Best Gorilla Trekking Trails in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo
Gorilla trekking is one of the most exclusive wildlife adventures in Africa. Only a few places on earth offer the chance to track mountain gorillas in their natural forest homes. These trails, deep in the heart of the jungle, bring you face-to-face with a species that shares over 98% of your DNA.
Here’s a look at the best gorilla trekking trails in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo — what makes them unique, how challenging they are, and what to expect.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Uganda
Location: Southwestern Uganda
Main Entry Points: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo
Bwindi is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The forest is thick and rugged — hence the name “impenetrable.” Each trailhead in Bwindi offers a different experience.
Top Trail Sectors:
- Buhoma: The oldest trekking area; relatively easier terrain
- Ruhija: Rich in birdlife; cooler and less crowded
- Rushaga: Highest number of habituated gorilla families
- Nkuringo: The most challenging, but with stunning ridge views
Expect steep climbs, dense vegetation, and sightings of gorilla groups like Mubare, Habinyanja, or Nshongi.
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, depending on the sector
Permits: $800 (2025)
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Uganda
Location: Bordering Rwanda and Congo in the Virunga ranges
Gorilla Group: Nyakagezi family
Mgahinga is smaller than Bwindi, but its open bamboo forests make for easier trekking and better photo opportunities. The trails run through volcanic slopes, offering views of Mt. Gahinga and Mt. Muhabura.
It’s the only place in Uganda where you can see both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Permits: $800 (2025)
Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda
Location: Northwestern Rwanda, 2 hours from Kigali
Trail Base: Kinigi
This is the most accessible gorilla trekking destination in Africa. Trails climb into the Virunga Volcanoes, through bamboo forests and misty ridges. Gorilla families like Sabyinyo, Amahoro, and Hirwa are found here.
The trek is often steep but relatively short. Well-organized infrastructure and good roads make it ideal for short trips.
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to high, depending on the group
Permits: $1,500 (2025)
Virunga National Park – Democratic Republic of Congo
Location: Eastern DRC, near Goma
Access Point: Bukima patrol post
Virunga is the most remote and raw of all trekking destinations. Trails are wild, less commercial, and offer unmatched solitude. You trek through tropical forest and climb volcanic slopes in search of groups like the Humba and Rugendo families.
You’ll also see volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and, if lucky, the active Nyiragongo volcano in the background.
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Permits: $400 (2025)
Trail Comparison Summary
| Trail | Country | Unique Feature | Difficulty | Permit Cost |
| Bwindi – Rushaga | Uganda | Many gorilla families | Moderate to tough | $800 |
| Mgahinga | Uganda | Golden monkeys | Moderate | $800 |
| Volcanoes | Rwanda | Shortest trek time | Moderate to high | $1,500 |
| Virunga | DRC | Wildest terrain | Strenuous | $400 |
Plan Your Safari
Each gorilla trekking trail has its magic. Uganda’s Bwindi offers variety. Rwanda guarantees accessibility. Congo brings true adventure. Whether you seek comfort, challenge, or conservation, there’s a gorilla trail waiting to change your life.
