Gorilla Trekking Tips for Uganda & Rwanda: What to Know Before You Go

Learn the best gorilla trekking tips for Uganda & Rwanda, including gorilla trekking permits, gear, fitness and when to visit. Below is a simple guide for a safe, unforgettable gorilla safari in Africa.

Mountain gorillas are one of the world’s rarest animals and can only be seen in the wild in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Once nearly extinct, their numbers have grown thanks to strong conservation and community efforts. Today, more than 1,000 mountain gorillas survive in these rainforest regions, an inspiring success for African wildlife.

Gorilla Trekking Tips for Uganda & Rwanda: What to Know Before You Go

Most gorillas live in the Virunga Mountains, a chain of volcanoes on the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. The rest live in Uganda’s famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a dense forest known for its rich biodiversity.

Working together at Cheap Car Rental Uganda LTD, we have a number of years of experience organizing gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, we have gathered the best gorilla trekking tips to help you prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Gorilla Trekking Tips for Uganda & Rwanda: What to Know Before You Go

Simple and essential tips for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Uganda or Rwanda

1. Always Put the Gorillas First

Gorillas are gentle but sensitive wildlife. Protecting them should be the priority of every trekker. Your actions can affect their behavior and wellbeing, so it’s important to follow the rules.

Key rules for safe gorilla trekking:

• Stay at least 7 meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas.
• If a gorilla walks closer to you, step back slowly and calmly.
• Do not trek when sick—gorillas easily catch human diseases.
• Turn away and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Stay together as a group to avoid scaring them.
• Avoid direct eye contact—it may seem threatening to them.
• Keep your voice low and avoid sudden movements.
• You’re allowed only one hour with each gorilla group.
• Follow your guide at all times—they are trained professionals.
• Respect nature and follow Leave No Trace principles.

These guidelines help protect the gorillas and ensure their long-term survival in the wild.

2. Book Gorilla Trekking Permits Early

Every visitor needs a permit to trek gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits:

• Uganda: USD $800 Per Permit, Per Person
• Rwanda: USD $1,500 Per Permit, Per Person

Ugandan permits are valid in both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and they are purchased at the Uganda Wildlife Authority through a licenced tour operator agency. Rwanda permits are also booked through a licensed tour company.

Because permits are limited and sell out quickly, booking in advance is extremely important especially during peak seasons.

The simplest option is to book your gorilla tour through an accredited operator non other than Cheap Car Rental Uganda LTD, as our Uganda and Rwanda safari packages already include the required gorilla permits.

3. Travel During the Dry Seasons

Gorilla trekking is available all year, but the dry season offers the most comfortable conditions.

Best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda:

• December to February
• June to August

Best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda:

• June to September

Dry months mean better hiking trails, easier access to forests and clearer wildlife sightings.

4. Prepare for All Weather Conditions

Weather in the mountains is unpredictable, you can experience sunshine, rain, humidity and cold all in one day.

What to wear and bring for gorilla trekking:

• Strong hiking boots with ankle support
• Thick, comfortable socks
• Lightweight, long hiking trousers
• Long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin
• A waterproof jacket
• Clothing layers for cold mountain weather

Bwindi and the Virunga jungles can be muddy, steep and slippery, so proper footwear is essential. Also remember: flash photography is not allowed, so turn off your camera flash before entering the forest.

5. Be Patient

Best wildlife experiences require patience. Finding the gorillas can take time because they move freely through the forest. Some treks are short; others may take several hours depending on the gorilla movements.

You may also spend less time with the gorillas if they show signs of stress. Your guides will make sure both visitors and gorillas remain safe. No matter how long the trek takes, the experience is always worth it.

6. Build Your Fitness Before the Trek

You don’t need to be an expert hiker, but having a basic fitness level helps a lot. Gorilla trekking often involves:

• Steep climbs
• Slippery paths
• Dense vegetation
• Long walking hours

Take some time before your trip to walk on hills, hike with a small backpack or do cardio exercises like running or swimming. Being prepared will make your gorilla trek more enjoyable.

7. Discover More Than Just Gorillas

Uganda and Rwanda offer far more than gorilla trekking. Both countries are full of natural beauty, wildlife, adventure and culture.

Highlights of Uganda

• The snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains
• The source of the Nile with world-class white-water rafting
• Murchison Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world
• Lake Bunyonyi’s scenic islands
• National parks with lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards, giraffes, antelopes, among others

Highlights of Rwanda

• Stunning hills across the “Land of a Thousand Hills”
• Beautiful beaches along Lake Kivu
• Nyungwe Forest, home to chimpanzees and canopy walks
• Whether or not you see gorillas, both destinations offer unforgettable safari experiences.

For More Travel Tips

To learn more about things to do in Uganda and Rwanda or to plan your gorilla trekking safari, simply contact Cheap Car Rental Uganda for detailed information. Contact us through our contact us form, send us an email at info@cheapcarrentaluganda.com or via WhatsApp on +256 708 100 660