Gorilla trekking from Canada is possible and well organized for travelers who want to see mountain gorillas in Africa. Gorilla tracking is one of the once in a lifetime safari experiences and many visitors from Canada travel to Uganda and Rwanda each year for this activity.
Travelers can begin their gorilla trekking safari from any major city in Canada, including Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, Winnipeg, Hamilton, and Halifax. Gorilla trekking is one of the top activities Canadian tourists choose when planning an African safari.
In Uganda, gorilla tracking is done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park. These parks protect endangered mountain gorillas and offer guided trekking every day with valid permits.
Canadian travelers can fly from major airports such as Toronto Pearson International Airport, Calgary International Airport, and Edmonton International Airport. Flights connect Canada to East Africa through major international hubs. Visitors traveling to Uganda arrive through Entebbe International Airport and then travel by road to the gorilla parks. Those traveling to Rwanda arrive through Kigali International Airport and then drive to Volcanoes National Park.
Several international airlines operate flights from Canada to Uganda and Rwanda. These include Air Canada, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, American Airlines, and KLM. These airlines make it easier for Canadian tourists to plan their gorilla trekking safari.
Canadian tourists need a valid visa to enter Uganda or Rwanda. Tourist visas can be single or multiple entry and usually allow a stay of about three months. If travelers wish to stay longer, they should apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Headquarters in Kampala before the visa expires.
The best time for Canadian tourists to go gorilla trekking is from June to August and from December to February. These months are drier and forest trails are easier to walk on, though light rain can still occur.
