Gorilla Trekking Uganda
Ready to meet the mountain gorillas face-to-face? Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a life-changing experience — and the crown jewel of any East African safari.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor to the continent, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Uganda, from permits and park access to our top-rated tours and what to expect on the trail.
Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, living deep in the misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
It’s not just about the gorillas — it’s about the journey: the heartbeat of the forest, the thrill of the hike, the emotion of locking eyes with a 400-pound silverback.
Uganda offers:
More habituated gorilla families than any other country
Affordable trekking permits compared to Rwanda
Diverse add-ons: chimp trekking, Big Five safaris, cultural experiences
Our Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours
We offer 10+ expertly crafted gorilla trekking safaris, from short 3-day trips to immersive 10-day expeditions that combine gorilla tracking with wildlife game drives, birding, lake adventures, and cultural encounters.
👉 Explore All Our Gorilla Trips in the visual grid below:
Each safari can be tailored to your travel style and pace — from luxury private tours to budget-friendly group options.
Where to Trek: Bwindi vs. Mgahinga (Quick Comparison)
| Feature | Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Mgahinga Gorilla NP |
|---|---|---|
| Gorilla Families | 20+ | 1 (Nyakagezi) |
| Terrain | Dense jungle, steep trails | Open bamboo forests |
| Accessibility | 4 sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo | One compact area |
| Experience | Remote, immersive | Quieter, less crowded |
| Nearby Add-ons | Lake Bunyonyi, Queen Elizabeth NP | Volcano hikes, Batwa culture |
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permits & Costs
Gorilla trekking in Uganda requires a permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This document allows you to join a ranger-led group and spend one magical hour with a habituated gorilla family.
🎟️ Permit cost: $600 per person
📅 Best to book: At least 3 months in advance (permits are limited daily!)
🆘 Last-minute trips? We can help—depending on permit availability.
All our tours include securing the permits for you.
Accommodation Options
Uganda caters to all travel styles with a range of luxury, mid-range, and budget lodges located near trekking sectors in Bwindi and Mgahinga.
🛌 Luxury: Private villas with forest views, spa services, fine dining
🛏️ Mid-range: Comfortable cottages with en-suite bathrooms and cozy lounges
🛌 Budget: Clean guesthouses with basic amenities and warm local hospitality
We handpick and book lodges that match your expectations, budget, and travel rhythm.
How to Get to Bwindi & Mgahinga
Uganda’s gorilla parks may be remote, but getting there is part of the adventure. We offer door-to-door transport with comfort, safety, and stunning scenery along the way.
By Road:
Kampala to Bwindi or Mgahinga: ~8–10 hours
Kigali to Bwindi (southern sectors): ~4–5 hours — a popular shortcut for fly-ins via Rwanda
All our safaris include 4×4 vehicles with experienced driver-guides, air conditioning, bottled water, and scheduled scenic stops.
By Air:
Prefer speed over scenery? Charter or scheduled flights are available from Entebbe to Kisoro or Kihihi airstrips, with road transfers to your lodge. We handle all internal logistics.
Gorilla Trekking Rules & What to Expect
To protect the endangered mountain gorillas and ensure a safe, respectful encounter, Uganda has strict trekking guidelines.
Before you head into the forest, you’ll attend a detailed briefing from park rangers.
Key rules include:
Visitors must be 15 years or older
Maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas
No flash photography
If you’re ill, you won’t be allowed to trek
You get 1 hour with the gorillas once found
🦍 👉 Read the Full Gorilla Trekking Rules Here →
The trek itself can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Expect mud, steep trails, and dense foliage — but the reward is beyond anything words can describe.
What to Pack for Your Trek
Here’s what every gorilla trekker should bring:
🥾 Sturdy hiking boots
🧥 Lightweight rain jacket
🧤 Gardening gloves (for grasping vines)
🕶️ Long pants & sleeves
🎒 Small daypack with water and snacks
📸 Camera (no flash)
We’ll also provide a packing checklist before your departure.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but conditions vary slightly with the seasons:
| Season | Months | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Dry (Peak) | Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb | Easier hikes, better visibility |
| Wet (Green) | Mar–May, Oct–Nov | Slippery trails, but fewer crowds |
Dry season permits sell out quickly — book early for best availability.
FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
A moderate level of fitness is enough, but terrain can be steep. We tailor treks to your pace.
Yes! Add-ons include Big Five safaris, chimpanzee tracking, boat cruises, and cultural visits.
Sightings are nearly guaranteed, with >95% success. If not, UWA offers a second trek free (rare).
At least 3 months ahead is best — especially in dry season — but we can arrange last-minute tours if permits are available.
