Both can use the same lodges, so the difference is in how the days run.

On a private safari

• The vehicle and guide are yours alone, so start times, stops and photo breaks follow you.
• Easy to add a rest afternoon, swap a game drive for a walk, or extend a night.
• Ideal for families, photographers and anyone with a slower or faster pace.

On a small-group tour

• A fixed itinerary and departure date with other travellers.
• Usually cheaper per person, but less flexible.

In Uganda and Rwanda the gorilla trek itself is always in a group of up to eight visitors per gorilla family, whichever way you travel.

Question for the forum: if you've done both, which would you choose again, and why?