Gorilla Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda: An Authority Guide (2026)
- Jan 26
- 18 min read
Gorilla trekking remains one of Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters: hiking through montane rainforest, following expert trackers and then kneeling quietly a few metres from a family of mountain gorillas in their natural home.
This experience inspires awe and wonder, but it also poses hard choices about where to go, how to plan and whether it is right for you.
At African Safari Mag (ASM) we focus on helping you navigate those decisions with nuance and honesty. We are not operators or agents, so our role is to cut through marketing hype and explain the trade‑offs that shape the quality of your trek and the integrity of gorilla conservation.
This guide synthesises the latest official data, conservation policies and real traveller feedback from forums and social media. It covers permit costs, booking strategy, physical demands, best times, porter services, and ethics, and compares Uganda and Rwanda (with a brief mention of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)) to help you find your best fit.
It also explains when and why involving a specialist planner can save you from costly mistakes without relinquishing control.
What is gorilla trekking and what does it involve?
Gorilla trekking is not a safari drive. It is a controlled, permit‑regulated hike into montane forest to locate a habituated gorilla family. Once found, visitors are allowed one hour of observation in silence at a minimum distance of about 10 metres to protect the gorillas from stress and disease. Groups are strictly limited to eight people per gorilla family. Flash photography, eating, drinking and smoking are banned. All trekkers must be aged 15 or older. If you have a cold or other transmissible illness, you are expected to forfeit your trek to safeguard gorilla health.
Contrary to romantic marketing, trekking is neither a casual “walk in the park” nor an extreme expedition. The reality depends on terrain, weather and the day’s gorilla movements.
In Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, trails can be steep, muddy and overgrown, requiring guides to cut paths with machetes; hikes often take 3–6 hours roundtrip and can last all day. In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, the terrain tends to be more open bamboo forest, so hikes are generally shorter and less taxing, though still conducted at elevations of 2 500–3 000 m where thin air can leave you breathless. You will not touch the gorillas; if a curious juvenile approaches, guides will quietly move you back.
Standard Trekking vs. Habituation Experience
Standard permits grant you one hour with a fully habituated group. Uganda also offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi: visitors pay a higher fee and spend up to four hours with a semi‑habituated family accompanied by researchers. Habituation treks are more rugged and restricted to four participants per group and cost the same as Rwanda’s standard permit (see the cost section). They appeal to photographers and enthusiasts who value time and insight over comfort.
Where can you go Gorilla Trekking?
Mountain gorillas live in only three countries: Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Uganda and Rwanda are safe and well‑managed. Eastern DR Congo’s Virunga National Park has historically offered gorilla treks and lowland gorilla encounters in Kahuzi‑Biega National Park, but ongoing militia activity has kept tourism largely closed and unstable; as of early 2026, independent visits are not advised and most operators will not take clients there. We focus on Uganda and Rwanda, where tourism underpins conservation.
Uganda: Bwindi & Mgahinga
Uganda hosts over 22 habituated gorilla families, 21 in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and one in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi’s four sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo) offer varied treks: Buhoma and Ruhija tend to have shorter hikes while Rushaga and Nkuringo can be steep and long. Mgahinga’s single family, Nyakagezi, roams a smaller area with gentler slopes, offering a quieter experience. Uganda’s gorilla permits are US$800 per person for foreign non‑residents from July 2024, with a habituation permit costing US$1 500. Residents of Africa and East African Community citizens pay less.
Logistically, Uganda is more demanding. Bwindi lies 8–10 hours by road from Entebbe or Kampala; many travellers opt for regional flights or start in Kigali and drive 4–5 hours across the border to Bwindi.
Accommodation ranges from budget community campsites to mid‑range lodges and a few luxury options. The pay‑off is that Uganda pairs gorillas with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, big‑five safaris in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls, and cultural experiences with Batwa communities, making it ideal for longer, varied itineraries.
For a deeper look at national parks, safari routes and cultural highlights across the country, see our Uganda destination guide.
Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers around 12 habituated families (exact numbers fluctuate but are fewer than Uganda’s). The park sits just 2–3 hours’ drive from Kigali on good roads, making it popular for travellers with limited time. Rwanda positions itself as an exclusive, low‑volume destination: gorilla permits cost US$1 500 for international visitors. The government offers a discounted permit of US$1 050 for travellers spending at least two nights in another Rwandan national park.
The shorter treks and high‑end lodges appeal to those who value comfort over rough adventure. However, the steep price and limited activities (Rwanda’s only savannah park, Akagera, is recovering and smaller) mean many travellers combine Volcanoes NP with safaris in Kenya, Tanzania or Uganda. Rwanda emphasises luxury and has fewer mid‑range or budget options. If time is tight and cost is less of a factor, Rwanda is the easier choice.
Trekking eastern lowland gorillas
Although Virunga National Park remains unstable, the Democratic Republic of Congo does offer a very different gorilla experience in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, near Bukavu. This is one of the few places in the world where travellers can trek to see eastern lowland gorillas (also known as Grauer’s gorillas).
Eastern lowland gorillas are noticeably larger than mountain gorillas, with broader chests and shorter hair. The trekking experience itself is broadly similar, guided hikes through dense forest to reach a habituated family, followed by a strictly controlled visit, but the setting and conservation context are different.
Permits currently cost around US$400 per person, with groups limited to eight visitors and a minimum age of 15. Treks typically last four to six hours and take place at lower elevations than mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, which can make the hike physically easier for some travellers.
The more reliable trekking months are generally May to August and November to January, when conditions are drier. However, eastern DRC continues to experience periods of instability, and access can change quickly. Visits should only be arranged through highly reputable operators with up-to-date local knowledge, and independent travel is strongly discouraged.
For most travellers, Uganda or Rwanda remain the safer and more predictable choices for gorilla trekking. Kahuzi-Biega is best viewed as a niche option for well-informed travellers who understand the risks and are specifically interested in eastern lowland gorillas rather than mountain gorillas.
Comparing Uganda & Rwanda
Factor | Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga) | Rwanda (Volcanoes NP) |
Permit cost (international) | US$800 for standard trek; US$1 500 for habituation | US$1 500 standard (US$1 050 with multi‑park discount) |
Number of families | 22+ families: 21 in Bwindi (4 sectors), 1 in Mgahinga | ~12 families |
Terrain & hike difficulty | Dense forest; steep, muddy and longer hikes; altitude 1 500–2 600 m | Bamboo and montane forest; generally shorter hikes; altitude 2 500–3 000 m |
Accessibility | 8–10 h drive from Entebbe/Kampala; flights or transfer via Kigali | 2–3 h drive from Kigali |
Accommodation range | Budget to luxury; more mid‑range options | Primarily upscale lodges |
Complementary activities | Chimpanzees, big‑five safaris, cultural experiences | Golden monkeys, cultural village; safari in Akagera (limited) |
Atmosphere | Rugged, diverse and less crowded | Polished, exclusive and compact |
Insight: Many travellers on forums report underestimating the physical demands and travel time in Uganda. Conversely, some feel Rwanda’s “easy access” can make the experience feel too packaged. Understanding these trade‑offs helps set expectations.
What does gorilla trekking cost?
Permit fees comprise the bulk of your trekking expense and directly fund conservation. As of 1 July 2024 - 30 June 2026, Uganda charges US$800 per person for foreign non‑residents, US$700 for foreign residents, US$500 for citizens of other African countries and UGX 300 000 for East African citizens.
The habituation permit costs US$1 500. Rwanda charges US$1 500 per person for international visitors and US$200–500 for regional citizens and residents. Travellers who spend two or more nights in Rwanda’s other parks pay US$1 050. In Kahuzi‑Biega National Park (DRC), permits to see eastern lowland gorillas cost US$400 per person, subject to park reopening and security conditions.
These fees include park entry, professional guides, trackers and armed rangers. They do not cover porter hire, transport, accommodation or tips. Uganda and Rwanda limit treks to one hour, so cost per minute is high. Some travellers on TripAdvisor and Reddit express sticker shock at paying US$800–1 500 for just 60 minutes. Understanding that permit revenues fund anti‑poaching patrols, habitat protection and local community projects helps justify the price.
In Uganda, 20% of park entrance fees and US$10 per permit go directly to community projects; Rwanda shares 10% of gorilla permit revenue with local communities.
Planning your budget: Permits are just one part of a safari budget. For a holistic breakdown of accommodation, transport, flights and other hidden costs across East Africa, see our African safari cost guide.
Hidden or Optional Costs
What hidden or optional costs should you budget for?
Porters: Hiring a porter costs US$10–15 per day. Porters carry your backpack and steady you on slippery slopes. Tipping (US$5–10) is customary. Beyond easing your trek, hiring a porter provides employment to former poachers and local youths, giving them an economic stake in conservation.
Sedan (Piggyback) Chairs: For visitors with limited mobility, sedan chair, essentially stretchers carried by teams of 8–12 porters, are available in Uganda. They cost US$300–500 per trek and must be booked well in advance, as supply is limited. Many travellers regret not arranging a chair sooner, as last‑minute requests are often impossible.
Habituation vs. Standard: Uganda’s habituation permit costs US$1 500. It offers four hours with a semi‑habituated group (but no guarantee of close views), so it’s best for photographers and primate enthusiasts.
Accommodation & Transport: Prices vary widely. Budget travellers can stay in basic guesthouses; high‑end lodges in Rwanda can exceed US$2 000 per night. Charter flights save time but add hundreds of dollars per person.
Permit strategy: How far ahead should you book?
Gorilla permits often sell out months ahead because each habituated family receives only eight visitors per day. To avoid disappointment, book at least 6–12 months in advance for peak seasons. Permits are date‑specific and non‑transferable.
In Uganda, you can request a specific sector (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga or Nkuringo), and park staff will try to match your fitness level with an appropriate family. If you prefer a shorter hike or are less fit, tell the rangers at the morning briefing so they can assign you to a nearer group. In Rwanda, all treks leave from a central headquarters, and guides allocate families based on physical ability.
Common mistakes to avoid:
Booking permits before finalising flights and itinerary (permits are non‑refundable, so align your travel plans first).
Assuming permits will be available at the last minute; forums show that travellers arriving without permits often end up disappointed.
Underestimating the complexity of combining countries: cross‑border treks require separate visas and East African Tourist visas; start and end points matter for flights.
For a step‑by‑step framework on aligning permits with flights, visas and safari logistics, consult our safari planning pillar.
How Physically Demanding Is Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking requires moderate to strenuous hiking. In Bwindi, expect steep climbs and descents, tangled vegetation and potentially knee‑deep mud. Hikes can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on where the gorilla family has moved overnight. Volcanoes NP also has steep sections, but trails are generally shorter and less muddy. Altitude can make breathing harder, especially for those unused to heights.
Fitness matters, but you do not need to be an athlete. Rangers assign less strenuous groups to older or less fit trekkers; these families are usually near the park boundary. Many travellers who doubted their ability report success by hiring a porter and taking it slow. People with knee or back issues should consider the sedan chair. To prepare, do regular hikes on inclines and practice walking with a loaded backpack.
Traveller insight: Many first‑time trekkers on social forums underestimate the mud, stinging nettles and the effect of altitude. Others are surprised when they reach gorillas after a short 45‑minute walk and feel the cost wasn’t justified. Remember that no one can predict how long a trek will be; it varies by day.
Watch Craig Howes- Gorilla Trekking Video in Uganda.
When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?
You can trek year‑round, but conditions vary dramatically. Mountain regions have two dry seasons: mid‑December to February and June to mid‑September. These periods offer the lowest rainfall and relatively clear trails. The shoulder months of June and December provide good conditions with fewer crowds and sometimes discounted lodge rates. March to May and late September to November bring heavy rains; trails become muddy and slippery, particularly in Bwindi. Some travellers enjoy these greener months for lush scenery and fewer tourists, but be prepared for rain showers and longer hikes.
Month‑by‑month overview:
December–February: Short dry season. Good trekking weather. Holidays lead to high demand; book early.
March–May: Long rains in both countries. Trails are at their muddiest. Permit availability improves and some lodges offer discounts.
June–September: Long dry season. Prime trekking season; high demand; best conditions.
October–November: Short rains. Less predictable; some days are clear while others see heavy downpours. Great for photographers who like misty forests.
Traveller insight: Many hikers on TripAdvisor complain about oppressive mud and slipping during rainy seasons, while others note that even “dry” seasons still bring showers, pack rain gear regardless. Visitors in July and August often remark on how busy lodges are and how quickly permits sell out; planning well in advance is crucial.
Is the gorilla habituation experience worth it?
Only Uganda offers this unique option. The habituation permit allows a small group (four participants) to join researchers as they gradually acclimatise a semi‑wild gorilla family to human presence. The trek is longer and less predictable than a standard trek; you may bush‑whack for hours and the gorillas are shyer. Visitors spend up to four hours observing and learning about gorilla behaviour. At US$1 500, it’s expensive but rewarding for photographers and primatologists. It’s not ideal for travellers seeking guaranteed close views.
Is gorilla trekking ethical and safe?
Mountain gorillas share about 98 % of human DNA, making them highly susceptible to our diseases. Conservation authorities enforce strict guidelines: do not trek if you have symptoms of illness; keep at least 10 m distance; wear masks when instructed (common since the COVID‑19 pandemic); avoid eye contact with silverbacks; move slowly; never use flash. Rangers carry guns as a deterrent to elephants or buffalo, not because gorillas are dangerous. There have been no recorded instances of habituated mountain gorillas harming tourists.
Expert insight: “It’s good news that the mountain gorilla population is moving up,” notes Dr. Martha Robbins, a research scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology who co‑authored the IUCN Red List assessment. “On the other hand, we need to talk about it as a cautionary tale. Simply because the population is moving up, we can’t turn our backs on them”. Her warning underscores that even with growing numbers, continued vigilance and strict adherence to health protocols remain essential.
Ethics and Conservation Impact
Permit revenues fund anti‑poaching patrols, veterinary care, research and habitat protection. In Uganda, 20% of park entry fees and US$10 from each permit support local projects like schools, clean water and clinics; in Rwanda, 10% of gorilla permit revenue goes to community initiatives. This revenue‑sharing has transformed attitudes: former poachers now work as trackers and porters. Many travellers worry that trekking disturbs gorillas. Habituation protocols ensure that groups are exposed gradually and visited only once per day for one hour. Studies show that habituated gorillas resume normal activities after visitors depart and that gorilla numbers have increased to over 1 000 individuals thanks to tourism and protection efforts.
How does gorilla tourism impact Batwa communities?
Long before Bwindi was gazetted as a national park, the Batwa people, often called the “keepers of the forest”—lived in the forest and co‑existed peacefully with mountain gorillas. They hunted small game and gathered fruits and medicinal plants but never threatened gorillas or their habitat. When Bwindi Impenetrable Forest became a protected area in 1992, the Batwa were evicted without compensation and lost access to their ancestral lands, plunging many families into poverty and cultural dislocation.
Today, the Batwa rely on cultural tourism as a lifeline. The Batwa Cultural Experience, offered outside the park boundaries, allows Batwa guides to lead visitors on a forest walk, demonstrate traditional hunting techniques, music and storytelling, and explain how they used medicinal plants. Proceeds from these tours fund community projects, education, health care and land purchases, organised by charities like the Kellermann Foundation. Sustainable tourism also provides direct employment as guides, performers and craft makers and helps preserve Batwa culture for future generations.
For travellers, choosing a lodge or operator that partners with Batwa communities is an ethical way to ensure your visit benefits the people most impacted by conservation.
Community‑run lodges and cultural trails channel tourism revenue back into local schools, clinics and cultural preservation programmes. By supporting indigenous enterprises and insisting on fair compensation, visitors help transform gorilla tourism from a purely conservation endeavour into a tool for social justice, one that incentivises local people to protect gorillas and their forest rather than seeing them as a lost livelihood.
How do you photograph gorillas responsibly?
Capturing great images in dense rainforest is challenging. Light levels are low and change quickly as gorillas move between sun and shade. Flash is banned.
Professional photographers recommend the following settings:
Use a fast lens (f/2.8 to f/5.6) to let in more light and create a shallow depth of field.
Set ISO between 800–1600 (and be ready to push to 3200–6400) to compensate for low light; noise is better than blur.
Shutter speed: Start at 1/250 s and adjust; faster speeds are required for moving juveniles.
Use aperture priority or manual mode with auto‑ISO to maintain exposure.
Focus on the eyes; use continuous autofocus and burst mode.
Stability: A monopod helps but cannot be taken right up to the gorillas; be prepared to hand‑hold at high ISO. Brace against trees or your knees.
Weather protection: Bring rain covers and lens cloths; humidity and mud are constant.
Phones can take decent video in good light but struggle in low light; consider a mirrorless or DSLR camera if photographs are a priority. Above all, remember to put the camera down and absorb the experience, many travellers regret spending their hour behind a lens.
How can you combine gorilla trekking with a safari?
Travellers often pair gorilla trekking with traditional savannah safaris or other primate experiences. In Uganda, you can easily add chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, tree‑climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth NP or Murchison Falls.
Rwanda pairs well with Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti. When sequencing your trip, consider the following:
Start with strenuous treks when your energy is highest, then relax on game drives. Some travellers regret trekking after a long safari when they were already fatigued.
Allow buffer days around treks in case of rain delays or to recover sore muscles.
Visa and flight logistics: East Africa Tourist visas cover Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda but not Tanzania. Check border requirements if crossing from Kigali into Bwindi.
Pack clothing accordingly: You’ll need layers for cool mountain mornings and lighter clothing for hot savannah days.
When should you use a specialist planner for gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking permits, cross‑border logistics and sector allocation are complex. Booking on your own is possible, but a reputable specialist adds value if:
You want to combine countries or multiple parks and need seamless transfers.
You travel in peak season or require specific dates; a planner can secure permits and lodge bookings quickly.
You require sedan chairs or have mobility concerns.
You seek reliable guides and safe drivers on long, rough roads.
Specialists should not pressure you into expensive lodges unnecessarily. A good planner presents options across budgets and explains trade‑offs. They should disclose how they are compensated and prioritise conservation and community impact over volume. At ASM, we maintain a network of trusted operators and lodges. Should you wish to enquire, we can connect you to planners aligned with these values, without taking commission or compromising impartiality.
Who should not do gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking is not for everyone. While many visitors return ecstatic, others find the cost, conditions or rules overwhelming. You might consider skipping a trek if any of the following apply:
Budget stress outweighs joy. Permits cost US$800–1 500, and comfortable lodges or flights add even more. If the expense causes anxiety or resentment, it may diminish your appreciation of the encounter.
Severe mobility limitations without a chair. The trails are steep and slippery, and even a “short” trek can take hours. Uganda’s sedan chairs (stretcher‑like seats carried by teams of 8–12 porters) cost US$300–500 per day and must be booked well in advance. If you cannot hike and cannot secure a chair, the trek is unrealistic.
Unrealistic expectations about time and proximity. You will spend one hour with the gorillas at a distance of about 10 m. The encounter may be partially obscured by foliage or cut short if the gorillas move. If you expect National Geographic‑style close‑ups or extended interactions, you risk disappointment.
Aversion to mud, rain or discomfort. Even in dry seasons, rains occur. Bwindi’s rainy months (March–May and October–November) bring thick mud and leeches. If you dislike getting dirty or hiking in wet conditions, the experience will be miserable.
Unwillingness to follow strict rules. Trekkers must wear masks when instructed, avoid eating or drinking near gorillas, and heed rangers’ directions. Visitors who cannot comply put gorilla health at risk and should not participate.
If any of these points resonate, consider alternative primate experiences such as chimpanzee tracking in Kibale or golden monkey trekking in Rwanda. These can be less expensive and less physically demanding while still supporting conservation.
What about chimpanzee trekking?
For travellers looking to complement gorilla trekking, or seeking a primate experience at a lower cost, chimpanzee trekking is an excellent alternative. Uganda and Rwanda both offer outstanding opportunities to track chimpanzees in forest habitats, with a very different energy and pace to gorilla encounters.
The structure is similar: small groups hike with guides through tropical forest to locate a habituated chimpanzee community, then spend one hour observing them. The experience, however, feels more dynamic. Chimpanzees are louder, more mobile and more expressive, often moving rapidly through the canopy.
Where to go: Uganda is the regional standout. Kibale National Park is widely regarded as the best chimpanzee trekking destination in Africa, thanks to its high success rates and well-established habituation programme. Other options include Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest, Budongo Forest near Murchison Falls, and Toro–Semuliki Wildlife Reserve.In Rwanda, chimpanzee trekking is offered in Nyungwe National Park, a vast montane rainforest with a strong conservation framework.
Costs (2024–2026): Chimpanzee permits are far more affordable than gorilla permits. In Kibale, standard tracking permits cost roughly US$250 for foreign non-residents, with discounted rates for residents and East African citizens. The chimpanzee habituation experience, which allows up to four hours with a community, costs slightly more. Other Ugandan forests range from US$65 to US$130, depending on location and season. Nyungwe permits are typically around US$150 for international visitors.
What the experience is like: Treks usually last two to five hours, group size is limited to eight, and the minimum age is 15. Rules around distance, noise and photography are similar to gorilla trekking, but the atmosphere is more energetic and unpredictable. Chimpanzees may climb, chase one another, vocalise loudly or disappear into the canopy without warning.
Chimpanzee trekking works particularly well for travellers who want a meaningful primate encounter but are concerned about the cost, physical demands or permit pressure of gorilla trekking. It also pairs well with classic savannah safaris, making it a natural addition to broader Uganda or Rwanda itineraries.
Conclusion: Is Gorilla trekking right for you?
Gorilla trekking isn’t for everyone. If cost, terrain or rules will detract from your enjoyment, look at chimpanzee tracking or other wildlife experiences.
Gorilla trekking is a rare privilege but not an impulsive choice. Permits cost hundreds of dollars, hikes can be gruelling and your time with the gorillas is limited to one hour. Many visitors still return saying that single hour, watching a silverback lead his family or a youngster somersault through vines, is worth every penny and step. Balance cost, fitness and travel time: Uganda offers more families and lower permit fees but longer, rougher journeys, while Rwanda prioritises comfort and shorter hikes at a premium price.
Whichever destination you pick, prepare properly: secure permits early, respect health rules, hire porters and pack for rain. If the logistics feel overwhelming, ASM can connect you with planners who share our values. Gorilla trekking isn’t for everyone, and it’s fine to choose a different path. If you go, do so with humility and respect; the encounter will stay with you long after you leave the forest.
About the author
Craig Howes is the founder and editor of African Safari Mag. A safari photographer and researcher, he has spent years travelling across Southern and East Africa documenting wildlife, conservation, and the realities of safari travel beyond marketing narratives.
His work focuses on helping travellers make clear, low-regret safari decisions, with an emphasis on trade-offs, ethics, timing, and fit rather than hype.
About African Safari Mag
African Safari Mag is an independent authority platform focused on African safari travel, wildlife, and conservation.
ASM helps travellers understand their options and, where useful, connects them with trusted planners, operators, and lodges aligned with their needs, without acting as a booking engine or tour operator.
Gorilla Trekking: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?
Uganda charges US$800 per permit for foreign non‑residents (US$700 for foreign residents and US$500 for citizens of other African countries). The habituation permit costs US$1 500. Rwanda charges US$1 500 per person for international visitors; travellers spending at least two nights in another Rwandan park pay US$1 050.
How long does gorilla trekking take?
The trek itself can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 8 hours depending on where the gorillas have moved. The actual viewing time with the gorillas is limited to one hour.
Is gorilla trekking safe?
Yes. Rangers accompany every trek and carry guns only as deterrents to elephants or buffalo. Habituated mountain gorillas have never harmed tourists. The main risk is transmitting diseases to the gorillas. Visitors with signs of illness must stay away and everyone must keep a 10 m distance and follow hygiene rules.
When is the best time to trek?
The driest and most popular months are mid‑December to February and June to mid‑September. Rainy months (March–May and October–November) see fewer visitors and greener forests but muddy conditions. Trekking is possible all year.
Do I need a porter?
Hiring a porter is highly recommended. It costs about US$10–15 per day and provides employment to local communities. Porters carry your backpack, help you navigate slippery slopes and can make the trek safer and more enjoyable.
Is gorilla trekking worth it?
For those who are physically able, prepared for the cost and realistic about the one‑hour encounter, most visitors say yes. Many describe it as one of the most moving wildlife experiences of their lives, and the permit revenue directly supports conservation and local communities. However, if cost, terrain or strict rules will detract from your enjoyment, consider alternative primate experiences such as chimpanzee tracking.
