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Compare Gorilla trekking in Rwanda vs Uganda and discover the best destinations for a memorable adventure. Explore volcanoes, rainforests, and mountain gorillas
Gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. However, each destination offers a unique trekking experience. Rwanda, known for its Volcanoes National Park, provides a more premium and convenient experience with shorter treks and luxurious accommodation options. Uganda, home to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, offers a more rugged adventure with longer treks and a more affordable option for gorilla enthusiasts. Both destinations are exceptional, but your choice will depend on your budget, trekking preferences, and desired experience.
Both Rwanda and Uganda offer world-class opportunities to witness the majestic mountain gorillas in the wild. Here's a breakdown to help you decide which destination is best for your trekking adventure.
Rwanda is home to Volcanoes National Park, famous for its stunning scenery and well-maintained trails. Uganda offers two trekking destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, known for their dense jungles and rugged terrain.
Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park is the most accessible place for gorilla trekking, with treks starting early in the morning and lasting between 1 to 3 hours. The park is home to about 10 habituated gorilla families. Rwanda also offers luxurious lodge options and a seamless experience from start to finish.
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its challenging treks through thick forest and rugged terrain. Although the trek can be longer, sometimes up to 8 hours, the experience of seeing gorillas in their natural environment is unmatched. Uganda offers a more affordable option compared to Rwanda.
| Destination | Permit Cost (Per Person) | Accommodation Options |
|---|---|---|
| Rwanda | $1,500 per trek | Luxury lodges and upscale camps |
| Uganda | $600 per trek | Mid-range to budget lodges |
Both Rwanda and Uganda offer incredible trekking experiences, but Rwanda is more accessible, while Uganda provides a more rugged and adventurous experience.
Rwanda offers shorter treks compared to Uganda, where treks can be longer and more physically demanding due to the dense forest and steep terrain.
The best time to trek is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when the trails are less muddy and the trekking conditions are better.
Yes! Many travelers opt to combine both Rwanda and Uganda on a multi-destination trek. This allows you to explore the diversity of both destinations.
While both Rwanda and Uganda offer family-friendly options, Rwanda tends to be more suitable for families with younger children due to its shorter trekking times.