There are mainly two popular mountain gorilla trekking destinations in the whole world; that is Uganda and Rwanda. Deciding between gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda depends on various factors, including preferences, budget, and travel logistics. Here’s a comparison to help you choose:
Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost
Rwanda gorilla trekking permits are more expensive than Ugandan gorilla trekking permits. Each gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1500 while each gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 per permit.
If you wish to base your decision on the cost of a gorilla trekking permit, then Uganda will be the best option for gorilla trekking. However, you might have to consider several other reasons to go for a gorilla trek in Rwanda.
Accessibility
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is closer to the capital, Kigali, making it more accessible. It takes less than 2 hours from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park. It is possible to trek gorillas in Rwanda on the same day you land at Kigali International Airport. However, there is always a very high risk in case of flight delays.
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are a bit farther from Entebbe International Airport. It takes between eight to nine hours to transfer from Entebbe to any of Uganda’s gorilla national parks. If you intend to cross over into Uganda from Kigali International Park, it will take between four to five hours depending on the border delays.
Terrain and Experience:
Both countries offer unique experiences. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is known for its lush bamboo forests and sometimes more easily accessible gorilla groups.
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides a more rugged trekking experience with dense vegetation, but it also offers the chance to see other wildlife species.
Gorilla Habituation Experience (Uganda)
Uganda offers the opportunity for a gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi impenetrable national park. This longer, more immersive trek allows visitors to spend more time with a gorilla group undergoing habituation. During gorilla trekking, visitors are allowed to only spend one hour with the mountain gorillas while during gorilla habituation, visitors take four hours in the presence of the mountain gorillas.
Rwanda does not offer gorilla habituation experience.
Conservation Impact
Both countries are committed to gorilla conservation, and your visit contributes to these efforts through permit fees. But Rwanda takes it a notch higher, besides giving back to communities (both countries do it), Rwanda has an annual gorilla naming ceremony known as Kwita Izina. Through this event, Rwanda has not only ensured conservation but also bridged the gap between celebrities and conservation.
Cultural Experience
Rwanda is no longer a tribal country. Their culture is mostly limited to the genocide memorial and a few music performances.
Uganda is culturally diverse. However, due to urbanization, many people have abandoned their cultural practices. But regardless of the urbanization in some areas, there are still several people who have done their best to preserve their ancient culture. These include but are not limited to the Karamajong, the Batwa, IK tribe among several other tribes.
If you are interested in a culturally diverse country, then Uganda is ultimately a better gorilla trekking destination.
Ultimately, both Uganda and Rwanda offer incredible gorilla trekking experiences, each with its unique advantages. Consider your preferences, budget, and travel plans to choose the option that best suits you.