Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda vs Uganda
Mgahinga, Uganda - Sean Kayes
Choosing the perfect destination for a unique and memorable honeymoon can be exciting, especially when it involves gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda. Each country offers stunning landscapes, close encounters with wildlife, and luxurious accommodations ideal for celebrating your union. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the best choice for your romantic adventure.
Choosing Your Gorilla Trekking Destination
Rwanda: Luxury and Accessibility Rwanda is known for its premium approach to tourism, emphasising exclusive, luxury experiences with minimal environmental impact. Trekking here, you'll find yourself in Volcanoes National Park, famed for its accessible trails through beautiful bamboo forests. The cost for a trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500, reflecting the country's dedication to high-quality service and conservation. The organized treks cater to various fitness levels, making it ideal for those who prefer a mix of comfort and adventure.
Uganda: A Rich, Diverse Experience In contrast, Uganda offers a more diverse and cost-effective option. Permits in Uganda are $800, and the experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest involves navigating through denser jungles that demand good physical fitness but reward trekkers with a profound sense of adventure. Despite longer travel times to trek sites, the vibrant wildlife and cultural experiences make it a compelling choice for couples seeking an immersive journey.
Virunga Lodge, Rwanda
Accommodation and Accessibility
In Rwanda, all treks begin at the park headquarters in Kinigi, conveniently located just a three-hour drive from Kigali on well-maintained roads. This proximity to luxurious lodges ensures a comfortable and accessible experience.
In Uganda, reaching Bwindi from Entebbe can take eight to ten hours by car, although there are also scheduled flights to the area. With multiple trailheads in Bwindi, choosing a lodge close to your starting point is crucial for ease and convenience.
View on the road to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda - Ally Christos
Overall Safari Experience
Uganda boasts a richer safari experience beyond gorilla trekking, with opportunities to see the Big Five in parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth. It is also renowned for its chimpanzee trekking and scenic spots like Lake Bunyonyi.
Rwanda, while less known for traditional safaris, offers exceptional experiences in Akagera National Park and the lush Nyungwe National Park, which hosts a variety of primates including Chimpanzees.
Tree climbing lion in Murchison National Park, Uganda - Sean Kayes
Permit and Booking Process
In Rwanda, permits can be purchased directly from the Rwanda Development Board or through a tour operator, offering flexibility in planning without the need to specify a gorilla family or accommodation.
In Uganda, permits must be secured through the Uganda Wildlife Authority via a tour operator, which helps coordinate your trek with your accommodation and overall itinerary.
Detailed Gorilla Trekking Permit Pricing for Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC
As you plan your gorilla trekking honeymoon or romantic getaway with Journeys by Emerge, understanding the various permit costs across different countries is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the permit pricing for Rwanda, Uganda, and the current situation in the DRC.
Rwanda Permit Costs (2024)
Foreign non-residents: $1,500 per permit
Foreign residents and citizens of other African countries: $500 per permit (in low season)
Citizens of Rwanda and East African countries: $200 per permit
Low Season Discount (November to May): 30% off, reducing the cost for non-African residents to $1,050, conditional upon booking at least two nights in Akagera or Nyungwe National Parks.
Uganda Permit Costs (Effective from 1st July 2024 to 30th June 2026)
Foreign non-residents: $800 per permit
Foreign residents: $700 per permit
East African Community (EAC) citizens: Approximately $80 (UGX 300,000)
Citizens of other African countries: $500 per permit
Uganda Gorilla Habituation Permit Costs
Foreign non-residents: $1,500
Foreign residents: $1,000
East African citizens: UGX 750,000
African citizens (non-EAC): $1,000
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Permit Costs
Mountain gorilla tracking: Not currently available due to security concerns and the closure of Virunga National Park since March 2020.
Eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park: $400 per permit. Note that while it is possible to track these gorillas, the security situation in DRC remains less stable compared to Rwanda or Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda - Ally Christos
Why Choose Journeys by Emerge for Your Honeymoon?
Journeys by Emerge specializes in creating honeymoon experiences that combine the thrill of gorilla encounters with the romance of Africa's incredible landscapes. Whether you choose the luxurious settings of Rwanda or the diverse environments of Uganda, your honeymoon will be an unforgettable celebration of your love.
Plan your romantic getaway with Journeys by Emerge so we can guide you in choosing the perfect location for your magical gorilla trekking adventure.
