Chances of Seeing Gorillas in Uganda

Chances of Seeing Gorillas in Uganda: What You Need to Know

Are you planning a gorilla trek in Uganda and wondering about your chances of actually seeing the mountain gorillas in the wild? The good news is that the chances of spotting these incredible creatures are extremely high—over 99%!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and help you understand what factors can impact your trek and ensure a memorable experience.

How Likely Are You to See Gorillas in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most well-organized wildlife experiences in Africa. For over two decades, trekkers have consistently reported spotting the mountain gorillas on every trek.

Trekking typically begins early in the morning. Advanced trackers head into the forest at dawn to locate the gorillas’ most recent nest sites. They then follow the gorillas as they go about their daily routines—feeding, interacting, and relaxing in the forest. The trackers stay in constant communication with your guide, ensuring you stay on the right path to find the gorillas quickly and efficiently. This approach increases your chances of success and saves time, enhancing your overall experience.

Depending on where the gorillas are located, you can expect to trek anywhere from 30 minutes to 5 hours before encountering them. Once you find them, you’ll spend one hour in their presence, observing their behavior, taking photos, and learning about their lives.

What If I Don’t See the Gorillas?

A common question among travelers is what happens if you don’t see the gorillas on your scheduled trekking day. While the chances of missing them are incredibly low, Uganda Wildlife Authority understands that the mountain gorillas live in their natural habitat, so conditions like heavy rain or the gorillas moving into remote areas can sometimes impact sightings.

If this happens, Uganda Wildlife Authority will offer you a free extra day of trekking to try again, either in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This ensures you won’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Where Can You Trek Gorillas in Uganda?

Uganda is home to two of the only national parks in the world that offer mountain gorilla trekking: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are among the best places to see mountain gorillas, with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the DRC being the only other alternatives.

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, rich in biodiversity and home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population—about 550 individuals. The park is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga, each with habituated gorilla families available for trekking.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is smaller but just as stunning, with dramatic volcanic landscapes and dense forest habitats. The park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and is shared with Rwanda and the DRC.

How Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park takes place across its four sectors:

• Buhoma (Northern part) and Ruhija (Eastern part) are close to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easy to combine a gorilla trek with a safari.
• Nkuringo and Rushaga (Southern part) are near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, offering the option to track both gorillas and golden monkeys.

Rushaga has the highest number of habituated gorilla families, making it a popular sector for trekkers.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Bwindi?

The cost of a gorilla permit in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park depends on your residency:

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person
• East African Residents: $700 per person
• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person

A gorilla permit grants you the privilege of spending one hour with the gorillas once you find them on your trek. For those coming from Rwanda, a 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking tour costs around $1,290 per person, which includes everything you need for a seamless experience.

Popular Gorilla Trekking Tours in Uganda

• 2-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking
• 3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
• 4-Day Uganda Double Gorilla Trekking
• 4-Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking
• 5-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking
• 5-Day Gorilla Trekking and Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 10-Day Uganda Gorilla Tour from Kigali, Rwanda

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

To ensure you get a spot for your desired dates, it’s essential to book your gorilla permit in advance. Permits are available from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and can be purchased at their headquarters in Kampala or Kisoro (for travelers arriving via Kigali).

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we make the booking process simple. Once you confirm your dates, we’ll reserve your permits online and send you an invoice for payment. As soon as we receive your payment, we’ll secure your gorilla permits and send you scanned copies for your records, confirming that everything is set for your trek.

What is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months, which are typically January, February, and June to early September. During these months, the weather is more predictable, and the trails are easier to navigate, making it a great time for trekking. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense, providing clearer views of the gorillas as they move through the forest.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to wear for your gorilla trekking adventure? Here’s a list of essentials to ensure your comfort and safety during the trek:

• Long-sleeved sweater: The mornings can be chilly, so a warm layer is a good idea.
• Two pairs of long trousers: These will protect your legs from brush and insects.
• Waterproof hiking boots: These are essential for navigating the muddy and slippery forest trails.
• Hat and sunglasses: Optional but useful, especially on sunnier days.
• Camera and extra batteries: You’ll want to capture the moment, so ensure your camera is fully charged, and don’t forget your flash should be off to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
• Binoculars: Great for spotting birds and other wildlife in the dense forest.
• Gardening gloves: Handy for gripping trees and branches as you move through the forest.
• Raincoat: The weather in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for rain at any time.
• Mosquito repellent: The forest is home to various insects, so applying repellent or wearing it will help keep you safe.
• Sunscreen: While the forest is shaded, it can still get sunny in spots, so sunscreen is recommended to protect your skin.

What to avoid: Bright colors can startle the gorillas, and black or blue should also be avoided as they attract tsetse flies. Stick to neutral colors like khaki, brown, or olive for the best experience.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park takes place across four sectors, each offering different accommodation options:

Rushaga and Nkuringo (Southern Bwindi)

These sectors are close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, offering a combination of trekking and golden monkey tracking. Popular lodges in the area include:

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Lake Mutanda Resort

Buhoma and Ruhija (Northern Bwindi)

For those trekking in the northern part of the park, you can choose from:

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Agandi Eco Lodge
• Broadbill Tented Camp

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

If you’re visiting Mgahinga, accommodations range from budget to luxury, including:

• Gahinga Lodge (Luxury – USD $400 per night)
• Lake Chahafi Lodge
• Lake Muhele Lodge (Mid-range – starting from USD $100 per night)

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize tailor-made gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda, including packages that start from Kigali, Rwanda. Here’s why you should choose us for your next adventure:

• Local expertise: We’re a trusted local tour operator with years of experience organizing gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Fast response times: Our team of professional tour consultants is quick to respond—usually within 20 minutes—to ensure your questions are answered and your trip is planned with care.
• Personalized travel plans: We’ll help you customize your gorilla trek based on your preferences and ensure that all your services are booked in advance, minimizing any potential inconveniences.
• Knowledgeable guides: Our guides are fluent in multiple languages and are well-versed in the flora and fauna of Uganda, ensuring you have a rich and informative experience during your trek.

Ready to plan your gorilla trekking adventure? Contact us today to discuss your trip and get expert assistance in booking your permits, accommodations, and everything else you need for a seamless, unforgettable experience.