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Aerial view of Okavango Delta waterways winding through lush green islands
Vurara SafarisGuidesDestination ChoiceUganda or Rwanda for gorilla trekking?

Uganda or Rwanda for gorilla trekking?

Baseline decision available

The Decision in One Line

Rwanda offers efficiency; Uganda offers value and variety

What This Depends On

Key Assumptions

Rwanda permits cost $1,500; Uganda permits cost $700 (2024 pricing).

High confidence

Rwanda is compact with good roads; gorilla trekking is accessible in 2-3 days.

High confidence

Uganda requires 8-10 hour drives from Kampala to Bwindi or Mgahinga on sometimes rough roads.

High confidence

Uganda offers chimp trekking in Kibale and other primate experiences not available in Rwanda.

High confidence

This might change if...

If time is limited to 2-3 days, Rwanda is the only practical option.
If budget matters more than comfort, Uganda saves $800+ per person on permits alone.
If chimps interest you alongside gorillas, Uganda combines both efficiently.
If wanting polish and ease, Rwanda provides a significantly smoother experience.

Trade-offs to Understand

What you gain

+
Rwanda: Efficiency and polished infrastructure
+
Rwanda: Quick 2-3 day trip possible
+
Uganda: Significant cost savings ($800+ per person)

What you accept

-
Rwanda: Double the permit cost
-
Rwanda: Fewer add-on wildlife options
-
Uganda: Long, rough road transfers

Evidence to Know

Rwanda permits cost $1,500; Uganda permits cost $700 (2024 pricing).

Well-established pattern

Safari planning

Rwanda is compact with good roads; gorilla trekking is accessible in 2-3 days.

Well-established pattern

Safari planning

Uganda requires 8-10 hour drives from Kampala to Bwindi or Mgahinga on sometimes rough roads.

Well-established pattern

Safari planning

Rwanda: Efficiency and polished infrastructure

Trade-off consideration

Rwanda: Double the permit cost

Trade-off consideration

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