Gorilla trekking Uganda
Experience Uganda in Style!
Picture yourself in the rarest moment of your life crouched on the forest floor respectfully avoiding eye contact while trying to keep a close peep on some of the last lingering eastern and mountain gorillas up close. Trekking with gorillas is something that most people have in their dreams but for me will say it was a dream come true. It’s something that had been in my bucket list for the longest time even before had the opportunity to join the travel industry. Mountain gorillas only survive in the wild and thus my chance to ever witnessing I had to trek into their native forest to have the best eyes glimpse.
Why You should do Gorilla Trekking in Uganda 2026
There are more than enough reasons for you to go for a gorilla trekking in Uganda. First things first you have to know that these species only survive in the wild and not in the zoo. If they cannot be found in the zoo then it means you have to take the once in a lifetime journey of trekking the rough and cold wild terrains just to meet them. The gorilla trekking in Uganda offers you with the only chance that you need to interact with these mountain gorillas at close proximity. For me it is a very entertaining exercise that I feel everyone interested in safaris must always want to associate themselves with such an activity and maybe even engage in hiking.Well, regardless of where you are coming from, across the continent the glossy black against the rainforest luminous green is what brings you in to Uganda. These are the few so-called close encounters with wildlife on earth where you get to stand a few meters from a mountain gorilla in a misty forest of southwestern Uganda. The still, steady tensed breath forming around you when a silverback watches you unhurriedly with curiosity is the unforgettable experience that brings you deep down into the misty cold and wet mountains of Uganda. Gorilla trekking Uganda is one of the most profound activities in Africa as part of a gorilla trek safari.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Uganda 2026
Trekking for gorillas in the precipitous rainforest meant putting in more than just minutes but hours of hiking the narrow footpaths and walking through dense jungle always a step behind a scout cutting and slashing foliage to make path through the jungle. One thing I learned about gorilla trekking is that you have to be fit in terms of walking being able to walk for several hours. However, the guide always ensures that you have breaks through the entire trek. I highly recommend that you find the proper clothing and gear prior to starting the trek. For your boots highly recommend the broken-in hiking boots as they offer protection to your uncle. I had the proper clothing, shoes and gear during the period I was hiking which made it easy for me and I would recommend the same to you as you plan for the gorilla trekking safari.
If you have ever thought of engaging in a gorilla trekking in Uganda then you have come to the right place as my unique and thrilling experience will shed more light on the activity.Gorilla trekking Uganda has to be one of the best ultimate bucket list dreams for most travellers, well for it was and a top hit because everything that I did during the trek was worth my time and dreams that I envisioned about mountain gorilla trekking in my thrilling Uganda safari. Confidently and thankfully, I can say gorilla trekking in Uganda was worth it and lived up to every expectation that I had in mind. I can support this from the stunning images I captured, to the experience of closely staring one of our closest kins straight in the eye to never ending rainforest hike while in Bwindi Forest National Park. It was more than a dream come true, I will try and share some of the things you need to know and expect if you are going for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
What do i need for Uganda Trekking Package?
Spending time with a family of mountain gorillas can be a life changing experience. Though challenging it’s a very interesting activity that promotes tourism in Uganda and directly contribute to the protection of these critically endangered species and conservation of their habitat.
You will need to pack fleece for warmth which is light weight and quick dry shirt which will protect you from sunburns and bugs. You will need buffs which act as dust masks and keeps your neck warm and keeps sweat off your eyes. Thin cotton inner socks and thick outer socks to prevent blisters, gaiters are important to keep sand and pebbles out of your boots. Bring the most supportive waterproof boots that you can find. The treks can be very long of between 6-8 hours which means you will need to have good grip and firm ankle support.
In terms of clothing always wear colours of nature, so that you blend in with your surrounding. You can go in with greys, greens and browns in lightweight materials that wicks moisture. Always avoid wearing camouflage as it is illegal for civilians to wear it as animals might get alarmed. Despite the weather being hot, I highly recommend you wear long sleeve shirts and trousers. With most vegetation being pricky then covering your arms and legs is will protect your arms and legs. There are trekkers that wear gardening gloves so that they can hold onto plants and branches without worrying about hurting their hands.
What is the real cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Your cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda is subject to a number of factors which when handled well they will cut down on most of the cost. There is a fixed non-negotiable fee that is paid to every country so that you get a permit to trek with the gorillas. So, permits play a critical role in amounting to the total costs of the trek. Accommodation tier also affects the real cost of trekking in Uganda as you can stay in guests houses to camping tents to luxury ecolodges near trailheads. Transport also has some impacts on the real cost of trekking in Uganda as there is road safari vs. the time saving option which is the fly-in option the latter might be quick fast but very expensive. The costs will also vary from season to season and availability; at times peak dates tend to sell out so make sure to book early. Group size, porters, private guides, cultural visits and add-ons have a significant impact on the entire trek.
How can i cut my costs for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Everyone deserves to be charged fairly for any services they ask for or look for which is the same thing in tourism and travel industry. To cut cost during a gorilla trekking in Uganda you will need to book early during the low season which is in March-May and October -November. With prior booking you get to chose the best time that you will have the top most experience of the entire gorilla trekking safari. To get better accommodation rates you can chose to operate on a mid-range budget where you share some of the costs with the group that you are travelling with. You can go for a budget friendly accommodation or opt for a camping tent instead of going to luxury lodges. Additionally, opt for Uganda over Rwanda due to the lower permit costs considering a shorter trek. You can also book your trip through a travelling agency such as Africa Holiday Safaris that will help you navigate through things you need to know prior and during your trip. When planning for your budget make sure to include all, the costs factor in everything you’d rather to have it as extra rather than being short of the required funds.
How Difficult is Gorilla trekking?
Honestly speaking, gorilla trekking in Uganda is very demanding in terms of physical fitness. Its one of the best wildlife experiences in Uganda, tracking down these primates in their natural habitats means trekking through the dense forest in unpredictable conditions which might take up to 6 hours while you are still trying to locate them. So, if you are coming for this gorilla trekking in Uganda then you need to be physically fit for easy navigation across the slippery and muddy terrains of the mountains. You will be spending 6-8 hours navigating the tough terrains just to spend less than an hour with the primates as research has it that spending more than an hour with the primates might expose the gorillas with communicable diseases.
Remember the difficulty of trekking in Uganda depends on your physical fitness and the weather conditions as some of the days the air tends to be heavy difficult to draw in the air. With proper preparations and hiring of porters you get to have a good trek in the forest with regular resting times then it implies that you can easily navigate through.
Where can i stay during gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
You can enjoy a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda from a budget, mid-range and luxury wildlife safari. Depending on your decision you get to have different experiences and services. If you decide to travel on the luxury tier then you will have access to transport on a luxury safari vehicle with comfortable inclining seats pop up windows to enhanced perfect view and photography. And you get to be accommodated in a luxury lodge in Uganda. It is a good destination for honeymooners as they get to enjoy pristine services such as bush breakfast and diner. Uganda is one of the places that you can have a mid range budget for gorilla trekking as the there are affordable lodges, accommodations, transport and services. Regardless of the plans that you have in regards to gorilla trekking, accommodations and transports are the ones that are different however, the prices for gorilla permits and gorilla trekking experience remains the same.
What are the rules for Gorilla Trekking in 2026?
The rules that have been placed in relation to gorilla trekking in Uganda is mainly focused on wildlife conservation and the safety of both animals and tourists. So, for you to participate in gorilla trekking in Uganda you have to have a valid gorilla trekking permit. You also have to attain the minimum age which is 15 years you have to be 15 years and above to participate. You cannot trek if you have any contagious illness such as a cold or a cough, that’s why they advise for masks and temperature screening before entry. Always make sure to attend to briefing and orientation prior to starting your trek. It is important to maintain hand hygiene once you arrive at the park make sure you clean your hands and sanitize.
Are you Ready for Gorilla Trekking Adventures?
By now you should be aware of the fact that gorillas are critically endangered species which is among the reasons trekking is carefully regulated in Africa gorilla parks. As I have indicated above the permits are costly and quite challenging to secure and cannot be held on a provisional basis. Imagine travelling to such remote destinations while ensuring that the best chances for a successful gorilla trek, you need to have direct experience and local knowledge that you might only acquire from an African safari expert.
If you are planning for a luxury safari to have some real experience with the endangered species of mountain gorillas then Uganda is a top destination for you. You will get the best luxury safari experience and gorilla trekking fun with the only remaining population of these primates. Despite spending some time in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the luxury safari in Uganda will feature other important areas such as Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale Forest and Lake Mburo National Parks.
Licencing & Permits for Uganda Gorilla Trekking
Recently, there hasn’t been much of a change in the permit costs for gorilla trekking in Uganda which is a good thing as this guide will give you a close proximation of the costs you might incur for the safari. The permit is a fixed fee of $700 USD for foreign and international tourists that are aged above 15 years old which is very much affordable compared to gorilla trekking in Rwanda which costs around $1500 USD. All tourists and travellers going to Uganda for gorilla trekking must have a permit whereby the funds paid are directed towards helping to fund he conservation of these endangered species and protection of their habitat. With gorilla permits, the parks can control the number of visitors going for the trek each day, an important measure to the safety, protection and wellbeing of these animals. The permits for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest National Park are issued by the Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA) whereby they provide less than 170 permits per day. To avoid missing the fun, I highly recommend for interested visitors to book for their permits earlier especially when heading for a peak season.
Deciding where to lay down after a long day of trekking in the rainforest is crucial to your gorilla trekking tour as the trek itself, ensuring your adventure is as nice and comfortable as it is also captivating. Below are some of the best ranked places to stay for your dream gorilla trekking tour that provide sanctuary to rest and unwind on your day’s magic that also enhances your connection to the local environment that can be easily planned by Africa Holiday Safaris.
Key Attractions in Uganda
The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is very beautiful, however very wild. It is unique and biodiverse natural heaven that is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is divided into four regions each offering a distinct gorilla trekking experience. In the North there’s the Buhoma region while Ruhija region lies to the east. The southern side has a larger part compared to the rest as it has two parts that is Rushaga and Nkuringo regions.
You can start on trails or even car roads but before you get closer to the mountain gorilla’s you will be passing through undergrowth’s, steep and slippery trails, this is where you get to do the real trekking. When you are closer to them you will definitely know it as you will be coming across hacked down shrubs and vines.
Prior to spending the one hour with the gorillas, the guide will direct you on the required steps for you but first he will notify you to drink water as this will be the last time that you will be drinking water for the next 1 hour. Once you put on the mask after drinking water, you will follow the guide as he will take you where you can spend time the gorillas but makes sure to follow every instruction given to you. You will carry along your photography gear but ensure that there is no flash coming from the camera.
Are you ready for the next step because this is where you get very close to the mountain gorillas and unlike you, they are also stunned to be that close to you. During this time, you are advised to keep a safe distance and make sure that you address each other on a low tone. If you are looking to take pictures of the mountain gorillas do not use a flashlight as it might damage their eyesight. The lighting conditions are quite unpredictable and you have to like find the closest but safe distance to take good pictures.
Located in the southwest of the country, it covers hills and valleys and is home to 18 of families of the mountain gorilla. Covering only 128 meters squared the park is capable of holding these families in a balanced ecosystem. You are advised trekking in small groups of around 8 people where you will have to spend the hour with these gentle giants.
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Packages
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Packages
The highlight of gorilla trekking safari is the most sought-after bucket list experience of trekking Uganda’s mountain gorillas in the wild. It is also considered to be one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters in the world.
Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Batwa Community Trail
Upon landing at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by your pre booked safari agent representative. The agent will brief you about your Gorilla Trekking in Uganda safari and what you expect to see while in the safari. He or she will then proceed to give you 7 hours drive to Bwindi however, there a lunch stops over en route. Though long, the drive will take you through different features such as the terraced hills of Kigezi famously known as the Switzerland of East Africa, savannah fields and tropical rain forest. Upon arrival at Bwindi, you shall be checked in at the lodge and proceed to the Batwa community for the cultural adventure about these forest pygmies. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing as you wait for the next day’s adventure.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for Canoe Ride
After taking your early morning breakfast, you will head out for a briefing where you will meet an excellent local guide and trackers who give a talk on the etiquette of gorilla trekking in Ugandan which is pretty the same in other countries offering the same tour activities. You will then hike into the forest for about or between 1 to 6 hours depending on the location of the family. Most of the families are found in higher altitudes of over 7500 ft. With the terrain being muddy and slippery you will need to be physically fit and strong.
Day 3: Transfer to Kampala via Equator
After taking a heavy and healthy breakfast, you will start on the long drive back to Entebbe or Kampala with an unforgettable memory of the rare great mountain apes. As these memories flash through your brain you will have lunch en route and a stopover at the equator line and experience the region for fun. You will most probably be arriving at the airport at around 6:00 pm in the evening
This is the ultimate trip that will give you an unforgettable experience in the magical pearl of Africa. While going for this safari expect to see and experience some fun being around the Big 5c, big game viewing, boat trips in the savannah parks, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park and a visit to the top of Murchison Falls. This is where you get to see the population of primates and later finalize with the grand experience of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 1: Entebbe -Transfer to Murchinson Falls National Park
The safari will commence with an allocation to Murchison Falls National Park. The drive will take you through Nakasongola in the Luwero Triangle, a long stretch to Masindi town. This safari comprises the roaring falls of Murchison, a boat trip to the bottom of the falls, through the rolling plains of Uganda’s major national park. You might have a stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a brief walk with a guard escort to see the white rhinos for about an hour.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Trip
This second day commences with an early morning breakfast. You will then head out on a morning game drive toward the Albert and Victoria Nile to experience a great deal of wildlife and bird species. Search for big cats, herds of elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes and various bird species like the shoebill and saddle-billed stork, goliath heron, egret, and Abyssinian ground hornbill. Return to the lodge for lunch. After lunch, go on a boat cruise on the Victoria Nile to the bottom of the falls. Game viewing is excellent; hippos in the hundreds, some of the largest crocodiles in Africa, small herds of buffalo, waterbucks and Uganda kobs. Elephants are frequently seen playing in the water, often within a few meters.
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale National Park
The day will begin with an early morning breakfast, the safari will proceed with a transfer to Kibale National Park. This park is extremely alluring to wildlife lovers for its outstanding chimpanzee trekking and bird viewing. It brags the highest records of primates such as the velvet, blue monkey, red-tailed, L’Hoest’s and, grey-cheeked mangabey, red Colobus, olive baboon and the chimpanzee.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, proceed to the park office for a briefing. The highlight of Kibale Forest will be the chimpanzee trekking excursion. While in the forest, expect to see at least 2-3 other types of primates, especially the grey-cheeked mangabey and red-tailed monkey. You will hear plenty of birdsong. The guides are knowledgeable and will identify various medicinal plants, bird calls and animal spoors. Once you allocate the chimpanzees, you will be allowed an hour with them.
Day 5: Game Drive and Boat Cruise
After a healthy breakfast, go on an early morning game drive through the park. Look out for members of the Big Five including lions, elephants, buffaloes and leopards, as well as other mammals such as giant forest hogs and antelopes. You will return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, go for a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel. It’s a great trip with elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks, large hippo pods and giant forest hogs that can be observed from time to time. Keep an eye open for crocodiles, as well as the enormous monitor lizard which is common in the riverine scrub. Waterbirds are plentiful, such as yellow-billed storks, pelicans, fish eagles and crowned eagles.
Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Todays aim is to go to the next destination so after breakfast, you will be transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park through the Ishasha sector which is well-known for its tree-climbing lion population. In this section you will also see, a decent concentration of hippos, elephants, buffaloes and antelopes. You will have lunch in Ishasha and continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which is home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
As usually a good day starts with a heavy breakfast then, you will drive to the park offices for a briefing. As you known gorilla trekking is the highlight of your safari. As you begin the trek into the rain forest you will love trekking in the ecosystem of the park. Reliant on the nature of the activity, carry your lunch box along, as and any other necessary gear which will be advised by the company. The trekking will take 2.5-4.5 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas. You will go back to the lodge for lunch. Later, you will drive through the terraced hills to Lake Bunyonyi.
Day 8: Transfer to Entebbe
Have a delicious breakfast before you start on your journey to Kampala or Entebbe. You might have stopovers for lunch along the way and beautiful photosessions at the Equator line. Continue with the journey to Entebbe. Most probably you will arrive in the late afternoon or evening and be dropped off at the airport or a hotel that you chose.
This 3-day exclusive gorilla safari in Uganda offers a fly-in adventure to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. As a luxury option it saves you from the 9-hour drive from Kampala that you would have incurred if you were travelling by road. This trip allows you to trek the endangered mountain gorillas in their homes at the same time you get a unique chance to visit the Batwa Pygmies of the forest.
Day 1: Fly to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Early in the morning after a healthy breakfast the driver guide will pick you up from your luxury hotel in Uganda. You will be briefed about the trip and after the trip you shall be transferred to Entebbe International Airport. At 7:00 A.M. you will fly to Kihihi or Kisoro and arrive at around 8:30 A.M. Upon arrival you shall be taken to the lodge where you can have some refreshments.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
Soon as you have a healthy breakfast kindly head to the park headquarters by 7:00 A.M. for a briefing by the ranger guide. At the briefing you will learn some basic rules of trekking before entering the forest to search for the mountain gorillas. The trek will you through thick forest paths that maybe steep and slippery however with just average fitness you are good to go. The trek might take between one and six hours to locate these gorillas of course time takes is subject to the location of the gorilla families.
Day 3: Fly Back to Entebbe
After breakfast transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Entebbe. This will mark the end of your 3-Days Bwindi fly-in Uganda safari
This 3-days Mgahinga gorilla trekking tour will give you the chance to trek the endangered mountains gorillas. At the same time, you will have the chance to interact with Batwa Forest people. This fly-in option saves you the 10-hour long drive to get to spend dome times with the Batwa People.
Day 1: Fly to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Nature Walk
At the airport you will be welcomed by an experienced driver-guide. Depending on where you spend your night the driver will pick you at your preferred location. After a short briefing you will be transferred to Entebbe Airport scheduled for a flight to Mgahinga National Park. During the flight you can enjoy the scenic aerial view of Uganda landscapes and surrounding forests. Soon as you arrive check in your lodge, have refreshments and enjoy a delicious lunch. You can go for a guided nature walk in Maghinga National Park where you will have beautiful views of the surrounding forests and the Virunga Mountain ranges.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Community Walk
Wake up early for breakfast then head to the park headquarters for a briefing about gorilla trekking in Mgahinga. The ranger will guide and explain the rules to you before you begin the trek. After this you will enter the forest to track the only habituated gorilla family in the park. Trekking in Mgahinga is generally easier as it takes place on the lower slopes of Virunga Volcanoes. Finally, when you spot the gorillas, you will have a one-hour fill with them observing their behaviours and taking photos. After this you can go for lunch then relax and head for a cultural visit where you will get to interact with the Batwa Community people.
Day 3: Fly Back to Entebbe
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Entebbe. This marks the end of your 3-day Maghinga gorilla trekking trip.
Day 1: Fly to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed by driver guide who will take you to your luxury hotel in Uganda. You will be briefed about the trip and after the trip you shall be transferred to Entebbe International Airport. At 7:00 A.M. you will fly to Kihihi or Kisoro and arrive at around 8:30 A.M. Upon arrival you shall be taken to the lodge where you can have some refreshments.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Community Visit
After having a nice breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing about gorilla trekking in Mgahinga. The ranger will guide and explain the rules to you before you begin the trek. After this you will enter the forest to track the only habituated gorilla family in the park. Trekking in Mgahinga is generally easier as it takes place on the lower slopes of Virunga Volcanoes. Finally, when you spot the gorillas, you will have a one-hour fill with them observing their behaviours and taking photos. After this you can go for lunch then relax and head for a cultural visit where you will get to interact with the Batwa Community people.
Day 3: Drive to Kibale Forest National Park
After the morning breakfast start driving to Kibale Forest National Park the home to 1,000 primates including monkey species, chimpanzee and baboons. You should enjoy an enroute lunch before arriving at your lodge in the evening. Check in have dinner and rest for the night.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Swamp Walk
When done taking your breakfast go to the park headquarters for a briefing about the chimpanzee trekking. The trek might take between 1 to several hours depending on the location of the chimpanzee’s location. Walk through the forest and you might see amazing monkeys, butterflies and birds. Once you spot the chimpanzees spend one hour with them as you watch how they interact and hand around others
Day 5: Fly Back to Entebbe
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Entebbe. This marks the end of your 5-day Uganda gorilla and chimpanzees trekking tour.
FAQ
1. Am I guaranteed to see gorillas?
Since they are closely monitored by the Uganda Wildlife Association (UWA) and either researchers or trekkers are in touch with them everyday. Guides have a better idea of knowing where the different families are located thus you have a 99% probability of sighting them. There are no guarantees with wild animals as an overnight encounter with predators, heavy rain or thunderstorm might unexpectedly move the troops to a totally different place. However, troops have a way of picking up their trails again thus following them to the new location.
2. Can I touch Them?
Absolutely no, you cannot touch them due to the following reasons; first they are wild animals that means they are strong and unpredictable. We all have the urge and the instinct to want to touch the and cuddle the adorable baby but we cannot do it. Gorilla population is severely under the constant threat of human encroachment, logging and poaching. Finally, they are susceptible to human diseases thus minimum constant is advised.
3. Are Porters necessary?
We strongly encourage the use of a porter if you are offered their service during your gorilla trek even if you feel you are still fit. For a normal cost, you will be charged $20 USD for the porter which will be very important as you will have supported the local community who are constantly facing financial constraints.
4. Can children go for gorilla trekking?
Well, the minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years which is almost the sane age in other countries that have gorilla trekking safari. Children might find it hard to remain calm if a gorilla mock charges during a trek adventure. While mountain gorillas rarely charge, they might do this once in a while if they perceive someone in the group is a threat to them.
5. How fit do I have to be?
You do not have to be that extremely fit or like be doing triathlon to be fit for a gorilla trekking holidays. Anyone just above the normal range of doing their exercise is capable of gorilla trekking in Uganda. However, gorilla trekking is not as challenging as trekking in the Himalayas but its certainly not an easy-going stroll in the park either. This is the point we say that stamina is more important that speed but we don’t treat it as a race since we only get to have 1 hour to enjoy with the primates.
How to Book Uganda Gorilla Trekking!
If you want to explore gorilla trekking Rwanda with ease, look no further, whether you are seeking a family gateway or simply a solo trip gorilla trekking tour Africa Holiday Safaris is where you book and travel with confidence. With flexible booking options, secure payment options and 24/7 customer support we are committed to ensuring a worry – free travel experience.