Should you go gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda? Both give you one magical hour with a wild mountain gorilla family, and sighting rates are very high in both. The real differences are price, travel time and what else you want to see.
Rwanda vs Uganda at a glance
| Rwanda | Uganda | |
|---|---|---|
| Permit price (2026) | USD 1,500 | USD 800 (lower in some low-season months) |
| Time from airport | About 2.5 hours from Kigali | 4 to 5 hours from Kigali, 8 to 10 from Entebbe |
| Where | Volcanoes National Park | Bwindi and Mgahinga |
| Habituation experience | Not offered | Yes, 4 hours, in Bwindi |
| Best for | Short trips, comfort, easy access | Value, longer trips, more gorilla families |
Choose Rwanda if
- You have limited time and want a 2 or 3 day trip
- You are adding gorillas to a Kenya safari (Nairobi to Kigali is a short flight)
- You prefer shorter drives and premium lodges
Choose Uganda if
- You want to save on the permit
- You want the 4 hour gorilla habituation experience
- You also want chimpanzees in Kibale and game drives in Queen Elizabeth
For more detail on Rwanda costs, see this Volcanoes National Park prices guide, and for longer primate itineraries our Kigali partners at Huza Gateway Safaris share useful ideas.
Our gorilla safaris
- 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
- 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- 9 Days Kenya and Rwanda Safari: Big Five and Gorillas
Book your gorilla permit early
Permits are limited and sell out months ahead in peak season. Ask us to check availability for your dates today.
Or call +254 117 670 542 | Email info@chasylmtours.com
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Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Rwanda or Uganda gorilla trekking?
Uganda. The Uganda permit is USD 800 against USD 1,500 in Rwanda.
Is gorilla trekking worth the money?
Almost every traveller says yes. The fee funds rangers, conservation and local communities that keep gorillas safe.
