Rwanda vs. Uganda: Which Gorilla Trekking Destination Is Right for You?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on earth — but before you can lace up your hiking boots, there’s one big decision to make: Rwanda or Uganda?

While both countries offer unforgettable encounters with these gentle giants, each has its own personality, landscapes, and style of travel. Choosing between them depends on your travel style, timing, and what else you hope to experience along the way.

Here’s our guide to help you decide which gorilla trekking destination is right for you.

Gorilla Populations & Trekking Experience

Both Rwanda and Uganda are home to thriving populations of mountain gorillas — and in either country, your trek will take you into the habitat of a habituated family group, guided by experienced trackers.

• Rwanda: Trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park, home to around a dozen habituated gorilla families. Treks can be short and relatively accessible, sometimes just 1–2 hours of hiking.

• Uganda: Gorilla trekking happens in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (and to a smaller extent, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park). Treks here tend to be more physically demanding, with steeper climbs and denser vegetation — but that’s part of the adventure.

Scenery & Landscape

• Rwanda is nicknamed the “Land of a Thousand Hills” — here, you’ll hike through bamboo forests with sweeping views of volcanic peaks. The experience feels open, bright, and cinematic.

• Uganda’s Bwindi is darker and more mysterious, a true jungle where you’re enveloped in thick forest. It’s an immersive, almost primeval environment that feels worlds away from modern life.

Ease of Access

• Rwanda: Kigali International Airport is just a 2.5-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park, making it possible to fly in, trek, and fly out in just a few days (though we recommend staying longer).

• Uganda: From Entebbe International Airport, it’s an 8–9-hour drive to Bwindi — though you can also take a short domestic flight. The extra travel time often means Uganda is paired with a longer itinerary.

When to Book Your Permits: Gorilla permits in both Rwanda and Uganda are limited and in high demand. We recommend booking at least 12 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (June–August and December–February).

Cost Considerations

• Rwanda: Gorilla permits currently cost $1,500 per person (2025 rates). Accommodation and transport tend to be on the higher end, with a strong focus on luxury lodges.

• Uganda: Gorilla permits are $800 per person (2025 rates), making it more budget-friendly. Lodges range from comfortable mid-range to high-end luxury.

Beyond the Gorillas

• Rwanda: Pair your trek with Akagera National Park for a Big Five safari, or Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks.

• Uganda: Add on Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions, Murchison Falls for river safaris, or Kibale Forest for one of the best chimp trekking experiences in Africa.

Who Each Destination is Best For

• Choose Rwanda if… you prefer shorter transfers, have limited time, and want a seamless, luxury-forward experience.

• Choose Uganda if… you love adventurous, off-the-beaten-path travel and want to combine gorilla trekking with a wide variety of wildlife experiences.

Bottom line: There’s no wrong choice — both Rwanda and Uganda offer life-changing encounters with mountain gorillas. The decision comes down to your travel style, budget, and how much time you want to spend exploring beyond the trek.

Related Posts in Our Gorilla Trekking Series

• Gorilla Trekking Tips: How to Prepare for the Experience of a Lifetime

• Top New Lodges We Love in Rwanda & Uganda

Ready to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure? Whether Rwanda’s volcano vistas or Uganda’s dense rainforest calls to you, we’ll design your fully tailored journey from start to finish. Contact Tribù Travel today to begin your once-in-a-lifetime trek.