Which one is better – gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda? Both are great options, but which one is best depends on your needs and preferences. Each gorilla trekking experience is completely unique. You can go on multiple treks in the same place and each time you will have a completely different experience, which is what makes the trek that much more fun and exciting. There are so many factors that go into each day: the gorillas you are trekking and how interactive or calm they are, the guides, the porters, the people you are with, the weather and the terrain of where you need to go – they all add up to create the unique experience.
Gorilla trekking offers unique experiences due to the distinct characteristics of each country’s gorilla habitats and trekking logistics. Here are some of the differences to take into consideration:
1. Location and Landscape
- Uganda: Gorilla trekking in Uganda primarily takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi, known for its dense rainforest, offers a more rugged and diverse terrain. The trekking can be challenging due to the steep and thick vegetation. Mgahinga, while also mountainous, has a slightly less dense forest compared to Bwindi. There is something absolutely magical about the atmosphere when you walk into Bwindi.
- Rwanda: In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is conducted in Volcanoes National Park. The park is situated in a volcanic region with relatively shorter and less dense vegetation compared to Bwindi. The landscape is characterized by volcanic slopes and lush montane forest. It is a much easier terrain to hike.
2. Accessibility and Logistics
- Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga are more remote, which can make access a bit more challenging. The drive to Bwindi from Entebbe can take about 8-10 hours, though there are also options for charter flights. The remote nature adds to the adventure but may require more time and planning.
- Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park is relatively more accessible from Kigali, the capital. The drive takes about 2-3 hours, making it easier for travelers to reach the park. This shorter transfer time can be a significant advantage for those with limited time.
3. Trekking Experience
- Uganda: Trekking in Bwindi is known for its diversity and intensity. The dense forest and steep trails can be steep and challenging, which can lead to a more adventurous experience. Bwindi has several habituated gorilla families spread across different sectors of the park, which can affect the trekking experience and duration. Trekking can range from 1 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family and the difficulty of the terrain to get to them.
- Rwanda: Trekking in Volcanoes National Park is generally considered to be less strenuous compared to Bwindi, due to the less dense vegetation. The treks are typically shorter and less strenuous. Most treks last between 1 to 4 hours. The terrain is generally less rugged compared to Bwindi, and the trails are well-maintained, which can result in a less physically demanding experience. The park is home to several habituated gorilla families, and the trekking paths are often more defined and manageable.
4. Gorilla Families and Permits
- Uganda: Bwindi and Mgahinga have a larger number of gorilla families, offering more options for trekking. Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are generally less expensive compared to Rwanda. As of the latest information, the cost for a permit in Uganda is around $700. Uganda’s parks often have fewer visitors, which can mean a more tranquil experience.
- Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park has a smaller number of gorilla families, so there are fewer permits available each day. Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda are more expensive, typically costing around $1,500. This higher cost includes a premium experience and often includes added services like a ranger guide and a more streamlined permit process. However, Rwanda often has a higher visitor turnover and is known for its well-organized trekking experiences.
5. Number of Trekkers and Group Sizes
- Uganda: Bwindi typically offers around 128 permits per day, as there are usually about 16 permits per family (with 8 visitors allowed per trek, and two treks per day). This number can vary slightly depending on the specific conditions and management decisions.
- Rwanda: Rwanda usually maintains a strict limit on group sizes for each gorilla family, generally allowing up to 8 visitors per group. Therefore, Rwanda generally offers around 80 gorilla trekking permits per day (10 families x 8 visitors each).
6. Cultural and Scenic Aspects
- Uganda: The cultural experience in Uganda is diverse, with opportunities to interact with various local communities, including the Bakiga and Batwa people. The scenic beauty of Bwindi and Mgahinga, with their dense forests and varied landscapes, adds to the adventurous feel of the trek.
- Rwanda: Rwanda offers a unique cultural experience centered around its history and conservation success. The country’s scenic beauty, including the volcanic landscapes and lush hills of Volcanoes National Park, provides a stunning backdrop to the trekking experience. The focus on conservation and the country’s development also play a role in the overall visitor experience.
7. Wildlife and Biodiversity
- Uganda: Besides mountain gorillas, Uganda is known for its rich biodiversity. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a wide range of wildlife, including chimpanzees, birds, and various primates. This diversity adds an extra layer to the trekking experience if you’re interested in exploring more of Uganda’s natural wealth.
- Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park is more focused on gorilla trekking, but it is also home to other wildlife such as golden monkeys, which are an additional attraction. Rwanda’s conservation efforts have helped maintain a balanced ecosystem in the park, providing a robust environment for the gorillas and other wildlife.
8. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
- Uganda: Both Uganda and Rwanda are committed to conservation, but Uganda’s tourism infrastructure and policies are still developing. Sustainable practices are encouraged, but the environmental impact can be higher due to the challenging terrain and the need for more infrastructure improvements.
- Rwanda: Rwanda is a leader in environmental sustainability, with policies that emphasize eco-friendly practices and minimal environmental impact. The country’s commitment to conservation is evident in its well-maintained parks and emphasis on sustainable tourism.
While both Uganda and Rwanda offer incredible gorilla trekking experiences, the choice between the two depends on your preferences for trek difficulty, comfort, cultural engagement, and overall experience. Uganda provides a more rugged, adventurous trek with diverse wildlife, while Rwanda offers a more accessible, comfortable experience with strong conservation and community involvement.
Ultimately, both destinations offer incredible experiences and the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.