Introduction to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the best things you can do in Africa. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You walk through thick forests and come face to face with mountain gorillas in the wild. These gentle giants are peaceful and lovely to watch.

Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see these gorillas. The other two are Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. But Uganda has the largest number of mountain gorillas, making it a top choice for this special trip.

Where to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

There are two places in Uganda where you can go gorilla trekking:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi is the most famous gorilla park in Uganda. It’s a thick, green forest in the south-west of the country. It is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The forest is rich with birds, butterflies, and tall trees.

There are four trekking sectors in Bwindi:

• Buhoma
• Ruhija
• Rushaga
• Nkuringo

Each area has different gorilla families. You’ll be told where to trek based on where permits are available.

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This smaller park also has mountain gorillas. It sits near the borders of Rwanda and Congo. Mgahinga is part of the Virunga Mountains. The park has one main gorilla group that you can visit.

Both parks are beautiful, safe, and worth visiting.

What Happens During the Trek?

On the day of the trek, you start early. First, you go to the park office. There, you meet rangers and other trekkers. The rangers give a short briefing. They explain the rules and tell you what to expect.

Next, you walk into the forest with a guide. The group is small, usually eight people. The guide leads the way and helps you find the gorillas. The walk can take one to four hours, depending on where the gorillas are that day.

Once you find the gorillas, you stay with them for one full hour. You watch them eat, rest, and play. Sometimes, baby gorillas climb trees or play with each other. It’s a quiet and magical hour.

Easy Rules to Follow

To keep the gorillas and people safe, you must follow a few simple rules:

• Stay at least 7 metres away from the gorillas
• Do not touch them
• Speak in a soft voice
• No flash when taking photos
• Do not eat or drink near the gorillas
• If you feel sick, don’t go trekking

These rules help protect the gorillas from stress or illness.

What to Wear and Bring

The forest can be wet and muddy, so wear the right clothes and shoes. Here’s a quick list:

Wear:

• Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts
• Waterproof boots with good grip
• A light rain jacket
• Gloves to protect your hands
• A hat for sun or rain

Bring:

• A small backpack
• Water and a snack
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• A camera (without flash)
• A walking stick (you can get one at the start)

You can also hire a porter. A porter carries your bag and helps you walk on steep paths. This also gives local people work and supports their families.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking

You can go gorilla trekking all year, but the dry seasons are the best. These months are:

• June to August
• December to February

During these months, the paths are less slippery and easier to walk. It can still rain, since it’s a rainforest, but it’s usually light and short.

The wet seasons (March to May and September to November) are cooler and greener. Fewer tourists visit during these times, so it’s quieter. Some people like trekking then too.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

To see gorillas, you need a permit. In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs $700 per person. This money helps protect the gorillas and supports local communities.

You should book your permit early. Only a few people can trek each day. A tour company can help you get a permit, transport, and a place to stay.

Where to Stay Near the Parks

There are many places to stay near Bwindi and Mgahinga. You can pick based on your budget and what you like. Some options include:

• Luxury lodges – beautiful views, soft beds, and great food
• Mid-range camps – clean and comfy with helpful staff
• Budget stays – simple rooms or tents for good prices

Most lodges are close to the trekking start points and offer packed lunches and guided walks.

Other Fun Things to Do

While visiting Bwindi or Mgahinga, you can also:

• Visit nearby villages and meet local people
• Go birdwatching (Uganda has over 1,000 bird species)
• Take nature walks and enjoy waterfalls
• Learn about the Batwa people, the forest’s first people

These extra activities add more joy to your trip.

Final Thoughts

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a dream come true. You walk through lovely forests, hear birds sing, and finally meet wild gorillas. It’s safe, guided, and full of wonder.

The memory of looking into a gorilla’s eyes stays with you forever. It’s a quiet moment that shows the beauty of nature. If you love wildlife and adventure, this is the perfect trip for you.