Are you planning a gorilla trekking safari in 2025? Superfine Safaris gives you a detailed guide to gorilla trekking in Africa on your 2025 vacation. Since the time of Dian Fossey, mountain gorilla trekking has become a popular adventure that brings the highest number of travelers from all parts of the world to one-on-one encounters with these endangered primates in their natural habitats. Gorilla trekking is an extraordinary adventure that provides a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. In 2025, Uganda and Rwanda remain the premier destinations for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Things to consider when planning a gorilla trekking safari in 2025
Where to Go for gorilla trekking
Deciding on which destination to visit for gorilla trekking is the first thing you should do when planning a gorilla trekking safari. The endangered primates live in only two destinations which are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda and the Virunga Conservation Area shared between Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in Congo, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Each destination offers a unique gorilla experience worth exploring.
Bwindi impenetrable Forest is a haven for mountain gorillas sheltering half the world’s total gorilla population. The Park is believed to be hosting over 500 gorillas which makes it a premier gorilla tour destination. The high number of gorillas guarantees a high number of gorilla permits which gives many travelers a chance to take part in this lifetime experience.
Each permit to trek gorillas in Uganda costs $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. The dense forest also offers travelers with the 4 hours of experimental gorilla habituation experience
Still in Uganda, you can visit the gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park located in kisoro district in southwestern Uganda. The park is home to Nyakagyezi, the only gorilla group there. Eight gorilla permits are available each day for those who want to visit this amazing family
Volcanoes National Park is another popular gorilla safari destination. Located in Northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park shelters half of the world’s total population second to Bwindi Forest Park. Gorillas in Volcanoes Park are habituated into 10 gorilla families which guarantee the availability of 80 gorilla permits per day.
Virunga National Park is still closed for gorilla trekking. However, travelers interested in Congo can visit Kahuzi Biega National Park for eastern lowland gorilla trekking at $450 per permit.
When to go gorilla trekking
The dry/peak season from June to September and then December to February is the ideal time for mountain gorilla trekking in Africa. The dry season offers favorable trekking conditions as compared to the wet season. Trekking through the jungle is so easy during peak season and so is photography. However, there is a high demand for gorilla safaris and permits in the dry season which limits some travelers, especially last-minute bookers. You are reminded to book as early as 6 months before being on the safer side.
How to book for gorilla trekking
You can two ways through which you can boom a gorilla trekking safari to any country of your choice in 2025. Firstly, you can book through any of the licensed travel operators in Uganda or Rwanda. Superfine Safaris Limited is one of the travel companies authorized to offer and run gorilla tours in Africa. We help you book gorilla permits, reserve accommodation, and also customize your gorilla tour itinerary to suit your time, budget, and expectations. Besides superfine safaris, you can book through any other reliable travel agency.
You are advised to first confirm the reality of the company. On the other hand, you can book your gorilla safari through the relative government bodies responsible for tourism and conservation in the respective countries. In Uganda, you can boo through Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) while in Rwanda you book through Rwanda Development Board (UDB). Booking through a travel agent is highly recommended to save you time and energy.
Cost of gorilla trekking
How much cost for gorilla trekking is essential for anyone planning a gorilla safari in Africa, The cost of a gorilla permit in each county varies and it’s one of the key determinants of a gorilla safari destination. Rwanda sells the most expensive gorilla permits at $1500 each permit. This makes the small country a luxury gorilla destination compared to other countries In Uganda, permits are costed depending on one’s nationality.
Each permit costs $800 for foreign non-residents $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. Uganda therefore offers more pocket-friendly and budget gorilla tours compared to Rwanda. Congo offers the most budget gorilla safaris at $450 and hence the best destination for budget travelers.
Rules of gorilla trekking
You ought to follow the rules and regulations of gorilla trekking as guided by wardens at the start of the trek. These guidelines have been set by conservation bodies to ensure the safety if both gorillas and travelers as well as to promote sustainable gorilla tourism in both countries. These include
- Do not trek gorillas when sick. The endangered mountain gorillas share over 98% of human genes which makes them man’s close relatives susceptible to human diseases
- Do not look directly into the eyes of the mountain gorillas. The direct eye contact irritates the gorillas making them feel insecure
- Do not use flashlight cameras when taking photos. The flashlight also irritates the gorillas
- Do not sneeze or cough in the face of the gorillas, kindly turn back your face when doing so
- Do not smoke in the presence of gorillas
- Do not eat or drink when with the gorillas
- Do not touch the gorillas
- Do not litter in the park
- Do not shout or talk loud when with the gorillas. The endangered primates love quiet environments
- Keep a distance of seven meters away from the endangered gorillas
- Spend strictly an hour with the gorillas
What to Expect on a gorilla trekking tour
Its obvious you have a lot of expectations on your upcoming gorilla trekking adventure. Among the things you should expect include
Long hikes: Mountain gorilla trekking is not a walk-away experience. It entails hiking up and downhill through dense vegetation and slippery terrains in search of the allocated gorilla family. The actual time to spend hiking is not certain but can range between 2-7 hours. You however have a 99% chance of seeing the gorillas at the end of the trek
One hour with the gorillas: Wow, after long treks searching for the gorillas, you will have a full hour in their company. This hour is counted from the time you meet the allocated gorilla family. You are reminded to keep calm, at and at a distance to enjoy this magical encounter.
Tips for a Successful Gorilla trekking adventure
To ensure a successful and less stressful mountain gorilla adventure, travelers are advised to do the following
Ensure you are physically fit. Travelers are advised to do physical exercises such as walking and hiking before their gorilla safari to prepare them physically for the adventure
Pack the right trekking gear such as hiking boots, garden gloves, sunglasses, hats, rain jackets, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants among others. These ease your trek through dense forests. You are also encouraged to pack enough drinking water and energy-giving snacks
Follow the trekking guidelines. Endeavor to follow the gorilla trekking guidelines if you want to have a peaceful gorilla encounter.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should not miss on your African safari. Contact Superfine Safaris today, let us know about your travel dates and desired country and we shall customize for you suitable gorilla trekking trip best for 2025
Located in the center of Kampala, Kasubi tombs are a sacred ground holding the tombs of the Buganda kings. The site is the best place to learn about the traditions, customs, and beliefs of Baganda people. You will admire the unique architecture of the tombs built entirely of natural materials like grass, reeds, and clay. Still at the site, you will witness the traditional rituals and ceremonies by Baganda traditional people.
Located in Mbarara city, Igongo Cultural Center is the best place to learn and experience the traditions, norms, customs, and beliefs that will be showcasing their traditional crafts, music, and dance. Explore interactive exhibits on local history, traditions, and way of life, gaining a deeper understanding of the Banyankole culture. Enjoy captivating performances of traditional dances, music, and storytelling, showcasing the region’s unique artistic expressions.
Located in Kumi district in Eastern Uganda, Nyero rock painting is a must-visit destination on your Uganda cultural tour. The ancient rock art which dates back to thousands of years rewards you with insights into the first dwellers and their unique cultures. The tour to Nyero Rock Painting is an opportunity to learn about the history and cultural significance of the rock paintings and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s past. The guided tours around the area give a chance to discover and get to know more about this site
Home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is undeniably a must-visit for any traveler on a Uganda safari in 2025. The Park is bisected into four gorilla regions ie Buhoma in the north, Rushaga in the south, Ruhija in the East, and Nkuringo in the south. These regions shelter different gorilla families and trekking can be done in any of the regions. 
Located in western Uganda, Kibale Forest National Park is another must-visit destination in Uganda in 2025. The park is also known as the “Primates Capital of Africa” sheltering the highest population of chimpanzees and other 12 primates. Chimpanzee trekking and habituation are the major activities done in Kibale Forest National Park complemented by other experiences.
Visit Murchison Falls National Park to explore the beauty and gem in Uganda’s largest and oldest National park. Located in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls Park is one of the popular tourism destinations, a not miss on any Uganda safari. The Park is famous for the mighty falls “Murchison Falls” after which the park was named. Vegetation in Murchison Falls Park is majorly savannah grasslands, Acacia trees, woodlands, thickest, swamps, and bushes which favor the habitation of wild animals and birds.
Ranked as Uganda’s second largest and most popular park, 
Nestled in northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is the number one travel destination to visit on your 2025 Rwanda safari. The bamboo forest park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas habituated for trekking. Rwanda gorilla safaris attract a high number of travelers from all parts of the world, and it’s the most done adventure in Rwanda. Mountain gorillas have been habituated into 10 gorilla groups each visited by a group of eight travelers per day.
Located in Eastern Rwanda, 
Visit Nyungwe Forest to explore the hidden treasure in Africa’s oldest rainforest located in southwestern Rwanda. Famous for the endangered chimpanzees, Nyungwe Forest National Park is a must-visit for primate lovers on Rwanda safaris. Chimpanzee trekking in the main Nyungwe Forest and Cyamundongo Forest is a focus for most travelers. The permit to trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest costs $150 per person.
Rated as the best wildlife experience in the world, mountain gorilla trekking is a must-do in 2025. You cannot dare miss an encounter with these endangered primates who are man’s close relatives sharing over 98% of human DNA. Uganda gorilla tours are done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park while Rwanda gorilla tours take place in Volcanoes National Park. Uganda and Rwanda shelter the highest number of endangered mountain gorillas respectively.
Led by Nshongi, the dominant silverback Gorillas, Nshongi is the largest gorilla family in the Rushaga sector consisting of 18 members. Nshongi Family is known for its playful interactions and occasional displays of dominance, Nshongi is a favorite among trekkers. In terms of accessibility, Nshongi is a relatively accessible location often makes it a popular choice for trekkers.
Comprised of 8 members, Bweza gorilla family is another interesting family trekked in Rushaga sector. Bweza, the domain silverback is the head of this amazing gorilla family. According to those who have visited the gorilla family before, Bweza family is known for its playful and energetic nature, offering a unique opportunity to observe their interactions. The routes trekking to Bweza gorilla family vary in difficulty which offers a range of experiences for different fitness levels.
Known to have split from the Kahungye Gorilla family, Rwigi is one of the newly created gorilla families in the Rushaga sector. Rwigi is made up of 10 members which include one silverback, five female adults, 2 black backs and 2 infants
