Gorilla Trekking Uganda vs Rwanda – A Comprehensive Comparison

Gorilla trekking is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in the world, with the opportunity to observe the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda and Rwanda are two of the main destinations for this activity, offering unique experiences for tourists. Both countries are home to a significant portion of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, and while they share some similarities, they each have their own distinct offerings. In this article, we will compare gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, focusing on the key differences, including the locations, permits, trekking experience, and other important factors.

Location of Gorilla Habitats

Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

In Uganda, the majority of mountain gorillas live in two main national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its biodiversity and dense vegetation. It is one of the most famous locations for gorilla trekking, offering a challenging and immersive trekking experience.

Bwindi is located in southwestern Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is also located in southwestern Uganda, is smaller but offers fewer tourists and a more intimate trekking experience.

Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda’s gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park, located in the Virunga Mountains in the northwest of the country, near the borders of Uganda and the DRC. The park is known for its stunning landscapes and dramatic volcanic scenery. With its well-maintained trails and higher visitor numbers, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is often seen as the more accessible option for travelers looking for an easier trekking experience.

Permit Costs and Availability

Uganda: More Affordable and Flexible Permits

Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are relatively more affordable than those in Rwanda. As of 2025, a trekking permit in Uganda costs approximately $700 USD per person per day. This cost includes park entry, a guide, and the permit to trek a specific gorilla family. However, because of Uganda’s less developed tourism infrastructure compared to Rwanda, securing a permit and availability may require more advanced planning, especially during peak seasons.

Rwanda: Expensive but Exclusive Permits

In Rwanda, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit is significantly higher, at approximately $1,500 USD per person per day. This higher price reflects Rwanda’s emphasis on exclusive and high-quality tourist experiences. The park has a more streamlined system for issuing permits, and while the cost may be prohibitive for some, the higher price tag also often translates to fewer trekkers per day, giving a sense of exclusivity.

Trekking Experience

Uganda: Challenging, Rugged Terrain

Uganda’s gorilla trekking experience is often described as more physically challenging. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, in particular, has dense vegetation, steep hills, and muddy trails, making the trek a more demanding journey. However, many trekkers appreciate this for the adventure and the chance to experience the unspoiled wilderness up close.

The difficulty level of the trek can vary depending on the gorilla family assigned to each group, and trekkers should be prepared for hikes that can last between 2 to 8 hours. However, the reward of encountering the gorillas in such a raw and authentic setting is often considered unparalleled.

Rwanda: Easier Trails and Shorter Treks

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, is known for having well-maintained trails that are more accessible to a wider range of visitors. The park has developed a reputation for being more tourist-friendly, with treks typically lasting between 1 to 4 hours, depending on the gorilla group you are assigned to. The terrain is less rugged compared to Uganda, and some trekking routes are relatively short, making it a good option for those who prefer a less physically demanding experience.

However, trekkers in Rwanda might still encounter some steep and challenging areas, especially when reaching the higher altitudes of the Volcanoes.

Wildlife Experience and Gorilla Families

Uganda: More Remote, Less Crowded

One of the key advantages of trekking in Uganda is that the trekking experience tends to be more remote and less crowded. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas. This allows for a greater sense of intimacy with the gorillas, and visitors may feel like they are entering a wild, untouched environment. There are 20 habituated gorilla families in Uganda, with new families being introduced regularly.

Rwanda: A More Controlled, Exclusive Experience

While Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to fewer gorilla families (around 10 habituated families), the park offers an organized and controlled experience with more regulated access. Each trekking group is only allowed to visit one gorilla family, and the number of permits is limited each day to avoid overcrowding. This creates a more exclusive atmosphere, and trekkers are guaranteed to see the gorillas within a reasonable amount of time.

Accommodation and Travel Experience

Uganda: Rustic and Authentic

The accommodation options in Uganda tend to be more rustic and authentic, with a mix of budget, mid-range, and luxury lodges available around the Bwindi and Mgahinga regions. Many visitors enjoy the more intimate, off-the-beaten-path feel that Uganda offers. However, the roads leading to these parks can be rough, and travelers should expect longer travel times.

Rwanda: More Developed Infrastructure

Rwanda’s infrastructure is generally more developed and tourist-friendly. The Volcanoes National Park is easily accessible from Kigali, the capital, which is only about a 2.5-hour drive away. The country also boasts a range of high-end accommodations, offering more luxurious options for visitors. The roads to Volcanoes National Park are well-maintained, making for a more comfortable and convenient travel experience.

Best Time to Visit

Uganda and Rwanda: Year-Round Trekking

Both Uganda and Rwanda offer gorilla trekking year-round, although the best time to visit is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are less muddy, and the trekking experience is generally more pleasant.

Both countries experience some rainfall throughout the year, but rain showers typically do not disrupt gorilla trekking too much.

Conclusion

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda offers unique, life-changing experiences. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides a more rugged and challenging trek, often with fewer visitors, which may appeal to those seeking adventure and an authentic experience. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined and luxurious experience with easier trails and higher-quality facilities.

Ultimately, the choice between Uganda and Rwanda comes down to personal preferences. If you are looking for a more physically demanding and off-the-beaten-path adventure, Uganda may be the better choice. However, if you are seeking an easier trek with more convenience and luxury, Rwanda offers a well-developed tourism infrastructure that may be more suitable. Both countries offer the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see mountain gorillas in the wild, a truly unforgettable experience.