Luxury Gorilla
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Embark on the ultimate gorilla trekking experience across Rwanda, Uganda and the Republic of Congo
Few encounters resonate with the soul quite like a luxury gorilla trekking safari. If contemplating a grand tour of Africa, then coming upon these gently grazing giants in their natural, jungle domain, would be an unmissable highlight. It’s more than an excursion – it is a rare moment of connection.
One of the last remaining homes for the rare mountain gorilla is the Virunga Mountains that span the northern border of Rwanda, the eastern boundary of the Congo and south-western side of Uganda.
Among the best places for walking safaris in search of these heavily protected species are Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. A maximum of eight visitor permits are issued per day. Each family has undergone a delicate process over the years that has made them accustomed to humans, but they are by no means tame. The strict limitation on permits means they are not to interfered with too much and why you also need to book your place a year or two in advance.
For a truly intrepid experience of majestic western lowland gorillas, venture into Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo. Expert trackers will lead you deep into the heart of the Congo Basin’s rainforest, offering you an intimate and memorable viewing experience. Get in touch to secure your permits and start designing your safari with our team of experts.
Experiences picked by our specialists
Trek in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park
Visit Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for a conservation focused experience.
Track gorilla troops in Bwindi
Conquer Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to stand a chance of seeing four habituated gorilla troops in the wild.
Experience the wildlife around Bisate Lodge
In Rwanda, stay at the irresistible Bisate Lodge and enjoy having mountain gorillas and other wildlife for neighbours.
Wake to views at Clouds Lodge
Check into Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge in Uganda for sweeping views over the forested Virunga mountains.
Find lowland gorillas in the Congo
Plunge into the heart of Odzala-Kokoua National Park to navigate the streams and marshes to find western lowland gorillas, marveling at the beautiful birdlife and keeping an eye out for forest elephants.
A word from one of our experts
One of the most picturesque and green places in Africa, the valleys of Rwanda are an enchanting place. Seeing the gorillas is a privilege that not many people get to experience in their lifetime. And if you're looking for a truly wild and adventurous experience, the Republic of Congo offers you the chance to head out into swamp land in search of western lowland gorillas.
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury safari lodges for gorilla trekking
There are many incredible places to stay in Uganda, Rwanda and the Congo. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our safari experts:
Why book with Jacada?
Safari expertise
Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.
Unforgettable guides
We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.
Responsible travel
By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.
Trip inspiration
Get inspired with our gorilla trekking example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure
8-Day Trip
Luxury Rwandan Primate Adventure
8-Day Trip
Luxury Rwandan Primate Adventure
8-Day Trip
Complete Safari and Gorilla Adventure in Rwanda
8-Day Trip
Complete Safari and Gorilla Adventure in Rwanda
Where to go
Rwanda
Rwanda is among Africa’s best safari destinations. It is one of the few places in the world where you can encounter mountain gorillas. These giant primates can be found in Volcanoes National Park. In Akagera National Park you can see lions, leopards, giraffes and more.
Uganda
Uganda is made up of dense forests, pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is where you can get up close to endangered mountain gorillas, and in Queen Elizabeth National Park you can spot tree-climbing lions. Uganda hosts the highest concentration of primates on Earth.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to around 350 mountain gorillas as well as many other primate species, including black-and-white colobus monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, red-tailed monkey, blue monkey, vervet monkeys and baboons. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is not for the faint of heart, making it ideal for adventurous travellers.
Republic of the Congo
Gorilla trekking in the Republic of the Congo is one of the most intrepid adventures in Africa. You'll forge your way through wildlife-rich swamp forests to encounter majestic western lowland gorillas.
Volcanoes National Park
Located in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is the best place to visit for spotting endangered mountain gorillas in Africa. There are 10 habituated gorilla groups in Rwanda, all within this national park. Other than gorilla encounters, you can trek volcano craters and see golden monkeys.
Meet your gorilla safari experts
When to visit Africa for gorilla safaris
The drier months of June to September are the best time to visit Rwanda to go gorilla trekking. During this period, there is fewer rain showers, making it great to explore the national parks for game spotting. To make the most of the great outdoors, we recommend you avoid the months between March and May, which mark the rainy season in Rwanda. Uganda has two dry seasons – December to February, and between June and August, both periods are great to spot mountain gorillas in its Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The Republic of Congo’s Odzala-Kokoua National Park is a fantastic destination to visit year-round, thanks to its equatorial location.
Volcanoes National Park
June - September
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
December - February
Odzala-Kokoua National Park
Year round
Gorilla Trekking Travel Guides
Plan your gorilla trekking tour
Whatever you want from your gorilla trekking adventure, our team of safari experts are ready to help.
Don't take our word for it
Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.
