Travel Blogs
Read our travel blogs
At Ringstone Safaris, we arrange gorilla trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda, and we’re happy to help you decide which is right for you.
The Ultimate Guide to Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda
When people think of primate trekking in Rwanda, mountain gorillas
These 3 Safaris Prove You Don’t Need Weeks to Experience East Africa
Many travelers dream of a safari but assume it requires
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda vs Rwanda: Which Should You Choose?
So you’ve decided to see mountain gorillas in the wild.
Common questions
How do gorilla tracking permits work and do you secure them?
Yes, Ringstone Safaris secures your official permits directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Permits are issued on specific dates and are strictly non-transferable. Because only 8 guests per day are permitted to visit each habituated family, permits sell out months in advance during peak dry seasons (June–Sept & Dec–Feb). We handle all permit procurement immediately upon confirmation.
Can we combine Uganda/Rwanda gorilla trekking with Kenya or Tanzania safaris?
Absolutely. This is our signature specialty. With daily scheduled bush flights and regional connections between Entebbe (Uganda), Kigali (Rwanda), Nairobi (Kenya), and Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), you can experience mountain gorillas in the rainforest and the Great Migration savannah in one seamless 10-14 day circuit. We also utilize the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100), which covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya on a single visa.
What is the best time of year for an East African safari?
For gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) offer firmer ground and less rain, although trekking occurs year-round. For the Great Migration in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, mid-July through October offers prime river crossings. In Tanzania’s Southern Serengeti, calving season takes place from January to March with intense predator action.
What physical fitness level is required for gorilla trekking?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. Treks can vary from 45 minutes to 5 hours depending on where the family nested the night before. Trails can be muddy and steep. Local porters can be hired at park headquarters ($20 USD) to carry your daypack and assist on steep sections—hiring a porter is also the single most effective way to support local families directly.
What gear and clothing should I pack for the rainforest and savannah?
For gorilla tracking: sturdy broken-in waterproof hiking boots, lightweight long trousers, long-sleeve shirts (to protect against stinging nettles), gardening gloves (for gripping branches), gaiters, a waterproof rain jacket, and high-SPF sunscreen. For savannah game drives in Kenya and Tanzania: neutral khaki/tan clothing (avoid dark blue and black which attract tsetse flies), wide-brim hat, binoculars, and a warm fleece for cool early mornings.
Why Choose Ringstone Safaris?
We handle everything: permits, transport, accommodation, and guides. We know the park intimately, and we’ll help you get the most out of your trek. Whether you want a standalone golden monkey experience or a full Rwanda itinerary, we’ll tailor it to your pace and interests.
Ready to meet the golden monkeys? Contact Ringstone Safaris today to book your trek or customize your own adventure.