Planning a gorilla trekking adventure to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda? Whether you’re organizing a 3-day road trip or looking to explore the park for longer, here’s everything you need to know about booking your gorilla trek.
Located in the southern part of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park shares a border with Congo and is one of only two places in the world where you can trek and see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking.
Bwindi is divided into several trekking sectors, including Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Each sector is home to different habituated gorilla families, led by a dominant silverback male. Only 8 trekkers are allowed per family per day to ensure conservation efforts. To go on a trek, you’ll need a valid gorilla trekking permit for that specific day.
The cost of gorilla trekking in Bwindi includes the gorilla permit, which is required for each person to go on a trek. The cost of the permit depends on your residency status:
For those interested in a more immersive experience, there is the Gorilla Habituation Permit, which allows you to spend 4 hours with the gorillas, observing their behavior and interactions. The cost of the habituation permit is higher:
Keep in mind that permits are limited and can sell out quickly, especially during the high season (January, February, July, August, September, and December). Contact us as soon as possible to check availability and secure your spot.
Your gorilla trekking experience starts early in the morning, around 7:00 am, with a briefing on the rules and guidelines for the trek. Afterward, you’ll head into the forest with guides, rangers, and trackers to find your assigned gorilla family. Once located, you’ll have one hour to observe the gorillas—watching them feed, rest, and interact.
Due to the gorillas’ close genetic similarity to humans (95%), the encounter is an awe-inspiring and humbling experience. The trek is a physically challenging adventure, but the reward of seeing these magnificent creatures in the wild makes it truly unforgettable.
When planning your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, understanding the transportation costs is key to estimating the total cost of your 3-day gorilla safari. Transportation includes fuel for the round trip, vehicle hire, and driver guide fees.
We use 4×4 safari vehicles for transport, ensuring a smooth ride across all terrains. Our professional and knowledgeable driver guides are well-versed in the local fauna and flora, offering you insightful commentary throughout your journey to and from Bwindi.
During your visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you’ll spend two nights in the area. The cost of your accommodation will vary depending on the sector where you’re trekking the gorillas and the level of comfort you prefer.
To make your stay more convenient, we recommend booking lodges located within the specific gorilla trekking sector. Here are some options:
Accommodation in Bwindi is in high demand, especially during the high season, so it’s essential to book in advance.
Booking your road trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is simple and affordable with Trek Africa Gorillas Ltd. We offer flexible packages that can include a variety of tourism destinations and activities, or just the gorilla trekking experience.
You can book your gorilla safari via email for easy record-keeping or through WhatsApp for quick communication and responses. Our team will work with you to create a package that fits your budget and interests.
At Trek Africa Gorillas Ltd, we organizes unforgettable gorilla safaris to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Our dedicated team has years of experience planning authentic safari experiences with a perfect blend of young, energetic staff and seasoned managers who are passionate about delivering the best experience.
We offer discounted packages for gorilla safaris from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi and can also arrange cultural experiences for a deeper connection to the local heritage.
With Trek Africa Gorillas Ltd, you’re in good hands—our service is highly rated on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, with glowing reviews from travelers who have experienced our exceptional service.
Contact us today to learn more about booking your gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi!