Gorilla Trekking and AFCON 2027: Combining African Football with an Unforgettable East African Safari
Experience the Excitement of AFCON 2027 and Mountain Gorilla Trekking in East Africa
The year 2027 promises to be an exciting one for African tourism, particularly for international travellers planning to explore East Africa. With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled to take place in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, football supporters will have an excellent opportunity to discover some of the continent’s most remarkable tourist attractions.
For travellers visiting the region to support their favourite national teams, the experience does not have to end at the football stadium. East Africa is home to extraordinary wildlife destinations, beautiful landscapes, fascinating cultures and some of the world’s most memorable wildlife encounters.
One of the most rewarding experiences to add to an AFCON holiday is mountain gorilla trekking. Imagine spending an exciting afternoon watching African football before travelling into the tropical rainforests of Uganda or Rwanda to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
A Gorilla Trekking and AFCON 2027 Safari offers an exceptional opportunity to combine the excitement of international football with wildlife exploration, cultural discovery and adventure across East Africa.
Whether you are travelling to Kampala, Dar es Salaam or Nairobi for the tournament, you can extend your holiday with a carefully organised safari to some of the region’s most spectacular destinations.
AFCON 2027: A Historic Football Tournament for East Africa
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, commonly known as AFCON 2027, will be a historic edition of Africa’s biggest international football competition.
For the first time, the tournament will be jointly hosted by three East African countries: Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. The tournament is scheduled to take place from 19 June to 17 July 2027.
This joint hosting arrangement, promoted as AFCON PAMOJA 2027, is expected to attract football supporters, sports journalists, international visitors and football enthusiasts from different parts of the world.
Beyond the football competition, the tournament will provide an opportunity to showcase East Africa’s tourism potential.
Visitors can experience the vibrant cities of the three host countries while discovering their national parks, wildlife reserves, cultural attractions and beautiful natural landscapes.
For safari travellers, this creates an excellent opportunity to combine sporting experiences with mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.
Why Combine Gorilla Trekking with AFCON 2027?
Mountain gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. Unlike traditional game drives, where visitors observe wildlife from a safari vehicle, gorilla trekking involves walking through dense tropical rainforest in search of habituated mountain gorilla families.
Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed a strictly regulated period to observe them as they feed, groom, rest and interact with one another.
Combining this experience with AFCON 2027 allows international travellers to enjoy two very different African experiences within one holiday.
Football supporters can follow their favourite teams during the tournament and subsequently explore the natural attractions of East Africa.
There are several reasons why this combination makes an excellent holiday:
A unique sporting and wildlife experience: Enjoy Africa’s biggest football tournament before experiencing one of the continent’s most remarkable wildlife encounters.
Explore multiple East African countries: Visit Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda for football while extending your journey to Rwanda for additional wildlife and cultural experiences.
Discover mountain gorillas: Meet endangered mountain gorillas in the forests of Bwindi, Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park.
Experience African culture: Explore local communities, traditional food, music, historical attractions and the hospitality of East African people.
Make the most of your international flight: Rather than travelling to East Africa exclusively for football, extend your stay and discover more of the region.
Best Destinations for Gorilla Trekking During AFCON 2027
East Africa offers three established mountain gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda and Rwanda. These destinations provide opportunities to encounter habituated gorilla families under the supervision of authorised park guides.
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is among Africa’s most important mountain gorilla conservation destinations. Located in southwestern Uganda, this UNESCO World Heritage Site protects an ancient tropical rainforest that supports a significant population of endangered mountain gorillas.
The park is divided into four main gorilla trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo.
Each sector offers different trekking experiences, depending on the location of the habituated gorilla families and the terrain.
Visitors begin their experience with a briefing before entering the forest accompanied by experienced trackers and park guides.
Gorilla trekking can involve several hours of hiking through thick vegetation, steep slopes and muddy forest trails. However, the opportunity to encounter a mountain gorilla family in its natural habitat makes the experience exceptionally rewarding.
For visitors attending AFCON matches in Kampala, Bwindi provides an excellent opportunity to extend a Ugandan holiday beyond the football stadium.
You can also combine gorilla trekking with Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi and other attractions in southwestern Uganda.
Explore our Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris to discover more opportunities for mountain gorilla encounters.
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another excellent destination for mountain gorilla trekking in southwestern Uganda.
The park forms part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area, a mountainous landscape shared by Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Mgahinga is famous for its volcanic scenery, bamboo forests and the Nyakagezi mountain gorilla family.
Besides gorilla trekking, visitors can enjoy golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking and cultural encounters with the indigenous Batwa community.
For travellers who want to experience more than one activity during their Uganda safari, Mgahinga provides an excellent addition to an AFCON holiday.
Its location also makes it possible to design cross-border itineraries combining Uganda and Rwanda.
3. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s principal mountain gorilla trekking destination.
Located in the northwestern part of the country, the park protects part of the Virunga Mountains and is home to several habituated mountain gorilla families.
The park is particularly attractive to international visitors because of its relatively convenient access from Kigali.
From the capital, travellers can drive to the Musanze region, where gorilla trekking activities are organised.
The experience begins with a morning briefing before visitors are allocated gorilla trekking groups and accompanied by professional park guides.
In addition to mountain gorilla trekking, visitors can enjoy golden monkey tracking, the Dian Fossey conservation history, cultural experiences and scenic views of the Virunga volcanoes.
For AFCON supporters attending matches in Kenya or Uganda, Rwanda offers another excellent destination for extending their East African holiday.
Discover our Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris for more information about planning a mountain gorilla encounter.
Combining AFCON 2027 with Uganda Gorilla Trekking
Uganda is particularly attractive for football supporters because it will host AFCON matches while also offering mountain gorilla trekking within its borders.
Visitors attending matches in Kampala can organise an extended safari to southwestern Uganda.
A typical journey can include Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Lake Bunyonyi.
The safari can begin with football activities in Kampala before continuing towards Uganda’s western wildlife destinations.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers opportunities to enjoy game drives, boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel and wildlife viewing in the Ishasha sector, which is famous for its tree-climbing lions.
The journey can then continue to Bwindi for the mountain gorilla trekking experience.
After trekking, visitors can relax at Lake Bunyonyi before returning to Kampala or continuing towards Rwanda.
This combination provides an excellent balance of football, traditional wildlife viewing, rainforest exploration and relaxation.
Combining AFCON 2027 with Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
Rwanda is another excellent destination for travellers interested in combining the football tournament with mountain gorilla trekking.
Although Rwanda is not one of the three AFCON 2027 host countries, its geographical position makes it a valuable addition to an East African itinerary.
Visitors attending matches in Kampala or Nairobi can arrange onward travel to Kigali before continuing to Volcanoes National Park.
A Rwanda extension can include Kigali city tours, cultural experiences, mountain gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking.
Travellers can also add Akagera National Park for a traditional savannah safari featuring elephants, lions, rhinos, buffaloes and other wildlife.
The combination of football, mountain gorillas and Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes creates a rewarding African holiday.
Combining Football, Gorilla Trekking and the Great Migration
For travellers who have more time available, AFCON 2027 can also be combined with the famous wildebeest migration in Kenya and Tanzania.
June and July are particularly interesting months for travellers hoping to explore the northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara migration ecosystem.
During this period, the annual wildebeest migration is generally progressing through the Serengeti towards the northern migration corridors, although the exact location depends on rainfall and grazing conditions.
Visitors can therefore organise a multi-country holiday that includes football matches, mountain gorilla trekking and traditional wildlife safaris.
A longer itinerary could combine:
- Football matches in Kenya, Tanzania or Uganda.
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park.
- Wildlife viewing in the Serengeti National Park.
- Wildebeest migration experiences in the Maasai Mara.
- Cultural experiences with local communities.
- Relaxation on the beaches of Zanzibar.
Explore our Kenya and Tanzania Wildlife Safaris to discover more opportunities for combining the great migration with other East African adventures.
Suggested 12-Day Gorilla Trekking and AFCON 2027 Safari
The following itinerary provides an example of how visitors can combine AFCON activities with a Uganda gorilla trekking holiday.
Day 1: Arrival in Kampala, Uganda
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Kampala. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a short city tour and prepare for the tournament activities.
Day 2: AFCON Football Experience in Kampala
Enjoy the excitement of AFCON 2027 and attend a scheduled football match in Kampala. Experience the atmosphere created by football supporters from different countries.
Day 3: Additional Football Activities and Kampala City Tour
Depending on the match schedule, attend another football match or explore Kampala’s attractions, markets and cultural sites.
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Depart Kampala and travel towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy the beautiful countryside and arrive at your lodge in time for relaxation.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari
Enjoy a morning game drive followed by an afternoon boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. Look out for elephants, buffaloes, hippos and numerous bird species.
Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Travel towards Bwindi through Uganda’s scenic countryside. Depending on the selected trekking sector, the journey can include spectacular views of the Kigezi highlands.
Day 7: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing before entering the rainforest with experienced guides and trackers.
Spend your allocated observation time with a mountain gorilla family before returning to your lodge.
Day 8: Batwa Cultural Experience and Relaxation
Enjoy a cultural experience with the Batwa community and learn about their traditional relationship with the forest.
Day 9: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Travel to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes. Enjoy the scenery, relax at your accommodation and explore the surrounding area.
Day 10: Transfer Towards Kigali, Rwanda
Continue towards Rwanda through the appropriate border crossing. Enjoy the scenic landscapes before arriving in Kigali.
Day 11: Kigali City Tour
Explore Kigali’s cultural and historical attractions, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets and other places of interest.
Day 12: Departure
Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your international departure.
This is an illustrative itinerary. Actual football attendance should be arranged around the official fixtures, stadium locations and ticket availability.
Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs During AFCON 2027
One of the most important considerations when planning a gorilla trekking holiday is securing the required trekking permit.
Uganda and Rwanda have different permit prices and booking procedures.
Current standard international visitor rates are:
| Destination | Standard permit price |
|---|---|
| Uganda – Bwindi/Mgahinga | US$800 |
| Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park | US$1,500 |
These are standard published rates and should be reconfirmed with the relevant wildlife authorities before booking for 2027.
Gorilla trekking permits are limited, and availability can be particularly important during busy international travel periods.
We recommend booking your permit well in advance to secure your preferred trekking date.
What to Consider When Planning Your AFCON 2027 Safari
Combining football and gorilla trekking requires proper planning because the tournament schedule and safari destinations may involve different countries and travel arrangements.
Football fixtures: Confirm your preferred match dates and venues before finalising your safari itinerary.
Gorilla trekking permits: Secure your permit early because each trekking group has limited visitor spaces.
Accommodation: Book hotels near the relevant stadiums and safari lodges close to your selected gorilla trekking sector.
Transport: Consider domestic flights, private transfers or a suitable 4×4 safari vehicle depending on your itinerary.
Border crossings: If travelling between Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, check entry requirements and cross-border vehicle arrangements.
Travel insurance: Arrange suitable travel insurance covering your planned activities and international travel.
Safari duration: Allow sufficient time between football matches and trekking activities to avoid unnecessary travel pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking and AFCON 2027
1. When will AFCON 2027 take place?
AFCON 2027 is scheduled to take place from 19 June to 17 July 2027, with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda jointly hosting the competition.
2. Can I combine AFCON 2027 with mountain gorilla trekking?
Yes. Visitors can attend football matches in one or more host countries before travelling to Uganda or Rwanda for mountain gorilla trekking.
3. Which country is best for gorilla trekking during AFCON 2027?
Uganda is an excellent option for visitors attending matches in Kampala because it offers gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga. Rwanda is another excellent choice, particularly for visitors connecting through Kigali.
4. How much does gorilla trekking cost in Uganda?
The standard international visitor gorilla trekking permit currently costs US$800 per person. Accommodation, transport, meals and other safari expenses are additional.
5. How much does gorilla trekking cost in Rwanda?
The standard international visitor gorilla trekking permit currently costs US$1,500 per person. Other safari costs are charged separately.
6. Can I combine AFCON with the great wildebeest migration?
Yes. June and July offer opportunities to explore the Serengeti and Maasai Mara migration ecosystem, depending on the movement of the herds.
7. How many days should I spend on an AFCON and gorilla trekking holiday?
A 10–14-day holiday provides a useful starting point for combining football with gorilla trekking and additional wildlife experiences. Longer holidays allow visitors to explore several East African countries.
8. Can I visit Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda during one holiday?
Yes. Multi-country itineraries can be organised using a combination of regional flights, road transfers and cross-border arrangements.
Book Your Gorilla Trekking and AFCON 2027 Safari
AFCON 2027 offers more than an opportunity to watch Africa’s leading football teams compete. It is also an invitation to explore one of the world’s most exciting tourism regions.
From the vibrant football atmosphere of Kampala, Dar es Salaam and Nairobi to the ancient rainforests of Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park, East Africa offers an extraordinary variety of experiences.
Whether you are interested in mountain gorilla trekking, the great wildebeest migration, traditional wildlife safaris or relaxing beach holidays, you can create an unforgettable African adventure around the AFCON tournament.
Our safari team can help organise your accommodation, gorilla trekking permits, safari transportation, wildlife activities and multi-country travel arrangements.
Contact us today to plan your Gorilla Trekking and AFCON 2027 Safari and discover the best of East Africa beyond the football stadiums.