Because gorillas are closely monitored, with researchers and trekkers tracking them daily, guides have a very good idea of their whereabouts. This gives you a 99% chance of spotting them during your trek. However, since they are wild animals, there is always a small element of unpredictability. Factors like sudden thunderstorms or encounters with predators could cause a troop to change direction unexpectedly. Even in such cases, scouts are usually able to locate their trail again, making it very rare for trekkers to miss out on a gorilla sighting.

Once you locate a gorilla family, your ranger will ask you to leave everything except your camera. They will then guide you closer for an intimate yet respectful observation. There are no barriers—just mutual understanding. The gorillas, who are accustomed to human presence, continue their natural behaviors such as foraging, grooming, and resting, without fear. The young ones are often playful and curious, sometimes testing the patience of their teenage babysitters. While the group remains generally calm, the dominant silverback always keeps a watchful eye on everything.

To fully immerse yourself in the experience, it is recommended to take some photos, but also spend at least 20 minutes simply observing. This allows you to truly appreciate these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, creating memories that go far beyond what a camera can capture.

What Time Does Gorilla Trekking Start and End?

Gorilla trekking officially begins at 7:00 AM with a mandatory briefing at the park headquarters. This briefing covers important guidelines on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking, safety instructions, and an overview of what to expect during the trek. After the briefing, experienced park guides, armed rangers, and trained trackers lead groups into the forest in search of the allocated gorilla family.

Walking into the forest starts at 8:00 AM and can last until approximately 3:00 PM. The duration of the trek can vary depending on several factors, including the movement of the gorillas within the forest. Some treks may be relatively short, while others may extend throughout the day, requiring a full-day hike through the rugged terrain.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking occurs in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which has four designated trekking regions: Ruhija, Buhoma, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Additionally, it takes place in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which has one gorilla family, Nyakagezi. The experience involves venturing into the dense rainforest to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat.

Upon locating the gorillas, visitors are granted one hour to observe and take photographs while maintaining a safe distance. After the viewing session, the group heads back to the starting point. At the end of the trek, each participant receives a certificate recognizing their successful gorilla trekking experience. The entire journey, from the initial briefing to returning from the forest, is unpredictable, influenced by the gorillas’ movements, weather conditions, and the pace of the trekking group. Regardless of the duration, gorilla trekking remains an extraordinary wildlife encounter and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

How to Book Gorilla Permits for Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks

Securing a gorilla trekking permit is an essential part of your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The booking process is simple and can be done directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or with the help of a trusted tour operator.

Once your travel dates are confirmed, send an inquiry via email to check the availability of gorilla permits. The UWA manages the permit system, and availability is limited due to conservation regulations. After receiving your request, we will verify the availability of gorilla trekking or habituation permits for your specified dates. If permits are available, we will notify you and send an invoice for payment.

After payment is received, we will purchase the permits on your behalf and send you a scanned copy as proof of booking, confirming your reservation for the Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park.

It is recommended to book your permits well in advance, at least two to three months before your visit. Since only a limited number of permits are issued each day, and they sell out quickly, early reservations are crucial for securing your preferred trekking dates.

Where Can You Go for Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is a remarkable wildlife experience available in three African countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These countries are home to the last remaining mountain gorillas, protected within four national parks.

  • In Uganda, gorilla trekking occurs in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
  • In Rwanda, the experience takes place in Volcanoes National Park.
  • In the DRC, mountain gorillas are found in Virunga National Park.

The DRC also offers a unique opportunity to see the endangered eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Gorilla permits are mandatory in all these countries to access these primates in their natural habitats.

If you have already decided on your travel dates, it’s advisable to book your trip as early as possible. Gorilla trekking permits and services tend to sell out quickly, especially during the peak season (June to September). To avoid missing out, travelers should book at least five months in advance.

Cost and Booking of Gorilla Permits in Uganda

The cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda varies based on residency status:

  • Foreign non-residents: $800 per person
  • Foreign residents: $700 per person
  • East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, South Sudan): $90 per person

A gorilla permit grants you a one-hour encounter with a habituated gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Uganda has 22 habituated gorilla families, 21 of which are in Bwindi and one in Mgahinga, making 176 permits available each day.

For a more immersive experience, Uganda offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This experience allows visitors to spend up to four hours with semi-habituated mountain gorillas under expert guidance. The permit for this extended experience costs $1,500 per person.

Gorilla permits in Uganda can be booked either directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or through a trusted tour operator like Mukuru Valley Safaris, which streamlines the booking process and ensures a hassle-free experience.

Given the high demand for gorilla trekking permits, it is highly advisable to book at least 2 to 3 months in advance.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The minimum age requirement for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is 15 years. The maximum age limit is 85 years, though this depends on an individual’s fitness level and ability to navigate the challenging terrain.

For elderly visitors or those with mobility issues, special arrangements can be made. Sedan chair carriers are available in Bwindi and Mgahinga, allowing individuals who are unfit or unable to walk long distances to still enjoy the experience. These chairs are carried by porters to and from the trekking site.

The cost for hiring a sedan chair ranges from $400 to $500, depending on the specific requirements and trek duration.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is available year-round, but the best time to go is during the drier months: January, February, June, July, August, and early September. During these months, the trails are drier and less muddy, making it easier to navigate the dense forest. Reduced vegetation also provides clearer views of the gorillas, making the experience more rewarding.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

To ensure a comfortable and successful trekking experience, it is essential to pack the right gear. The unpredictable weather and dense forest terrain require:

  • Sturdy walking boots or shoes
  • Long-sleeved cotton shirts and lightweight long trousers
  • A rain jacket (Bwindi is a rainforest)
  • Gardening gloves for extra grip and protection
  • A hat and sunscreen
  • A sweater or fleece for cooler temperatures
  • A camera with extra batteries (flash photography is prohibited)
  • Insect repellent
  • A water bottle
  • Binoculars for birdwatching

How to Get to Bwindi Forest National Park

  • By Road: The southern sector of Bwindi can be accessed from Entebbe or Kampala with a drive time of 8 to 9 hours. Travelers will turn off at Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro road, following signposts to their lodge in Rushaga or Nkuringo sector. Alternatively, you can fly into Kigali, which is a 4-hour drive away.
  • By Air: Scheduled or chartered flights are available from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Kisoro Airstrip, which serves the southern sectors of Bwindi. Upon arrival, a pre-arranged transfer to your lodge or directly to the park is required.

Why Book Bwindi Gorilla Permits and Safaris with Mukuru Valley Safaris

Mukuru Valley Safaris offers personalized and safe safari experiences with a strong commitment to environmental conservation and responsible tourism. We ensure that your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi is unforgettable while ensuring the well-being of both visitors and the communities they interact with. All you need to do is turn up on the day of your tour.