How to Plan a Private Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda and Rwanda
Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters in Africa, drawing nature lovers from around the world. Uganda and Rwanda are two of the only three countries on Earth where you can see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat the third being the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is currently not considered safe for tourism due to ongoing unrest.
For travelers seeking a high-end, personalized adventure with minimal crowds, private gorilla trekking offers the ultimate safari experience. This kind of trip allows you to enjoy tailored services, private transportation and accommodation, and a more intimate trek with a dedicated guide. Here’s how to plan a private gorilla trekking safari in Uganda or Rwanda.
Step 1: Choose Your Gorilla Trekking Destination
The first decision is whether to trek in Uganda or Rwanda or both. Your choice may depend on your interests, budget, travel time, and the experience you’re seeking.
Uganda – Home to Half of the World’s Mountain Gorillas
Uganda is known for harboring the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. Gorilla trekking takes place in two parks:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with 4 trekking sectors (Rushaga, Nkuringo, Ruhija, and Buhoma), 19 habituated gorilla families, and an optional habituation experience that allows for 4 hours with gorillas.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – with one habituated family, ideal for visitors seeking fewer crowds and easier accessibility to Rwanda.
Bwindi offers a diverse and often rugged trekking experience in a dense rainforest setting, while Mgahinga offers beautiful volcanic scenery and cultural interactions with the Batwa community.
Rwanda – Luxury and Convenience
In Rwanda, gorilla trekking happens in Volcanoes National Park, which is only a 2–3-hour drive from Kigali. The park is known for its breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and strong conservation programs. Rwanda’s experience is generally more upscale and easier to access, making it a popular choice for luxury travelers or those with limited time.
Budget Tip: Uganda is more budget-friendly, especially in terms of gorilla permit costs, while Rwanda focuses on high-end tourism.
Step 2: Secure Your Gorilla Permits
You cannot trek gorillas without a permit, which should be booked at least 6 months in advance due to high demand.
Updated Gorilla Permit Prices (as of 2025)
Uganda (Issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority)
- Foreign non-residents: $800
- Foreign residents: $700
- East African citizens: UGX 300,000
- Habituation permit (4 hours): $1,500
Permit Booking Terms (Uganda)
- Must be 15 years or older.
- 50% deposit required if booking more than 6 months in advance.
- Balance due 90 days before trekking date.
- One reschedule allowed within 12 months.
- 25% surcharge applies if reschedule is within 14 days of original date.
- No permit exchanges between trekking and habituation experiences.
Rwanda (Issued by Rwanda Development Board)
- Foreign non-residents: $1,500
- Foreign residents (other African countries): $500
- East African citizens: $300
All permits include park entry, guide, ranger escort, and one hour with a habituated gorilla group (4 hours if habituation is booked in Uganda).
Note: Permit costs do not include accommodation, transport, meals, or personal expenses.
Step 3: Choose Between Gorilla Trekking and Habituation
If you desire a deeper, more exclusive experience, consider the gorilla habituation experience in Uganda’s Rushaga sector. You’ll spend 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group and enjoy more in-depth insights into their behavior. Only 4 people are allowed per day per group.
To enjoy a fully private trekking experience, you may also book all 8 permits for a single gorilla family on a regular trek. This guarantees exclusivity and a personalized guide service.
Step 4: Organize Private Transportation
Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is a short drive from Kigali, making ground transfer convenient. Private 4×4 safari vehicles can be arranged for door-to-park transportation, including airport pickups.
Uganda
Getting to Bwindi or Mgahinga by road takes 9–10 hours from Entebbe or Kampala. A scenic drive offers views of rural Uganda and dramatic landscapes. Alternatively, domestic flights are available to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrips, followed by a short drive to your lodge.
Private air charters are also available for travelers seeking maximum comfort and speed.
Step 5: Book Luxury and Secluded Accommodation
Luxury lodges enhance the personalized experience with high-end service, privacy, and sweeping views. Accommodations should be booked in the same sector where your gorilla permits are valid.
Top Lodge Options in Uganda
- Bwindi: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Gorilla Heights Lodge, Buhoma Lodge.
- Mgahinga: Gahinga Lodge, Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge.
Top Lodge Options in Rwanda
- Singita Kwitonda Lodge
- Bisate Lodge
- One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
- Virunga Lodge
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Kinigi Guesthouse (for budget travelers)
Book well in advance for dry seasons (June–September and December–February).
Step 6: Know the Gorilla Trekking Rules
To protect gorillas and ensure safety, the following regulations apply in both countries:
- Minimum age: 15 years
- No trekking if you have flu, cough, or other contagious illnesses.
- Keep at least 7 meters from gorillas.
- No flash photography.
- No eating, drinking, or loud talking near gorillas.
- Only 8 visitors per gorilla family per day.
- Avoid wearing bright colors, camouflage, or sunglasses.
- Follow all instructions from your ranger.
Step 7: Hire a Porter
Hiring a porter is recommended to carry your backpack and support you on difficult terrain. Porters can carry up to 15 kg and provide crucial help on steep or muddy trails. It’s also a great way to support the local economy.
Step 8: Pack Appropriately
A detailed packing list for your private gorilla trek should include:
- Neutral-colored long trousers and long-sleeved shirts
- Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
- Rain jacket and gaiters
- Wide-brim hat and sunscreen
- Insect repellent and hand sanitizer
- Face masks (in case of illness)
- Reusable water bottle (at least 2L)
- Gardening gloves (for protection from vegetation)
- Daypack with snacks, camera, and other personal items
- Charging adapter (240V, 3-pin UK-style plugs)
- Extra batteries and memory cards for your camera
Final Tip: Travel During the Best Season
Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the best times are during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. Trails are more passable, and gorilla sightings are consistent.
A private gorilla trekking experience offers unmatched access to one of nature’s rarest wildlife moments in total comfort and exclusivity. Whether you choose Uganda’s wild Bwindi trails or Rwanda’s luxurious Volcanoes Park, you’re guaranteed a life-changing encounter.
Contact us for assistance with permits, accommodation, flights, and expert guidance as you plan your private gorilla safari.
