Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in the world. Uganda stands out as one of the only three countries where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. If you’re planning a safari or nature-focused adventure, knowing where to see gorillas in Uganda is the first and most important step.

Where Are Gorillas Found in Uganda?

Uganda is home to two national parks where you can track mountain gorillas: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both are located in the southwestern part of the country and are managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is Uganda’s most popular gorilla trekking destination. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protects roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The forest is dense and mountainous, providing the perfect habitat for gorillas, as well as a rich diversity of other wildlife.

The park has four different trekking sectors:

• Buhoma Sector: This is the oldest and most accessible sector. It has good accommodation options and well-maintained trails.
• Ruhija Sector: Located at a higher altitude, Ruhija offers cooler temperatures and panoramic views of the forest.
• Rushaga Sector: Known for its large number of habituated gorilla families and also offers the unique gorilla habituation experience.
• Nkuringo Sector: This is the most challenging trekking sector due to its steep terrain, but it offers highly rewarding views and fewer crowds.

Each sector has its own group of habituated gorillas and its own trailheads, making it essential to choose your accommodation based on where your permit is issued.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga is Uganda’s smallest national park, but it offers an excellent alternative to Bwindi for those seeking a quieter trekking experience. The park sits in the Virunga Mountain range and shares borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

There is one habituated gorilla group in Mgahinga, called the Nyakagezi family. This group is well-known for staying within the park’s boundaries in recent years, making sightings highly reliable.

What makes Mgahinga special is the ability to combine gorilla trekking with other activities like golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, and cultural visits with the Batwa people.

Which Park Should You Choose?

Both parks offer incredible opportunities to see mountain gorillas, but they cater to slightly different preferences.

Choose Bwindi if:

• You want more trekking options and a higher number of gorilla families
• You prefer a variety of accommodation choices
• You are interested in the gorilla habituation experience

Choose Mgahinga if:

• You prefer fewer crowds
• You want to combine trekking with volcanic hiking or golden monkey tracking
• You are looking for a shorter, less physically demanding trek

What Is the Gorilla Trekking Experience Like?

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through thick rainforest, often on steep and uneven trails. The trek can last anywhere from one to six hours depending on the location of the gorilla group. Once the group is located, you are allowed to spend one hour observing them.

During your time with the gorillas, you’ll witness their natural behaviors — from feeding and grooming to social interactions and play. It’s a rare and humbling experience that creates a deep connection between humans and wildlife.

How Much Does It Cost to See Gorillas in Uganda?

As of 2025, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 USD for foreign non-residents, $700 USD for foreign residents, and 300,000 UGX for East African citizens. This fee includes the guided trek but does not cover accommodation or transportation.

For those who want a longer experience, Uganda also offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience in the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi. This allows up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group and costs $1,500 USD.

When Is the Best Time to See Gorillas in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available all year round, but the best time to go is during the dry seasons, which occur from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate, and the weather is more predictable.

The wet seasons—March to May and October to November—see fewer tourists and more permit availability, but trails may be muddy and slippery.

What Should You Pack for Gorilla Trekking?

Proper preparation makes the trekking experience more enjoyable. Here are some essentials to pack:

• Waterproof hiking boots with strong grip
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• A rain jacket or poncho
• Gardening gloves (for grabbing vegetation on steep trails)
• A hat and sunscreen
• A refillable water bottle or hydration pack
• A packed lunch and high-energy snacks
• A camera with no flash

Hiring a porter is highly recommended. Not only will they carry your gear, but they also help navigate tricky trails and support local livelihoods.

Is Gorilla Trekking Safe?

Yes, gorilla trekking in Uganda is safe when you follow the guidelines set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. All treks are led by trained guides and accompanied by armed rangers. The gorilla groups are habituated, meaning they are accustomed to human presence and pose little threat.

Health protocols are also enforced. Visitors showing symptoms of illness may not be allowed to trek, to protect the gorillas from human diseases.

Where Should You Stay?

Uganda offers a wide range of lodges and camps around both Bwindi and Mgahinga. Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget accommodation, there are options near each trekking sector.

Popular choices include:

• Luxury eco-lodges near Buhoma or Nkuringo
• Mid-range forest lodges in Ruhija
• Budget guesthouses in Kisoro for access to Mgahinga

Booking your lodge close to your assigned trekking sector helps reduce early morning travel and ensures you arrive on time for the pre-trek briefing.

Final Thoughts

Uganda is one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas in their natural environment. With two outstanding parks — Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park — travelers have the chance to witness these majestic primates in lush, wild settings.

Whether you seek a short trek in Mgahinga or a deep rainforest adventure in Bwindi, Uganda offers a well-organized, safe, and deeply rewarding gorilla trekking experience. It’s more than just a wildlife activity; it’s a journey into one of nature’s last great sanctuaries.