Luxury Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
An 8-day Ubuntu Travel designed Conservation Safari through Rwanda. Starting from $12,600 per person
A Gorilla Trekking and Big Five Safari Experience
Best for: Couples, Private Groups, Gorilla Trekking, Authentic Culture
Begin your journey with a refreshing stop in Rwanda’s vibrant capital, Kigali, before venturing east to the remarkable Akagera National Park – home to the Big Five and one of Africa’s greatest conservation success stories. Settle into Wilderness Magashi Lodge, where calming natural luxury meets adventure on the banks of Lake Rwanyakazinga. Here, you’ll explore over 15,000 acres of private wilderness and have the rare chance to join African Parks rangers in the field – gaining firsthand insight into the efforts that make this a true conservation safari.
Your luxury gorilla trekking experience unfolds in the legendary Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll hike into the misty mountains for an unforgettable, hour-long encounter with a family of wild mountain gorillas. Stay at the award-winning Wilderness Bisate Lodge, a leader in community-focused sustainability. Beyond gorilla trekking, you’ll have the chance to track playful golden monkeys, explore local villages, and even plant your own tree as part of Bisate’s reforestation project – a living legacy for future generations.
*This Conservation Safari includes a $500 donation (per trip) to help expand the Volcanoes National Park. An initiative led by local communities, Rwandan Government and African Wildlife Foundation*
The Ubuntu Travel Difference
Personalized Itineraries
Attention to detail from start to finish
Conservation Promise
Travel with a purpose
Experts in Africa
Our team of travel experts know Africa
Itinerary Highlights
- Cultural and Historical experience at the Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Up-close Mountain Gorilla trekking with a seasoned guide
- Unique eco-village tour with a AWF representative
- Be a part of the reforestation project by planting your own trees
- Wildlife encounters in Volcanoes National Park with golden monkeys
- Exclusive access to the African Parks Ranger’s Headquarters at Akagera
- A day monitoring key species with the Akagera Conservation Team
- Cruise Lake Rwanyakazinga searching for the big-five
What’s Included
- 1 gorilla trekking permit (valued at $1500 per person)
- 1 golden monkey trekking permit (valued at $100 per person)
- All tours and activities as specified by the itinerary
- All ground transfers with private driver & guide
- All accommodations (fully inclusive in Volcanoes National Park)
- Experienced trackers and guides while primate trekking
- Full support from the Ubuntu Travel team, during and after your trip
- Expert safari guiding throughout your trip
What will you experience on this Gorilla Trekking Tour?
Our Favorite Itinerary Highlights
Gorilla Trekking
With only eight people per trek, join an exclusive, expert-led journey to track endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
Luxury Lodges & Personalised Service
Stay at selected exclusive luxury lodges with private villas, all-inclusive personalized service, and breathtaking views.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Venture into the bamboo forests to witness Rwanda’s rare and energetic golden monkeys in the wild.
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Gain profound insights into Rwanda’s history and transformation at this deeply moving memorial site.
Akagera National Park
Experience Rwanda’s only Big Five safari in Akagera National Park, where game drives and boat safaris at Magashi Camp offer luxury and adventure.
Remarkable Local Cuisine
Indulge in gourmet Rwandan cuisine, from fine dining at luxury lodges to Kigali’s vibrant food scene.
Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Safari
Reach out and let’s start talking. We’ll listen and begin to tailor an experiential, private, luxury vacation based on exactly how you want to experience Africa. From adventure to relaxation — and everything in between — let us handle every detail of your unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Safari.
Luxury Lodges on this Rwanda Safari Itinerary
Spectacular, award-winning architecture and service await on the slopes of the wildlife-rich Volcanoes National Park
The perfect retreat to round-off your Rwanda wildlife experience – we love exploring the 6,000 – exclusive-use – hectares of this safari lodge
Rwanda’s first-ever community-owned lodge is one of our top, must-experience retreats in the Volcanoes National Park
When is the Best Time to go Gorilla Trekking?
The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons, when trails are drier. But this is also the peak season, so permits and accommodation needs to be booked well in advance.
Peak Seasons (Best Conditions)
June to September – The longest dry season, offering excellent trekking conditions with minimal rain.
December to February – Another dry season, ideal for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, with good visibility.
Low Seasons (More Availability & Fewer Crowds)
March to May (Long Rainy Season) – Heavier rains make trekking more challenging, but fewer tourists mean more permit availability.
October to November (Short Rainy Season) – Rain is less intense, and gorillas are still easily tracked, making perfect for those wanting a quieter experience.
Explore More Gorilla Trekking Tours
Embark on a transformative safari journey from Kigali to Akagera National Park, where you’ll stay at Magashi Lodge and join African Parks’ conservation efforts. Encounter the iconic mountain gorillas at Volcanoes National Park, staying at Bisate Lodge and contributing to the Volcanoes National Park expansion project with a $500 donation per trip.
FROM $12,600 per person
Luxury Gorilla Trekking Honeymoon in Rwanda
Experience romance and adventure in Rwanda. Trek through Volcanoes National Park for unforgettable gorilla encounters, then unwind at Magashi Camp in Akagera National Park, enjoying Big Five safaris and sunset boat cruises—blending luxury, wildlife, and serenity.
From $12,200 per person
If you’re more of an off the beaten path traveler, then look no further than Uganda. Not only is this one of the most underrated countries on the continent, but it also offers one of the best opportunities to contribute to animal conservation in a country that needs it. Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for a traditional safari, followed by mountain gorilla trekking.
From $10,400 per person
FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Why should I go gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking is one of the most powerful and emotionally moving wildlife experiences in the world. Coming face to face with a family of mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat is not just a rare privilege – it’s a profound connection to one of the last truly wild places on Earth.
There are just over 1,000 mountain gorillas remaining in the wild, and they exist only in a small region of Central and East Africa: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the DRC.
Aside from a handful of rescued orphans at the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage in Virunga, mountain gorillas have never survived in traditional zoos, largely due to their complex diets and highly specific habitat needs. This makes seeing them in the wild not only a privilege – but one of the most exclusive wildlife encounters left on Earth.
This rarity, combined with the quiet awe of walking through mist-shrouded forest and observing these intelligent, social animals up close, often sparks a deep emotional response. For many travelers, gorilla trekking becomes the moment they truly understand the value of conservation – and their role in it.
Where are the best places to see mountain gorillas in Africa?
The best places to see mountain gorillas in Africa are found in the dense rainforests of Central and East Africa, specifically in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Each destination offers unique trekking experiences, stunning landscapes, and varying levels of accessibility.
Ubuntu Travel’s selected luxury gorilla trekking destinations:
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?
Gorilla trekking permits are essential for those wishing to experience the profound encounter of observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. The cost of these permits varies by country and residency status:
Rwanda:
- Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 USD per person for a one-hour encounter.
Uganda:
- Foreign Non-Residents: $800 USD per person for a one-hour encounter.
These permits provide access to Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.
How close can I get to the gorillas during the trek?
Visitors are typically allowed within a few meters of the gorillas, but maintaining a respectful distance is crucial to minimize stress and disease transmission to these endangered animals.
That said, gorilla trekking is about observation, not proximity. Given the nature of the experience, you may find yourself closer than expected as the gorillas move naturally through their habitat. During your one-hour encounter, always follow your expert guide’s instructions, remain vigilant, and respect ethical wildlife viewing practices to ensure a responsible and unforgettable experience.
Are there any age restrictions for gorilla trekking?
Yes, the minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old. This regulation is enforced to ensure the safety of both trekkers and gorillas, as younger children may struggle with the physical demands or react unpredictably in close wildlife encounters. If you’re traveling with younger adventurers, we can recommend alternative activities like cultural experiences or nature walks to create a memorable journey for the whole family.
Please note: This is a strict policy set by both governments, and we do not have any control or flexibility over it.
What other wildlife experiences can I combine with gorilla trekking?
Your safari, your way! At Ubuntu Travel, we design tailor-made safari experiences, allowing you to combine gorilla trekking with Africa’s most iconic wildlife adventures—within the logistical constraints of flights and transfers, of course.
For inspiration, here are some incredible experiences to add to your gorilla trekking safari:
1. Golden Monkey Trekking
Encounter endangered golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park or Mgahinga National Park – a fascinating primate experience.
2. Chimpanzee Tracking
Venture into lush forests to observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat, a thrilling addition to any safari.
3. Classic African Safari
Go on Big Five game drives in Akagera National Park, or extend your journey to Serengeti or Masai Mara for the ultimate safari experience.
4. Luxurious Indian Ocean island escape
Pairing Rwanda’s gorilla trekking with a luxurious Indian Ocean island escape creates the ultimate safari and beach adventure itinerary.
How does gorilla trekking contribute to conservation efforts?
Gorilla trekking has played a vital role in the remarkable recovery of mountain gorilla populations over recent decades. In the early 1980s, their numbers had dropped to just 254 individuals, primarily due to poaching, habitat destruction, and civil unrest. Today, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the population has rebounded to over 1,000 individuals, a true success story in wildlife protection.
A Conservation Success Story
This positive trend is the result of collaborative efforts between conservation organizations, local communities, and sustainable tourism initiatives. For over six decades, the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) has been at the forefront of mountain gorilla conservation, leading initiatives such as:
• Anti-poaching patrols that protect gorilla families from illegal hunting.
• Community engagement programs that provide alternative livelihoods and education.
• Habitat expansion projects that ensure gorillas have enough space to thrive.
Ubuntu Travel’s Commitment to Gorilla Conservation
Ubuntu Travel is proud to support these conservation efforts. Our partnership with AWF includes backing the Volcanoes National Park Expansion Project, an initiative aimed at:
• Increasing protected gorilla habitats for long-term conservation.
• Reducing human-wildlife conflict by expanding forested areas.
• Supporting biodiversity conservation for a thriving ecosystem.
Ethical Lodge Partnerships That Prioritize Conservation
At Ubuntu Travel, we believe that where you stay matters. We work exclusively with luxury lodges and safari camps that are committed to ethical conservation practices and sustainable community development.
Our handpicked lodge partners in Rwanda and Uganda prioritize:
• Habitat restoration and reforestation projects to support gorilla conservation.
• Low-impact, eco-friendly operations that minimize environmental footprints.
• Community empowerment initiatives, ensuring that local people benefit from conservation success.
• Ethical wildlife tourism policies, ensuring no interference with natural behaviors and ecosystems.
By staying at these lodges, you directly support sustainable tourism, ensuring that both wildlife conservation and local communities thrive.
How Your Gorilla Trekking Safari Makes a Difference
1. Direct Funding for Gorilla Conservation
Every gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda ($1,500 per person) and Uganda ($800 per person) directly contributes to wildlife conservation and habitat protection.
A portion of these fees funds:
• Anti-poaching patrols to prevent illegal hunting.
• Scientific research to study and protect gorilla populations.
• Habitat restoration projects in Volcanoes and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks.
Ubuntu Travel proudly supports these efforts to ensure the long-term survival of mountain gorillas.
2. Protecting and Expanding Gorilla Habitats
Habitat destruction and human-wildlife conflict remains one of the greatest threats to gorillas. Thanks to intensive conservation programs, protected areas are expanding, allowing gorillas to thrive.
• Volcanoes National Park Expansion Project – Ubuntu Travel actively supports this initiative, securing more forested land for gorillas while benefiting local communities.
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda – Similar efforts help reduce deforestation and increase protected land for gorillas and other wildlife.
3. Supporting Local Communities & Sustainable Tourism
Gorilla trekking benefits local communities as well as wildlife. Approximately 10% of permit fees go directly to local villages, funding:
• Schools & education programs
• Healthcare & infrastructure projects
• Job creation in eco-tourism, including rangers, guides, and lodge staff
Ubuntu Travel partners support community-driven tourism initiatives, ensuring that local people see direct benefits from conservation efforts.
4. Anti-Poaching & Gorilla Protection Programs
Wildlife tourism plays a critical role in protecting gorillas by funding:
• 24/7 ranger monitoring to safeguard gorilla families.
• Anti-poaching patrols that prevent illegal activities like snaring.
• Conservation education programs for local communities.
With the support of responsible travelers like you, mountain gorilla numbers are steadily increasing, proving that conservation-focused tourism works.
Travel With Purpose: Gorilla Trekking That Gives Back
By choosing Ubuntu Travel for your gorilla trekking safari, you are directly supporting:
• Mountain gorilla conservation in Rwanda and Uganda.
• Local communities through sustainable tourism.
• The long-term protection of Africa’s great apes.
Your journey is more than just a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience—it’s an opportunity to make a real impact.
