Planning gorilla safari in Uganda while on Self drive Holiday in Africa– Find the best updated step by step gorilla trekking guide to help plan and explore the ultimate Uganda primates for unique watching experiences in the wilderness of Bwindi impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an amazing adventure that lets you see mountain gorillas up close in their natural home. Uganda is special because it has more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
These animals live mainly in two places, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both in the south western part of Uganda. Trekking to see gorillas is not just about seeing animals, it’s about helping protect them and their environment.
This guide will help you understand how to plan your Self Drive trip to Uganda for gorilla trekking, including where to go, when to visit, and how to get permits.
You will also find helpful tips on what to pack and what to expect during your trek. If you love wildlife and adventure, gorilla trekking in Uganda is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Book a Uganda Car Rental with 4wd Africa to secure the gorilla permit on your behalf from Uganda Wildlife authority to explore the primates in your 4wd Landcruiser with optional Camping option for ultimate experience.
Uganda's Bwindi & Mgahinga
In the entire continent of Africa , it only Uganda that has two destinations for mountain gorilla trekking at the same cost – either you can select to visit the gorillas in either park while on Uganda road trip with Self Drive Africa.
If your plan was to see the gorillas in Rwanda but your budget restrictions prevented you from going on gorilla safari in Rwanda then the best option is Mgahinga National Park which is a sought-after destination for those looking to combine their gorilla trekking with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park visit to Golden monkey.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is known for its stunning scenery, it offers a unique experience in Uganda as the only place where you can trek Golden Monkeys. A popular Uganda Safari itinerary includes Uganda as the only place where you can trek Golden Monkeys and combining gorilla trekking in Nkuringo with a trek in Mgahinga.
Compared to Bwindi, Mgahinga tends to be less crowded, and the treks are generally easier, making it an attractive option for many travelers. However, there are fewer permits available, adding to its exclusivity.
The park’s gorilla families, while often crossing into Rwanda, remain under Uganda’s protection. The Nyakagezi group is the only habituated gorilla family in Mgahinga, consists of five silverbacks, two adult females, and three younger gorillas.
Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga offers an intimate and rewarding experience, guided by skilled trackers who are experts in navigating the park’s terrain.
These guides provide invaluable insights into the gorillas’ behavior and their natural habitat, ensuring both safety and an enriching encounter with these magnificent creatures.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda’s premier gorilla trekking destination, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience. The park is consists of 50 gorilla families with 13 solitary individuals, but only 21 Habituated families can be accessed from four main sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
Each trailhead has its unique characteristics, including different landscapes and levels of difficulty. Besides gorillas, you may encounter other wildlife like birds, monkeys, or forest elephants.
The park itself is stunning, with scenic views of the forest and surrounding mountains.
4wd Africa Team do acknowledges that gorilla trekking is an activity done through out the year but we do also understand that there is what we call best time to see the gorillas in Uganda.
The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which occur from December to February and from June to August. During these months, the weather is more stable, and the trails are easier to follow, making for an enjoyable trekking experience. visit the article that talks about how far in advance should you book your gorilla permit
A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs US$ 800 for foreign non-residents in 2025, African Citizens cost 500$$ and East African Citizens its 100$
The Uganda gorilla permits are sold by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) as the sole government entity and the new rules of Uganda tourism board only allows travelers to secure gorilla permits through licensed tour operators by UTB and 4wd Africa is among them and ready to help you secure the gorilla permit for ultimate gorilla trekking experience .
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING GORILLA TREKKING
Upon arriving at the trailhead, you’ll join a group of up to 8 trekkers and be guided by an experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority guide who will provide insights into the forest and help you navigate the rugged terrain. Treks begin at 8:00 AM, with group sizes kept small to ensure gorilla safety and improve sightings. The trek can be challenging with steep slopes, muddy paths, and dense vegetation, but the effort is worth it. The guide stays in contact with trackers to help find the gorillas, ensuring a safe and successful trek. Once you locate a gorilla family, you’ll observe them for up to one hour (or longer for habituation). Be ready for a physically demanding hike, with some slippery or steep sections, and unpredictable weather, including rain, mist, or humidity. Proper footwear like sturdy boots is essential.
WHAT IS THE AGE LIMIT FOR GORILLA TRACKING IN UGANDA?
The minimum age to trek gorillas in Uganda is 15 years old, however there is an exception for children of 14 years turning to 15 years to trek considering the right paper work and proof of birth certificate.
VITAL REQUIREMENTS TO TREK IN UGANDA
ESSENTIAL CLOTHING DURING GORILLA TREK
When preparing for a gorilla trekking adventure, it’s important to wear the right clothing to ensure comfort, protection, and safety. The terrain can be challenging, and the weather can change quickly, so having the right gear is essential. Below are the key clothing items you will need for a successful and enjoyable gorilla trek.