Luxury Gorilla Trekking Rwanda, Luxury Gorilla Safaris Uganda & Congo Africa

Experience the ultimate luxury gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda and luxury gorilla safaris in Uganda & Congo, which offer chances to witness the majesty of the gorilla in their natural habitats when on the high-end Africa expedition.

Discover the captivating beauty of Rwanda, a hidden gem in East Africa, on a high-end gorilla watching safari.

Explore the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills,’ with its rolling hills, sparkling Lake Kivu, and majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park when on a Rwanda gorilla trekking safari.

This high-end Rwanda gorilla trekking safari can be combined with gorilla tours to Uganda, the ‘Pearl of Africa,’ and Congo, a vast and vibrant country with breathtaking natural beauty.

Experience the thrill of tracking endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats, from the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park to the lush rainforests of Virunga National Park.

Enjoy premium accommodations, transport, and expert private guides for a privileged African wildlife experience. The natural wonders of Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo, ranging from tropical forests to snow-capped peaks, expansive rivers, and active volcanoes, provide an unforgettable adventure.

Here is a glimpse of what is encompassed in Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Tours to Uganda & Congo Africa.

Magnificent Mountain Gorilla | Bwindi National Park | Mgahinga Gorilla National Park| Volcanoes National Park | Virunga National Park

The gentle giants are the highlight of a gorilla watching safari in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.

Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) are a subspecies of the eastern gorilla (Gorilla beringei) classified as Kingdom: Animalia. Phylum: Chordata, Class: Mammalia, Order: Primates, Family: Hominidae, Genus: Gorilla, Species: G. beringei, and Subspecies: G. b. beringei.

They possess a distinct genetic profile, sharing 98.8% DNA with humans, and are more closely related to the eastern lowland gorilla (G. b. graueri) than the western gorilla (G. gorilla), with a unique mitochondrial DNA haplotype that sets them apart.

These gentle giants are classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, listed as Endangered under the US Endangered Species Act, and are protected by laws and international agreements, including CITES, to conserve their population and prevent extinction.

The mountain Apes are found in massive total populations in four national parks across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Congo, with a total estimated population of 1,330 individuals, distributed among Volcanoes National Park (approx. 600+), Bwindi National Park (around 400+), Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (about 80+), and Virunga National Park (around 200 +).

They are physically characterized by their thick fur, ranging from black to brown to gray; silver saddle-shaped patches on adult silverbacks; large sizes, with adult males reaching up to 6 feet tall and weighing 400 pounds; broad chests; and strong muscles, and strangely, they have human-like fingerprints.

These social creatures are social, intelligent, and curious herbivores that live in groups led by a dominant silverback, feeding on leaves, wild celery, shoots, stems, and other herbaceous materials, and communicate with each other through vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language, while also exhibiting innovative behaviors like tool use and play.

The majestic and fascinating mountain gorillas live in the rugged mountainous forests of high elevations, ranging from 7,000 to 13,000 feet above sea level, captivating the hearts and imaginations of people globally, who are drawn to witness their grandeur through gorilla tours, traveling from far and wide to behold these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Travel Destinations for Luxury Gorilla Tours in Rwanda, Uganda and Congo

These gorilla treks and tours in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo are often taken at the luxurious travel destinations described below.

1. Unique Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Parc National des Volcans, located in Rwanda’s Musanze district, is a renowned tourist destination in Rwanda, a top safari destination in Central Africa, known for enabling the partaking in gorilla treks.

Spanning 62 square miles (160 sq km), this park is the only famous habitat for over 40% of the world’s critically endangered gorillas that are found in Rwanda, East Africa, and one of the world’s few travel destinations to encounter these majestic creatures that are the highlight of any gorilla safari.

With 10 habituated gorilla groups that can be seen after attaining a gorilla permit costing about $1500 from the Rwanda Development Board, the park offers unforgettable gorilla encounters.

Additionally, visitors on high-end tours can also explore volcano craters and spot golden monkeys, chimpanzees, forest elephants, colobus monkeys, buffalo, giant forest hogs, and several bird species, etc., making the park a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

2. Stunning Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a haven for the mountain gorilla and other abundant wildlife often seen when on gorilla tours.

Considered to be part of the Virunga Mountains, covering an area of approximately 33.7 square kilometers, roughly the same size as the city of Disney World in Florida, the park is home to approximately 40 mountain gorillas, divided into two gorilla groups (the Nyakagezi group and the Hirwa group) that are tracked during the gorilla tours in the Pearl of Africa.

Tracking the gentle giants in this park requires you to first attain a gorilla permit of $800 from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Gorilla Tours provide a high-end safari experience to tourists and perfect opportunities to spot other wild animals apart from the mountain gorilla, such as lions, golden monkeys, colobus monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, and various bird species.

3. Beautiful Bwindi National Park, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a unique gorilla safari destination in the Pearl of Africa, boasts thick and dense impenetrable forests and a plethora of wild primates, particularly the mountain gorilla, providing a thrilling opportunity to track these gentle giants in their natural habitat during gorilla tours.

Covering an area of approximately 327 square kilometers (126 square miles), located in the southwestern part of Uganda, in the Kanungu District, it is home to around 350 gorillas that can be tracked and seen after getting a gorilla permit that goes for $800 per person from the Uganda Wildlife Authority for an extensive gorilla tour.

Additionally, when on Bwindi gorilla tours, you can spot other primates like monkeys and baboons. The trek is challenging and ideal for those seeking adventure.

4. Fascinating Virunga National Park, Congo

Virunga National Park, one of the oldest parks in Africa, established in 1925, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the eastern boundary of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is one of the most biologically diverse travel destinations on the planet and the only habitat for the mountain gorilla species in DR Congo.

The park covers 8,090 square kilometers and features two active volcanos, shaping its diverse habitats (savannas, forests, and wetlands) and over 3,000 faunas, including the rare mountain gorilla that can be observed up close while on gorilla tours after getting a $400 gorilla permit from the Virunga Foundation.

Please note that while on gorilla treks of the great animals, you can see other attractions in the park, such as golden monkeys, chimpanzees, lions, Congo peafowl, and other birds, etc., in this ecological corridor, making it a unique destination for adventurous travelers.

It is worth noting that there are other travel destinations that can be visited and combined with gorilla tours and gorilla watching tours. They include:

Other Visit Rwanda safari destinations to see are:

• Akagera National Park (known for the big five tours)
• Nyungwe Forest National Park (famous for chimpanzee tracking, canopy walk)
• Gishwati-Mukura National Park (known for chimpanzee tracking and panoramic views)
• Kigali (capital city, hosting the famous Kigali genocide memorial center)
• Lake Kivu (known for white sand beaches, beach relaxation, and water sports)
• Musanze (famous for mountain scenery and hiking opportunities)
• Gisenyi (known for hot springs, beach town)

In Pearl of Africa, other travel destinations to combine with gorilla tours:

• Queen Elizabeth National Park (perfect for a Big Five safari, boat cruise)
• Murchison Falls National Park (waterfalls, safari, boat cruise)
• Lake Bunyonyi (scenic lake, birdwatching)
• Kampala (capital city, cultural attractions)
• Entebbe (lakefront town, botanical gardens)
• Jinja (adventure sports, Nile River)
• Sipi Falls (waterfalls)

In DR Congo other safari destinations to combine with gorilla tours are:

• Garamba National Park (safari, elephant sanctuary)
• Kahuzi-Biega National Park (eastern lowland gorilla watching)
• Salonga National Park (western lowland gorilla safari, Congo River)
• Kinshasa (capital city, cultural attractions)
• Goma (capital of North Kivu province, volcanic scenery)
• Kivu Lake (beach relaxation, water sports)
• Bukavu town (capital of South Kivu province, scenic views)

In the African continent, other travel destinations to combine with Rwanda, Uganda Congo tours are:

• Tanzania: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire Game Park, Zanzibar
• Kenya: Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli Game Park, Lake Nakuru Game Park, Nairobi
• Democratic Republic of Congo: Kahuzi Biega National Park, Salonga Game Park, Gombe Stream Game Park (for Congo Basin tours)

Additionally, other tourist activities visitors can partake in while on gorilla tours in Rwanda, Uganda, & Congo are:

Visit Rwanda offers you a chance to spice up your Rwanda gorilla-watching trip with additional tourist activities such as golden monkey tracking, Dian Fossey’s grave visits, the Volcano Bisoke Hike, Parc National des Volcans’ twin lakes visits, cultural tours to local villages and Kigali city tours, etc.

In Pearl of Africa, you can complement your gorilla safari holiday with extra fun activities like gorilla habituation experiences in Bwindi National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, tree-climbing lion tracking excursions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, hot air balloon safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, source of the Nile River visits, cultural tours to local communities to observe ways of life of the local people, Jinja City tours, and Kampala city tours, etc.

In Congo, additional safari activities to spice up your gorilla tours are the Congo River boat cruise tours, Gombe Stream Research Center visits, Hike Mount Nyiragongo tours, Virunga Mountain explorations, Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage visits, cultural tours to local villages and Goma or Kinshasa capital city tours, etc.

In the African continent, other tourist activities to combine with gorilla treks in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo tours are Serengeti National Park Tanzania Big Five & wildebeest migration tours, Ngorongoro Conservation Area visits, etc.

Contact us today for tailor-made safari packages that will ensure you explore most of Africa’s best national parks in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.

Top Transport Options Used on Luxury Gorilla Treks and Gorilla Safari in Rwanda, Uganda and Congo Africa

Some of the high-end transport options used when embarking on gorilla-watching tours are:

1. Fly-In Safaris

Fly-in, high-end transport options involve boarding flights to the travel destinations, which saves time and energy by avoiding long road journeys, especially for those short on time or preferring a more leisurely, luxurious pace while enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscapes and scenic views.

To track the gentle giant apes, you can fly into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park through Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Virunga National Park through Goma Airport (GOM), or Parc National des Volcans through Kigali International Airport (KGL).

2.  Chartered Flights

Chartered flights provide a bespoke travel experience offering ultimate privacy, flexibility, personalized service, time-saving convenience, and access to remote destinations, tailored to individual needs and preferences.

They are perfect for private individuals, including business executives, celebrities, those celebrating special occasions, groups traveling for work or pleasure, and adventure seekers, seeking a personalized and exclusive travel experience.

Chartered flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are offered from Kajjansi airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips, which are nearer to both parks; those to Virunga National Park are offered at Kavumu airstrip, and those to Parc National des Volcans are offered at Akagera Airstrip or Musanze Airstrip and authorized by Akagera Aviation.

Please note that charter flights may incur additional costs and require booking in advance.

3. Private 4×4 Vehicles

Travel luxuriously and comfortably in private 4×4 tourist vehicles, equipped with amenities like air conditioning, comfortable seating, and large windows for game viewing while on gorilla tours, perfect for navigating rugged terrains often around the Rwanda, Uganda & Congo Parks.

4. High-End Coaches

Join a small group and travel in coaches that offer amenities like reclining seats, air conditioning, and onboard restrooms when heading for gorilla tours.

Liaise with a reputable tour operator now and book the best option for your gorilla-watching tours in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.

Best Luxury Accommodations to Stay in When on a Luxury Rwanda Gorilla Trip and Uganda-Congo Gorilla Watching Tours

Some of the most luxurious safari lodging options you can rest in while on gorilla tours are as listed per parks offering luxurious tracking safari experiences:

High-end safari lodges close to Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are:

1)   Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Located in the Nkuringo sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this safari lodge offers luxurious and comfortable rooms with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest and a great starting point for gorilla treks. It has a rustic charm and is easily accessible to gorilla watching and hiking trails.

2)   Clouds Gorilla Mountain Lodge

Nestled on a mountain ridge, this luxurious lodge offers breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountain ranges and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and acts as a perfect starting base for luxurious gorilla tours. The lodge has a cozy atmosphere, and its suites are equipped with modern amenities.

3)   Silverback Lodge

Located in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this modern lodge offers luxurious, spacious rooms and suites with comfortable amenities. The lodge has a convenient location for gorilla treks and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.

4)   Mahogany Springs Lodge

This luxurious lodge is situated amid a lush forest, offering serene and natural surroundings. The lodge has spacious rooms and suites, and its amenities include a restaurant, bar, and spa, perfect for the beginning of gorilla tours.

5)   Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

This intimate and luxurious tented camp is located within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, offering an immersive experience in the heart of the forest. It has only eight tents, ensuring a personalized experience for each guest. It is close to tracking trails used when on gorilla tours.

6)   Mount Gahinga Lodge

Located near the entrance of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, this cozy lodge has a scenic view of the surrounding hills and forest as well as close access to tracking trails used on gorilla treks. The lodge has a relaxed atmosphere and offers luxurious and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

Luxury safari lodges in and close to Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, are:

7)   Bisate Lodge

This award-winning eco-chic rainforest lodge is situated in a mesmerizing volcanic landscape. The six Forest Villas are designed as an homage to Rwandan royalty and offer unforgettable vistas over the brooding Bisoke, Karisimbi, and Mikeno volcanos.

The luxurious lodge also features a wine cellar, library, spa, restaurant, and tree nursery. It is a great starting base for visitors on gorilla-watching tours in Parc National des Volcans.

8)   Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Located on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, close to designated gorilla trek trails, this luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura volcanoes.

Each of the eight luxurious suites features a private heated plunge pool, a wellness treatment area, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and large timber-framed windows that welcome breathtaking scenery and volcano views inside, all seen when on wild gorilla trips.

9)   Sabinyo Silverback Lodge

Located in the Volcanoes National Park near the park headquarters, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest. The lodge has 22 rooms, including suites and family rooms, each equipped with modern amenities and a private balcony.

The lodge also features a restaurant, bar, and lounge area, as well as a spa and wellness center. It offers tourists perfect opportunities to enjoy gorilla-watching tours, among other activities like climbing and birdwatching activities.

10)  One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge

Set amidst the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest is a luxurious retreat offering 21 spacious rooms and suites. Each room features a private balcony with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The luxurious lodge has a restaurant, bar, and lounge area, as well as a spa and wellness center. It allows tourists to enjoy gorilla-watching trips, hiking tours, and birdwatching activities, as well as cultural experiences.

11) The Retreat by Heaven

The Retreat by Heaven, a luxurious boutique hotel in Kigali, Rwanda, offers 11 rooms and suites with private balconies showcasing stunning hill and valley views.

This safari lodge provides a relaxing base for gorilla watching adventures, as well as opportunities to enjoy yoga, hiking, cultural experiences, and exploring local attractions like the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre.

High-end safari lodges in and close to Virunga National Park Congo are:

12)    Mikeno Lodge

This stunning lodge, operated by the Virunga Foundation, offers luxury in the heart of Virunga National Park, with private bungalows, gourmet Congo cuisine, and breathtaking views of the Rift Valley and Nyiragongo volcano.

The lodge is perfectly situated for relaxation and exploration, with nearby activities including gorilla watching, hikes, bird watching, and visiting the Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage center.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Rwanda, and Congo Africa

The cost of luxury gorilla trekking in Rwanda can vary greatly but expect to pay between $1,500 and more than $5,000 per person. Here is a list of items and costs that may be included in this cost bracket:

A high-end gorilla tracking safari can cost up to $1,500 per person for permits, $3,000 per night for luxury lodges, $1,500 per person for chartered flights, $1,000 per day for private transportation, and additional expenses for food, drink, private guides, and porters, ranging from $25 to $100 per day.

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda can range from $5,000 to $20,000 per person, depending on the length of the gorilla tour holiday, luxury accommodations, and services. Here’s a breakdown of the costs and fees:

The cost of a gorilla tracking safari includes various expenses such as permits ($800/day), private vehicles and drivers ($200-$300/day), charter flights ($1,500-$2,500/flight), meals ($50-$200/person), guides and porters ($50-$100/day), accommodation ($500-$1,500/night), park entry fees ($20-$50/day), community fees ($10-$20/day), and other activities ($50-$100/person).

Gorilla Tours in Congo costs range between $5,000 and $20,000 per person. The breakdown of this is:

The cost of a gorilla trek includes permits ($400/person), luxury transportation ($300-$500/day or $2,000-$3,000/person for charter flights), food ($50-$250/meal), private guides ($50-$100/day), luxury accommodation ($500-$1,500/night), and additional costs such as park entry fees ($20-$50/day), community fees ($10-$20/day), and other activities ($50-$100/person).

It is worth noting that using a reputable tour operator to cater to all your vacation needs and logistics will save you some money and time, as they get to have exclusive deals on most destinations and services.

Uganda, Cong and Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Best Time to Go

These countries are open all year round, but the best time to visit for gorilla watching in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo Africa, is during the dry seasons:

• Rwanda (the land of a thousand hills): The best time to visit is in the dry season of June to September and mid-December to early February.
• Uganda: The best time to visit is in the dry season of June to August and December to February.
• Congo: The best time to visit is in the dry season of June to September and December to February.

During these periods, tracking conditions are easier, access to these great apes is improved, and the weather is ideal. If you prefer a shorter trek, consider visiting during the rainy season, but be prepared for wet conditions.

Book your tour and obtain a gorilla trekking permit in advance, as they can be costly during peak seasons.

Additionally, pack waterproof gear and comfortable shoes, and ensure necessary vaccinations and medications for a successful and enjoyable gorilla-watching tour.

Luxury Gorilla Safaris: What to Wear in Rwanda Uganda and Congo

When going on a gorilla safari in Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda, it’s crucial to wear comfortable and sturdy hiking boots and layers of breathable clothing to adapt to changing temperatures and weather conditions. These include:

It is strongly recommended to avoid colorful clothing when near wild gorilla species and also prioritize comfort, protection, and practicality in your packing list.

Packing List for Luxury Gorilla Tours Rwanda Uganda, and Congo | Personal Essentials

When heading for Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda for gorilla tours for gorilla-watching excursions, you are advised to pack these essentials for a seamless vacation and holiday.

Accessories:

Documents:

Medications and Vaccines:

Other Items:

Please note that seeking guidance from the tour operator on what to pack will save you from carrying extra luggage and incurring additional costs!

Luxury Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Safari FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How Much Does It Cost to Trek with Gorillas in Rwanda? | How Much Does It Cost to See the Mountain Gorilla in Rwanda? | How Much is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

The total cost per person can range from $1,500 to over $5,000. This includes the cost of a gorilla tracking permit, which is $1,500 for international tourists. In Rwanda, the cost of gorilla tracking fluctuates significantly based on your selected accommodation and tour operator.

2. Which Month Is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

The best time is during the dry seasons, typically June to August and December to February, which have perfect weather conditions, clear skies, clear roads, and less rain, perfect for gorilla watching.

3. Why Is Gorilla Trekking So Expensive? Is Gorilla Trekking Expensive?

Yes, gorilla trekking is considered a premium and exclusive wildlife experience, which makes it expensive.

4. Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money?

Yes, gorilla treks are worth all the money, as they allow you to observe the magnificent creatures of the mountain gorilla in their natural habitat.

5. How Many Mountain Gorillas Are Left?

According to the latest census (2020), there are approximately 1,063 mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) left in the wild.

6. How Hard Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

Rwanda gorilla treks are moderately challenging activities that require a reasonable level of fitness.

For any inquiries and bookings for luxury gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo Contact us today for tailor-made and affordable tour packages that will give you an unforgettable experience.