Gorilla Trekking Frequently Asked Questions

Gorilla Trekking Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Gorilla trekking is one of the most profound and transformative wildlife experiences in Africa — a chance to step into ancient rainforests and stand face-to-face with the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. Because it’s such a unique adventure, it’s natural to have many questions before you go. This guide answers the most common gorilla trekking FAQs, helping you prepare with confidence for your once-in-a-lifetime journey.

1. What is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is a guided hike through tropical rainforest to find and observe a habituated family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Once the gorillas are located, visitors spend one unforgettable hour watching them feed, play, and interact under the supervision of professional rangers.

2. Where can I go gorilla trekking?

Mountain gorillas live only in a small region of East and Central Africa. Gorilla trekking takes place in three countries:

Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Virunga National Park (mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (eastern lowland gorillas)

3. How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?

Permit prices vary by country and are set by national wildlife authorities:

Uganda: USD $800 per person

Rwanda: USD $1,500 per person

Congo (DRC): USD $400 per person (subject to change)

A gorilla trekking permit allows one trek and one hour with a specific habituated gorilla family.

4. Why are gorilla permits so expensive?

The high cost supports gorilla conservation and local communities. A large portion of the fee funds anti-poaching patrols, ranger welfare, habitat protection, and healthcare and education projects for nearby villages. Buying a permit directly helps ensure the gorillas’ survival.

5. How can I get a gorilla trekking permit?

Permits can be obtained through official wildlife authorities:

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)

Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN)

They can also be booked through licensed local tour planners who arrange your permit, accommodation, and transfers. Because permits are limited to only eight visitors per gorilla family per day, it’s best to book 3–6 months in advance, especially for peak season.

6. How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The trek’s difficulty depends on the gorillas’ location, terrain, and your fitness level. It can range from moderate to strenuous, lasting anywhere between 30 minutes and 6 hours. The trails are often steep, muddy, and uneven, so reasonable physical fitness is recommended. Porters are available to assist with bags or provide extra support.

7. How close will I get to the gorillas?

Visitors are required to maintain a 7-meter (23-foot) distance from the gorillas to avoid disease transmission and disturbance. However, gorillas are curious by nature and may approach you at times. In such cases, remain calm and follow the ranger’s instructions.

8. How long can I stay with the gorillas?

Once you locate a gorilla family, you are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour observing and photographing them. This time limit helps minimize stress on the animals and preserve their natural behavior.

9. What is the Gorilla Habituation Experience?

Available only in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Gorilla Habituation Experience allows visitors to spend up to four hours with a gorilla group still in the process of becoming accustomed to human presence. It’s a more immersive and intimate encounter, limited to just four visitors per day.

10. What should I wear during the trek?

The rainforest is cool, wet, and muddy. Dress for comfort and protection:

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (neutral colors)

Waterproof hiking boots

Rain jacket or poncho

Gloves for gripping vegetation

Hat and insect repellent

Gaiters or thick socks to keep mud and insects out

Avoid bright colors or camouflage patterns. Dressing in layers helps with temperature changes.

11. What should I bring?

Essential items include:

A small backpack for water, snacks, and camera gear

Reusable water bottle (at least 2 liters)

Energy snacks or fruit

Walking stick (often provided)

Face mask to protect gorillas from human illness

Binoculars and a camera without flash

12. When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?

The best time to go gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons — June to September and December to February — when trails are easier to hike. The rainy months (March–May and October–November) offer lush green scenery and fewer crowds but can be slippery and challenging.

13. What happens if it rains during the trek?

Rain is common in tropical forests, even in the dry season. Treks continue regardless of rain, as gorillas are used to the wet conditions. Bring a waterproof jacket and backpack cover, and expect a bit of mud — it’s part of the adventure!

14. How old do you have to be to trek with gorillas?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old. This policy ensures that trekkers are mature enough to follow safety and conservation guidelines.

15. Can I trek if I’m sick?

No. Visitors with contagious illnesses such as flu, colds, or COVID-19 are not allowed to trek. Mountain gorillas share over 98% of their DNA with humans and are highly vulnerable to human diseases.

16. Is it safe to go gorilla trekking?

Yes. Gorilla trekking is safe and professionally organized. All treks are led by armed rangers and experienced guides who ensure visitor safety and protect the gorillas. Mountain gorillas are peaceful by nature and rarely show aggression unless threatened.

17. Can I take photos of the gorillas?

Yes — photography is allowed, but flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can startle the gorillas. A good camera with a quiet shutter and strong low-light performance works best.

18. What other wildlife might I see during the trek?

While trekking, you may encounter other rainforest residents such as forest elephants, duikers, bush pigs, L’Hoest’s monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and a variety of birds and butterflies. Every trek is unique, with surprises at every turn.

19. How many people trek each gorilla group per day?

Only eight visitors are allowed to visit each habituated gorilla family per day. This strict limit helps minimize environmental and psychological impact on the gorillas.

20. Is gorilla trekking ethical?

Yes — when conducted under regulated conditions. Gorilla trekking directly funds conservation, employs local communities, and creates an economic incentive to protect these endangered animals. Responsible tourism is one of the main reasons the mountain gorilla population is slowly increasing today.

21. What is the success rate of seeing gorillas?

The success rate of seeing gorillas is extremely high — over 95%. Dedicated trackers locate the gorillas before each trek begins, ensuring visitors have the best chance of an unforgettable encounter.

22. Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation is essential, as trekking takes place in remote areas. Always carry a copy of your policy with you during the safari.

23. Can gorilla trekking be combined with other safaris?

Absolutely. Many travelers combine gorilla trekking with classic savannah safaris, chimpanzee tracking, or lake escapes. In Uganda, for example, Bwindi pairs beautifully with Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Parks. In Rwanda, gorilla trekking combines easily with Akagera’s Big Five safaris or Nyungwe’s chimpanzee adventures.