Gorilla Trekking in
Rwanda vs. Uganda
Less than 900 mountain gorillas exist, and they are only found in 3 places on earth, Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since the D.R.C. is not generally safe for travel at this time, most people end up choosing between the other options. Deciding weather to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda vs. Uganda is the first step you’ll take when planning a trip to see these endangered primates.
The most popular destinations for visiting the gorillas are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. In both parks, the overall trekking logistics are similar. Several gorilla families have been habituated and are comfortable with human interaction. Pay for a permit, and a trained guide will take a small group deep into the jungle to search for the gorillas. To keep the gorilla families from getting overwhelmed, only one group gets to visit each family per day and visits are limited to 1 hour. This hour is truly incredible and often described as one of the best experiences in a lifetime for many travelers. In order to cover all the bases, guides warn that seeing the gorillas is not guaranteed, but highly likely. Ultimately, the goal of gorilla trekking in both countries is to promote conservation of the gorilla’s environment and increase their population.
With the general information out of the way, what’s so different about gorilla trekking in Rwanda vs. Uganda? We’ve compiled the highlights and the lowlights of what each country offers:
- Volcanoes National Park is home to 10 mountain gorilla families, the largest number of habituated groups in the world. Therefore, it’s easier to get permits to see them.
- Gorilla trekking has been a Rwanda’s largest tourist attraction for many years. Tour guides are very experienced, and the overall experience is more established.
- Importantly, travellers will spend less time in-transit when visiting Rwanda. Most travellers fly into Kigali, which is only a 2.5 hour drive (on paved roads!) from the trekking location.
- Travellers report that seeing and photographing the gorillas is easier in Volcanoes, because the jungle vegetation is more open, making it easier to get a clear shot.
Rwanda Lowlights
- If you’re looking for a traditional African safari experience, Rwanda may not be the best choice. It doesn’t include the “big 5 game” animals that most people associate with Africa. If a traditional safari is on your bucket list, travelling from Rwanda to Tanzania is a breeze. The “big five” can be found in Tanzania’s Serengeti, one of the best wildlife parks in the world.
- Permit prices are more costly in Volcanoes National Park at $750 each. However, trekking with Gondwana includes the park permit; in the trip price; not too shabby!
Uganda Highlights
- About half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas live in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There are 4 habituated families that can be visited on treks.
- Permit costs are a bit more affordable in Bwindi, at $600 during the high season, and $450 during the low season of April, May and November, due to unfavorable weather.
- Seeking an African safari in addition to a gorilla trek? If so, Uganda is probably the best choice. In addition to vast biodiversity, Uganda is home to the “big 5 game” animals.
- Bwindi National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site in their words, a “conservation frontline as an isolated forest of outstanding biological richness.”
Uganda Lowlights
- Bwindi is very remote, and travel to the park can be difficult. Bad roads lead to a difficult, long journey from the major airports to the park. Prepare to spend a full day in the car.
- The forest isn’t named “Impenetrable” for nothing! Vegetation in the park is dense, and travellers report that hikes can be challenging and getting clear photos can be difficult.
Clearly, there’s a lot to consider between Rwanda vs. Uganda. But in Gondwana’s opinion, trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers a more simple, rewarding trip. As an ecotourism company offering trips to Rwanda, we can’t help but play favorites. However, research is half the battle when planning a trip. Choose the destination that fits your travel goals, budget, and comfort zone. Happy trekking!
Adorable gorilla in Rwanda
