10 Fascinating Facts About Gorillas

Few wildlife encounters rival the magic of standing just meters away from a family of mountain gorillas   observing their gentle movements, intelligent eyes, and strong family bonds.
Traford Safaris offers unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures in both Uganda and Rwanda, two of the only countries in the world where you can see these endangered primates in their natural habitat.

Before you set out on your trek, here are 10 fascinating facts about gorillas and a guide on how to book your trekking permits and safari packages with Traford Safaris.

1. Gorillas Share 98% of Our DNA

Gorillas are our closest wild relatives, sharing nearly 98% of human DNA. Their emotions  from joy to fear to affection  mirror our own. On a Traford Safaris trek, you’ll see silverbacks play with their young, mothers cradle infants, and juveniles swing joyfully through the trees behaviors that are both heartwarming and familiar.

2. Only a Few Places on Earth Offer Gorilla Trekking.

Mountain gorillas live only in the Virunga Mountains (shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and the D.R. Congo) and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Traford Safaris operates gorilla treks in both:

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park

Both destinations are safe, well-managed, and accessible, making them the perfect choices for an authentic African adventure.

3. Gorilla Families Are Led by Silverbacks

Each gorilla group is headed by a dominant male called a silverback, known for the silvery streak of hair across his back. He leads, protects, and mediates within the family. During a Traford Safaris trek, your ranger will help you understand the family’s hierarchy, personalities, and unique stories   making your hour with them even more special.

4. Gorilla Trekking Supports Conservation

Each time you book a gorilla trekking permit, part of your fee goes directly toward conservation efforts and local community development. Rwanda and Uganda have used eco-tourism to protect gorillas while empowering nearby communities  a success story you actively support when you travel with Traford Safaris.

5. Gorillas Build New Nests Every Night

Every evening, gorillas craft fresh leafy nests to sleep in  either on the ground or high in trees. On your trek, you’ll often spot these green “beds,” which give rangers clues about how close the family might be.

6. They’re Peaceful Giants, Not Aggressive Beasts

Despite their strength, gorillas are calm, gentle, and rarely aggressive. When you encounter them in the wild, they usually continue with their daily routines, occasionally glancing curiously at visitors. Your Traford Safaris guide ensures safe, respectful distances at all times.

7. Gorilla Trekking Permits Are Limited — Book Early

To protect the gorillas, a limited number of permits are issued each day, and they sell out fast  especially in peak seasons (June–September and December–February).

🎟️ Current Gorilla Permit Costs (2025/26):

• Uganda: USD $800 per person

• Rwanda: USD $1,500 per person

Traford Safaris handles the entire permit booking process for you  from securing permits to arranging transport, accommodation, and park entry so all you have to do is enjoy your trek.

8. Rwanda Offers Easy Access and Luxury

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is just a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali International Airport, making it perfect for short, luxury gorilla treks. Rwanda is also known for its upscale lodges like Bisate Lodge and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.

Traford Safaris offers Rwanda gorilla packages that combine gorilla trekking with cultural experiences, Kigali city tours, and even golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park.

9. Uganda Offers More Variety and Value

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers multiple gorilla trekking sectors  Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo giving travelers flexible options for routes and accommodations. Uganda also allows you to combine gorilla trekking with:

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest

• Wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Boat cruises on Kazinga Channel

Traford Safaris’ Uganda gorilla safaris are perfect for those who want a rich, diverse experience at a more affordable cost.

10. Gorilla Trekking Is Safe and Unforgettable

Both Rwanda and Uganda are politically stable and have well-developed tourism infrastructure. Each trek is led by armed rangers and professional guides who ensure safety and respect for the gorillas’ space.

After a successful trek, Traford Safaris often includes optional community visits, cultural performances, or forest walks  rounding off a deeply meaningful adventure.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking with Traford Safaris

Whether you choose Uganda, Rwanda, or a combined cross-border package, Traford Safaris makes the entire process effortless.

✅ What We Handle for You

• Gorilla permit reservations (officially issued by UWA or RDB)

• Accommodation near your chosen park

• Transport (4×4 safari vehicles or private transfers)

• Expert English-speaking guides and trackers

• Full safari itinerary planning

Popular Traford Safaris Gorilla Packages

1. 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Highlights: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP, Kigali city tour, cultural village visit.
Ideal for: Short luxury escapes.

2. 4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari (Bwindi)

Highlights: Gorilla trek, Batwa cultural village, scenic drive through Kigezi Highlands.
Includes: Permits, accommodation, meals, transfers.

3. 7-Day Uganda & Rwanda Gorilla Combo

Highlights: Gorilla trekking in both Bwindi and Volcanoes NP, golden monkeys, Kigali tour.
Perfect for: Travelers who want to experience both countries in one seamless trip.

 Travel Tips for Gorilla Trekkers

• Wear waterproof hiking boots and long pants  the forest can be muddy.

• Bring gloves for grabbing vines and branches.

• Carry a light rain jacket …the forest is misty even during dry season.

• Hire a porter — it supports locals and makes your trek easier.

• Always keep a 7-meter distance from gorillas to prevent disease transmission.

 Book Your 2026 Gorilla Trekking Tour Now

Join Traford Safaris for a life changing encounter with mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. Whether you’re looking for a quick luxury escape or a full-length East African safari, our expert team will tailor your itinerary for comfort, adventure, and conservation impact.

Every gorilla permit you book with Traford Safaris helps fund conservation, anti-poaching efforts, and community development. By trekking responsibly, you help ensure that these gentle giants continue to thrive for generations to come.