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A rare and powerful encounter in the heart of the rainforest

Deep within the misty forests of Rwanda and Uganda, come face-to-face with a family of wild mountain gorillas. It is an experience that is humbling, unforgettable, and deeply personal.

Safari type: Primate safariBest for: Adventure seekers and wildlife photographers
Mountain gorillas in the rainforest
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda
Gorilla family with a baby

Overview

Mountain gorilla trekking is one of the most moving wildlife experiences in Africa. Deep within the misty forests of Rwanda and Uganda, you can come face to face with a family of wild mountain gorillas. It is an encounter that is humbling, unforgettable, and deeply personal.

Although gorilla trekking is not possible in Tanzania, it is easily combined with a Tanzanian safari as a short flight extension. This makes it the perfect add-on for those seeking both the drama of the savannah and the mystery of the mountains.

Why go gorilla trekking

  • Only a few places on Earth. Mountain gorillas live only in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda) and Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), protected homes of the last remaining populations.
  • Close-up, respectful encounters. Limited daily permits keep trekking low-impact and conservation-focused, with small groups and a regulated one hour with the gorillas.
  • Emotionally unmatched. Sitting meters from a silverback or watching young gorillas play in the trees is an experience few ever forget.
  • Combine with your Tanzania safari. A short flight from Kilimanjaro/Arusha can take you to Kigali (Rwanda) or Entebbe (Uganda) to begin your primate adventure.

Gorilla trekking destinations

Rwanda and Uganda rainforests

Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)

Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)

The most accessible and often most luxurious gorilla trekking experience, with generally shorter treks and excellent infrastructure, ideal for limited time.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda)

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site holding roughly half the world’s mountain gorilla population. Treks can be more demanding, but highly immersive and adventurous.

What to expect on a gorilla trek

What to expect

  • Flights, permits, and logistics handled. We arrange regional flights, permits, accommodations, and ground transfers for a seamless add-on.
  • One-hour gorilla observation. Once located, you spend up to one hour with the gorilla family, quietly observing behavior and interactions.
  • Photography opportunities. Capture intimate moments in natural habitat (no flash), with guides helping you position respectfully.
Gorilla trekking tips

Trekking tips

  • Permits are required and limited. Book well in advance.
  • Expect 1 to 5+ hours of hiking depending on the gorilla family location.
  • Wear waterproof boots, long pants, gloves, and a rain jacket.
  • Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited.

Ready to trek?

Plan your gorilla trekking extension

If you’re planning a Tanzania safari, add a few extra days for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. We’ll take care of all logistics, so you can focus on the adventure and enjoy a seamless East Africa journey.

WhatsApp: +255 768 611 005

Email: info@eveonsafari.com