Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. If you’re dreaming of standing just meters away from a silverback gorilla, surrounded by dense rainforest and misty mountain air, gorilla trekking in Uganda may just be the journey of a lifetime.
Table of Contents
At Amatsiko Tours, we believe this experience is not only thrilling but deeply meaningful because every trek helps fund conservation and supports our local school and community projects.
What’s involved in Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking in Uganda involves hiking through the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to find a habituated gorilla family. Once you find them, you spend up to one magical hour observing their behavior—often just a few meters away.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) regulates all treks, and each group is led by trained park rangers. Permits are required and limited to protect the gorillas.
Where Does Gorilla Trekking Happen?
Uganda’s gorillas live in two protected areas:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Home to over half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Smaller, but equally rewarding, with one habituated group (Nyakagezi).
Each sector offers a unique experience in terrain and scenery. Amatsiko Tours will help select the best one based on your fitness and travel plans.
How Much Does It Cost?
As of July 2025, the gorilla trekking permit for foreign non-residents costs $800 USD per person. This includes park entry, ranger guides, and one hour with the gorillas. The permit must be booked in advance through a licensed tour operator like Amatsiko Tours.
For details on what’s included, see our 7-Day Gorilla Trekking Tour.
What to Expect on the Day
- Early Start: Your day begins with a briefing at 7:30 am at the Visitor Information Center.
- Group Allocation: You’ll be grouped with up to 7 others based on your fitness level and assigned a gorilla family to track.
- The Trek: The hike can last anywhere from 30 minutes to over 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas have moved. The terrain is steep and can be slippery—you’ll be provided with a walking stick, and there’s also an opportunity to hire a local porter for around $20. We highly recommend this, as they’ll not only carry your bag but also help guide you up and down the mountain safely.
- The Encounter: Once your group locates the gorilla family, you’ll have up to 1 hour to quietly observe them and take photos or videos (no flash). It’s a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Return & Debriefing: After the trek, you’ll return to the starting point for a short debriefing and certificate of participation.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Long pants and long-sleeved shirt
- Rain jacket (it’s rainforest!)
- Garden gloves (for grasping vegetation)
- Face mask
- Packed lunch and at least 1.5 liters of water
- Camera with extra batteries/phone and power pack (no flash)
Is Gorilla Trekking Safe?
Yes. Treks are led by armed UWA rangers and trackers who follow strict safety protocols. Only habituated gorilla groups are visited, and the health of both visitors and gorillas is carefully monitored.
Best Time to Go
Uganda’s dry seasons (June–August and December–February) are ideal, with clearer trails and better trekking conditions. However, treks operate year-round, and the rainforest remains lush and beautiful even in the rains.
Who Can Trek Gorillas?
Participants must be at least 15 years old. Moderate fitness is required, as terrain can be steep and slippery. Our team will help match you with a suitable trek based on your ability.
Conservation Impact
Every permit helps protect Uganda’s mountain gorillas and their habitat. At Amatsiko, we go further: part of your tour fee supports Amatsiko Preparatory School, giving children in rural communities access to quality education.
By joining us, you’re not just seeing gorillas—you’re creating lasting hope (‘Amatsiko’) in the lives of local families.
Internal & External Resources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is gorilla trekking in Uganda safe?
A: Yes, it’s a highly regulated and safe activity with trained rangers and strict protocols.
Q: How much does gorilla trekking in Uganda cost?
A: $800 USD per permit for foreign non-residents as of July 2025.
Q: What should I wear and bring during gorilla trekking Uganda?
A: Comfortable hiking gear, gloves, rain protection, and a good camera.
Q: Can children trek with gorillas?
A: No. The minimum age is 15.
Q: Do I need to be fit?
A: A moderate level of fitness is recommended. Treks can be long and challenging.
Ready to meet the mountain gorillas? Contact us to plan your unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking in Uganda.
