How Many People Can Visit Mountain Gorillas in Uganda Each Day?

How Many People Can Visit Mountain Gorillas in Uganda Each Day?

How Many People Can Visit Mountain Gorillas in Uganda Each Day? — If you’re planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, one of the most important things to know is how many people are allowed to visit a gorilla family per day. To protect these endangered primates and ensure a sustainable tourism experience, Uganda strictly limits the number of visitors.

Each gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can only be visited by a maximum of eight people per day. This restriction minimizes disturbance to the gorillas and enhances your trekking experience by keeping group sizes small and intimate.

Both Bwindi and Mgahinga are the only parks in Uganda where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. Outside Uganda, gorilla trekking is also available in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi: A Sector-by-Sector Overview

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four main trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector offers a unique experience and hosts several habituated gorilla families.

• Buhoma (north) and Ruhija (northeast) are conveniently located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, making them ideal for travelers looking to combine gorilla trekking with wildlife safaris.

• Rushaga and Nkuringo, found in the southern part of the park, are closer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which offers additional opportunities to track golden monkeys and explore the Virunga volcanoes.

Of the four, Rushaga boasts the highest number of habituated gorilla families, making it a great option for travelers seeking permit availability or considering the longer gorilla habituation experience.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla permits are essential for anyone planning to trek gorillas in Uganda. As of now, the Uganda Wildlife Authority charges:

• USD 800 per person for Foreign Non-Residents

• USD 700 for Foreign Residents

• UGX 300,000 (approximately USD 80) for East African Citizens

These permits grant you one hour of face-to-face time with a gorilla family during your trek. A 3-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda from Kigali starts at approximately USD 1,290 per person, including permits, accommodation, and transportation.

Booking Budget Gorilla Permits and Trekking Safaris in Uganda

To secure your gorilla permit, it’s essential to book in advance—especially during peak travel seasons. Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and can be obtained through their offices in Kampala or Kisoro.

If you’re entering Uganda via Kigali, the Kisoro UWA office is more accessible and just a 1–2-hour drive from southern Bwindi. For a hassle-free experience, Trek Africa Expeditions can help you reserve and purchase gorilla permits on your behalf. Once your travel dates are confirmed, the team will temporarily hold your permit, send you an invoice, and finalize the purchase upon payment. You’ll receive scanned copies for your records.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which run from January to February and June to early September. During these months, the forest trails are more accessible, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot gorillas and capture great photos.

That said, Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, and rain is possible year-round—so always be prepared for changing weather conditions.

What to Pack and Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Proper clothing and gear can significantly enhance your gorilla trekking experience. Here’s what to bring:

• Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to protect against thorny vegetation and insects.

• Waterproof hiking boots for navigating muddy and steep trails.

• Gardening gloves to grip branches during the trek.

• A rain jacket, since Bwindi’s rainforest weather is unpredictable.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen for added protection.

• A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses (optional depending on weather).

• Binoculars for birdwatching—Bwindi is home to over 350 bird species.

• Camera with extra batteries (note: flash photography is not allowed).

• Neutral-colored clothing is best; avoid bright colors or black/blue, which can attract tsetse flies or disturb wildlife.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Bwindi

Bwindi offers a range of accommodation options suited to different budgets and preferences, conveniently located near each trekking sector.

Rushaga Sector Lodges:

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp

• Four Gorillas Lodge

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

• Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Karungi Camp

Nkuringo Sector Lodges:

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

• Lake Mutanda Resort

Buhoma Sector Lodges:

• Buhoma Lodge

• Bwindi Lodge

• Buhoma Community Rest Camp

• Ride 4 a Woman

Ruhija Sector Lodges:

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages

• Agandi Eco Lodge

• Gift of Nature Lodge

• Broadbill Tented Camp

These lodges are located close to park headquarters, making them ideal bases for early morning treks.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted Ugandan tour operator with a proven track record in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi and Mgahinga. Whether you’re traveling from Entebbe or starting your adventure in Kigali, our experienced team will craft a personalized itinerary that matches your travel style, budget, and timeframe.

Our knowledgeable tour consultants are available to respond quickly to your inquiries—usually within 20 minutes. We handle everything from permit booking to accommodation and transportation. With expert guides who speak multiple languages and deep knowledge of Uganda’s national parks, you’re in safe and capable hands.