most powerful gentle giant.
moments deep in
the rainforest.
leap, climb,
& explore.
Uganda's most playful primate.
famous tree-climbing lions.
in the primate capital of the world.
of Africa awaits.
most powerful gentle giant.
moments deep in
the rainforest.
leap, climb,
& explore.
Uganda's most playful primate.
famous tree-climbing lions.
in the primate capital of the world.
of Africa awaits.
Gorilla Trekking Uganda: Tours, Permits & Prices for Bwindi & Mgahinga
Plan your Uganda gorilla trekking safari: permit prices, best trekking season, Bwindi & Mgahinga sectors, and easy booking from Kigali or Entebbe.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda means hiking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with an armed ranger guide to spend a full hour with a wild, habituated mountain gorilla family. Uganda holds roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and more habituated families, 20 in total, than any other country, at a permit price of USD 800 per person, well below Rwanda’s USD 1,500. Whether you’re flying into Entebbe, routing through Kigali, or building a longer East Africa itinerary, We put together the permit booking, transport, ranger-guided trek and lodging in one package from a fast one-day trip to multi-week safaris across Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
One endangered primate species that calls Uganda home is the mountain gorilla. You may find these primates in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. All year round, you have the opportunity to go gorilla trekking in one of Uganda’s two finest parks. There is no better place to go on a gorilla safari than on a trekking trip through Uganda’s Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.
It is feasible to engage in the activity of trekking gorillas in their native environment by reserving a gorilla permit through us. You can commence your Uganda gorilla safari from either Kigali or Entebbe. The optimal gorilla trekking route commences in Kigali and concludes in Uganda since it offers the most efficient and expeditious transfer time for travelers while also being the most economical option. Visitors arrive in Rwanda and thereafter journey to Uganda for gorilla trekking before departing from Kigali. Gorilla safaris in Rwanda and Uganda can vary in duration, ranging from a minimum of one day to a maximum of three weeks, depending on individual preferences and financial resources.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali is cheaper than a similar trip to Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda’s gorilla permit is at USD 1500, which makes the trip expensive compared to Uganda’s permit at USD 800. Therefore, you can book gorilla permits to visit gorillas with any of the available 20 gorilla families in Uganda, 19 of which are found in Bwindi and one in the Nyakagezi group in Mgahinga. From Kigali, Uganda’s gorilla parks are about a 4-hour drive.
We offer both high-end and low-cost gorilla trekking trips, so we can fit all kinds of guests, even those who have trouble moving around. We never skimp on the quality of our gorilla safaris, even though our gorilla tour prices might be low. We also make plans for gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or on any of our other wildlife Safaris. It’s also possible to go on safari in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Kenya.
Alternatively, a gorilla safari in Uganda may start from Entebbe or Kampala by either road or air transfer. The road trip is about 8 hours depending on the gorilla trekking sector of Bwindi one is visiting. By air, the tours start from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip. Tourists can fly from Entebbe to Bwindi to trek gorillas. There is also a possibility of a plane or helicopter charter to fly privately.
Here you can find more information regarding mountain gorillas in Uganda. This includes details such as gorilla permits, safari rates, the best gorilla safari hotels, when to visit, and travel tips. Important gorilla safari preparations include being up-to-date on trekking rules and regulations, knowing what to wear and bring on a trek, and knowing what to carry. Discover the Pearl of Africa and Rwanda with our comprehensive safari tour packages that include visits to all of its national parks and attractions. So that you may get the most of your holiday excursion, we generally provide gorilla trekking advice and safaris.
Gorilla Trekking Uganda: Key Facts
Uganda is home to more than half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and more habituated families than any other country at a permit price well below Rwanda’s. This is the complete guide to planning your trek from a local, AUTO-registered operator.
Verified data for 2026. Updated each season by our field team.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bwindi's UNESCO status | World Heritage Site (natural) since 1994 |
| Bwindi forest area | 331 sq km of ancient montane rainforest |
| Best trekking seasons | June–September & December–February (dry) |
| Nearest airports | Entebbe (UGA) or Kigali (RWA) |
| Drive from Kigali to Rushaga | ~4–5 hours via Cyanika border crossing |
| Drive from Entebbe to Buhoma | ~8–9 hours by road |
| Fly from Entebbe to Bwindi | ~1.5 hours (Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip) |
| Uganda e-Visa required | Yes apply at visas.immigration.go.ug |
Why Uganda Is the Best Country for Gorilla Trekking
The case isn’t just about price; Uganda has structural advantages Rwanda and Congo can’t match.
~20
More Habituated Families
Uganda has approximately 20 habituated gorilla families available for trekking more than Rwanda and Congo combined. More families means more permit availability and a better chance of securing your preferred dates, even at short notice.
$800
Lowest Permit Price
Uganda’s standard permit is USD 800 per person, half of Rwanda’s USD 1,500. For a couple, that’s USD 1,400 saved before a single night of accommodation. The experience itself one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family is identical.
4
Distinct Trekking Sectors
No other gorilla trekking destination divides into four genuinely different experiences. Buhoma is established and accessible; Ruhija has the best birding. Rushaga has the most families; Nkuringo has the most dramatic landscape. You choose based on what matters to you.
1
Only Place for the Habituation Experience
The Gorilla Habituation Experience, 4 hours with a semi-habituated family alongside active researchers, is only available in Uganda’s Rushaga sector. Rwanda does not offer an equivalent. At USD 1,500 for four trekkers, it is the most intimate gorilla encounter in the world.
8
hrs from Kigali to Gorillas
Wait; that’s Entebbe. From Kigali to Bwindi’s southern sectors, the drive is just 4 to 5 hours via the Cyanika border crossing. Uganda’s gorillas are more accessible from Rwanda’s capital than most people realize, and Kigali has better international connections than Entebbe.
54%
Of All Mountain Gorillas
Uganda holds over half the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Bwindi alone shelters over 459 individuals, the largest single concentration on earth. Trekking here puts you in the center of the species’ best chance at survival.
All Habituated Gorilla Families in Uganda
Most operators list a number. We name every family, where to find them, and what makes each one distinct so you can make an informed choice about which sector to request when booking your permit.
Buhoma
Mubare
Uganda’s first habituated gorilla family has been trekked by tourists since 1993. Now one of Bwindi’s smallest groups after decades of natural change. Legendary for its historical significance.
Buhoma
Habinyanja
Large and mobile, with complex social dynamics across two silverbacks. Moves widely across Bwindi’s northern ranges; treks vary significantly in length.
Buhoma
Rushegura
Calm and predictable, it often stays close to the Buhoma area lodges, making it the recommended family for first-time trekkers and those with limited fitness. Led by silverback Mwirima.
Buhoma
Muyambi
Formed in 2019 when a silverback broke away from Mubare with several females. A younger, smaller group still establishing its territory encounters feel particularly intimate.
Buhoma
Katwe
The newest family in Buhoma was habituated in 2023 and opened to tourism in 2024. Still settling into full habituation, so behavior can be less predictable, a more exclusive, raw encounter.
Ruhija
Bitukura
Known for their exceptionally relaxed behavior, gorillas often continue feeding and playing while visitors watch. Led by young silverback Ndahura. A photographer’s favorite in Ruhija.
Ruhija
Oruzogo
One of Bwindi’s largest families, with around 23 members. Habituated in 2011. Strong silverback leadership and a complex social hierarchy make for compelling viewing.
Ruhija
Mukiza
Formed after the death of the original Kyaguriro silverback Rukina, with Mukiza emerging as the new leader. Now around 22 members. Named after its dominant silverback.
Ruhija
Kyaguriro
Primarily a research group used by Makerere University primatologists. Limited tourism slots. Encounters here feel uniquely scientific; researchers may be present during your hour
Rushaga
Nshongi
They are named after the Nshongi River, where rangers first spotted them. Once Bwindi’s largest family at 35 members, now smaller after multiple splits, it is still one of the most impressive groups.
Rushaga
Mishaya
Split from Nshongi when silverback Mishaya broke away with 10 females. Known for its feisty silverback and energetic group dynamics. Treks can be demanding in terrain.
Rushaga
Bweza
Split from the Nshongi family due to internal rivalry. Around 12 members. Independent and well-established in the Rushaga area, offering a quieter encounter than the larger groups.
Rushaga
Kahungye
A large, established family in Rushaga with dramatic interactions between multiple blackbacks vying for dominance within the group’s hierarchy.
Rushaga
Bikingi
One of the families used in the Gorilla Habituation Experience (4-hour extended visit, $1,500 permit). Semi-habituated, meaning behavior is less predictable and the encounter feels rawer.
Rushaga
Mucunguzi
A smaller, approachable group in Rushaga, named after a local word meaning ‘one who helps.’ Treks typically moderate in length and terrain within the sector.
Rushaga
Kutu
One of the more recently confirmed habituated families in Rushaga. Giving this sector the highest concentration of gorilla families of any sector in Bwindi.
Rushaga
Busingye
Split from Kahungye group. “Busingye” means “peace” in Rukiga. The family is known for a calm, settled temperament ideal for first-time trekkers visiting Rushaga.
Rushaga
Tindatine
An 8-member group that split from Kahungye. One of the smallest families in the sector, making for intimate encounters with a single silverback’s close-knit group.
Nkuringo
Nkuringo
Launched in 2004 after a 2-year habituation process. Named after the ‘round hill’ where it was first sighted ‘Nkuringo’ is Rukiga for a hill of that shape. Around 13 members.
Nkuringo
Bushaho
An 8-member family in the Nkuringo sector. The sector’s challenging ridge-line terrain means treks here feel more adventurous, and encounters feel genuinely remote.
Nkuringo
Christmas
One of the most recently habituated groups in Bwindi. 8 members. Named after the period during which the habituation process was completed. Treks tend to be quieter and less crowded.
Nkuringo
Posho
Nkuringo’s largest family is at around 17 members. More permit slots than the smaller groups in the sector, making Posho the most accessible choice when trekking Nkuringo.
Mgahinga
Nyakagezi
Uganda’s only gorilla family outside Bwindi. Known for an unusually calm temperament and as one of the most photogenic families in the country. Set against Virunga volcano slopes, only 14km from Kisoro Airstrip.
Bwindi’s Four Trekking Sectors Compared
Each sector offers the same one hour with a gorilla family. The difference is everything else: the journey, the landscape, the crowd level, and the lodges available.
Buhoma, Northern Bwindi · Most Accessible | |
Gorilla families | 5 (Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushegura, Muyambi, Katwe) |
Trek difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
From Entebbe | ~8–9 hrs by road |
Nearest airstrip | Kihihi (~1 hr drive) |
Lodges | Best selection in Bwindi (Mahogany Springs, Buhoma Lodge) |
Best for | First-time trekkers, those flying in, visitors with limited time |
Unique feature | Batwa Cultural Trail nearby; oldest sector in Bwindi |
Nkuringo, Southern Bwindi · Most Remote | |
Gorilla families | 4 (Nkuringo, Bushaho, Christmas, Posho). |
Trek difficulty | Strenuous (steep ridge descents and ascents) |
From Kigali | ~4–5 hrs via Cyanika |
Crowd level | Lowest of the four sectors |
Lodges | Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (luxury), Nkuringo Budget Camp |
Best for | Adventurous trekkers; those wanting fewer people on the trail
|
Unique feature | Dramatic ridgeline views into Congo’s Virunga landscape |
Rushaga, Southern Bwindi · Most Families | |
Gorilla families | 9–10 (Nshongi, Mishaya, Bweza, Kahungye, Bikingi, and more) |
Trek difficulty | Moderate to Strenuous |
From Kigali | ~4–5 hrs via Cyanika |
Habituation Experience | Yes, only sector offering 4-hr visit ($1,500) |
Lodges | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Haven |
Best for | Kigali-routed travellers, those wanting the habituation experience |
Unique feature | Highest permit availability due to number of families
|
Ruhija, Eastern Bwindi · Best Birding | |
Gorilla families | 4 (Bitukura, Oruzogo, Mukiza, Kyaguriro) |
Trek difficulty | Moderate |
From Kabale town | ~1.5–2 hrs |
Altitude | Highest sector; cooler temperatures |
Lodges | Smaller, fewer options (Gorilla Mist Camp, Bakiga Lodge) |
Best for | Birders (350+ bird species), photographers, repeat visitors |
Unique feature | Spectacular Virunga volcano views on clear mornings |
Your Gorilla Trek Day, Hour by Hour
Most Operators say “you will spend one hour with the gorillas.” Here is what the other 10 hours of the gorilla trek look like.
Before dawn
The Tracker Team Moves First
UWA tracker teams leave before sunrise to locate the gorilla family from where it nested the previous evening. Gorillas build new nests every night; trackers follow trails of knuckle prints, feeding debris, and dung to find the morning location before your briefing begins.
7:00 – 8:00 AM
UWA Ranger Briefing
All trekkers report to the sector’s ranger station. Groups of up to 8 are formed (you may not know your group in advance). Rangers cover the 7-meter rule, how to crouch and avoid eye contact during a gorilla display, what to do if a gorilla approaches you, photography guidelines, and signs of illness (trekking is refused if you have cold symptoms).
8:00 AM – Variable
The Trek Through Bwindi
Hike time depends entirely on where the trackers found the family. Some mornings it is 30 minutes on a maintained trail. For others, it is 5 to 8 hours of dense-forest scrambling, crossing streams and scaling ridges. This variability is the nature of the activity; there are no guarantees and no refunds for long treks. Bring water, snacks, and rain gear regardless of the forecast.
One Hour
Your Hour With the Gorillas
A timer starts when you make visual contact with the family. The full hour is yours whether the gorillas are 3 metres away or partially obscured. Gorillas may groom, feed, play, sleep, or move. Juveniles may approach curiously. The silverback may chest-beat or bluff-charge. Rangers position your group for the safest, closest experience possible within UWA’s protocols.
After the Hour
Trek Out & Certificates
You retrace or take an alternative route back to the ranger station. UWA issues each trekker a personalized gorilla trekking certificate listing the family visited. Most operators, including us, arrange a packed lunch for the trailhead. The afternoon is typically free for lodge relaxation, a community visit, or a transfer to your next destination.
The 5 Rules That Protect Both You and the Gorillas
- The 7-Meter Rule: Maintain at least 7 metres (roughly 23 feet) from any gorilla at all times. In practice, gorillas don’t read this rule curious juveniles approach. When they do, rangers instruct you to back away slowly, crouching.
- During a Mock Charge: A silverback displaying beating his chest, vocalizing, or charging is almost always a bluff. Crouch, avoid direct eye contact, and do not run. Rangers will stand between you and the silverback. Running triggers a real pursuit response.
- No Flash Photography: Camera flashes startle gorillas and damage the habituation trust built over years of researcher contact. Use a high ISO setting and a fast lens instead. Forest light is low; plan accordingly.
- If You Are Sick, Stay Behind: Gorillas share ~98% of human DNA and are highly susceptible to our respiratory illnesses. If you have cold, flu, or COVID symptoms on trek day, UWA will deny you entry. Permits in this situation can sometimes be transferred to another date; discuss with us at the time of booking.
- No Food Near the Gorillas: Do not eat, drink, or unwrap food within sight of the gorilla family. Human food can introduce bacteria and disrupt natural feeding behavior. Water bottles should remain in your pack during the hour.
On porters:
Hiring a local porter (USD 15–20 per day) is one of the most direct economic contributions you can make to the communities surrounding Bwindi & Mgahinga. Porters carry your bag, help you on steep ground, and are almost universally former poachers or community members who chose conservation-economy employment. Tip well.
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris from Kigali
1-Day Uganda Gorilla Trek from Kigali
Visit Mountain gorillas in Uganda from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Enjoy a gorilla trekking adventure in the forest and return to Kigali on the same day.
2-Days Uganda Gorilla Trek from Kigali
Enjoy gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali to Bwindi by flying into Rwanda and trek gorillas in Uganda. Book a gorilla permit in time and enjoy this kind of budget safari to Bwindi National Park.
3 Days Gorilla Tracking Uganda from Kigali in Rwanda
This 3 days Uganda gorilla ttrekking from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable forest entails a Kigali city tour prior to transfer to Uganda for gorilla adventure experience on Day 2 and return to Rwanda on day 3.
Short Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris.
3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari.
A 3-day gorilla adventure tour in Uganda takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park, the two parks where gorillas in Uganda live. This road trip runs from Kampala or Entebbe.
4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safaris.
This Uganda gorilla Safari involves gorilla Trekking in Bwindi plus wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, which include game drive tours as well as a boat cruise on the magnificent Kazinga Channel.
3-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation.
A gorilla habituation experience means staying for 4 hours closely with the mountain gorillas. This trip will give you a comprehensive physical closeness with the endangered primates in Bwindi Forest.
4-DAY DOUBLE GORILLA TREKS IN UGANDA
Do Double gorilla trekking in Uganda and enjoy the endangered primates to your satisfaction. Trek gorillas for two consecutive days with different gorilla families/groups in the thick jungles of Bwindi National Park.
3 DAYS MGAHINGA GORILLA TOUR
Have a chance to visit and trek the Nyakagezi Gorilla group, the only family in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This trip can begin from Kigali or Entebbe and back. One may also fly from Entebbe to Kisoro and move to the park.
3-DAY GORILLA TREKKING TOURS IN UGANDA
Choose from a variety of selected 3-day gorilla safari packages, including those starting from Kampala /Entebbe by road and flying, as well as those trips from Kigali in Rwanda as well as gorilla habituation experience tours.
Fly-in Uganda Gorilla Safaris to Bwindi.
You can go on a Uganda gorilla trekking adventure in either Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. On fly-in Uganda Gorilla safaris, you can get there by plane from Entebbe. Airstrips of Kihihi or Kisoro When leaving Entebbe Airport, there are two Airstrips to land an aircraft.
As soon as you land, one of our professional guides will take you to the lodge to get some rest before your next day to go to the jungle. You will walk with the gentle giants for a day or days. Then you might fly back to Entebbe or continue with your Uganda safari. You can get to Bwindi by regular plane or hired helicopter.
Find out more about what we have to offer: gorilla safaris and wildlife tours.
3-DAY GORILLA TREK – FLY ENTEBBE TO BWINDI
Take a scheduled flight from Entebbe International Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking. Land at Kihihi Airport, transfer to the lodge, trek gorillas on day 2, and fly to Entebbe on day 3.
GORILLA FLYING TRIP FROM ENTEBBE TO KISORO
Fly to Kisoro and trek with any of the mountain gorilla groups of the eastern or southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This trip is among the luxury gorilla safaris in Uganda.
CHARTER A CHOPPER FOR GORILLA TREKKING
Take a flight from Entebbe to Bwindi National Park or Kisoro Airstrip near Mgahinga gorilla park for a thrilling gorilla adventure. Fly back on the third day to catch up with another international flight.
OTHER UGANDA TOURS AND SAFARIS
Besides visits to see gorillas, Uganda has a lot to offer in terms of wildlife safaris. This includes game drive safaris, adventure tours, community, nature, cultural, and recreational outdoor activities, among others. Birding, mountain climbing, sport fishing, historical tours, plus honeymoon holiday tours are some of the activities you may enjoy on tours in Uganda. With 10 national parks plus numerous wildlife reserves and sanctuaries, you can only exhaust the country when you take a longer holiday trip. These trips involve tours to other parts of Uganda with Mgahinga or Bwindi Gorilla safari encounters on the safari itineraries.
5 DAYS GORILLA, WILDLIFE TOUR & CHIMP SAFARI
Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a gorilla trek, proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park and do a Kazinga Channel boat cruise, a game drive plus chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge.
7 DAY CHIMP SAFARI, WILDLIFE & GORILLA TREK
Tour Kibale National Park for chimp tracking and Bigodi swamp nature walk, enjoy game safari andd boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park & visit Bwindi forest to see gorillas in the wild.
9 DAYS RHINO TREKKING, WILDLIFE AND GORILLAS
Visit Ziwa rhino sanctuary for rhino trekking, Murchison Falls for wildlife safaris, Kibale forest for chimpanzee tracking and nature, Queen Elizabeth Park for safaris and Bwindi for gorilla tour adventure.
10 DAYS UGANDA SAFARIS AND GORILLA TOURS
Do a Murchison Falls safari with a launch cruise and game safari, chimp tracking in Kibale, game and boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park and conclude with a gorilla safari adventure in Bwindi.
18 DAYS UGANDA SAFARIS AND TOURS
This Uganda safaris and tour package will lead you to all the major tourist attractions in Uganda including Bwindi forest for gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale forest and Murchison Falls among others.
10 DAYS ADVENTURE UGANDA SAFARIS
This Uganda adventure safari trip will take you to Semuliki for a hot springs tour, Queen Elizabeth park for safaris and boat voyage plus Bwindi and Lake Mburo for a gorilla trek and wildlife safari respectively.
Where Does Your $800 Gorilla Permit Fee Go?
The USD 800 you pay goes directly to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, not to us. Here is how UWA distributes that revenue.
20%
Community Revenue Fund
Distributed to parishes in the park buffer zone. Has funded schools, health centers, clean water infrastructure, and micro-loans in communities surrounding Bwindi and Mgahinga.
~40%
Park Operations & Infrastructure
Trail maintenance, ranger station upkeep, vehicle fleet, and sector infrastructure. Bwindi’s trail network across 331 sq km of dense montane forest requires year-round maintenance.
~25%
Ranger Salaries & Anti-Poaching
UWA employs hundreds of rangers across Bwindi and Mgahinga. Armed ranger patrols run 24 hours a day, protecting gorilla families from snare poaching and habitat encroachment.
~15%
Research & Veterinary Care
The Gorilla Doctors program and Makerere University research teams receive park funding. Gorillas are monitored daily; sick or injured individuals receive field veterinary intervention.
What this means for you:
Your permit is not a wildlife park entrance fee; it is a conservation contribution that directly funds the rangers who protect these gorillas every night, the veterinary teams that keep them healthy, and the communities that chose conservation employment over poaching. The population recovery from ~620 individuals in 1989 to over 1,063 today was funded by revenue like this.
ALL ABOUT GORILLA TREKKING
WHAT IS GORILLA TREKKING?
Gorilla Trekking is an adventure where tourists go in the forest while hiking looking for the gorillas. The process begins with the transfer to the gorilla park offices, get briefing and be allocated a gorilla family to trek. Gorilla trekking is only available in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The destinations for gorilla trekking include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and the Virunga in Congo. Habituated Gorillas for trekking are grouped into families which spread across the park. Each gorilla group is allocated 8 tourists to trek it. Park guides and rangers lead visitors into the jungle in search of the gorillas. These wildlife staffs watch over, guide visitors and answer questions during the whole tracking encounter. Gorilla trekking is done by someone with a gorilla permit, which is the gate pass to the park. Gorilla visitors spend an hour with the gorillas and then return to the park office for an award of a gorilla trekking certificate.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR GORILLA TREKKING?
The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is during the drier months. These months run from June, July, August plus early September and then from December up to February. These are the most preferred periods for trekking gorillas. However, mountain gorillas may be visited throughout the year even in the rainy months. Whoever is planning a tour tend to ask about the best time for gorilla trekking. Considering the costs involved in the gorilla safaris ranging from a gorilla permit, transport and accommodation, knowing the best time to visit is aimed at maximum enjoyment. Gorillas live in the tropical rest forests and so the weather is unpredictable. It can rain or shine anytime regardless of the period of the year. Read more about the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
HOW DIFFICULT IS GORILLA TREKKING?
Gorilla trekking is an enjoyable wildlife activity but involves hiking through the mountains jungle to reach the gorillas. From the park offices, some gorilla families involve trekking for longer hours and others not. The longer trekking may be difficult for the elderly or weaker visitors but may not be hard for the youthful energetic travelers. It is always advisable to report any trekking preference in case you are not able to walk for a longer period. But all in all, having trekked strenuously long or easily shorter distances meeting gorillas is worth the hike. In terms of transfer to the park, gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali is a better and easier option that from Kampala or Entebbe.
WHAT IS THE PRICE FOR A GORILLA TREKKING PERMIT IN UGANDA OR RWANDA?
The price for a gorilla permit in Uganda is at USD 600 for foreign non-residents and USD 500 for foreign residents. In Rwanda, a permit is at USD 1500 since 2017 when it was increased up from USD 750. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is responsible for selling and issuing Uganda gorilla permits. People visit gorillas in Uganda in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park. Rwanda Development Board (RDB) sells gorilla permits for trekking gorillas at the Volcanoes National Park. A gorilla permit is an official card or document that a tourist must hold to be granted entrance to the national park to trek mountain gorillas. Get more details about gorilla permit availability and bookings.
HOW ABOUT GORILLA TREKKING IN UGANDA?
Gorilla trekking Uganda from Kigali in Rwanda is among the most preferred and cheapest ways to see gorillas. It is now possible to do gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park going via Rwanda. You do this by flying into Kigali International Airport and connect to the gorilla parks in Uganda. To drive from Kigali to Bwindi, it take between 4-5 hours compared to 8-10 hours when you go through Entebbe Airport. When gorilla permit in Rwanda were increased to USD 1500 up from USD 750 in 2017, visitors started flying into Rwanda and trek gorillas in Uganda in big numbers.
With the East African tourist visa in place, a tourist can move freely between Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda with ease on the same entry visa. An available immigration convenience is that one may apply for a Rwanda Visa on arrival in the country, a smooth treatment every visitor would love. The East African tourist visa is at USD100 and permits a visitor to cross to the 3 member countries including Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya. Get in touch with Speedway Safaris for further details gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali.
HOW MUCH IS A GORILLA PERMIT IN UGANDA?
A Uganda gorilla permit costs USD 600 for foreign non-residents and USD 500 for foreign residents. To secure a gorilla permit in Uganda, you have to contact your tour operator for details. This operator will reserve a permit for you, keep it and also organize a gorilla safari for you. However, starting from July 2020, gorilla permits in Uganda will increased to USD 700.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK A GORILLA PERMIT?
To book a gorilla permit, 3-6 months in advance is an ideal time to do so. We recommend so because gorilla permits are competitive and are bought so fast. Booking a permit early will give enough time to plan for your safari than doing it at a short notice. It is advisable to book 5-6 months earlier for Gorilla trekking permits in the high season months of June, July, August, September, October, December, and January up to February. In Uganda alone, the demand for permit is almost the same throughout the year with no due regard to high or low season. So early gorilla tour bookings as the best thing to do to achieve pre-safari contentment. It is always advisable to book a gorilla permit about four months to the trekking date. For the high-season months like July, august, September, December to February, it is advised to secure a permit 6 months in advance. Gorilla permits are sold on the first come, first serve basis, meaning they may be bought out anytime by other operators for their prospective visitors. The buying of a permit confirms a gorilla tour. Contact us today so that we reserve and book your gorilla permits.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE GORILLA PERMIT PRICE?
Included in the price of a gorilla permit are park entry fees for the gorilla parks, services of guides and rangers who attend to and body guard you into the jungle. Booking a gorilla permit in advance is advisable to be sure of tracking the primates. A permit allows you entry to Bwindi or Mgahinga in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga in the DR Congo. Transport, accommodation costs plus non-gorilla safari activities are excluded on the permit fees.
WHAT ARE THE GORILLA TREKKING SECTORS OF BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park In south western Uganda is divided into four gorilla trekking sectors or regions. There is Buhoma region in the North, Rushaga and Nkuringo Regions in the south and Ruhija region in the eastern side of the park. Every region has habituated gorillas groups for tracking. Accommodation facilities around Bwindi are also positions around these sectors of the park. When booking a gorilla tour, you tour organizer will choose for you a region to visit gorillas. In case you are flying from Entebbe for a gorilla trek, where you land will determine the tracking region. In case you fly to Kihihi Airstrip, you will have to trek gorillas in Buhoma. But when you fly from Entebbe to Kisoro, you will have to tour gorillas in the southern regions. And when you choose to do Uganda gorilla trekking from Kigali, you will either go to Rushaga, Nkuringo or Ruhija region as Buhoma will be very far for trekking. The region for gorilla trekking determines the lodge to stay in. Contact Speedway Safaris for detailed Gorilla Safaris.
HOW LONG DOES A GORILLA TREKKING TAKE?
The gorilla trekking adventure safari may take from 1 to 8 hours and trekkers should be prepared for shorter or longer durations. Gorillas are wild animals living in their natural habitats, so their movements and locations are not determined. The hiking speed of some group members either slows or quickens the movements. Guides and rangers have to ensure that all members are moving together as a team.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE FOR GORILLA TREKKING IN UGANDA?
The minimum age limit for gorilla trekking is 15 years and above. But there is no upper age limit. Park authorities are very strict on ensuring that all gorilla visitors are not below 15 years. The age limit standard applies both in Uganda and Rwanda. Gorilla tracking is a strenuous adventure activity which need maturity plus bodily strength and a sound healthy. It is advisable that patients with various ailments don’t trek gorillas. Where as there is no maximum age limit on gorilla trekking, people who are over aged and weak may not manage to hike in the jungle. However, older and weaker people may track gorilla families which don’t need much hiking to reach at. On the other hand, we can make arrangements with porters to carry on stretchers guests who are unable to walk so that they see gorillas.
WHAT TO PACK FOR GORILLA TREKKING?
When going for a gorilla trekking tour, you need to pack the following items so that you enjoy the adventure. Carry with you a long-sleeved shirts or blouses, trousers, long socks to for tacking into trousers and garden kind of gloves. Do not forget also hiking boots, a hat against sunshine, pair of binoculars, sun glasses, insect repellents and some snacks for generating energy. You may not take a flight with everything mentioned as some items can be bought locally on arrival. Read more about the Gorilla Trekking Packing List.
Note: For dressing, green, brown or grey colors are the most ideal for the gorilla sights. Avoid red as much as possible.
What to Pack and wear for gorilla trekking encounter.
- Water– Hiking across the mountainous jungle can be tiresome and dehydrating. So you need enough water to keep hydrated throughout the trek.
- Boots– water-resistant hiking shoes will protect you from water and mud during an unpredicted rain.
- Rain Coat – A rain jacket is essential for weather conditions that change any time while in the forest.
- Snack– Hiking is energy-consuming and snacks consumed bring back that lost energy.
- Long-sleeved shirts or blouses – The forest has got insects or throns. A long sleeved dress will protect you against such bites or possible bruises.
- Trouser and Shirts – With the presence of forest undergrowth and thickets, those dresses will protect you safely.
- Socks– With longer socks, you are able to tack in your long trousers into for proper fastening. This is your protection against insect bites as well as scratching undergrowth.
- Gardening Gloves – This type of gloves will protect your fingers and hands as you touch the various vegetation covers during hiking.
- Camera – Come with a camera with strong batteries to be able to capture every moment for memorable purpose. Remember not to use a flash while taking gorilla pictures. This may irritate them, a thing that may cause them to react badly.
WHAT IS GORILLA HABITUATION EXPERIENCE?
Gorilla Habituation Experience is a form of gorilla trekking activity where tourists stay four hours with the mountain gorillas. Out of the 3 countries with mountain gorillas (Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo), this kind of experience is only offered in southern Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. Uganda Wildlife Authority charges USD1500 for a gorilla habituation experience permit. The 4-hour Gorilla habituation experience was launched in 2014 to cater for tourists who want to spend more time with mountain gorillas. Only four people are permitted to see gorillas in Bwindi National Park under the habituation experience encounter. We also organize the gorilla habituation experience tours in Uganda.
WHAT ARE DISCOUNTED GORILLA PERMITS?
Discounted gorilla permits are permits sold at a lower from price from the usual official price. These are permits are common with low-season months. At the moment, such permits are only offered in Rwanda and DR Congo.
Uganda Wildlife Authority scraped them in 2017.
Rwanda Discounted Gorilla Permits.
There are low season discounted gorilla permits in Rwanda. The period considered low season in Rwanda are the months of May and November. To benefit from such permits, you have to book a safari at least for 3 more days in one of the country’s National Parks. The parks include Nyungwe Forest National Park and Akagera National Park. A discounted gorilla permit in Rwanda is at USD 1050 down from the ordinary price of USD 1500 per permit.
Congo Discounted Gorilla Permits
The Democratic Republic of Congo, a home to mountain gorillas in its Virunga National Park also offers discounted gorilla permits. Congo sells discounted gorilla permits at USD 200 only. A gorilla permit to see gorillas in Congo is priced at USD 400 including park entry fees, tracking gorillas for an hour plus ranger guide services.
HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE PERMITTED TO TREK A SINGLE GORILLA FAMILY?
Eight people are the one acceptable to trek gorillas in a given group. There are around 19 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga National Park. The park authorities at times allow more than 8 people depending on some exceptionally inevitable conditions at the park. The park management would explain to other visitors in case such situation happens. For gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi, only 4 people are allowed per group and they spend 4 hours with the mountain gorillas.
WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF SEEING MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN UGANDA?
The chances of seeing mountain gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo are 99%. Some prospective gorilla visitors tend to get concerned about the likelihood of not seeing the gorillas. Our assurance has always been that the likelihood is close to 99%. We live 1% for any other unlikely circumstances like the bad weather or anything beyond human control. In the worst case scenario that you have not seen the gorillas, a second chance is given on another day. This is only when by not seeing the gorillas, it was not out of your own making. Usually, an advanced team of trackers would ensure that they find out the likely whereabouts of the gorillas on that day. These trackers are always in constant touch with park guides and rangers who are leading the guests. Please contact us for more details.
HOW MUCH DOES A GORILLA SAFARI COST?
The cost of a gorilla safari vary based on the country, number of days, accommodation options and transport type used. So you cannot get a specific price for gorilla trekking but an estimation until you ask for a tailored quote based of your safari preferences. A gorilla tour in Uganda and Congo where permit are cheaper would definitely be different from that of Rwanda where a permit alone is at USD 1500. A permit in Uganda cost USD 600 and USD 400 in Congo. A gorilla habituation experience permit is at USD1500 for the four-hour habituation adventure. The cost for a 1 day gorilla tour in Rwanda or Uganda will be lower than that of a 2 or 3 day gorilla safari in the same destinations. When you opt for Uganda gorilla trekking from Kigali or Kampala, the cost would differ from when you fly from Entebbe to Bwindi or Kisoro. In a nutshell, you can only know the cost for a gorilla tour in any country once you contact us, state your likes and we give you a quotation.
WHERE CAN YOU SEE GORILLAS IN UGANDA?
Mountain Gorillas in Uganda live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda gorillas are organized into habituated groups for trekking. To see gorillas in Uganda, one must have booked a permit which allows him entry to the park. Bwindi forest has the biggest number of gorillas organized into 19 gorilla families. One can trek gorillas in Uganda from Kigali or Entebbe to the parks where these endangered species live.
HOW DO I GET TO BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK?
To access Bwindi national park, you can go through the various routes in Uganda. You can choose to do Uganda gorilla trekking from Kigali whereby you just have to fly into Rwanda and transfer to Bwindi or Mgahinga by road. Alternatively, you may fly into Uganda via Entebbe International Airport and connect to Bwindi. Through Entebbe, you may take an inland flight to Bwindi landing at Kihihi Airstrip and transfer to Buhoma region by road. Another mean would be to move by road from Entebbe or Kampala and drive straight to Bwindi via Mbarara. In case you are doing wildlife safari say in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can go through Ishasha sector and proceed to Bwindi’s northern Buhoma sector.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A GORILLA TREKKING ENCOUNTER PRIOR TO THE SAFARI?
After booking a gorilla trekking permit, start walking daily to increase your body health. Gorilla trekking is a tiresome activity but cannot excessively exhaust a person who has been walking for some weeks prior to the safari. Running and stretching are thing you should do to keep in a fine shape. In case you have an ailments, ensure that you take the right medication to have the best health at the time of trekking. And when you are coming on a safari, remember to read through the gorilla trekking pack list for what to carry.
HOW TO BE SAFE AROUND THE GORILLAS?
How to keep safe on a gorilla tour is to follow some of the guidelines below:-
- Keep a distance of 7 meters from the gorillas
- Avoiding trekking gorillas when you are sick.
- Stay within your trekking group, don’t isolate yourself from others.
- Do not make direct eye contact with gorillas and always remain calm when they come near you.
- Dress well against insects, thorns, scrubs. Try to avoid shouting colors like red or blue. Green is most preferred.
- Move with guides and armed rangers.
- Avoid taking photos with a flash camera. Disable a flash so that you don’t irritate the gorillas.
HOW MANY GORILLA FAMILIES IN BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST?
There are 19 gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These families are a combination of all the four gorilla trekking sector of Bwindi. The four regions of Bwindi include Buhoma Sector, Ruhija Region, Nkuringo sector and Rushaga southern sector of Bwindi forest.
Other Things to do in Uganda besides Seeing Mountain Gorillas
Besides gorilla trekking Uganda from Kigali or Entebbe to Bwindi and Mgahinga, there is a lot to do in terms of activities. On your gorilla trip, you may stop by Lake Bunyonyi and have an amazing boat cruise, birding, community tours as well as seeing animals of Kahugye Island. While at the gorilla parks, secure some time and do nature and community tours around these areas. Pygmies in Bwindi are the type of people you should visit because of their amazing traditional lifestyles that you need to witness and learn more about.
Uganda Safaris and Tours
Some of our Uganda safari packages include safaris to Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park. These are the biggest game parks in Uganda. Our tours take to all the national parks as well lakes, rivers and communities. Uganda has 10 National Parks, numerous wildlife reserves, sanctuaries as well as cultural and historical sites. These tourist sites defines Uganda’s tourism. At Speedway Safaris, we organize tours to all holiday destinations in Uganda and Rwanda. With our professional guides who understand the region very well, the state-of-the-art safari vehicles plus well-chosen hotels, lodges and tour activities would make your African safari a memorable one. On the cyber space, willgoto is our partner in promoting our services online.