The distinction between Gorilla Uganda and Rwanda safaris or Mountain Gorilla trekking in Uganda vs Rwanda safari costs in 2023 is as follows, Uganda is home to half of the world’s gorilla population with the rest living in Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo.

The trekking of Gorillas in Rwanda is expensive and costly compared to Uganda. Trekking in Uganda will take you deep into the rainforest national parks of Bwindi Impenetrable forest and Mgahinga national park for gorilla group habituation and in Rwanda trekking the mountain gorillas can take place in Volcanoes national park. Hence one can choose to take a gorilla trek in either Uganda or Rwanda or can do both considering other factors and time.

Gorillas are one of the most exciting creatures that many travelers and adventurers are interested and looking out for.

Mountain Gorilla Tracking or the experience of trekking mountain gorillas is the same in both Uganda and Rwanda and professionally organised, gorilla tracking activities are ranked as the number one tourist attraction in both countries in the whole of Africa.

Uganda and Rwanda also have well developed accommodation ranging from low end accommodation, medium to luxurious safari lodges around Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda and around Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda plus the park guides/rangers in both countries are well trained and well informed as they guide you through the impenetrable forests of East Africa with useful information. All park rangers/guides in Uganda and Rwanda speak good English in Uganda and French and English in Rwanda.

Uganda vs Rwanda, which country provides the best opportunities and experiences for Gorilla trekking safari?

Costs of Permits for Gorilla Trekking safari Uganda vs Rwanda

The biggest reason why the gorilla trekking experience in Uganda is different from that in Rwanda is the price of the gorilla permit. The price of a gorilla permit in Uganda that will enable you to go and see these endangered species in Bwindi impenetrable forest or Mgahinga national park will cost you or set u back $800 USD each which is relatively cheaper than what it would cost in Rwanda which is $1500 USD to go and see these animals in volcanoes national park. Both permits give you a one-hour time to track a particular gorilla group where a maximum of 8 tourists can track.

The Time Needed to Travel and Trek the Gorillas

The time needed to go and track the gorillas from arrival at the airport to evacuating and arrival for tracking them varies in Uganda and Rwanda.

In Uganda form arrival at Entebbe international airport up to the starting point of the trek in Bwindi impenetrable Forest takes between 9 to 10 hours. It takes 9-10 hour to drive from Entebbe international airport to Bwindi impenetrable forest and to one of the four starting points for gorilla trekking in the thick rain forest. You can also charter a flight to Bwindi Impenetrable forest at an added cost and access the national park at Rushaga and Nkuringo in the north or Buhoma and Ruhija in the south.

While in Rwanda, gorilla tracking takes a 3 to 4 hour drive from the airport in Kigali to the gorilla sanctuary of Volcanoes National Park. A two day safari is ideal in Rwanda. One can also add to the itinerary by visiting one wildlife park like Akagera national park and go for chimpanzee or golden monkey tracking in addition to the gorilla tracking. This means, when you want to track in Bwindi and Mgahinga, you need a minimum of 3 days (that is 1day travelling to Bwindi or Mgahinga, the 2 day for tracking and the 3 day travelling back to the airport). Hence the advantage with Rwanda and which is proud of is its ability for one to do the gorilla tracking experience even in one day and fly back home in a short time which is impossible in Uganda.

The disparity in the number of gorilla families Uganda vs Rwanda

Uganda boasts a larger population of habituated gorillas compared to Rwanda, with a total of 22 gorilla families – 21 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga habituated gorillas are gorillas that have adapted to human presence and are open to visitors. In contrast, Rwanda has only 10 gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. As a result, Uganda receives a higher number of visitors, with 176 people tracking gorillas per day, while Rwanda has 80 people per day.

With more habituated gorillas, Uganda provides a unique experience known as the gorilla habituation experience, which involves spending four hours with a gorilla family in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi impenetrable forest. This experience comes at a cost of USD 800 per permit.

Overall, Uganda offers a greater chance of obtaining a gorilla permit and provides a unique opportunity to participate in the gorilla habituation experience plus more compared to Rwanda.

Accommodation and lodging Facilities in Uganda vs Rwanda

Accommodation and lodging options for gorilla trekking in Uganda vs Rwanda vary in terms of type, location, and price.

In Uganda, there are several options for accommodation ranging from budget to luxury lodges, campsites, and guesthouses. Some of the popular lodges include Buhoma Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Mahogany Springs Lodge, and Rushaga Gorilla Camp. Prices for accommodation in Uganda range from about $50 to $1000 per night depending on the type of lodging.

In Rwanda, the options for accommodation are more limited and tend to be more expensive than in Uganda. The lodges in Rwanda are mainly high-end and offer luxury amenities. Some of the popular lodges in Rwanda include Bisate Lodge, Virunga Lodge, and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. Prices for accommodation in Rwanda start from around $500 and can go up to $2000 per night.

Overall, the cost of accommodation in Uganda tends to be lower compared to Rwanda, but the options for luxury lodges are also available in Uganda at a lower cost. However, it is important to note that accommodation prices in both countries can fluctuate depending on the time of year and availability, so it is always recommended to book in advance in order to not be disappointed.

Gorilla trekking Altitude Terrain and Typography Experiences and Variations in Uganda vs Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda offers unique experiences due to the differences in altitude, terrain, and typography.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking takes place at an altitude ranging from 1160 to 2600 meters above sea level in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The terrain in Bwindi is hilly and dense with thick vegetation, while Mgahinga has a more open landscape with bamboo forests. The gorilla trekking experience in Uganda can be physically demanding due to the steep terrain and high altitude.

In Rwanda, gorilla trekking takes place at an altitude of around 2400 meters above sea level in the Volcanoes National Park. The terrain in Rwanda is also hilly, but the vegetation is not as dense as in Uganda, and the trekking routes are well maintained, making it less physically demanding.

The differences in altitude, terrain, and typography offer unique experiences for visitors to both countries. Gorilla trekking in Uganda provides a more challenging and physically demanding experience, while Rwanda offers a more accessible and less strenuous experience. However, regardless of the country, visitors will have the opportunity to see and interact with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Gorilla trekking Photography and Views in Uganda vs Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda offers unique photography opportunities and views due to the differences in terrain and vegetation.

In Uganda, the thick forest and hilly terrain of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park provide a dramatic and lush backdrop for gorilla trekking. The dense vegetation also creates a unique opportunity for close-up shots of the gorillas as they move through the undergrowth. The bamboo forests in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park also offer a unique photographic experience, with the light filtering through the bamboo creating a stunning visual effect.

In Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park has a more open landscape with less dense vegetation, providing clearer views of the gorillas and their surroundings. The volcanoes in the background also create a stunning backdrop for photographs, offering a unique and dramatic perspective.

Regardless of the country, visitors are required to keep a minimum distance of 7 meters from the gorillas, which can make photography challenging. However, with the help of experienced guides and a good camera, visitors can capture some amazing shots of these magnificent creatures.

Inclusions in a gorilla trekking permit cost for Uganda and Rwanda

When you purchase a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda or Rwanda, you are paying for a range of inclusions that are designed to provide visitors with a safe and memorable experience.

In Uganda, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit includes park entry fees, which help to fund conservation efforts and protect the gorilla population.

Visitors are also provided with an experienced guide who will accompany them during the trek and provide insights into the local flora and fauna. In addition, visitors receive a pre-trek briefing that covers important safety information and guidelines for interacting with the gorillas.

In Rwanda, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit includes similar inclusions, such as park entry fees and the services of an experienced guide. Visitors are also provided with a pre-trek briefing that covers important safety information and guidelines for interacting with the gorillas. Additionally, the permit cost in Rwanda also supports community development projects in the local area.

In both countries, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit also helps to support conservation efforts and protect the gorilla population. This includes ongoing monitoring of the gorillas and their habitat, as well as funding for anti-poaching initiatives.

Overall, when you purchase a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda or Rwanda, you are not just paying for the opportunity to see these incredible animals up close, but you are also contributing to their protection and conservation.

The Rules for Trekking Gorillas

Trekking gorillas is a unique and exciting experience, but it is important to follow certain rules to ensure the safety of the gorillas and visitors. The rules for trekking gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda are similar and include:

No one with any signs of illness, including colds or other infectious diseases, is allowed to trek. This is to protect the gorillas, who are highly susceptible to human diseases.

A maximum of 8 visitors is allowed per gorilla family per day. This helps to minimize disturbance to the gorillas and ensure they are not overwhelmed by too many visitors.

Visitors are required to keep a minimum distance of 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas. This is to protect the gorillas and prevent the transmission of diseases.

Flash photography is not allowed during the trek. This is to prevent disturbance to the gorillas and protect their eyesight.

Visitors are not allowed to eat or drink while in the presence of the gorillas. This is to prevent the transmission of diseases and minimize disturbance to the gorillas.

Visitors are required to follow the instructions of their guide at all times. This is to ensure the safety of visitors and the gorillas.

Visitors are required to carry all their rubbish with them and dispose of it properly. This is to protect the environment and prevent pollution.

Following these rules is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the gorillas and visitors, and to help protect the unique and fragile ecosystem they live in.

What to come with for the Gorilla Trek

When preparing for a gorilla trek, it is important to pack the right items to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to consider bringing:

1. Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes with good grip – You will be walking on uneven terrain and possibly steep slopes, so good footwear is essential.
2. Waterproof jacket or poncho – The weather in the gorilla habitat can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for rain.
3. Long-sleeved shirt and trousers – These will protect you from scratches and bites from thorny vegetation and insects.
4. Insect repellent – Mosquitoes and other biting insects are common in the forest.
5. Sunscreen and a hat – You will be exposed to the sun, so it is important to protect your skin.
6. Plenty of water – It is important to stay hydrated during the trek.
7. Snacks – You may want to bring some energy bars or other snacks to keep your energy levels up.
8. Camera – Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so it is important to capture the memories.
9. Backpack or daypack – You will need to carry all your belongings with you during the trek, so a backpack or daypack is essential.
10. Cash – You may need cash for tips or souvenirs.

It is important to pack lightly as you will be carrying everything with you during the trek. Additionally, make sure to follow the rules and guidelines provided by your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you, the gorillas, and the environment.

NB:

The gorilla permits vary on the status of the tourist in both countries that is foreign non-resident tourists pay $800per person, foreign residents pay $700 and shs:300,000/= for East African residents for Uganda and for Rwanda foreign non-resident tourists pay $1500while, foreign residents pay $1000.