Uganda Gorilla Trekking Guide
Somewhere in Bwindi's misty forest, a silverback is tearing at wild celery while a youngster tumbles over his back. You're a few metres away, and for one hour all you can hear is your heartbeat and the rustle of leaves.
Where to trek: Bwindi or Mgahinga?
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to most of Uganda's habituated gorilla families, with four sectors: Buhoma (north), Ruhija (east), Rushaga and Nkuringo (south). We pick your sector based on your lodge, route and permit availability.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park sits on the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. It's smaller, with fewer permits, and also offers golden monkey tracking.
Gorilla permit fees (Uganda Wildlife Authority)
| Permit | Foreign non-resident | Foreign resident | Rest of Africa | East African citizen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gorilla trekking (standard) | USD 800 | USD 700 | USD 500 | UGX 300,000 |
| Low-season months (April, May, November) | USD 600 | USD 500 | — | — |
| Habituation experience (Rushaga), to Dec 2026 | USD 1,500 | USD 1,000 | USD 1,000 | UGX 750,000 |
| Habituation experience, from 1 Jan 2027 | USD 1,800 | USD 1,600 | USD 1,000 | UGX 750,000 |
- These are UWA government fees, not Mwema package prices. They can change; we confirm the current rate when we book.
- Low-season permits can't be rescheduled.
- Since 1 March 2026, UWA asks for full payment when a permit is booked.
- The permit includes park entry for the day, ranger-guides and one hour with the gorillas (up to four hours for habituation). Minimum age 15.
How a trek day works
- Early breakfast, then a briefing at the park office at about 7:30–8:00 am.
- You join a group of up to 8 visitors assigned to one gorilla family.
- The trek can take 1 to 6+ hours over steep, muddy slopes. Local porters can carry your bag and help on the climb, and hiring one supports the community.
- One hour with the family, keeping at least 10 m away (UWA rule). Masks may be required; please don't trek if you're unwell.
How fit do I need to be?
If you can walk for a few hours on hills, you can do this. Walking sticks and porters make a real difference. Tell us about health or mobility needs and we'll request a family usually nearer the trailhead (not guaranteed).
What to pack
Waterproof boots, rain jacket, long trousers and sleeves, gardening gloves, gaiters, a day pack with 2 L of water, snacks and a camera without flash. Full list on Travel Info.
When to go
You can trek all year. June–September and December–February usually mean easier trails. The wetter months are lush and quieter, and April, May and November have cheaper low-season permits. See best time to visit.
Gorilla safaris we plan
Combine your trek with chimps in Kibale. Questions? Read our FAQ.
More detail: Uganda gorilla permit cost 2026–2027, best time to visit Uganda and what a Uganda safari costs. Sources: UWA tariff and 2026–27 circular (ugandawildlife.org/uwa-rates), checked 4 Nov 2026.