How Long Does Gorilla Trekking Take in Uganda and Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife experiences on Earth. Whether you choose to do it in the lush highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda or the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, one common question travelers ask is:

“How long does the gorilla trek actually take?”

The answer varies based on several factors, but this guide gives you a clear picture of what to expect in each country, so you can plan better, pack right, and set your expectations realistically.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Where It Happens

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – a smaller, scenic park near the Rwandan border.

Trekking Duration in Uganda

The time it takes to locate a gorilla family can vary from 1 to 8 hours (one way). Once you locate the gorillas, you are allowed a strict 1 hour in their presence. Afterward, you’ll trek back to the starting point, which could take another 1–3 hours depending on your route.

Summary Timeline (Typical Day in Uganda):

•  7:00 AM – Arrive at park headquarters for a briefing
• 8:00 AM – Start the trek with guides and rangers
• 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM+ – Trekking through the forest until you locate the gorilla family (1 to 6+ hours)
• 1 Hour – With the gorillas once found
• Trek back – Return journey (30 minutes to 3+ hours)

Total Duration: 4 to 9 hours round-trip

What Affects Trek Length in Uganda?

• Gorilla group location: Some groups move deep into the forest or high up the slopes.
• Fitness of your group: Slower walkers may take longer; porters are available for assistance.
• Weather & terrain: Rain makes trails slippery and can slow you down.
• Sector/region of Bwindi: Some sectors, like Ruhija and Nkuringo, are steeper and more remote than Buhoma.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Where It Happens

Volcanoes National Park, in the Virunga Mountains of northern Rwanda.

This park is well-organized with a reputation for shorter, more accessible treks due to easier terrain and infrastructure.

Trekking Duration in Rwanda

Trek times in Rwanda generally range from 1.5 to 5 hours (one way), depending on the location of the gorilla family on that day. Some groups are located within just an hour of trekking from the trailhead, while others may require a longer, uphill hike.

Summary Timeline (Typical Day in Rwanda):

• 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM – Check-in and registration at Kinigi park headquarters
• 7:30 AM – Briefing and allocation of gorilla groups based on fitness level
•  8:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Trekking to locate the gorillas (1 to 5 hours)
•  1 Hour – With the gorilla family
•  Trek back – May take the same or a shorter path

Total Duration: 3 to 7 hours round-trip

Why Rwanda Treks May Be Shorter:

•  More centralized management: Rangers often track gorillas early in the morning via radio, allowing guides to direct tourists more efficiently.
•  Easier terrain: Many groups are located closer to the park boundaries.
•  Smaller park size: Compared to Bwindi, Volcanoes NP has shorter travel distances.

How Many Days Do You Need for Gorilla Trekking?

In Both Uganda and Rwanda:

Minimum 3 Days:

Day 1: Travel to the park
Day 2: Gorilla trek
Day 3: Return or continue to next destination

Longer itineraries are recommended if you want to:

•  Spend time in nearby parks (e.g., Queen Elizabeth NP or Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda, Akagera NP in Rwanda)
•  Add a second gorilla trek or a golden monkey trek
• Visit cultural or community attractions

Pro Tips for Planning Your Gorilla Trek

What to Bring

•  Good quality hiking boots (waterproof preferred)
•  Rain jacket/poncho – it can rain at any time
•  Gloves – for gripping vegetation and protection
•  Long-sleeved shirt and trousers (to avoid scratches/insects)
•  A small backpack with snacks and water
•  Walking stick – often provided at trailhead
•  Camera (no flash)

What Else to Know

•  Treks are led by professional guides and armed rangers
•  Group size is limited to 8 people per gorilla family
•  Permits must be booked in advance
•  You must be at least 15 years old to participate
•  No touching or close contact is allowed  you must maintain a 7-meter distance
•  Permits allow 1 hour with gorillas regardless of trek length

Permit Costs (As of 2025)

Final Thoughts

While the exact length of a gorilla trekking experience varies, you should expect to spend most of the day involved in the activity, especially in Uganda. Rwanda treks may be shorter on average but are no less rewarding.

What truly matters is the 1 magical hour you’ll spend with the gorillas an experience many describe as life-changing. The journey to find them, though unpredictable, is part of the adventure and adds to the sense of reward once you meet these magnificent creatures face-to-face.

Whether you choose Uganda or Rwanda, gorilla trekking is not just a tour it’s a memory that will stay with you forever.