2 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi National Park

3 Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation Safari

3 Days Flying Safari to Gorilla Trekking.

3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari and Batwa Pygmies Visit in Bwindi National Park

4 Days Golden monkeys And Gorilla Trekking Safari

4 days safari with Gorilla and Queen Elizabeth national park

5 Days wildlife, Gorillas and Chimpanzee Trekking safari In Uganda

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15 Days Gorilla Safari and wildlife in Uganda

The age limit for gorilla trekking is set at 15 years. This restriction is in place for several important reasons:

Maturity and Capacity to Listen: Children under 15 may lack the maturity and capacity to follow the strict guidelines necessary for a safe and successful trek. The ability to listen to and follow instructions from guides is crucial in the dense forests where gorillas live.

Health and Safety: Younger children are more prone to infectious diseases, which can be transmitted to the gorillas. Mountain gorillas share about 98% of their DNA with humans, making them susceptible to human illnesses. To protect these endangered animals, it is essential to minimize their exposure to potential health risks.

Physical Demands: Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, involving long hikes through rugged and sometimes slippery terrain. Children under 15 may not have the physical stamina required for such an adventure.

As of 1st July 2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $800 per person for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents the rest of Africa $500 and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. The permit fee includes park entry, a guided trek, and one hour with a gorilla family. This fee contributes to conservation efforts and community development projects, ensuring the protection of these endangered animals and their habitats.

The best time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. During these periods, the weather is more favourable, with less rainfall making the trekking trails easier to navigate. The lush landscapes and clear skies provide the perfect backdrop for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is primarily conducted in two national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is home to almost half (51%) of the world’s mountain gorilla population, making it a prime location for trekking. Mgahinga, though smaller with only one gorilla family (Nyakagezi Family), offers a unique and less congested experience with its scenic views and diverse wildlife.

A gorilla trekking safari holiday in Uganda offers more than just the chance to see gorillas. It is an immersive experience that connects you with local communities like the Batwa Community around the forests of Bwindi. Uganda’s diverse landscapes, from misty mountains to dense rainforests, provide a stunning backdrop for your adventure. Additionally, the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that your visit contributes to the protection of these magnificent creatures and their habitats.

Getting to Uganda’s gorilla trekking sites typically involves flying into Entebbe International Airport, followed by a domestic flight from Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi Airstrip in Kanungu or a scenic 7–8-hour drive to the national parks. Most tours offer transportation options, including comfortable 4x4 safari vehicles, ensuring a smooth journey to your trekking destination.

While gorilla trekking is the highlight, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on your tour. These include:

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

While gorilla trekking is the main draw, Uganda offers a wealth of primate experiences. Chimpanzee tracking is a popular activity in Kibale Forest National Park, where you can observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, and the park is often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World” due to its high primate diversity. Chimpanzee trekking also happens in:

Kalinzu Forest: Located in Bushenyi district near Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest is another excellent spot for chimpanzee trekking. It is less crowded than Kibale, offering a more intimate experience.

Kyambura Gorge: Situated in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura Gorge is known for its dramatic landscapes and the opportunity to see chimpanzees in a unique underground forest.

Kaniyo Pabidi Forest: Part of Murchison Falls National Park, this forest offers a serene trekking experience with a good chance of encountering chimpanzees.

Budongo Forest: Also located in Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo is known for its large population of chimpanzees and diverse birdlife.

Bird Watching in Uganda

Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 1,000 species recorded across the country. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park alone is home to more than 350 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics. Whether you’re an avid birder or a casual observer, bird watching is a delightful addition to any gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.

Nature Walks and Batwa Cultural Experiences

Apart from gorilla trekking, you can engage in nature walks, guided by experienced rangers who will introduce you to the park’s rich flora and fauna. Visiting the local Batwa community is another highlight, offering insights into the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous people who once lived in Bwindi’s forests.

Luxury Lodges

Uganda offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. For those seeking luxury, high-end lodges near Bwindi and Mgahinga provide an exceptional experience. These lodges often feature spacious rooms, en-suite bathrooms, private balconies with forest views, and personalized services such as private butlers and gourmet dining. Many luxury lodges are eco-friendly, incorporating sustainable practices to minimize their impact on the environment.

Mid-Range Accommodations

Mid-range accommodations offer a balance between comfort and affordability. These lodges and camps are well-equipped, with cosy rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and locally sourced meals. They are often located close to the park entrances, providing easy access to the starting points for gorilla trekking in Uganda. Mid-range options are ideal for travellers who want a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.

Budget Options on a gorilla trekking Safari

For budget-conscious travellers, there are numerous campsites and budget lodges near Bwindi and Mgahinga. While these accommodations may lack the luxuries of higher-end options, they provide basic amenities, including shared bathrooms and simple meals. Staying in budget accommodations allows you to allocate more of your budget to activities and permits while still enjoying the beauty of Uganda’s wilderness.

Proximity to the Parks

One of the key considerations when choosing accommodation for your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda is proximity to the park. Staying closer to the park entrance minimizes transfer times and allows for a more relaxed start to your trekking day. Additionally, many lodges are situated in areas with abundant wildlife, offering the chance to spot animals from the comfort of your accommodation.

Accommodation costs vary widely depending on the level of comfort and luxury. Luxury lodges can range from USD 300 to USD 1,000 per night, while mid-range options typically cost between USD 100 and USD 300 per night. Budget accommodations are available for under USD 100 per night, making them a more affordable option for those on a tighter budget. 

Yes, gorilla trekking in Uganda is generally safe when conducted with the guidance of experienced professionals. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) enforces strict rules to ensure the safety of both visitors and gorillas. These include maintaining a minimum distance from the gorillas, limiting the number of visitors per group, and prohibiting sick individuals from participating in the trek.

Mountain gorillas are an endangered species that were almost extinct due to constant poaching from the locals, but with the coming and conservation ideas of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, gorillas survived. With the help of the government of Uganda, some rules have been set up to continue conserving the natural habitat of the Mountain gorillas. The rules are to be followed by all who intend to go for a gorilla trek for your safety and the safety of the gorillas, and these include:

• Uganda’s gorilla trekking age limit is 15 years, and no one below that age will be allowed to trek the gorillas.
• Feeding of the Mountain gorillas is prohibited.
• After locating the gorillas, the trekkers are allowed a maximum of an hour with the gorillas studying their behavioral patterns and taking photos and videos.
• You need to keep a distance of about 7 to 10 meters away from the gorillas.
• Gorillas are not used to flash photography, so make sure that you turn your camera flash off before taking photos.
• A maximum of 8 people is allowed to trek the assigned gorilla families.
• Holes 30 cm deep are to be dug and covered for hikers planning on using the toilet because there are no toilets within the national park.
• Avoid littering the national park with rubbish by leaving it the way you found it.
• Do not in any way get close to the gorillas to avoid passing on infections in case you are sick.
• No one can eat, smoke, or drink with the gorillas.
• Avoid staring at the gorillas in the eye, don’t put on sunglasses, and in cases where the gorillas approach you, follow the instructions given to you by the guides.

Packing for a gorilla trekking safari to Uganda requires some careful planning. Here are some essentials to bring:

• Pack some warm clothes like sweaters for when the weather drastically changes.
• A raincoat is necessary whether you are travelling in the dry or wet season.
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers protect your skin from insect bites, keep you warm, and protect your skin from tree scratches. The clothes packed should be neutral or in brown, khaki, and green colours. Avoid blue, any other brightly coloured clothes, and black. Also, make sure to avoid jeans.
• First aid kit fully packed with all the medicines prescribed by your doctor, bandages, spirit, iodine, cotton, tummy ache medicines, pain killers, and other things needed to treat scratches during the trek.
• Gaiters, socks, and garden gloves are needed. The socks are used to keep you warm, and during the trek, trousers are tucked into the socks to prevent insects from crawling up your pants. The garden gloves and non-surgical gloves protect your hands from tree scratches during the trek, and the adjustable gaiters are mainly used during the wet season.
• Strong ankle-length boots are necessary to keep your feet steady on the trek, especially during the wet season. They should be well-fitting to avoid blisters and waterproof if you can get them.

Other items that you need to pack include a refillable water bottle, flashlight, extra batteries, camera and extra lenses, binoculars, wet wipes, biodegradable toilet paper, scarf, sandals, sunscreen, insect repellent, a sun hat, and toiletries, among others.

Choosing the right tour operator can make all the difference in your gorilla trekking experience. Dav Safaris offers expertly guided tours, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure.

Note that the Uganda Wildlife Authority prints limited permits per day, so it is important to book early for your trip. After purchasing your permit, expect to track gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Whether you opt for a 3 days gorilla trekking safari in Uganda or a longer itinerary, you need to book for the gorilla safari in advance because of the high demand for gorilla permits and easy planning. Contact Us to help you book the gorilla permit and organize your entire safari to Uganda, depending on your budget. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor to make the right decision.