Earth. With fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild, this endangered species survives only in the volcanic mountains of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Our carefully crafted gorilla trekking experiences prioritize both the welfare of the gorillas and the quality of your encounter. We work with expert local guides and support community conservation initiatives.
Beyond gorillas, Rwanda and Uganda offer stunning landscapes, fascinating cultures, and diverse wildlife. Combine your gorilla trek with chimpanzee tracking, savannah safaris, or cultural immersions for the complete East African experience.
- Best Time
- Jun–Sep & Dec–Feb
- Duration
- 3–7 days
- Permit Cost
- USD $1,500 (Rwanda)
- Highlights
- Mountain gorillas, Volcanoes NP, chimps
Safari Highlights
Mountain Gorilla Encounter
Spend a magical hour with a habituated gorilla family – one of wildlife's most profound experiences.
Volcanoes National Park
Trek through misty bamboo forests on the slopes of ancient volcanoes in Rwanda.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Uganda's UNESCO World Heritage site, home to nearly half the world's mountain gorillas.
Golden Monkey Tracking
Encounter these playful, endangered primates in the bamboo forests of the Virungas.
Rich Biodiversity
Explore some of Africa's most biodiverse forests with incredible birding and primate encounters.
Cultural Experiences
Meet local communities and learn about conservation efforts protecting these gentle giants.
Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
June-September & December-February
Climate
Cool and misty in the mountains
Recommended Duration
3-7 days for gorilla focus
Peak Season
Year-round, dry seasons ideal
Gorilla Trekking Safari FAQ
- How much does gorilla trekking cost?
- Gorilla trekking permits cost USD $1,500 per person in Rwanda and USD $700 in Uganda. A complete 3–7 day gorilla trekking safari costs AUD $5,000–$15,000 per person including accommodation, transfers, and permits.
- How close can you get to mountain gorillas?
- Trekkers must maintain a minimum distance of 7 metres from the gorillas. However, curious gorillas may approach closer on their own. Each visit is limited to one hour with a gorilla family to minimise disturbance.
- Is gorilla trekking difficult?
- Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense rainforest at altitudes of 2,300–4,000 metres. Treks can last 1–6 hours depending on gorilla location. Moderate fitness is recommended, but porters are available to assist.
Start Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Let us create a tailor-made safari experience just for you. Our expert team will design the perfect itinerary based on your interests and travel style.