Comparing Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth, offering travelers a chance to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural rainforest habitat. East and Central Africa are home to the last remaining populations of these great apes, and the countries of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) each provide unique trekking opportunities. While the core experience is similar across the three, differences in accessibility, cost, terrain, infrastructure, and safety help distinguish the ideal destination based on a traveler’s needs and preferences.

1. Uganda: The Adventurer’s Choice

Uganda is home to two national parks where gorilla trekking is offered: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both in the southwestern region. Bwindi, with over 20 habituated gorilla families, is the most popular and widely visited.

Trekking in Uganda is often more rugged, with thick vegetation, steep hills, and longer hike durations. This makes it well-suited for travelers seeking a truly wild, immersive adventure. Uganda also offers the unique gorilla habituation experience, where visitors can spend four hours with semi-habituated gorillas as they adapt to human presence—a deeper, more extended encounter not available elsewhere.

Uganda’s gorilla trekking permits are $800 per person as of 2025, making it a mid-range option between Rwanda and the DRC. While the road transfer from Kampala or Entebbe to Bwindi can take up to 8–10 hours, many opt for domestic flights to reduce travel time.

2. Rwanda: Luxury, Comfort, and Accessibility

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, part of the larger Virunga Massif, is home to around a dozen habituated mountain gorilla families. The trekking experience here is renowned for being more accessible and comfortable. Trails are generally shorter and the forest is less dense, making it a preferred choice for older travelers or those less inclined toward strenuous hiking.

Rwanda has invested heavily in conservation and eco-tourism, offering some of the most polished infrastructure and luxury lodges in the region. Its capital, Kigali, is just a 2.5-hour drive from the park, which makes it ideal for short trips or luxury weekend getaways.

However, this comes at a cost: Rwanda’s gorilla trekking permit is $1,500 per person—the most expensive among the three countries. The high price is part of the government’s strategy to support sustainable, low-impact tourism.

3. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): The Wild Frontier

The DRC’s Virunga National Park offers gorilla trekking that is both off-the-beaten-path and budget-friendly. The park is home to several habituated families of mountain gorillas and provides a raw, authentic trekking experience with fewer crowds and more adventurous terrain.

Permit prices in the DRC are the lowest among the three countries, costing around $400 per person. This affordability makes it attractive to backpackers, budget travelers, and researchers. Virunga also provides the opportunity to trek eastern lowland gorillas in nearby Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a species not found in Uganda or Rwanda.

That said, travelers should consider the security situation. While the DRC has made major strides in stabilizing tourism in recent years, the region remains volatile. Trekking in Virunga is currently conducted under the protection of park rangers and the Congolese army. It is vital to check current travel advisories and book with reputable operators who prioritize safety.

Comparison at a Glance