Our Favourite Gorilla Trekking Tours in Africa

1. 7-Day Uganda Community & Conservation Safari
Duration: 7 Days | Countries: 1 | Destinations: 2

Embark on a 7-day journey of conservation, community, and adventure across Uganda's most enchanting landscapes. Beginning in the leafy suburbs of Entebbe at Hotel No. 5, you'll ease into the rhythm of Ugandan life before heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park. From your base at Kyambura Gorge Lodge, you'll combine thrilling game-viewing with hands-on cultural encounters, be it honey harvesting with local beekeepers, exploring the wetlands, or searching for the elusive ‘Lost Chimps of Kyambura'.

The adventure reaches its pinnacle in the shadow of the Virunga Volcanoes at Mount Gahinga Lodge. Here, life-changing gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park connects you to one of the world's most endangered species, while golden monkey trekking and hikes to the Gisozi Caldera round out your exploration. Alongside the wildlife encounters, you'll gain rare cultural insights with the Batwa tribe and enjoy fireside evenings with Gorilla Doctors vets, learning firsthand about the tireless work that goes into protecting these extraordinary primates.

This itinerary takes you on a purposeful journey that deepens your connection to nature, culture, and conservation in equal measure.

Highlights:

• Gorilla trekking in the forests of Mgahinga National Park
• Cultural immersion with the Batwa Heritage Tour
• Fireside conversations with Gorilla Doctors veterinarians
• Track golden monkeys in the bamboo forests
• Hike to the Gisozi Caldera for sweeping Kisoro Valley views
• Honey harvesting with Kyambura Beekeeping Cooperative
• Game drives, boat cruises & chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Stays in exceptional lodges that champion conservation and community impact

2. Visit All the Safari Hotspots in Tanzania & Uganda
Duration: 14 Days | Countries: 3 | Destinations: 6

This spectacular 14-day trip sees you enjoying some of the best safari activities East Africa has to offer. Your adventure starts with a bang in Uganda's equatorial rainforests, where you find yourself trekking through lush greenery and steep mountains to encounter the gorilla families who inhabit the region. The fun continues on Rubondo Island, where you days are filled with exciting animal sightings of chimps, elephant and giraffe. On the fifth day of the trip, you swap the forest landscape for the rolling savannah of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Both these destinations offer unforgettable moments like witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration and exploring the world's largest intact volcanic caldera.

Highlights:

• Visit some of East Africa's most popular wildlife destinations
• Fantastic photography opportunities for keen photographers
• Spot the Big 5 in the Serengeti
• Small, intimate safari lodges throughout – ideal for couples & honeymooners
• Explore the exclusive Rubondo Island & trek for habituated chimpanzees
• See the Ngorongoro Crater – the world's largest intact volcanic caldera
• Witness the annual Wildebeest Migration in season (July to October)

3. Uganda's Primates & Wildlife Adventure
Duration: 10 Days | Countries: 1 | Destinations: 3

This immersive 10-day journey invites you to uncover the wild heart of Uganda, from chimpanzee encounters in Kibale Forest to once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The adventure begins in Entebbe, where a restful night at Karibu Guesthouse prepares you for the journey ahead through Uganda's emerald highlands and crater lakes. Here, Ndali Lodge offers spellbinding views and sets the stage for your first primate encounters.

Days in Queen Elizabeth National Park bring a rewarding blend of big game drives, serene Kazinga Channel cruises, and authentic visits to community projects, with Kyambura Gorge Lodge as your welcoming base. The journey culminates in the emerald depths of Bwindi, where guided treks lead you into the mountain rainforest to meet Uganda's most iconic residents: the gorillas. Between wildlife-rich activities, you'll find time to unwind at lodges chosen for their intimacy, character, and exceptional vistas that are perfect for reflecting on a safari that blends natural wonder with meaningful community impact.

Highlights:

• Life-changing gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest
• Scenic boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel
• Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Plains
• Unique crater lake views at Ndali Lodge
• Engaging cultural encounters with inspiring community initiatives
• Stays at intimate lodges that directly support conservation and local communities

4. Congo Safari Tours in a Magnificent Rainforest
Duration: 8 Days | Countries: 1 | Destinations: 1

Spending eight days in one destination might seem excessive for this Congo luxury safari tour. But once you step foot in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, you'll see that one week might not be enough time to spend in this magical region. The park is a swathe of primary forest famed for its biodiversity and rich wildlife – ranging from western lowland gorillas to elephant and forest buffalo. Once deemed inaccessible, the jungle is now home to a few eco-sensitive lodges that are carefully built into the landscape and each provide a different experience of the rainforest, wetlands and savannah. During your time here, you'll enjoy gorilla safaris, river cruises, kayaking adventures, guided walks and other exciting activities.

Highlights:

• Stay in luxury, eco-friendly chalets throughout your journey
• Encounter unique forest wildlife & landscapes
• Enjoy two gorilla treks, water-based activities & nature walks
• See a sizeable portion of the world's remaining gorilla population
• Spectacular views of the surrounding forest & ‘bai' – an area of open, marshy ground frequented by elephants, buffalo & antelope

5. Classic Safaris & Gorilla Trekking in East Africa
Duration: 15 Days | Countries: 3 | Destinations: 7

You'll be hard-pressed to find more exciting gorilla trekking safaris than this 15-day itinerary, which combines East Africa's biggest wildlife experiences into one trip. The tour opens with gorilla trekking in Uganda's pristine rainforests before you're flown to two of Africa's most popular safari destinations, the Masai Mara and Serengeti. While here, you'll enjoy front row seats to the Great Wildebeest Migration – nature's grandest show. The final stop on the journey is Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater, where you'll be able to experience a classic game drive through the conservation area, spotting the Big 5 and other exciting wildlife along the way.

Highlights:

• Visit some of Africa's best safari hotspots
• See the Big 5 & other big game in Ngorongoro Crater
• Enjoy cultural encounters with the Batwa people
• Go on night game drives & nature walks
• See the Great Wildebeest Migration in season (May to October)
• Stay in luxurious tented accommodation throughout
• Optional hot-air balloon rides over the Masai Mara

6. Rwanda Gorilla, Community & Conservation Safari
Duration: 6 Days | Countries: 1 | Destinations: 2

This 6-day journey invites you to experience Rwanda's beauty, culture, and commitment to conservation. Beginning in the vibrant capital of Kigali, you'll immerse yourself in the country's story – from its remarkable recovery and warm-hearted people to its poignant history at the Genocide Memorial. You'll also explore the city's eco-parks and community initiatives before heading north to the volcanic slopes of Volcanoes National Park.

Here, at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes, you'll embark on one of Africa's most moving wildlife encounters: gorilla trekking. Guided through lush rainforest, you'll spend an unforgettable hour observing a gorilla family in its natural habitat – a rare and humbling privilege. Optional experiences add even more depth, from golden monkey trekking to visiting the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a leading conservation initiative. Nights are spent in comfortable lodges chosen for their views, character, and role in supporting the local community.

Every moment of this itinerary balances adventure with purpose, leaving you with unforgettable memories and the knowledge that your journey helps safeguard Rwanda's precious wildlife and supports meaningful community projects.

Highlights:

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park – a once-in-a-lifetime experience
• Optional golden monkey trek in the Virunga rainforests
• Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial & Kigali city highlights
• Scenic drives through Rwanda's iconic terraced hillsides
• Stays in stylish lodges with panoramic views
• Optional visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund – pioneers of gorilla conservation
• Your trip supports community initiatives & children's outreach programs

7. Rwanda’s Nyungwe, Lake Kivu & Gorillas
Duration: 8 Days | Countries: 1 | Destinations: 3

Take an 8-day journey through Rwanda, known as ‘The Land of a Thousand Hills’. Start in Kigali for chimp trekking and gorilla encounters, before venturing into Nyungwe National Park for chimp sightings amidst misty hills. Enjoy luxurious evenings at One & Only Nyungwe House. It’s then on to Lake Kivu for relaxation before heading to Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll encounter a significant population of mountain gorillas in their cloud forest habitat. Immerse yourself in this unforgettable wildlife experience amidst Rwanda’s stunning landscapes.

Highlights:

• Chimp trekking in ancient rainforests
• Soul-stirring encounters with gorillas
• Ideal for photographic opportunities
• Lake adventures including canoeing, fishing & jet-skiing
• Luxury accommodation

8. Rwanda Gorilla, Community & Conservation Safari
Duration: 6 Days | Countries: 1 | Destinations: 2

Discover one of Africa's beloved countries on a culturally enriching excursion to Rwanda. Your journey begins in Kigali with a luxurious stay at Serena Hotel, which sets the scene for your adventure. Visit local attractions such as Nyandungu Eco Park, the Nyambirambo Women Cooperative, and the historically harrowing Genocide Memorial. From there, enjoy a scenic transfer to Virunga Lodge in Ruhengeri, the home of gorilla trekking. Embark on one of the best gorilla trekking safaris through Volcanoes National Park accompanied by expert guides to find and observe the rainforest's elusive mountain gorillas.

The following day, expand your primate experiences with an easier trek to find the endangered Golden Monkey followed by an optional visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund – the world's largest, and longest running, gorilla conservation organisation. This tour forms part of our Trips With A Purpose collection.

Highlights:

• Incredible guided gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Stylish, comfortable accommodation
• Exceptional views over the Virunga volcanic lakes
• Optional endangered golden monkey excursion
• Optional visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

9. Uganda & Rwanda Primates and Wildlife Safari
Duration: 14 Days | Countries: 2 | Destinations: 4

Rwanda and Uganda are considered the top two destinations for gorilla tours in Africa. This 14-day tour offers an unforgettable combination of culture, adventure, and wildlife that begins in Volcanic Crater Lakes, Uganda. During your time here, enjoy a community based guided tour of the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary before venturing into Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking. As the forest houses one of the highest primate concentrations in East Africa, sightings are guaranteed, especially with the help of expert guides. The next stop is Uganda's premier wildlife destination, Queen Elizabeth National park for a safari respite. Indulge in morning and evening game drives and even a boating safari to provide a different perspective on the local wildlife. As a brief break to your safari sojourn, visit the Omwani Women's Coffee Cooperative for little cultural immersion.

From there, it's time for the main event; a short flight sees you land in Uganda and head to Mount Gahinga Lodge. Venture into the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in search of the elusive mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, accompanied by guides, and spend time observing these gentle giants. This experience blends seamlessly into your time in Rwanda where another opportunity to gorilla trek presents itself in Volcanoes National Park. Make the most of your time here with a hike to the Diane Fossey Grave, and a visit to her former research centre, as well as the Kigali Genocide Museum.

Highlights:

• Track mountain gorillas and other primates
• Sensational game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Boating safari opportunities
• Optional cultural excursions
• Support of Positive Impact Initiatives

10. Rwanda Gorilla Encounter
Duration: 5 Days | Countries: 1 | Destinations: 2

Following your arrival in Kigali, Rwanda, settle in at the luxurious Serena Hotel for a restful night. From there, journey to the Virunga Mountains and Sabiyinyo Silverback Lodge in Volcanoes National Park. Here, your gorilla trek begins – venture into the park with an experienced guide and spend some time observing these endangered animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy a post-trek massage and spend time relaxing at the lodge.

Make the most of your time here with a hike to see the endangered golden monkeys, the Dian Fossey Research camp, or Mounts Visoke, Muhabura, or M'gahinga. Embark on a cruise on Lake Bulera and explore Buhanga Sacred Forest. Take a break from activity and adventure and set out on a cultural excursion to Iby'iwacu cultural village to discover different traditions.

Highlights:

• Treks to discover mountain gorillas & golden monkeys
• Cruise on lakes & climb volcanoes
• Visit Buhanga Sacred Forest
• Enjoy a relaxing massage after hikes & treks
• Optional cultural visits

Ready to Plan Your Gorilla Safari Holiday in Africa?

Don't miss out on the chance-of-a-lifetime opportunity to go gorilla trekking in one of Africa's premier safari destinations. Get in touch with one of our African Safari Experts to tailor-make your next holiday.