1-Day: Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Experience one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters on Earth with a 1-day gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This action-packed day begins with an early morning pick-up and takes you on a scenic journey through the misty hills of southwestern Uganda, culminating in a face-to-face encounter with a family of majestic Mountain Gorillas.

For the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda

A close-up of a gorilla seated in a green and dense jungle environment, showcasing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Gorilla Tour in Uganda in Bwindi Forest with Amatsiko Tours

Yes — Uganda is generally a very safe country to visit, especially when traveling with an organized tour like ours. On our trips, you’ll be with trusted private guides and drivers who know the areas well, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.

As with any destination, it’s wise to take basic precautions: avoid exploring cities like Kampala or Entebbe alone at night, keep valuables secure and close to you, skip wearing flashy jewelry, and store important documents such as passports in your hotel safe. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be free to enjoy Uganda’s beauty and warm hospitality with peace of mind.

Every trip with Amatsiko Tours is designed to be more than a holiday — it’s a meaningful connection to Uganda. We blend unforgettable experiences like gorilla trekking, game drives, and cultural encounters with the knowledge that your visit directly supports local communities. A portion of every booking funds education through Amatsiko Preparatory School and community projects like clean water and sustainable farming. You’ll travel with warm, knowledgeable local guides, enjoy carefully chosen accommodations, and leave knowing your journey has made a real difference.

Absolutely. At Amatsiko Tours, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. We start by listening to your interests, travel style, and must-see moments, then design an itinerary that fits you perfectly. You can build your trip from scratch or use one of our popular tours as inspiration — either way, our team will fine-tune every detail so your Uganda adventure feels truly your own.

Yes! Uganda offers the chance to see the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — along with plenty of other incredible wildlife. On safari, you might also spot hyenas, hippos, zebras, the unique Ugandan kob, and over 1,000 bird species in every shape and color. And if you love primates, you’re in the right place: Uganda’s forests are home to 24 species of monkeys, from nocturnal galagos to striking blue monkeys — and, of course, the unforgettable mountain gorilla.

1-Day: Gorilla Trekking Adventure Overview

Price

From $1,153 USD

Meals

Lunch & Drinking water

Best Time

Jun-Aug & Dec-Feb

Included

Gorilla permit (one per person)
Park entry fees
Ranger guide & trek briefing
Professional driver/guide
Transportation during the tour
Lunch and drinking water
All government taxes and VAT

Excluded

International flights
Airport transfers (available at extra cost)
Accommodation before and after the tour
Tips (Suggested: $10 per person per day)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, insurance, visas, etc.)
Any government-imposed fee increases

Good to know

Gorilla trekking is not permitted for children under the age of 15
Tour rates are per person and exclude international airfare
Gorilla permits are non-refundable and non-transferable
June to September (Gorilla permits sell out quickly)

Ready to create memories that last a lifetime?

You can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work with you to create your dream journey!

Request this trip now

Itinerary

05:00 AM – Hotel Pick-up
Your adventure starts bright and early with a 5:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Kabale, Kisoro, Rubanda, Rukiga, Kanungu, or Butogota. Enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills and lush countryside as the sun rises over the misty landscapes.

07:30 AM – Park Arrival and Briefing
Arrive at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you’ll be welcomed by park rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). After a short orientation and safety briefing, you’ll be assigned to a trekking group based on your fitness level.

08:00 AM – Gorilla Trekking Experience
Set off into the dense tropical forest for a 3–6 hour trek, depending on the location of the gorilla family. The hike takes you through a breathtaking landscape rich with biodiversity. Once the gorillas are located, you’ll spend a magical hour in their presence—watching them interact, feed, and care for one another in their natural habitat.

01:00 PM – Return and Lunch
After your trek, return to the park headquarters to receive your trekking certificate. Enjoy a well-deserved packed lunch while soaking in the incredible experience.

03:00 PM – Return Drive
Depart the park and enjoy a relaxing drive back to your hotel, reflecting on your extraordinary encounter with one of the world’s most awe-inspiring species.

Highlights

Trek through Bwindi or Mgahinga to encounter mountain gorillas
Scenic sunrise drive through Uganda’s misty hills
Spend one unforgettable hour with a gorilla family
Guided by expert Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers

Packing Tips

Face mask
Gardening gloves
Hiking boots & long sleeves

Read our What to Pack for Uganda: The Complete Traveler’s Checklist

Day 1

Magical Gorilla Trekking Experience

Arrive at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you’ll be welcomed by park rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). After a short orientation and safety briefing, you’ll be assigned to a trekking group based on your fitness level.

Set off into the dense tropical forest for a 3–6 hour trek, depending on the location of the gorilla family. The hike takes you through a breathtaking landscape rich with biodiversity. Once the gorillas are located, you’ll spend a magical hour in their presence—watching them interact, feed, and care for one another in their natural habitat.

After your trek, return to the park headquarters to receive your trekking certificate. Enjoy a well-deserved packed lunch while soaking in the incredible experience.

Traveller experiences

“Nothing can prepare you for the moment you first see a mountain gorilla in the wild. The trek through the misty hills was challenging but breathtaking, with every step bringing us deeper into a world few get to experience. When we finally found the gorilla family, time seemed to stand still—watching them eat, play, and care for each other was humbling beyond words. Our guide was incredible, making the day seamless and sharing fascinating stories about the forest and its wildlife. It’s an experience I’ll carry with me forever, and I’m so grateful to Amatsiko Tours for making it possible.”

— Marco, Italy

Why travel with Amatsiko Tours?

With Amatsiko Tours, you’ll experience Uganda in a deeper, more meaningful way—guided by locals, welcomed like family, and part of something bigger.

Private, purpose-led safaris – Tailored adventures that directly support local communities
Expert English speaking local guides – Passionate storytellers who bring Uganda’s landscapes and culture to life.
Travel that gives back – 20% of your fee funds Amatsiko School, helping over 400 children.
Real support, every step – Friendly, honest advice from people who genuinely care about your journey.