by Canine Safaris Ltd, 2 min read
Mountain gorillas survive in just a few places on earth. In Uganda they live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda they live in Volcanoes National Park, and a third group lives in the Virunga area of the Democratic Republic of Congo. If you are choosing between Uganda and Rwanda, these are the factors that matter.
Number of gorilla families
The Uganda Wildlife Authority counts about 459 mountain gorillas in Bwindi, roughly half of those remaining, and lists many habituated groups. Mgahinga has one habituated group that moves across the border. More families means more flexibility on dates and more choices of terrain and sector.
Permits and cost
Permits are issued by each country's wildlife authority and priced in US dollars. Rwanda's permits have historically been priced well above Uganda's, so Uganda is usually the more affordable choice for gorillas. Prices change, so check the current tariff on the UWA website (opens in a new tab) and with Rwanda's authorities. Our safari cost breakdown shows how permits fit into a total budget.
Terrain and fitness
Bwindi is steep, dense and often muddy, with walks that can take most of a day. Volcanoes National Park is on volcanic slopes with bamboo and open vegetation, and walks vary. Both can be demanding, and both have porters. See what a trekking day is really like.
Access and logistics
Rwanda is small and its gorilla park is within a few hours of Kigali, so it suits short trips. Uganda's Bwindi is a long drive from Entebbe, but starting in Mbarara shortens the journey and lets you add Lake Mburo and Queen Elizabeth on the way. A single East Africa Tourist Visa can cover Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda, as explained in our visa guide.
What else you can do
Uganda pairs gorillas with big game, chimpanzees, rafting and a deep birding list. Our gorilla versus chimpanzee guide and birdwatching guide show how far a trip can stretch. Rwanda is compact and polished, and some visitors pair it with a short city stay.
Mgahinga and the Virunga link
Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park lie in the same volcano range, so the landscape is similar on both sides of the border. Mgahinga adds golden monkeys and the Batwa trail.
Which should you choose?
- Choose Uganda if you want choice, value and a longer trip with more wildlife
- Choose Rwanda if you have only a few days and want a compact, easy route
- Choose both if you have a week or more and the budget, using the East Africa Tourist Visa
Plan your trek
Tell us your dates and budget on the plan your trip page, and we will price a gorilla trek from Mbarara. See our 3 day Bwindi gorilla trek for a simple plan.
Places in this post
Frequently asked questions
Is Uganda cheaper than Rwanda for gorillas?
Historically yes, because Uganda's permits have been priced lower. Check the current tariffs in each country.
Do both countries have the same gorillas?
They are the same species, living in connected mountain forests. Bwindi is a separate population from the Virunga volcanoes.
Can I trek in both countries on one trip?
Yes, with enough time and budget. The East Africa Tourist Visa covers Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda.
Which is easier to reach?
Rwanda's gorilla park is closer to its capital. Uganda requires a longer drive or a flight to Kisoro, but gives you more to see on the way.
Sources and further reading
- gorilla trekking
- Uganda vs Rwanda
- comparison
- Bwindi
- Mgahinga
- planning
