Seeing gorillas in Rwanda is considered a luxury experience. Rwanda charges $1,500 per gorilla permit, which is one of the highest prices in Africa. The reason for this is that Rwanda wants to position itself as a high-end destination. The country focuses on fewer visitors but ensures they get a premium experience with excellent service, luxury lodges, and world-class security.
Another reason the permits are expensive is that the money goes toward conservation and community support. Protecting gorillas requires many rangers, trackers, veterinarians, and researchers. Local communities also benefit through schools, hospitals, and jobs. By charging a higher fee, Rwanda ensures gorillas are well protected, and locals see the value of keeping them safe.
For travelers who want exclusivity and comfort, Rwanda is worth the price. But for budget travelers, the cost can feel too high, making Uganda a better option.
Is It Safer to Visit Gorillas in Uganda?
Uganda is very safe for gorilla trekking. The government and Uganda Wildlife Authority have strict security in place, and rangers are trained to keep visitors safe. Trekking groups are always escorted by armed guards, not because gorillas are dangerous, but to make sure no wild animals or outside threats disturb the trek.
Both Rwanda and Uganda are politically stable in the gorilla regions. However, Uganda is larger and offers more national parks, so safety measures are spread across more areas. Rwanda feels very secure as well, but some travelers prefer Uganda because treks there are less crowded and more natural.
Overall, both countries are safe, but Uganda offers a calmer, less commercial experience while Rwanda gives a more polished and organized one.
What Is the Best Time of Year to See Gorillas in Rwanda?
The best time to trek gorillas in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the forest trails are less muddy, and hiking is easier. Visibility is also better because the vegetation is not too thick, making it easier to spot gorillas.
That said, gorilla trekking is possible year-round. Even in the rainy season, you can see gorillas, and permits are more available. The only challenge is that hikes become slippery, and you may need more energy to get through the mud.
If you want great weather and easier hikes, stick to the dry season. But if you prefer fewer tourists and better chances of finding a permit, the rainy season might be ideal.
Where Is the Safest Place to See Gorillas in Africa?
Africa has three main countries where gorillas can be seen: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Out of these, Uganda and Rwanda are the safest. The DRC, though home to Virunga National Park and unique gorilla families, has political instability and security concerns, making it less safe for most tourists.
Rwanda and Uganda both have strong tourism policies and high security in the gorilla trekking zones. Rangers, trackers, and local communities work together to ensure visitors feel safe. Uganda also offers more gorilla families to trek, making it easier to secure a permit compared to Rwanda.
So, the safest places to see gorillas are Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
How Much Does It Cost to See Gorillas in Rwanda?
In Rwanda, a gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 per person for a one-hour visit with a gorilla family. This fee does not include accommodation, food, or transport. Luxury lodges near Volcanoes National Park can cost between $500 and $2,500 per night, making Rwanda an expensive but premium experience.
On the other hand, Uganda charges $700 per permit, which is less than half the Rwandan price. Accommodation in Uganda is also cheaper, with budget lodges starting from $100 per night. This makes Uganda the more affordable choice while still offering an amazing experience.
For travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime luxury safari, Rwanda is perfect. For those who want the same adventure without breaking the bank, Uganda is better.
How Difficult Is It to Trek to See Gorillas in Rwanda?
The difficulty of gorilla trekking depends on the location of the gorilla family. In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, some gorilla groups live closer to the park entrance, making the trek short and easy, sometimes less than two hours. Others may require hiking up steep volcano slopes, which can take up to six hours.
The trails are well maintained, but the altitude in Rwanda is higher compared to Uganda. This makes breathing harder for some people. However, porters are always available to carry backpacks or even help trekkers with stretches of the hike.
Overall, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is moderately difficult, but almost anyone with average fitness can complete it.
What Is the Cheapest Way to See Gorillas in Uganda?
The cheapest way to trek gorillas in Uganda is by booking directly with local operators instead of luxury safari companies. Staying in budget lodges or campsites near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park also saves money.
Another option is to go during the low season (March-May or October-November) when some lodges and tour operators offer discounts. Transportation can also be reduced by joining group tours rather than booking a private vehicle.
With smart planning, gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done for under $1,000 total, including permit, lodging, and transport, making it the cheapest option in East Africa.
Is It Safe to Travel to Rwanda to See Gorillas?
Yes, Rwanda is very safe for gorilla trekking. The country has invested heavily in tourism security and has one of the cleanest and most organized environments in Africa. Volcanoes National Park is closely monitored, and all treks are guided by experienced rangers.
Rwanda is also politically stable, and its small size makes travel easy and well-coordinated. Many tourists say Rwanda feels like one of the safest African countries to visit.
So, whether you choose Uganda or Rwanda, safety is not a major concern — both countries ensure gorilla tourism is secure.
How Long Is the Walk to See Gorillas in Uganda?
In Uganda’s Bwindi Forest, gorilla treks vary in length depending on the gorilla family’s location. Some groups are found after 2–3 hours of hiking, while others require 5–7 hours of trekking through steep terrain and thick forest.
The walks can be challenging because Bwindi is dense and hilly. However, the experience is rewarding because you walk through one of the most biodiverse forests in the world. Many trekkers say the journey itself feels like an adventure before even meeting the gorillas.
How Many Mountain Gorillas Are Left in Uganda?
Uganda is home to about half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, with over 500 gorillas living in Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. Globally, there are just over 1,000 mountain gorillas left.
This makes Uganda the best place to see gorillas, since it offers the largest number of gorilla families for trekking. Conservation efforts in Uganda have been very successful, and the population continues to grow slowly.
What Is the Best Gorilla Family to See in Rwanda?
In Rwanda, there are 12 habituated gorilla families available for trekking. Each family has its own unique characteristics. For example, the Susa family is famous because it was studied by Dian Fossey, the legendary primatologist. The Amahoro family is known for being peaceful and calm, while the Kwitonda family is recognized for its large silverback.
Choosing the best family depends on what experience you want. If you prefer an easier hike, some families live closer to the trailheads. If you want history and connection to conservation, the Susa family is the most popular.