Gorillas in the Mist: Uganda vs Rwanda?
For many travellers, encountering mountain gorillas in the wild is the pinnacle of an African journey. Nestled deep within the cloud forests of East Africa, these gentle giants survive only in a small pocket of the world - mainly Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
Both countries offer extraordinary gorilla trekking, but the experience for the luxury traveller can feel distinctly different. Here’s what to expect in each destination:
Rwanda: Seamless Luxury & Elegance
Ease of Access
Rwanda has positioned itself as the luxury gateway to gorilla trekking. The journey from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park is just 2.5 hours by road, meaning you can land in the morning and be in your lodge by lunch. For travellers with limited time, this convenience is unrivalled.
Luxury Lodges
Rwanda’s luxury lodges are world-class - think Singita Kwitonda, Bisate Lodge, and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest. Expect spacious villas with private plunge pools, curated wine cellars, wellness spas, and views of the misty volcanoes. The atmosphere is polished, intimate, and designed to immerse you in a cocoon of comfort after your trek.
Gorilla Experience
Trekking in Rwanda tends to be slightly shorter and less demanding than in Uganda. The terrain is open and bamboo-rich, allowing for clearer photography. Permits are priced at $1,500 per person, per trek - intentionally positioning Rwanda as an exclusive, conservation-focused destination.
Uganda: Adventure, Diversity & Depth
The Journey
Reaching Uganda’s gorillas requires a longer adventure. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a 9–10 hour drive from Entebbe, or a short domestic flight to airstrips like Kihihi or Kisoro. For those who love the sense of journey - flying over the Rift Valley, watching the landscape shift - Uganda delivers.
Lodges
Uganda’s luxury lodge scene is more understated but no less special. Think Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, or Bwindi Lodge – perched at the edge of the forest with fire-lit lounges and sweeping jungle views. The vibe here is less about champagne towers and more about authentic, eco-conscious comfort with a strong community connection.
Gorilla Experience
Trekking in Uganda can be more physically demanding. The dense rainforest lives up to its name, with steep ascents, tangled vines, and mist-soaked trails. But the reward is incomparable - the sense of discovery, the drama of the forest, and a more rugged, adventurous feel. At $700 per permit, Uganda’s treks are also more accessible, making it possible to trek twice during your stay.
Beyond Gorillas
Uganda adds something Rwanda cannot: variety. After Bwindi, travellers can venture on safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, track chimpanzees in Kibale, or sail the Nile in Murchison Falls. For the luxury traveller wanting a longer, multi-faceted journey, Uganda offers a richer tapestry of experiences.
Which Destination Is Right for You?
Choose Rwanda if… you value seamless logistics, ultra-luxury lodges, and a polished, time-efficient experience. It’s the perfect choice for a special occasion trip or when combining gorillas with a Kenya or Tanzania safari.
Choose Uganda if… you crave adventure, prefer a more diverse journey, and want a deeper connection with the wilderness. It’s ideal for those who see the trek as part of the adventure rather than just the gateway to the gorillas.
Which guide?
Within the APGN network, we have plenty of choice based on your requirements: budget, language, specialty, destination and price-point. Get in touch to learn which guide would fit your safari today: