Gorilla trekking is a unique experience that allows travelers to get up close with one of the most endangered species in the world, the mountain gorillas . Two popular destinations for gorilla trekking are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Here a detailed comparison of gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Volcanoes.

Location and Accessibility

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, while Volcanoes National Park is situated in the northwestern part of Rwanda. Both parks are easily accessible by road or air, and there are several airlines that operate flights to the nearest airports.

In recent years, the Ugandan government has invested in improving the infrastructure in southwestern Uganda, making it easier to access Bwindi. In 2019, the Kabale International Airport was opened, which is located just a few hours’ drive from the park. This has made it easier for travelers to fly directly into the region, rather than having to travel via Entebbe or Kigali.

Gorilla Population

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, with a population of approximately 459 individuals. Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, has a population of around 320 gorillas.

Both parks have several habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists. In Bwindi, there are 19 habituated groups, while in Volcanoes, there are 12. The habituation process involves gradually introducing the gorillas to human presence, so they become used to the sight, smell, and sound of people.

Trekking Experience

Both Bwindi and Volcanoes offer a unique and memorable gorilla trekking experience. However, there are some differences between the two.

In Bwindi, the terrain is hilly and dense, and trekking can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. However, the park is home to several habituated gorilla families, which makes it easier to find the gorillas. The trekking routes in Bwindi can take between 1-8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family and the difficulty of the terrain.

In Volcanoes, the trekking is less strenuous, and the terrain is relatively flat. However, the gorillas tend to move around more, and tracking them can be more challenging. The park has several habituated gorilla families, but the groups tend to be larger, with up to 10 individuals. The trekking routes in Volcanoes can take between 30 minutes to 4 hours.

It’s worth noting that both parks offer different trekking options, depending on the fitness levels and preferences of the visitors. In Bwindi, there are four trailheads: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each trailhead offers a different trekking experience, with varying degrees of difficulty and different gorilla families to visit. In Volcanoes, there are ten gorilla families that can be visited, and the trekking routes are divided into several sectors, each with its own starting point.

Cost

The cost of gorilla trekking in both parks is relatively high due to the conservation efforts involved. The fees paid by visitors go towards supporting the conservation of the gorillas and their habitat, as well as providing income to the local communities.

As of 2023, the cost of a gorilla permit in Bwindi is USD 700, while in Volcanoes, it is USD 1,500. However, the cost of accommodation and other services may vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodation you choose.

It’s also worth noting that the Rwandan government has introduced several other conservation initiatives, such as the Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony, which takes place annually in Volcanoes National Park. The ceremony is aimed at raising awareness about the importance conservation efforts and celebrating the birth of new gorilla babies.

Accommodation

Both Bwindi and Volcanoes offer a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. In Bwindi, there are several lodges and campsites located around the park, with some offering stunning views of the forest. In Volcanoes, there are several lodges and hotels located near the park entrance, as well as several community-run lodges located in the nearby villages.

It’s worth noting that the cost of accommodation in both parks can vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodation you choose. During peak season, it’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, as availability can be limited.

Safety

Both Bwindi and Volcanoes National Parks are considered safe for tourists to visit. However, it’s important to follow the park regulations and guidelines, as well as the advice of your guide.

In recent years, the Ugandan and Rwandan governments have invested in improving security in the regions surrounding the parks. Both countries have also implemented several measures to mitigate the risk of disease transmission between humans and gorillas, such as requiring visitors to wear face masks and undergo health screenings before entering the parks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park offer a unique and unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. While there are some differences between the two, such as the terrain, cost, and gorilla population, both parks offer the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close and contribute to their conservation efforts.

Ultimately, the choice of which park to visit depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you’re looking for a more challenging trekking experience, with a higher chance of encountering gorillas, Bwindi may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed trekking experience, with the opportunity to participate in other conservation activities, such as the gorilla naming ceremony, Volcanoes may be the better choice.