Which Park in Uganda is Best for Gorilla Trekking?

Which Park in Uganda is Best for Gorilla Trekking?

Planning a trip to Uganda to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat? With two incredible national parks offering this once-in-a-lifetime experience—Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park—you might be wondering which one is best for gorilla trekking. This guide will help you decide by breaking down the differences between these two parks so you can choose the one that suits your preferences.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the only four national parks in the world where mountain gorillas can be found. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to about half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, with approximately 530 individuals out of a global population of 1,064. Bwindi boasts 19 habituated gorilla families available for trekking, meaning 152 permits are issued daily, making it easier to secure a spot here compared to other parks.

Beyond gorillas, Bwindi is one of Africa’s most biodiverse ecosystems. The park is home to over 350 bird species, 310 butterfly species, 120 mammal species, and several primates, including chimpanzees and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Its lush, ancient tropical rainforests provide an enchanting trekking experience for visitors.

About Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda’s smallest national park, sits at the border with Rwanda and is part of the spectacular Virunga Mountain range. The park features three extinct volcanoes—Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo—and provides a more open, bamboo-filled landscape compared to Bwindi’s dense rainforest.

Mgahinga is home to one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, making it a more intimate experience. In addition to gorillas, you can encounter golden monkeys, various bird species, and other forest mammals. The park’s stunning views and unique landscape offer a memorable backdrop for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Key Differences Between Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga

1. Vegetation and Trekking Experience

The vegetation in Bwindi is a dense, tropical rainforest, creating a true “impenetrable” experience, while Mgahinga’s open bamboo forests make gorilla sightings and photography easier. Both parks provide breathtaking scenery, but if you prefer an easier trek and clearer views of the gorillas, Mgahinga may be the better choice.

2. Gorilla Families

Bwindi has a larger number of habituated gorilla families (20) compared to Mgahinga’s single family. This makes it easier to secure a trekking permit in Bwindi, especially during the peak season.

3. Accessibility

Both parks can be accessed by road or air. Driving from Kampala or Entebbe to either park takes 8–9 hours, while the journey from Kigali, Rwanda, is shorter—about 4–5 hours. The East African Tourist Visa allows you to visit both countries easily, making it possible to explore Uganda’s gorillas after arriving in Kigali.

4. Lodging Options

Bwindi offers a wider range of accommodation, including luxurious lodges like Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, and Buhoma Lodge. Mgahinga has fewer options but still caters to budget, mid-range, and high-end travelers.

5. Proximity to Other Parks

Bwindi is closer to other attractions, making it easier to combine your gorilla trek with visits to Queen Elizabeth National Park for wildlife safaris or Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking. This proximity makes Bwindi a great choice for travelers seeking a more varied itinerary.

6. Group Sizes and Trekking Distance

While both parks allocate gorilla families based on your fitness level, the trek length may vary depending on the gorilla family’s location that day. In Mgahinga, the single gorilla family is often more accessible due to the open vegetation.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in both parks is available year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons: June to August and December to February. These months experience less rainfall, making trails less slippery and the trek more enjoyable. If you travel during the wet seasons (March to May or November), you can expect discounts on accommodations, but the trails might be more challenging.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures organizes budget-friendly and eco-conscious gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. We pride ourselves on offering personalized, tailor-made itineraries to create unforgettable safari experiences. Whether you’re interested in gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, mountain hiking, or game safaris, we ensure every trip aligns with your preferences while supporting conservation and local communities.

Our experienced team responds to inquiries within 20 minutes, providing expert advice and seamless booking for all your activities, accommodation, and transportation. With knowledgeable guides who speak multiple languages, we ensure your trip is comfortable, safe, and packed with incredible memories.

Ready to Choose Your Gorilla Trekking Destination?

Whether you choose Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda promises an unparalleled experience with mountain gorillas. Contact Excursia Adventures today to plan your dream gorilla trekking adventure and explore the best of East Africa’s natural wonders!