Discover Uganda

Visit the mountain gorillas in Rwanda, located in the misty mountains

Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park, located in the Virunga Mountains, is home to these endangered animals. Trekking through the forest to see them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

Why Uganda is the Ultimate Destination for Gorilla Trekking

Rwanda is a top destination for gorilla trekking because:

Easy to Reach – Volcanoes National Park is only a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali, making it the most accessible gorilla trekking location in Africa.
Safe and Well-Managed – Rwanda’s strict conservation rules ensure a safe and ethical trekking experience.
Lots of Gorillas – The park has 12 gorilla families that are used to humans, giving visitors a good chance of seeing them up close.
Beautiful Scenery – The misty mountains and green forests make the trek an unforgettable adventure.
Rich Culture – You can also experience Rwanda’s traditions, including the Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony.
Helping Local Communities – Part of the permit fees goes to schools, healthcare, and conservation programs for nearby communities.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in Uganda

A permit is required to visit the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Here are the costs:

$1,500 USD per person – For international visitors.
$500 USD per person – For African foreign residents and citizens.
$200 USD per person – For East African Community (EAC) residents and Rwandan citizens.

How to Book a Gorilla Permit

You can get a permit through:

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) – Book directly on their website or at their office in Kigali.
A Trusted Tour Operator – With a track record of 97 permits booked, we; Gorilla Hub Tours can arrange permits, hotels, transportation, and guided treks.

Tip: Permits sell out fast, so book 3–6 months in advance, especially in peak seasons.

Start Planning

A gorilla tour specialist is available to assist you

The best time to Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking

You can go gorilla trekking all year, but the best time is during the dry seasons:

Best Time to Trek (Dry Season)

June to September – The most popular time with great weather.
December to February – Another dry period with good trekking conditions.

Rainy Season (More Challenging, Fewer Tourists)

March to May & October to November – Fewer crowds and beautiful green scenery, but the trails can be muddy and slippery.

What to Expect on a Gorilla Trek

Early Morning Check-In – Arrive at Kinigi Park Headquarters by 7 AM for a briefing and to join a trekking group.
Guided Trek – A ranger leads a small group of eight people through the forest to find the gorillas.
Hike Length – Treks can take 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on where the gorillas are.
Close Gorilla Encounter – Spend one special hour observing these gentle giants.
End of Trek – Return to base and receive a certificate to mark your experience.

Essential Packing List for Gorilla Trekking

Make sure to bring:

Long-sleeved shirt and pants – Protects against scratches and insects.
Hiking boots – Needed for walking on uneven ground.
Waterproof rain jacket – Rain is common in the mountains.
Garden gloves – Helps when grabbing onto plants.
Gaiters – Protects legs from mud and thorns.
Hat and sunscreen – Shields you from the sun.
Binoculars – Useful for spotting other animals.
Camera and extra batteries – Capture your incredible experience.

Go on an extraordinary gorilla trekking adventure with Gorilla Hub Tours!

Begin an unforgettable journey to observe these incredible creatures up close. We take care of every detail for you, including permits, guided treks, and comfortable accommodations.

Contact our Rwanda Tour Specialist today to start planning your dream safari! We ensure you have everything you need for a memorable experience, and this is a journey you won't forget.

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Go gorilla trekking in Rwanda with Gorilla Hub Tours

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Explore Rwanda Gorilla Packages

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