Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

If you’re planning to visit Uganda for a gorilla trekking adventure, you’re in for an unforgettable experience! Gorilla trekking is one of Uganda’s most sought-after activities, attracting tourists from around the globe. It takes place in two remarkable national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both located in southwestern Uganda.

Here’s everything you need to know about planning your gorilla trek in Uganda and making the most of your visit to Bwindi Forest.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the only four parks in the world that are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The others include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), and Virunga National Park (DR Congo). Known for its rich biodiversity, Bwindi is home to over 350 bird species, 200 tree varieties, and numerous reptiles and mammals.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its mountain gorillas, and approximately half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas, which totals 1,064 individuals, live in Bwindi. The park boasts over 15 habituated gorilla families, each available for trekking. To ensure minimal disruption to the gorillas, only 8 permits are issued per group per day.

Where is Gorilla Trekking Done in Bwindi Forest?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is available in four sectors:

• Buhoma (northern part)
• Ruhija (northeastern part)
• Nkuringo (southern part)
• Rushaga (southern part)

The northern sectors, Buhoma and Ruhija, are conveniently located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easy to combine gorilla trekking with wildlife safaris. The southern sectors, Rushaga and Nkuringo, are close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each sector offers different habituated gorilla families, with Rushaga being home to the most families.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Cost?

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 700 for Foreign Residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

Your gorilla trekking permit allows you to spend one hour with a gorilla family once you find them on your trek. It’s essential to secure your permit well in advance, as they can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.

How to Buy a Gorilla Trekking Permit for Bwindi Forest

Gorilla trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You can buy permits either in person at their headquarters in Kampala (for tourists arriving through Entebbe) or in Kisoro (for those coming from Kigali, Rwanda).

If you prefer to have everything arranged for you, Trek Africa Expeditions can assist with securing your gorilla permits. Once you confirm your travel dates, we’ll reserve your permits and guide you through the payment process. After we receive your payment, we’ll finalize the booking and send you your permit details.

What Is Gorilla Habituation and Where Does It Take Place?

The Gorilla Habituation Experience is available in the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi Forest. This immersive experience allows you to spend 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family, compared to just 1 hour during standard trekking. The goal is to help the gorillas become accustomed to human presence, so they can eventually be fully habituated for regular trekking.

Only 4 permits are available per day for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, so it’s important to book in advance (ideally 2-3 months before your trip).

• Gorilla Habituation Permit Costs:
  • USD 1,500 for Foreign Non-Residents
  • USD 1,000 for Foreign Residents
  • UGX 220,000 for East African Citizens

What’s the Difference Between Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habituation?

While both activities offer the opportunity to see mountain gorillas, the key difference is the length of time spent with the gorillas:

• Gorilla Trekking: You spend 1 hour with the gorillas. It’s done in a group of up to 8 people.
• Gorilla Habituation: You spend 4 hours with the gorillas, allowing for a deeper experience. This activity is done in smaller groups of 4 people.

Both activities are physically demanding, as they require hiking through the dense forest, so it’s important to be in good physical condition.

When Is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?

The best time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi is during the drier months of the year. These include:

• January to February
• June to September

The dry season makes trekking easier as the trails are less muddy, and the vegetation is thinner, offering better visibility. However, Bwindi’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to come prepared for rain at any time.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

When preparing for a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Forest, packing the right gear is essential to ensure a comfortable and successful experience. The terrain is challenging, and the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be well-prepared. Below is a list of recommended items to pack for your trek:

• Insect Repellent – Protect yourself from pesky insects in the forest.
• Torch/Flashlight – Ensure you have a reliable light source with spare batteries.
• Wet Wipes – Handy for quick clean-ups during the trek.
• Water Bottle – Stay hydrated throughout the hike.
• Camera & Lenses – Capture the unforgettable moments with the gorillas.
• Comfortable Hiking Boots & Socks – A sturdy pair of boots is a must for the muddy and rugged terrain.
• Gardening Gloves – Protect your hands when handling plants and brush along the trail.
• Sandals or Comfortable Walking Shoes – Perfect for relaxing after the trek.
• Hat & Sunscreen – Shield yourself from the sun during the hike.
• Rain Jacket – Be prepared for sudden rain showers.
• Sweater/Fleece – Layer up for cooler mornings and evenings.
• Swimwear – If your lodge has a pool, be sure to pack swimwear for some relaxation.
• Binoculars – Great for bird and wildlife watching along the way.

How Challenging Is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest can vary in difficulty, depending on the sector you’re trekking in and the gorilla group you’re tracking. The gorillas are constantly on the move, so trekking conditions can change throughout the day. You may encounter steep and muddy trails, especially during the rainy season, making the trek more challenging. The duration of the trek can also vary, from a couple of hours to a full day of hiking (up to 8 hours or more) at high altitudes.

It’s essential to be in good physical shape, as some sections of the trek can be strenuous, but the reward of encountering these incredible creatures is well worth the effort.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi Forest

Bwindi Forest offers a range of accommodation options, depending on which sector you are trekking in:

Southern Bwindi (Rushaga and Nkuringo):

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Nsongi Camp
• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Karungi Camp

Northern Bwindi (Buhoma and Ruhija):

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp
• Ride 4 a Woman
• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge
• Gift of Nature Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Broadbill Tented Camp

Each of these accommodations is conveniently located near the starting points for gorilla trekking and habituation, making it easy for you to access the park’s entrance.

Which Sector Is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

The choice of sector for your gorilla trek often depends on personal preference and the number of habituated gorilla families available for tracking:

• Rushaga: Known for having the highest number of habituated gorilla families, making it easier to secure a permit.
• Buhoma: Offers a relatively shorter trek duration (3-4 hours) and is ideal for those looking for a less strenuous experience.
• Nkuringo: While it has a higher elevation, making the trek more physically demanding, it offers breathtaking views and fewer visitors.
• Ruhija: A quieter sector, perfect for those seeking a more peaceful trek.

No matter which sector you choose, you’ll have a 99% chance of seeing the mountain gorillas during your trek, thanks to the well-organized trekking system.

How to Get to Bwindi Forest for Gorilla Trekking

By Road:

• From Entebbe/Kampala, it’s an 8-9 hour drive to Bwindi Forest.
• Northern sectors (Buhoma and Ruhija) can be accessed via the Kabale-Kisoro Road.
• Southern sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo) can be reached by turning off the Kabale-Kisoro Highway at Muko.

By Air:

• You can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip (for southern sectors) or Kihihi Airstrip (for northern sectors). Scheduled and chartered flights are operated by Aero Link and Fly Uganda.
• Transfers from the airstrips to your lodge are typically arranged with your tour operator.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Tour with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in providing unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Here’s why you should book with us:

• Expert Guidance: Our team of professional consultants is always ready to assist you in choosing the best trekking options and securing your gorilla permits.
• Tailored Packages: We offer a variety of safari packages, from budget-friendly to luxury options, all designed to cater to your preferences.
• Customer Satisfaction: Check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see how our clients rave about their experience with us. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent service and ensuring your Uganda safari is memorable.
• Peace of Mind: We handle all the logistics, from booking your permits to arranging transfers, accommodations, and everything in between.

Book your gorilla trekking tour with Trek Africa Expeditions and enjoy a seamless, hassle-free adventure in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest.