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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

Rwanda

*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

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Personalized Itineraries
Attention to detail from start to finish

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Conservation Promise
Travel with a purpose

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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?

Kigali

Kigali

The capital city of Rwanda, Kigali is the beginning of your epic journey into Rwanda’s vast mountain ranges. Here you will enjoy a quick stopover with enough time to replenish and refresh, all the while making the most of your stay.

Rwanda is a country with a turbulent past, and to fully appreciate where the country and its people are today, one needs to understand its history. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a must for any traveler to the capital. It is an in-depth and emotional journey, but also an inspiration that peace can be achieved no matter how dark the beginning is.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is a miraculous story of revitalisation and is now home to a variety of animals, including the big five. In 2015, lions were reintroduced from South Africa. With rhino being introduced in 2017 and again in 2021.

Your stay is at the luxurious Magashi Camp, over looking Lake Rwanyakazinga. Go on game drive and explore diverse habitats for the elusive leopard, or cruise on the lake for a unique perspective.

For the more curious, join the African Parks ranger team to learn more about how they monitor and collect data to protect this unique ecosystem. And spend a day with the conservation team as they move around the park monitoring key animal species.

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park

Located in the northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park protects not just the mountain gorillas who inhabit these rugged landscapes, but also the magnificent mountain ranges.

The wildlife encounter with the mountain gorillas is undoubtedly life-changing. We understand the urge to document this experience with photos and yes instagram videos. But PLEASE take your time to absorb the experience, this hour long encounter will humble and change you forever.

After your gorilla trek, Bisate Lodge offers an array of adventure activities like:
a golden monkey trek; hike to Diane Fossey’s grave; a unique tour of the newly developed eco-villages; nursery visit and tree planting

Our Favorite Itinerary Highlights

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Gorilla Trekking

View of the deck on one of the villas at Wilderness Bisate, Rwanda

Luxury Lodges & Personalised Service

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Golden Monkey Trekking

Rwanda Genocide Memorial Tour - Kigali

Kigali Genocide Memorial

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Akagera National Park

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Remarkable Local Cuisine

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

Wilderness Bisate, Rwanda
Wilderness Magashi, Akagera NP, Rwanda
Wilderness Sabyinyo, Rwanda

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.

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 FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda 

Why should I go gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking offers one of Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters, allowing you to observe critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This experience is unique to the wild, as these gorillas cannot survive in captivity.

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.