Gorilla Trekking

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Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the world’s most unforgettable wildlife adventures. Deep in the misty rain forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, visitors hike through dense jungle trails to spend one magical hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family. This experience offers not just a safari, but a profound encounter with one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

  • Home to 17 habituated gorilla families spread across four trail heads: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
  • Offers diverse trekking options, ranging from easy to challenging hikes.
  • Bwindi is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

  • Part of the Virunga Mountains and home to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family.
  • Provides a more intimate experience due to fewer visitors.
  • Also offers golden monkey tracking and spectacular volcano hikes.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

Guided Jungle Hike

Your journey begins with a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. Guided by expert trackers, you will navigate through thick rain forest vegetation in search of the gorillas.

Duration

The trek can take 40 minutes to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are. Along the way, you’ll encounter other primates, birds, and beautiful jungle scenery.

The Gorilla Encounter

Once located, your group of eight people will spend one full hour observing the gorillas, watching them feed, play, groom, and interact in their natural environment.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

For those who want more, Uganda offers a unique Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend up to 4 hours with a wild gorilla family as they gradually become accustomed to human presence.

Key Details You Need to Know

  • Gorilla Permit Cost in Uganda: $800 per person.

  • Group Size: Maximum of 8 trekkers per gorilla family.

  • Assistance: Walking sticks and porters are available for hire to help with carrying your backpack or navigating steep sections of the trail.

  • Certificate: After your trek, you’ll receive a certificate of participation, a keepsake of your achievement.

Combining Gorilla Trekking with Other Experiences

Cultural Immersion

Enhance your gorilla trekking safari with a visit to the Batwa people, indigenous forest dwellers who share their ancient traditions, hunting techniques, and music.

Other Primate Tracking

  • Golden Monkey Tracking–Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
  • Chimpanzee Trekking– Kibale National Park or Budongo Forest.

Wider Safaris in Uganda

After gorilla trekking, many travelers combine their trip with:

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park–famous tree-climbing lions and boat cruises on the Kazinga channel.
  • Murchison Falls National Park–Uganda’s largest park, home to elephants, giraffes, lions, and the mighty Murchison Falls.

Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages

At Alpha Adventure Safaris, we offer tailored gorilla trekking safaris to suit every traveler:

  • 1 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda–perfect for those short on time.

  • 2 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda–A quick getaway with an overnight stay near the park.

  • 3 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda–The most popular option, allowing for gorilla trekking plus cultural or wildlife extensions.

  • Custom Gorilla Trekking Packages–Combine gorilla trekking with Uganda’s other natural wonders for a comprehensive safari experience.

Why Choose Alpha Adventure Safaris for Your Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Whether you’re looking for a 1-day gorilla trekking tour or a 3-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, Alpha Adventure Safaris is your trusted partner. We’ll guide you every step of the way, from booking your gorilla trekking permit to ensuring you have the best experience in the wild.

Contact us today to secure your gorilla trekking permit and start planning your life-changing journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your gorilla trekking adventure

 

Gorilla trekking requires moderate physical fitness. Due to the forest terrain and altitude, the trails can be steep, muddy, and challenging. Daily treks may range from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. We recommend some preparation, like walking or light hiking, prior to your trip—but don’t worry, our guides go at a pace that suits you, and porter services are available.

While gorillas are wild animals, your chances of seeing them are over 95%. Uganda Wildlife Authority tracks a head out early in the morning to locate the gorilla families and guide your group accordingly. If trackers don't find a group, they may offer you another trek the following day, depending on permit availability.

You can book a tour with us by visiting our website and filling out the booking form. Or, you can contact us directly via phone or email.

Yes. Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is safe, both for wildlife and the general environment. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) maintains strong conservation protocols, and armed rangers accompany every trekking group to ensure safety. The gorillas you're visiting are habituated and used to human presence, making the experience peaceful and awe-inspiring.

Absolutely! Solo travelers are welcome and often join small group treks. It is an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers and share their experiences. Our team also ensures you feel comfortable and cared for when you arrive.