Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

If you’re wondering where gorilla trekking is done in Uganda, the answer lies in two incredible destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are among the only habitats in the world for the endangered mountain gorillas. While Uganda boasts these two remarkable parks, neighboring countries like Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (Virunga National Park) also provide mountain gorilla trekking experiences.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park: Home to Half the World’s Mountain Gorillas

Bwindi is one of Africa’s oldest forests and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its incredible biodiversity. This lush rainforest is home to over 350 bird species, 310 types of butterflies, 200 tree species, 51 reptiles, 88 types of moths and 120 mammal species. Alongside mountain gorillas, Bwindi is also home to other primates, including chimpanzees and L’Hoest’s monkeys.

Bwindi harbors nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, with around 1,064 individuals globally. The park has over 15 habituated gorilla families available for trekking, with a maximum of 8 trekking permits issued per family daily.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Volcanoes and Rare Primates

Located in southwestern Uganda near the borders of Rwanda and Congo, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is part of the famous Virunga Volcanoes range. This small but spectacular park is home to three dormant volcanoes: Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura and Mount Sabyinyo, which are part of the larger chain of six Virunga Mountains.

Mgahinga is known for its rare golden monkeys and mountain gorillas, offering visitors the chance to experience both species in one park. The park’s terrain includes lush bamboo forests, montane rainforests and tropical seasonal forests, creating a unique ecosystem for its inhabitants.

How Gorilla Trekking Works in Bwindi: Sectors and Families

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is organized across four main sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo. Each sector has different habituated gorilla families to track and the choice of sector often depends on your itinerary and accommodation preferences.

• Buhoma Sector (North): Located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, this area is ideal for combining gorilla trekking with game viewing.
• Ruhija Sector (Northeast): Another northern option, Ruhija is also accessible for travelers exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Rushaga Sector (South): This sector has the highest number of habituated gorilla families, making it popular for trekking.
• Nkuringo Sector (South): Close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Nkuringo offers opportunities for golden monkey tracking in addition to gorilla trekking.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs in Uganda

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda varies depending on your residency status:

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person
• East African Residents: $700 per person
• East African Citizens: $80 per person

This permit allows you to spend up to one unforgettable hour with a mountain gorilla family after trekking to their location. A typical 3-day gorilla trekking package from Kigali costs approximately $1,290 per person, inclusive of permits, transport and accommodation.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda

To secure your gorilla trekking experience, you’ll need to purchase a permit in advance. Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and can be obtained through their offices in Kampala or Kisoro.

Alternatively, you can simplify the process by booking through Trek Africa Gorillas, a trusted local tour operator. Once you share your desired trekking dates, Trek Africa Gorillas will tentatively reserve permits for you, send you an invoice and secure your permits after payment. You’ll receive scanned copies of the permits for your records.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons:

• January to February
• June to early September

During these months, the forest trails are easier to navigate and the vegetation is less dense, offering clearer views of the gorillas.

Essential Gear and What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking

Packing the right gear is essential for a successful trek. Here’s what you should wear and bring:

• Long-sleeved sweater or shirt: The forest can be chilly.
• Two pairs of long trousers: For protection from scratches.
• Waterproof hiking boots: Essential for navigating the rugged terrain.
• Raincoat: Bwindi’s rainforest weather can be unpredictable.
• Gardening gloves: To help grip trees and avoid thorny plants.
• Mosquito repellent: To protect against insects.
• Neutral-colored clothing: Avoid bright colors that might startle the gorillas or black/blue shades that attract tsetse flies.
• Sunscreen & sunglasses: Optional, depending on the weather.
• Binoculars: Perfect for spotting birds and other wildlife.
• Camera (without flash): Capture memories of your trek.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda

The choice of accommodation depends on the trekking sector you select:

• Rushaga Sector: Options include Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge and Gorilla Safari Lodge.
• Nkuringo Sector: Stay at Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge or Lake Mutanda Resort.
• Buhoma Sector: Lodges like Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge and Buhoma Community Rest Camp are great choices.
• Ruhija Sector: Consider Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge or Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Options range from luxury Gahinga Lodge to budget-friendly Lake Chahafi Lodge.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we organize tailor-made gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. Whether you’re starting your adventure in Uganda or Kigali, Rwanda, our experienced team ensures your trip is seamless. With fast responses to your queries (within 20 minutes), customized travel plans and knowledgeable guides fluent in your preferred language, we guarantee an unforgettable safari experience.

Ready to plan your gorilla trekking adventure? Contact us today to secure your permits and create a lifetime of memories in the heart of Uganda’s rainforests.