What to Expect on a Gorilla Trekking Safari

A Gorilla Trekking Safari is not just another wildlife tour — it is one of the most intimate and powerful wildlife encounters on earth. Standing just meters away from a wild mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat is an experience that changes perspectives and leaves lasting memories.

If you’re planning your first trek, this guide explains exactly what to expect on a gorilla trekking safari, from booking permits to the emotional moment you meet a silverback.

At Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, we specialize in organizing seamless gorilla trekking adventures across Uganda and Rwanda. Contact us to start planning your journey.

Where Gorilla Trekking Takes Place

Mountain gorillas live in only three countries worldwide: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The most popular and stable destinations are Uganda and Rwanda.

Gorilla Trekking Uganda

Uganda is the leading destination for Gorilla Trekking Uganda experiences.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Bwindi offers multiple trekking sectors and the highest number of habituated gorilla families.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Located in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga offers scenic volcanic landscapes and a quieter trekking experience.

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda offers a premium Rwanda Gorilla Trekking experience, with shorter travel times from Kigali and luxury lodges.

Step 1: Booking Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

One of the most important things to expect on a gorilla trekking safari is the permit requirement.

A gorilla trekking permit allows you to spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family.

Permit Costs (2026):

Uganda: $800 per person
Rwanda: $1,500 per person

Permits are limited and often sell out months in advance, especially during peak season.

At Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, we secure permits and handle all logistics for you.

Contact our safari experts today, here.

Step 2: The Day of Your Gorilla Trek

Here is exactly what to expect on the actual trekking day.

Early Morning Briefing

Your day begins around 7:30 AM at the park headquarters. Rangers will:

Explain gorilla trekking rules
Assign you to a gorilla family
Group trekkers by fitness levels
Introduce your guides and armed ranger escort

Each group consists of a maximum of 8 visitors.

The Forest Hike

The trek itself can last:

1 to 6 hours
Sometimes longer depending on gorilla movements

Terrain varies from moderate to challenging, especially in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where dense forest and steep slopes are common.

Expect:

Muddy trails
Thick vegetation
Occasional river crossings
Sweeping jungle views

Hiring a porter is highly recommended. It supports local communities and makes the hike easier.

The Magical Moment: Meeting the Gorillas

Once trackers locate the gorilla family, you’ll leave your bags behind and approach slowly.

This is the highlight of your Gorilla Trekking Safari.

You will spend one unforgettable hour observing:

A dominant silverback guarding his family
Mothers nursing babies
Young gorillas playing
Family members feeding on leaves and bamboo

Gorillas are calm and accustomed to human presence. You must remain 7 meters away, although they sometimes move closer out of curiosity.

Photography is allowed (no flash).

The emotional impact of this encounter is profound — many travelers describe it as life-changing.

Physical Fitness: How Fit Do You Need to Be?

A common question about what to expect on a gorilla trekking safari is fitness requirements.

You do not need to be an athlete, but moderate fitness helps.

Tips:

Choose a group based on fitness level
Wear proper hiking boots
Use walking sticks provided by the park
Hire a porter

Your guide will set a comfortable pace for the group.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Packing properly makes a huge difference.

Essential items:

Waterproof hiking boots
Long-sleeved shirts
Long trousers
Rain jacket
Gardening gloves
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Camera (no flash)

Avoid bright colors and strong perfumes.

Gorilla Trekking Rules & Safety Guidelines

To protect endangered mountain gorillas, strict rules apply:

Maintain 7 meters distance
No flash photography
Maximum 1 hour visit
Do not trek if sick
Minimum age: 15 years

These guidelines protect both visitors and gorillas.

All treks are led by experienced rangers and guides, ensuring your safety throughout.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla Trekking Safaris are available year-round.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking:

June to September
December to February

Dry seasons offer easier hiking and clearer photography conditions.

Rainy seasons (March–May & October–November) offer fewer crowds and lush scenery.

Accommodation: What to Expect

You can choose from:

Budget lodges
Mid-range safari lodges
Luxury eco-lodges

Uganda offers more affordable options, while Rwanda focuses on luxury experiences.

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris customizes your accommodation based on your travel style and budget.

Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Safari

A typical 3-day Uganda gorilla safari includes:

Gorilla permit ($800)
Accommodation
Transport
Guide services
Park fees

Estimated total: $1,500–$2,500 per person.

Rwanda packages start around $2,500–$4,500 due to higher permit fees.

Request a personalized quote here.

Combining Gorilla Trekking with Other Safaris

Many travelers combine gorilla trekking with classic African wildlife safaris.

Popular extensions include:

Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions
Kibale National Park for chimpanzee tracking
Masai Mara National Reserve for the Great Migration
Serengeti National Park for Big Five safaris

The Conservation Impact of Your Visit

When you book a Gorilla Trekking Safari, your permit fees directly fund:

Gorilla conservation
Anti-poaching patrols
Community development projects
Habitat protection

With fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas left worldwide, tourism plays a critical role in their survival.

Your visit truly makes a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Yes. Treks are led by armed rangers and trained guides.

How close do you get?

Approximately 7 meters.

Can I trek more than once?

Yes. Many visitors book multiple permits.

Is it worth the cost?

Absolutely. Few wildlife experiences compare to this.

Final Thoughts: An Experience Like No Other

If you’re wondering what to expect on a gorilla trekking safari, expect:

Adventure
Physical challenge
Emotional connection
Conservation impact
Unforgettable memories

From the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the volcanic slopes of Volcanoes National Park, this is one of Africa’s most extraordinary experiences

Plan your adventure experience, here.