Welcome to Jewel Gorilla Safaris, your trusted local expert for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. We specialize in organizing unforgettable, responsible, and affordable gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, helping adventurers, families, photographers, and wildlife lovers get closer than ever to the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural rainforest homes.

If you’re searching for the best gorilla trekking company, you’re in the right place. Our custom-tailored gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda are designed to fit every schedule and budget — whether you’re dreaming of a short 1-day trek in Bwindi, a luxury gorilla lodge escape in Volcanoes National Park, or a multi-day adventure across borders. From your first inquiry to the moment you meet the silverback in the mist, we ensure your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda is safe, seamless, and extraordinary.

With a team of local guides, deep community connections, and years of experience organizing gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, Jewel Gorilla Safaris is proud to be ranked among East Africa’s most reliable, conservation-minded tour operators. We handle every detail — permits, transport, accommodation, and ranger coordination — so you can focus on the thrill of your gorilla trekking tour in Uganda and Rwanda.

Whether you’re trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, exploring the volcanic slopes of Mgahinga, or heading out in Rwanda’s famed Volcanoes National Park, we bring you closer to wild mountain gorillas through expertly crafted gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda.

Why Choose Jewel Gorilla Safaris for Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

When planning gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, your choice of tour operator makes all the difference. At Jewel Gorilla Safaris, we combine local expertise, deep conservation values, and a personalized approach to every safari we organize. Here’s why travelers from around the world trust us for their once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda.

1. Locally Based and 100% Gorilla Focused

Unlike large foreign companies, we’re based right where the action happens. Our team lives and works in the very communities surrounding Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Park. This gives us unmatched access, up-to-date knowledge, and insider insight into planning flawless gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda.

2. Custom Safari Planning for Every Budget

Whether you’re looking for a luxury lodge experience or a low-cost trek, our tailored gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda are built around your travel style and goals. From group trips to private tours, we ensure your itinerary fits your timeframe and budget without compromising on the quality of the gorilla experience.

3. Permit Handling & Park Coordination

Securing a permit for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda is essential, and we handle the process from start to finish. Our team ensures you receive the right permits for your preferred date and location — whether it’s Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, or Volcanoes National Park — with no hidden fees or complications.

4. Expert Local Guides & Trackers

All our gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda are led by experienced, licensed guides and trained trackers who have spent years studying gorilla behavior and forest navigation. Your safety and satisfaction are their top priorities.

5. Conservation & Community Focus

We don’t just operate in these regions — we invest in them. A portion of your safari cost directly supports conservation initiatives and community programs around the parks. When you book your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda with Jewel Gorilla Safaris, you’re supporting sustainable tourism.

6. Seamless Logistics from Kigali or Entebbe

Whether you’re starting your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda from Entebbe, Kampala, or Kigali, our team manages your entire journey — including airport pickups, border transfers, accommodation, and packed meals for your trek.

7. Excellent Reviews and Repeat Clients

Our success is built on client satisfaction. Many travelers who choose Jewel Gorilla Safaris for their first gorilla trekking safari in Uganda or Rwanda return again or refer others. Our reputation as one of the best gorilla trekking companies is earned through consistency, care, and exceptional service.

Where We Trek – Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo Destinations

Jewel Gorilla Safaris specializes in expertly guided gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, with exclusive extensions into DR Congo for adventurous travelers. From the dense jungles of Bwindi to the volcanic slopes of Virunga, we offer you the chance to experience gorillas in the wild across the top three mountain gorilla destinations in Africa.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Uganda

Home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, Bwindi is the heart of gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda. The park offers four main tracking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector offers different terrain, gorilla families, and lodge types. Whether you prefer a budget trek or an exclusive lodge stay, gorilla trekking in Bwindi delivers unmatched encounters and stunning rainforest views.

Our most popular gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda often include a 3-day or 4-day Bwindi itinerary, starting from either Entebbe or Kigali.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Uganda

Often overlooked but deeply rewarding, Mgahinga lies in Uganda’s Virunga range and is ideal for travelers who want shorter hikes, fewer crowds, and a chance to combine gorilla trekking with golden monkey tracking or volcano hikes. The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla group, known for its consistent presence and cross-border history.

Mgahinga is a great choice for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda that begin from Kigali, with only a 4-hour drive to the trailhead.

Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda

Rwanda’s premier gorilla trekking destination, Volcanoes National Park is world-famous for its conservation history and accessibility. Located just 2.5 hours from Kigali, it’s the most convenient location for travelers seeking high-end, short-stay gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda. The park hosts 12 habituated gorilla families and offers luxurious accommodation near the trailheads in Kinigi and Musanze.

Jewel Gorilla Safaris arranges both single-day and multi-day gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda, perfect for business travelers, photographers, and families seeking a world-class experience with minimal travel time.

Virunga National Park – DR Congo

For those seeking raw adventure, gorilla trekking in DR Congo offers an untamed and unforgettable experience. Virunga is Africa’s oldest national park and home to several habituated mountain gorilla families. Treks here are more rugged and remote — ideal for seasoned travelers who want to extend their gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda with a bold twist.

We coordinate safe and secure Congo gorilla tours with verified Virunga partners, and handle permits, Goma border crossings, and park logistics. Congo is also the most affordable option for gorilla permits, making it popular with budget travelers.

Tour Packages – Our Most Popular Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo

At Jewel Gorilla Safaris, we offer carefully curated gorilla trekking tours to suit every traveler — from solo explorers to families, photographers, and luxury seekers. Our tour packages range from short one-day treks to immersive multi-country safaris that combine Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Each itinerary is handcrafted to provide an authentic and deeply personal encounter with mountain gorillas, while also ensuring comfort, safety, and exceptional service.

1. 1 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda from Kisoro

Perfect for travelers already in southwestern Uganda, this quick yet unforgettable trek starts and ends in Kisoro, with gorilla tracking in either Bwindi or Mgahinga. It’s one of the best-value options for a tight schedule.

Popular with: Backpackers, volunteers, and regional tourists
Departure: Daily from Kisoro

2. 2 Days Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi from Kigali

This is one of our top-selling gorilla trekking safaris. Start in Rwanda, cross the Cyanika or Katuna border, and enjoy a trek in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — often at a much lower permit cost than in Rwanda.

Popular with: Budget-conscious travelers flying into Kigali
Sectors: Rushaga or Buhoma

3. 2 Days Uganda Gorilla Safari – Rushaga or Buhoma

A quick and cost-effective itinerary for clients already in Uganda or near the southwestern border. Includes 1 gorilla permit, 1 night of accommodation, and full road transfers.

Ideal for: East African residents and weekend wildlife seekers
Starting Point: Entebbe or Kisoro

4. 3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This lesser-known itinerary offers dramatic volcanic scenery, relaxed treks, and high gorilla sighting rates. Mgahinga is great for travelers who prefer a quieter experience and want to avoid the crowds of Bwindi.

Add-ons: Golden monkey tracking or Batwa cultural tour
Access: Via Kigali or Kisoro

5. 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

The classic trek for those seeking the iconic Bwindi experience. You’ll spend two nights near the forest and one full day trekking gorillas in one of the park’s four sectors.

Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage forest, high gorilla density, varied terrain
Accommodation: Budget to midrange options available

6. 1 Day Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda

The fastest way to see mountain gorillas. Depart early from Kigali, trek in Volcanoes National Park, and return by evening. Ideal for travelers with limited time or as an add-on to a longer Rwanda or Serengeti safari.

Suitable for: Conference travelers, business tourists, luxury clients
Includes: Permit, transport, lunch, and expert guide

7. 4–10 Day Combined Safaris: Uganda, Rwanda & Congo

For those who want more than just gorilla trekking, our extended itineraries combine gorillas with wildlife safaris, chimp tracking, cultural visits, and even Nyiragongo volcano hikes. Whether you start in Entebbe or Kigali, we tailor your route to maximize experiences and minimize drive time.

Options include:

• 7 Days Uganda Primates & Wildlife Safari
• 10 Days Uganda, Rwanda, Congo Gorilla Circuit
• 5 Days Gorilla Trek & Queen Elizabeth Safari Combo

Each of our packages can be customized for private or group travel, with your choice of lodge category (budget, midrange, or luxury). We also provide airport pickups, border assistance, and help with special permits such as gorilla habituation or under-15 waivers.

Is Gorilla Trekking Safe with Jewel Gorilla Safaris?

One of the most common questions we receive from first-time travelers is: “Is gorilla trekking safe?” The answer is yes — gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda are not only safe but also highly regulated to protect both the visitors and the endangered mountain gorillas.

At Jewel Gorilla Safaris, safety is the foundation of every itinerary we operate. Whether you’re trekking in Bwindi, Mgahinga, Volcanoes National Park, or Virunga, our team ensures that your gorilla trekking safari meets the highest safety standards.

Professional Ranger Escort on Every Trek

All gorilla trekking safaris are conducted with the support of armed, trained rangers provided by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rwanda Development Board, or Virunga National Park. These rangers accompany every group and are experienced in managing wildlife encounters, terrain navigation, and emergencies.

Pre-Trek Briefing and Group Sizes

Before each trek, visitors attend a mandatory safety and etiquette briefing. Groups are kept small (maximum 8 trekkers per gorilla family), ensuring minimal disturbance to the gorillas and easy communication in the forest. Our gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda always follow these group limits.

Health & Distance Guidelines

Mountain gorillas share 98% of our DNA, making them vulnerable to human illnesses. That’s why all travelers with flu-like symptoms are advised not to trek, and a minimum 7-meter distance is maintained during visits. Our guides help enforce these rules and assist guests throughout the trek.

Fitness Support & Trail Management

Trekking can be strenuous, but Jewel Gorilla Safaris ensures you’re supported every step of the way. We assess your fitness level and help you choose the right park sector or gorilla family based on trail difficulty. Porters are available to assist with luggage or a hand when terrain gets steep.

Safety Across All Countries

• Uganda is considered one of the safest destinations in East Africa, with well-patrolled national parks and stable infrastructure.
• Rwanda offers top-tier security and seamless transfers from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park.
• Congo gorilla trekking is conducted only when park conditions are deemed secure, with coordination from Virunga rangers and security escorts.

Frequently Asked Questions – Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

Is gorilla trekking safe in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo?

Yes. Gorilla trekking is very safe when booked through a licensed company like Jewel Gorilla Safaris. In Uganda and Rwanda, armed rangers accompany every group. In Congo, Virunga operates with extra security escorts. All our gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda include official park guides and full permit coordination to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?

The official minimum age is 15 years in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. However, in Uganda and Rwanda, special waivers may be granted for children slightly under 15, provided parents sign a liability form. Jewel Gorilla Safaris can assist families in securing these waivers for eligible young adventurers.

How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?

As of 2025:

• Uganda: $800 (trekking), $1,500 (habituation experience – 4 hours)
• Rwanda: $1,500
• DR Congo: $400
  We include permit handling in all our gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda.

When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?

The dry seasons — June to August and December to February — are ideal for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Trails are less muddy and visibility is better. However, permits sell out fast during these months, so early booking is advised.

How difficult is the gorilla trek?

Trekking difficulty depends on the park and gorilla family assigned. Some treks take 2–3 hours while others may last up to 6 hours. Bwindi Forest can be steeper, while Volcanoes National Park often offers shorter, more accessible treks. We always match our clients with the best route based on their fitness level and interest.

What should I pack for a gorilla trekking safari?

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Long-sleeved shirt and trousers
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen
• Camera (no flash), snacks, water
  We send a full packing list to all Jewel Gorilla Safaris clients before departure.

Can I combine Uganda and Rwanda in one gorilla safari?

Absolutely. Many of our travelers fly into Kigali and trek gorillas in Bwindi, Uganda — combining the lower permit cost with Rwanda’s convenient airport access. Our cross-border gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda are among our most popular tours.