Gorilla Trekking can vary in difficulty depending on the location of the Gorilla family and the terrain. Some treks may involve several hours of hiking through dense forests, steep slopes, and potentially muddy conditions.

A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, including the ability to walk for several hours over uneven terrain. We use our connections within the National Park Ranger community to accommodate different fitness levels by assigning Adventurers to Gorilla families that are located closer or in easier-to-reach areas.

Local Porters can also be hired to assist with carrying daypacks, which can significantly ease the physical exertion.

Yes, Gorilla Trekking is generally considered safe when conducted with experienced guides and following the park rules. The habituated Gorilla families are accustomed to human presence and are not typically aggressive.

Adventurers are always accompanied by armed National Park Rangers who are there for safety and to help track the Gorillas. It's crucial to listen to your guides' instructions at all times.

Gorilla Trekking is a year-round activity, and the rainy seasons can offer the advantage of fewer tourists and potentially easier permit availability.

The dry seasons are generally considered the best time for Gorilla Trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda. These periods offer slightly more favourable hiking conditions with less rain and drier trails.

Dry Seasons:

• Uganda: June to September and December to February

• Rwanda: June to September and January to February

The chances of encountering Gorillas during your trek are very high (approx. 99%). National Park Rangers and Trackers are incredibly well-versed with the local movements of the Gorillas and they set out early in the morning to locate the Gorilla families and confirm their presence, increasing the likelihood of a successful sighting.

We often recommend experiencing Gorilla Trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda if your time and budget allow, as each country offers a distinct perspective on encountering these magnificent primates.

Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park generally offers a more rugged and adventurous trek through diverse landscapes and has a larger Gorilla population. Notably, permits are much cheaper than in Rwanda and Uganda also offers the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience for extended viewing (4 hrs).

Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park often features easier trekking due to more open vegetation and has more developed tourism infrastructure, which is potentially easier for combining with other activities in a smaller geographical area.

Important to note: Book Gorilla Permits well in advance, especially during peak season (June, July, August). A Reputable Tour Operator will handle all logistics like permits, transport, and accommodation for a seamless experience.

Yes, the minimum age for Gorilla Trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda is 15 yrs old. This is primarily due to the physical demands of the trek and the maturity level required to adhere to the strict guidelines around the gorillas. Please get in touch with us directly if you have any more specific questions on this topic.

As of April 2025, the cost of a Gorilla Trekking permit (1 hr with the Gorillas), per person, is:

Uganda (prices per person):

• International non-residents - USD 800

• International residents - USD 700

• Other Africans - USD 500

• East African Citizens - 300,000 UGX (approx. USD 80)

Uganda also offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience permit (4 hrs with the Gorillas) at a higher cost:

• International non-residents - USD 1,500

• East African Citizens - 800,000 UGX (approx. USD 210)

Rwanda (prices per person):

• International non-residents - USD 1,500

• International residents - USD 500

• Other Africans - USD 500

• East African Citizens - USD 200

The Gorilla Habituation Experience is not available in Rwanda.

In Uganda, Gorilla Trekking primarily takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both National Parks are located in the southwest of the country.

In Rwanda, Gorilla Trekking is conducted in Volcanoes National Park, situated in the Virunga Mountains, in the northwest of the country.