Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the world’s most profound wildlife encounters — a journey into the misty forests of East Africa to stand face-to-face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Found only in a few pockets of the world, these magnificent primates share over 98% of our DNA and display a range of human-like behaviors — from nurturing their young to showing curiosity toward visitors.
Uganda, often called “The Pearl of Africa,” is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Its lush landscapes, ancient rainforests, and deep conservation ethics make it one of the most rewarding destinations for gorilla trekking. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or the smaller yet equally enchanting Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda offers a gorilla trekking experience that is raw, authentic, and deeply emotional.
Where to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi is Uganda’s most famous gorilla trekking destination — a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southwest of the country. Spanning over 320 square kilometers, this ancient rainforest is one of Africa’s richest ecosystems, harboring not just gorillas but also forest elephants, rare birds, butterflies, and countless plant species.
Bwindi is divided into four trekking sectors, each offering a unique experience:
- Buhoma Sector: The park’s original and most accessible trailhead, known for luxury lodges and scenic hikes.
- Rushaga Sector: Located in the south, Rushaga has the highest number of habituated gorilla families and is also where the Gorilla Habituation Experience takes place.
- Ruhija Sector: Offers quieter treks with beautiful views of the forest canopy.
- Nkuringo Sector: Famous for challenging hikes and incredible panoramic scenery of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Bwindi is home to over 20 habituated gorilla families, giving visitors multiple options and higher chances of encountering these great apes.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Though smaller than Bwindi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is equally breathtaking. It forms part of the Virunga Conservation Area, shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park sits on the slopes of three dramatic volcanoes — Mount Muhavura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo — creating a spectacular setting for treks.
Mgahinga hosts one habituated family known as the Nyakagezi Gorilla Group, famous for its playful juveniles and silverbacks. Trekkers here also enjoy scenic views, volcanic landscapes, and a chance to see golden monkeys, rare birds, and other wildlife.
What to Expect During a Gorilla Trek in Uganda
A typical gorilla trek begins early in the morning at the park headquarters, where you’ll attend a briefing session about safety, rules, and gorilla behavior. Rangers then assign groups of a maximum of eight visitors to one habituated gorilla family.
The trek itself can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas nested the previous night. You’ll follow trackers through thick vegetation, muddy trails, and steep hills — but the reward is extraordinary.
When you finally find the gorilla family, you’re allowed one unforgettable hour in their presence. You might see mothers nursing infants, juveniles playing in the trees, or a dominant silverback keeping watch over his group. Cameras click, hearts race, and silence fills the forest as you realize you’re witnessing one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda
A gorilla trekking permit is required for each visitor and is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
- Cost: USD 800 per person per trek (as of 2025).
- Booking: You can secure permits directly through UWA or via a licensed tour operator.
- Group Size: Only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family per day to minimize stress on the animals.
- Age Limit: Minimum age is 15 years.
- Gorilla Habituation Experience: A special permit costs USD 1,500, allowing up to 4 hours with a semi-habituated family in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector.
Because gorilla trekking is in high demand and permits are limited, it’s strongly recommended to book 3–6 months in advance, especially during the peak dry seasons.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are considered the best times to visit. During these months, trails are less slippery, visibility is better, and trekking conditions are more comfortable.
However, the wet seasons (March–May and October–November) offer their own charm — the forests are greener, crowds are fewer, and photography is spectacular. If you don’t mind a little rain, this can be an excellent time to visit and sometimes even secure better lodge rates.