Bwindi vs Volcanoes – Which Is Best for Gorilla Trekking?

Comparing Bwindi and Volcanoes helps you choose the best place based on your travel plans.

Both Bwindi and Volcanoes are top gorilla trekking destinations in Africa and the world. They offer great chances to see mountain gorillas, our closest relatives.

Here is a simple comparison between the two parks:

Accessibility

Bwindi is in southwestern Uganda, about 500 km from Kampala or Entebbe. It takes about 9 to 10 hours to reach the park by road.

Volcanoes National Park is in northwestern Rwanda, only 2 to 3 hours by road from Kigali. This makes Volcanoes easier to reach than Bwindi.

Mountain Gorilla Numbers

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has 20 gorilla families, which is the highest number in any park. It is home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Some of the families include Christmas, Bweza, Mubare, Rushegura, Nshongi, Mishaya, Nkuringo, and Habinyanja.

Volcanoes National Park has 12 gorilla families. Some of them are Muhoozi, Kwitonda, Agashya, Amahoro, and Sabyinyo.

If you want to see more gorilla families, Bwindi is the better choice. However, both parks offer high chances of seeing gorillas.

Gorilla Permit Cost

In Bwindi, a gorilla permit costs USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens.

In Volcanoes, a gorilla permit costs USD 1500 for foreign non-residents, USD 500 for foreign residents, and USD 200 for East African citizens.

Uganda is better for budget travelers. Rwanda is better for those looking for a luxury experience.

Vegetation & Altitude

Volcanoes has bamboo, thick bush, and alpine forest. Bwindi has montane forest and is at a higher altitude than Volcanoes.

Trekking in Volcanoes is easier than in Bwindi, especially compared to steep areas like the Nkuringo sector in Bwindi.

If you are not used to hiking or if it is your first time, Volcanoes is easier. For strong hikers, Bwindi offers a more challenging and rewarding trek.

Accommodation

Bwindi has many places to stay, from luxury to mid-range and budget lodges.

Volcanoes mostly has high-end lodges and camps.

If you are on a budget, Bwindi is a better option. If you want a luxury stay, Volcanoes is a great choice.

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