Gorilla Trekking
The moment
Built to become more than an add-on.
Few wildlife encounters on Earth are as humbling as sitting quietly in a misty mountain forest, just metres from a silverback gorilla. Gorilla trekking takes you into dense highland rainforest, where small families of habituated mountain gorillas go about their daily lives — feeding, grooming, playing, and resting.
The Trekking Experience
The journey begins early in the morning with a briefing at park headquarters, followed by a guided trek into the forest with experienced trackers who know the movements of each gorilla family.
The hike can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Terrain is often steep and muddy, adding to the adventure.
Once located, you are allowed one hour with the gorillas — a moment that feels timeless.
Where to Go
- Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) — Known for its scenic volcanic landscapes and accessible trekking routes.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda) — A UNESCO-listed rainforest with dense vegetation and diverse wildlife.
Safari Combinations
Gorilla trekking can be seamlessly combined with a classic Tanzania safari experience.
- Explore the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
- Fly to Kigali (Rwanda) or Entebbe (Uganda)
- Continue with your gorilla trekking adventure
Permits & Planning
Permits are required and strictly limited, with only a small number of visitors allowed per gorilla family each day.
Early booking is essential — typically 6 to 12 months in advance to secure availability.
What to Know
- A moderate level of fitness is recommended
- Wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots
- Long trousers and a rain jacket are essential
Why It Matters
The combination of physical effort, the beauty of the forest, and the sheer closeness of these gentle yet powerful animals makes gorilla trekking one of the most life-changing wildlife experiences available anywhere in the world.
Plan Your Experience
We handle all permit bookings, flights, and logistics — ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey.
Ways to experience The Moment
Every journey holds many stories. Explore these moments as a source of inspiration for your own safari.
Best paired with
Safaris that make room for this moment.
Start with one of these journeys and ask us to weave this experience into the route.
10 Days in Kenya & Tanzania
From US$7,200
per person sharing
Destinations
Amboseli National Park
10 Days in Rwanda & Tanzania
From US$6,600
per person sharing
Destinations
Ngorongoro Crater
10 Days Ruaha and the Remote West
From US$4,999
per person sharing
Destinations
Katavi National Park
7 Days in the Ruaha Wilderness
From US$3,750
per person sharing
Destinations
Ruaha National Park
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