Gorilla trekking in Uganda Vs Rwanda: One may wonder if gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is better. Well, by the end of this article, your question will be answered. We will compare the two best gorilla trekking destinations of Rwanda and Uganda on many things. These include the cost of the permits, distance from the destination, number of gorilla families, and where to stay. However, both destinations offer the best gorilla trekking experience like no other. Now that you have an idea, let us dive into the details.
Gorilla destinations comparison in Rwanda and Uganda
Rwanda is one of the leading gorilla trekking destinations in the world. Gorilla trekking in the country can only be done in Volcanoes National Park. The park spans about 160 square kilometers and is one of Africa’s oldest protected areas, having been established in 1925. It hosts about 13 gorilla families. Mountain gorillas stay in groups called families and a strong alpha male protects each family called a silverback. The park also harbors 5 of the 8 volcanoes of the Virunga conservation area.
In Uganda, gorilla trekking is done in two national parks; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park spans 331 square kilometers within the Albertine Rift Valley. The park is located in southwestern Uganda and is one of the best places in Africa to see gorillas in the wild. There are at least 459 mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which comprises almost half of the global mountain gorilla population. Gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are done in Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo sectors.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park on the other hand is the second leading gorilla tracking destination in Uganda. Its proximity with the master host has made it yet the best second alternative for exciting gorilla tracking activities while on Uganda gorilla safari tours. Considering its small size, there is only one habituated gorilla group in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The habituated family group in this destination is also known as the Nyakagezi family group. Situated in the Virunga conservation area.
Permit cost comparison – Rwanda and Uganda
Trekking gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda require a trekking permit. This is a document issued by the respective governing bodies in the two countries. Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost USD 1500 compared to Uganda’s USD 800 all for foreign non-residents. Foreign residents in Uganda pay USD 700, and Ugandans or East African citizens UGX 300,000 per person. The cost of a gorilla permit per person per day for an African citizen or resident is USD 500.
Gorilla families in both destinations
Rwanda gorilla trekking is only possible in the Volcanoes National Park compared to the two destinations of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. It is on account that Rwanda has fewer gorilla families compared to Uganda. There are about 13 gorilla families in Rwanda however only 10 are available for trekking. On the other hand, Uganda has over 50 gorilla families and about 24 are habituated and available for trekking daily.
Accessing the two destinations – Rwanda and Uganda
To explore Rwanda gorillas, you require only 2-3 hours to drive from the heart of Kigali to Volcanoes National Park or 3-4 hours when you cross from Kabale or Kisoro. This is why it is possible to go for short gorilla trips in Rwanda right from 1 day to 2 days gorilla tour Rwanda.
To visit Uganda mountain gorillas, visitors must spend between 8 and 9 hours on the road. This is slightly long but there are abundant attractions to keep you exploring what the Pearl of Africa has to offer the world. Alternative options to reach Bwindi or Mgahinga include taking flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield.
By air, expect to spend no more than 2 hours and you will be at Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips where you can drive a short distance to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park. You can also cut short the long hours by connecting from Kigali via the Chanika or Katuna border to Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. Driving from Kigali to Bwindi or Mgahinga can take 4-5 hours. All road transportation whether in Rwanda or Uganda requires a 4×4 tourist vehicle for you to enjoy a smooth ride.
What to pack on a trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda
The two destinations of Rwanda and Uganda offer the best gorilla trekking experience in the world. To participate in this trekking experience one how pack the following items as they are essentials.
- Insect repellent
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirt and trousers
- Broad-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hand gloves
- Refillable water bottle
- Sweater
- Raincoat or poncho
- Camera
- Binoculars
- First aid kit with wet wipes, bandages, personal medication, etc.
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Small backpack
- Travel documents including visa or passport
- Gorilla permit
In conclusion, both Rwanda and Uganda offer the best gorilla trekking in the world however, for someone on a budget, Uganda is the best option. Rwanda is considered a luxury destination due to its expensive touch in accommodation and gorilla permits. Come through and enjoy the best there is on a gorilla trekking experience in both countries.
