Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Thinking about a Gorilla Trek in Uganda?

There’s nothing like encountering your first mountain gorilla deep in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. That soft grunt, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the metallic scent of the rainforest—nothing prepares you for the intimacy of that encounter. But beyond the thrill, gorilla trekking in Uganda feels meaningful. Every tourism dollar helps fund conservation projects and uplifts local communities.

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Mountain gorillas Uganda
Uganda gorilla trekking

A Conservation Triumph

Uganda’s mountain gorilla population has surged from just 254 individuals in 1981 to over 1,063 today—a testament to dedicated conservation and community partnerships. Trekking here isn’t just tourism—it’s directly safeguarding one of our planet’s most endangered great apes.

Cost Advantage

Compared to Rwanda (where permits now cost $1,500), Uganda’s gorilla permits are $800—nearly half the price. That makes it one of the most affordable premium wildlife experiences on earth.

Stunning Locations

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most iconic. With 17 habituated gorilla families spread across sectors like Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga, it’s a biodiversity hotspot.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is smaller and quieter, home to the Nyakagezi group and ringed by volcanoes—a perfect off-the-beaten-track option.

Best Time to Trek Gorillas

Uganda offers year-round tracking access, but dry seasons are optimal months as conditions vary.

High Season

June–September & December–February

  • Trails are drier, weather is predictable, but tourist numbers rise and permits need to be booked at least 6–12 months in advance.

Off‑Peak (Rainy) Season

March–May & October–November

  • Expect mud and rain, but enjoy fewer crowds and often lower prices. If you’re seeking solitude and are ready for a bit of muck, this period can be deeply rewarding.

Gorilla Trekking Permits: Costs & Booking Tips

Uganda Permit Price

  • $800 for a standard one-hour tracking permit. Total trip cost (including guiding, transport, accommodation) varies from $1,500 to $3,000+ depending on itinerary, duration and comfort level.

What does the $800 cover?

  • This covers the tracking permit for one hour with gorillas, park access, guides, trackers, and anti-poaching support.

Booking Window

  • Aim for 6–12 months ahead during peak season to guarantee availability. Off-peak windows are more flexible, but early booking is still wise.
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Uganda gorilla trekking

Included In Our Gorilla Trekking Tours

  • Tracking permit and park fees
  • Professional guide and trackers
  • Walking stick
  • Transfers to and from your hotel

Planning Your Gorilla Trek

Choosing the Right Park

  • Bwindi offers the broadest choice of habituated gorilla groups and varying trail difficulty.
  • Mgahinga is ideal if you want a quieter, more intimate experience.

Difficulty & Logistics

  • Trekking can take from under an hour to over 4 hours, depending on gorilla movement.
  • Trails are uneven, muddy, and steep at times—but guides will match groups to hikers’ abilities, and porters are available for support.
  • Many trekkers in their 60s and 70s enjoy this adventure—so age is no barrier if you’re prepared.

What to Pack for the Trek

  • Waterproof hiking boots and long-sleeved clothing
  • Light gloves for navigating vegetation and assisting with grip
  • A daypack with water, snacks, sunscreen, rain gear, and a camera (no flash) 
  • Walking stick and sturdy gaiters—mud and ants are your main foe
  • A face mask to help protect gorillas from human-borne illnesses—these gentle giants are closely related to us and susceptible to respiratory infections

Traveller’s experiences

  • I Cried Tears of Joy

    I thought I was just ticking off a bucket list item—but when that baby gorilla reached out and touched my boot, I broke down in tears. The guides were incredible, the trek was challenging but manageable, and Bwindi felt like a sacred place. Worth every penny.
    Sophie, UK

  • Better Than Any Safari

    I’ve done the Serengeti, Kruger, and Maasai Mara. But nothing compares to sitting silently with gorillas in the wild. It’s spiritual. Uganda’s trek was intense, muddy, and sweaty—but the moment we found the troop, time stood still. Truly life-affirming.
    Andrea, Italy

  • Uganda Stole My Heart

    This wasn’t just a holiday—it felt like a pilgrimage. We stayed in a community-run lodge, hiked through thick forest, and found ourselves face-to-face with a silverback named Mucunguzi. I’ll never forget his eyes. Uganda is raw, beautiful, and full of soul.
    Rachel, USA

  • Truly Unforgettable

    We chose Uganda over Rwanda because of cost and ethical travel goals. Amatsiko Tours was amazing—they support local schools, use local staff, and their knowledge is unmatched. Seeing the gorillas was the icing on the cake.
    Priya, Germany

Incredible Tours

  • 3-Day: Volunteering, Gorilla Trekking, Cultural Immersion

  • A serene image of a lioness cuddling with her cubs in the Tanzanian savanna, showcasing wildlife intimacy.

    11-Day: Uganda Adventure: Gorillas, Savannahs & Community Connections

  • Uganda safari experience

    4 Day: Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari

Conservation and Community Impact

Every gorilla permit and trek helps fund:

  • Anti-poaching patrols and ranger salaries
  • Community education and health programmes
  • Local employment—porters, guides, lodge staff; tourism now outpaces poaching in earning potential
  • Social projects like Amatsiko Preparatory School—built using safari proceeds
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Gorilla trek Uganda

Gorilla Trek Uganda: Tips & FAQs

We understand you might have questions before booking your Gorilla Trek in Uganda. Here are some common queries. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us directly!

Peak months require 6–12 months lead time; off‑peak around 3–6 months usually works fine.

Yes—with different groups, but each visit needs its own permit. Repeat treks grant deeper insights with habituated gorillas.

Yes. You need to be at least 15 years old to trek gorillas in Uganda, though exceptions may be made for mature 14-year-olds with prior approval from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

There’s no upper age limit, and many trekkers in their 60s and beyond take part—just bring a reasonable level of fitness. The terrain can be steep and muddy, so I highly recommend hiring a porter for around $20. They’ll carry your bag, help you up and down tricky sections, and your fee supports their family and community.

Yes—tours follow strict guidelines: 1‑hour visits, limited group sizes, no flash photos, and mandatory distance measures to stop disease spread.

They’re very different. Chimp trekking (e.g. Kibale Forest) involves watching lively, acrobatic creatures in treetops—while gorilla treks offer quiet, majestic, ground-level encounters.

We would love to share our passion for Uganda with you.

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Ready to Experience the Magic of a Gorilla Trek Uganda?


If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable encounter with mountain gorillas while supporting real conservation and community impact, then a Gorilla Trek Uganda should be at the top of your list. Whether it’s your first African adventure or one of many, this is one you’ll carry in your heart forever.

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