Your Guide to Seeing Gorillas in Uganda

Your Guide to Seeing Gorillas in Uganda: The Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Trekking

Dreaming of seeing mountain gorillas in the wild? Uganda is one of the best places in the world to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Uganda—how to get permits, where to go, what to expect, and when to visit.

Where to See Gorillas in Uganda

Uganda is home to two incredible destinations where you can trek to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts over 20 habituated gorilla families spread across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – A smaller park located in the Virunga Mountains, home to the Nyakagezi family, Uganda’s only habituated gorilla group in this region.

Both parks offer daily gorilla trekking opportunities, guided by experienced rangers and trackers.

Uganda Gorilla Permits: Cost and Booking Process

A gorilla trekking permit is required to see gorillas in Uganda, and securing one in advance is essential due to limited availability.

Current Gorilla Permit Prices:

• $800 USD – Foreign non-residents

• $700 USD – Foreign residents (with valid documentation)

• UGX 300,000 – East African citizens (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan)

Each permit grants you one hour with a habituated gorilla family. Treks are led by trained guides to ensure safety and a responsible wildlife experience.

Want More Time With the Gorillas? Try the Habituation Experience

For travelers looking to spend more time with the gorillas, Uganda offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience exclusively in Bwindi Forest.

• Cost: $1,500 USD per person

• Duration: 4 hours with semi-habituated gorillas

• Guided by: Researchers and expert trackers

This unique opportunity allows for a deeper understanding of gorilla behavior as you observe them in the process of becoming accustomed to human presence.

How to Book Gorilla Permits in Uganda

To book your gorilla permits, follow these simple steps:

1. Choose your travel dates and contact a reputable tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions at [email protected].

2. Your operator will check permit availability through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

3. Once confirmed, you’ll receive an invoice to make payment.

4. After payment, your permits will be secured, and you’ll receive a scanned copy as confirmation.

Important: Book your permits at least 2–3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as slots are limited and fill up fast.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

What Is the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking?

You must be at least 15 years old to take part in a gorilla trek. There is no strict upper age limit, but participants should be reasonably fit due to the physical demands of hiking through forested terrain.

For older travelers or those with limited mobility, sedan chairs are available. These are carried by porters and can be arranged in advance or on the day of your trek. Prices typically range from $400 to $500 depending on the trek length.

When Is the Best Time to See Gorillas in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the best time to go is during Uganda’s dry seasons:

• January to February

• June to early September

During these months, trails are easier to navigate, and vegetation is less dense, making gorilla viewing more accessible and rewarding.

Other Things to Know Before You Go

• Permits are non-refundable and tied to specific dates and locations.

• Flash photography is not allowed, so bring a good camera with a zoom lens.

• Physical preparation is advised—expect to walk anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location.

Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?

• Affordable permits compared to Rwanda

• More habituated gorilla families, giving better chances for availability

• Diverse trekking options between Bwindi and Mgahinga

• Beautiful landscapes, ranging from thick forests to volcanoes

Uganda offers not just a chance to see gorillas—but to connect with nature and support local conservation efforts at the same time.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: Complete Packing List and Tips

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda? Knowing what to pack can make your experience safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re heading to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, this essential guide will help you pack smart for the terrain, weather, and forest environment.

Essential Gorilla Trekking Packing List

Gorilla trekking takes you deep into thick forests, often across steep and muddy trails. Here’s what to bring to stay comfortable and well-prepared:

Clothing & Footwear

• Sturdy hiking boots – Waterproof and ankle-supporting boots are ideal for slippery trails.

• Thick hiking socks – Helps prevent blisters and insect bites.

• Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers – Lightweight and breathable, to protect against thorny plants, stinging nettles, and insects.

• Rain jacket or poncho – Weather in the forest is unpredictable, even in the dry season.

• Fleece or sweater – Mornings and evenings can be chilly at higher altitudes.

• Hat and sunscreen – Protect yourself from the sun during open stretches of the trail.

• Gardening gloves – Useful for grabbing vegetation or steadying yourself on steep paths.

Gear & Accessories

• Daypack or small backpack – To carry your essentials like water, snacks, and camera.

• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack – Staying hydrated is crucial.

• Camera with zoom lens – Capture incredible moments from a safe distance.

• Binoculars – Great for birdwatching or spotting wildlife before and after your trek.

• Insect repellent – Protects against mosquitoes and other forest insects.

• Flashlight or headlamp (with spare batteries) – Useful at lodges or in case of power outages.

• Wet wipes or hand sanitizer – For quick cleanups in the forest.

• Sandals or light shoes – For lounging around your lodge.

• Swimwear – Some lodges have pools or nearby lakes for relaxing after your trek.

Packing appropriately ensures a smoother and more enjoyable gorilla trekking experience.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi is located in southwestern Uganda and can be accessed both by road and air. Your choice depends on your schedule, budget, and how much of the countryside you’d like to see along the way.

By Road: Drive from Entebbe or Kampala

Most travelers begin their journey from Entebbe or Kampala, with the drive taking approximately 8 to 9 hours. If you’re visiting the southern sectors of Bwindi, such as Rushaga or Nkuringo, you’ll travel through the Kabale-Kisoro road and turn off at Muko. Watch for Uganda Wildlife Authority signposts leading to your lodge.

This overland route gives you a chance to explore rural Uganda and make scenic stops along the way.

By Air: Fly to Kisoro Airstrip

For a quicker option, you can take a domestic flight from either Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip. This gets you closer to Bwindi’s southern sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo) in just over an hour.

Flights are operated by domestic airlines such as Aerolink and Fly Uganda, and can be scheduled or chartered. From Kisoro, arrange a ground transfer with your tour operator to your lodge or trekking start point.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Uganda Gorilla Tour?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we’re more than just a tour company—we’re passionate about conservation, responsible travel, and creating unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Tailored, eco-conscious safaris designed to suit your interests and travel style.

• Highly trained guides who prioritize safety and offer deep insight into Uganda’s wildlife and cultures.

• Community-focused travel, supporting local conservation efforts and livelihoods.

• A commitment to sustainable tourism practices, following our motto:
  “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints.”

We’re here to make your Uganda gorilla safari seamless, exciting, and impactful.

Start Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure Today
Contact us at [email protected] to get expert advice and book your gorilla permit, accommodation, and transfers—all in one place.