Gorilla trekking is one of the intriguing adventure activities that attracts a number of tourists to Uganda. The gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in only two safari parks which allows you a close encounter with the rare endangered mountain gorillas. Namely; Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Here below, we bring information you need to know about gorilla trekking in Uganda;

Gorilla Trekking Safari Destination in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park

This is the best gorilla trekking safari destination in Uganda. Bwindi forest park is home to almost half of the remaining mountain gorillas population in the world. On this note, it is ranked as the best gorilla trekking safari destination in the whole world. Apparently, there are about 22 habituated gorilla families open for gorilla safaris to all travelers throughout the year.

Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is divided into four different sectors that allows you an insight to delight in an awesome gorilla adventure. These sectors include; Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo Sector. Each sector features its own accommodation facilities plus gorilla families ready for gorilla safaris all year round. Before book your accommodation lodge/ Camp, take courtesy to know which sector you are going to trek. The sector you going to trek is always indicated on your gorilla permit.

Many tourists love to trek Buhoma sector or Rushaga for their gorilla adventure. This is because the sectors host the most interesting gorilla families that are easy to trek and offer a unique experience. To trek in the above sectors, simply make an early booking for the permits and get chance to trek in any of the above.

For any traveler to delight in a dreamlife gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, we advise you to always prepare advance. This starts with the choice of the Tour Operator who assists you to achieve your dream in the forest jungle. The Tour operators helps you to purchase the gorilla trekking permits, book accommodation, arrange suitable transportation and also ensures that you are safe throughout the entire safari by providing a professional and exceptional tour guide for your trip.

Gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi forest cannot be compared with the trek in Mgahinga national park. This is due to the varying nature of landscape. Bwindi impenetrable forest features a thick undergrowth as well as a varying landscape. Therefore, you experience downhills and uphill while trekking. The trekking process is quite strenuous but offers a fascinating experience in this dense forest jungle.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to the Virunga volcanoes with open bamboo vegetation zones. The park is home to only two habituated gorilla families that is open for gorilla tourism all year round. Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park allows you great chance to see the golden monkey troops thus giving you a double experience on your gorilla safari.

What is the cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda?

For anyone to enjoy a gorilla adventure, you are required to purchase a gorilla trekking permit. In Uganda, the gorilla permit is charged US$700 per person per single trek. Please note that persons below 15 years of age is not allowed to take part in the gorilla trekking experience and is considered young and not fit for the gorilla exercise. And a maximum of 8 people is allowed to trek a single gorilla family per day. 

Early booking and planning give you an insight to enjoy a unique unforgettable gorilla adventure. Always think about booking a gorilla permit at least 4-6 months prior to the date of travel to avoid the last-minute inconvenience and disappointments. Since the permits in the peak/high season tend to be competitive and on a high demand thus they sometimes get done.  

What to pack for Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda ?

Without forgetting that, the Pearl of Africa is blessed with an unpredictable climate therefore rain gears are a must when planning a gorilla adventure in Uganda. Here are some of the gears you need to carry after confirming your gorilla trip;

• Insect and sunscreen repellent to protect your skin
• Cameras for photography, although flash cameras are not allowed
• Plan for the Porters to assist you carry your back pack while trekking at an extra charge.
• Strong hiking gum boots
• Carry long sleeved sweaters, shirts and long sleeved trousers to protect you from wild insect bites plus thorny plants.
• Drinking Water and small snacks to give extra energy while trekking. But take note, eating and drinking when you encounter the gorilla family is not permitted.

In synopsis Mountain gorillas live in the high altitude areas therefore expect to enjoy some hiking before you locate a gorilla family. It is crucial to physically prepare for the activity and drink enough water. However, the trekkers and ranger guides walk you considering the pace of the slowest person without living anyone behind. We are more glad to assist you book your gorilla adventure in the Pearl of Africa. Feel free to contact us with details your gorilla trip.