Are you dreaming of an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Africa? The only places in the world where you can experience mountain gorillas in their natural habitat are Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. The main parks for gorilla trekking are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. Of these, Uganda is often considered the most affordable and safest choice for your gorilla trekking safari.
Uganda offers an incredible opportunity to see mountain gorillas, with permits priced at $700 per person for foreign non-residents, significantly more affordable than Rwanda ($1500) and DR Congo ($400). Gorilla trekking in Uganda involves hiking through the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you’ll spend one hour with these magnificent creatures, guided by expert rangers. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll cherish forever.
Booking your gorilla safari starts with securing a gorilla permit. To trek with the gorillas in Uganda, you’ll need to purchase a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The cost is $800 per person for foreign non-residents, $700 for East African residents, and $80 for East African citizens.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we can assist you with obtaining your permit. Simply let us know your preferred travel dates, and we’ll check availability for you. Once availability is confirmed, we’ll proceed with your booking and send you an invoice. After payment, we’ll secure your permit and send you a scanned copy for your records. Please note that only 288 permits are available for gorilla trekking in Bwindi per day, so it’s best to book your trip 3-5 months in advance to ensure availability.
The cost of your Uganda gorilla safari depends on the level of comfort you prefer—budget, mid-range, or luxury—and the length of your stay. The permit itself is the biggest expense, but additional costs include accommodation, transport, and other services. For instance, a 3-day budget safari including the gorilla permit, accommodation, transport, and a driver-guide starts at:
These prices exclude tips, visas, flights, and alcoholic drinks. We’ll be happy to help you plan and book the perfect gorilla trekking experience based on your preferences.
You can book your gorilla trekking safari anytime, as the experience is available year-round. However, the best time to go is during the drier months of January, February, and June to September. During these periods, the weather is more favorable for hiking, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas. If you prefer a quieter time, the rainy season also offers advantages, as the gorillas tend to stay closer to the trekking routes in search of food.
Gorilla trekking is done in the southern and northern sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. In the southern sector (Rushaga and Nkuringo), options include:
In the northern sector (Buhoma and Ruhija), accommodations include:
You’ll find various options ranging from budget to luxury, all conveniently located near the trekking starting points.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can be accessed by road or air. By road, the journey takes approximately 9-10 hours from Entebbe or Kampala. Alternatively, you can fly from Entebbe to Kisoro or Kihihi airstrips, followed by a short drive to the park.
If you’re flying into Kigali, Rwanda, Bwindi and Mgahinga are just 4-5 hours away by road through the Cyanika or Katuna border. An East African Visa is recommended, which covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for $100.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in creating personalized, seamless gorilla trekking experiences. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury adventure, we offer a range of packages to suit your needs. Our expert team will guide you through every step of the booking process, ensuring your trip is smooth and memorable.
Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure, and join us on an unforgettable journey to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda!