Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda also known as ” the Pearl of Africa,” is one of the three countries that inhabit the endangered mountain population in Africa. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Uganda takes you to the southwestern part of the country where two gorilla national parks are located; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most popular gorilla trekking destination in Uganda, hosting more than half of the remaining gorilla population and 20 habituated gorilla families. The Mgahinga Gorilla National Park on the other hand is home to one large habituated gorilla family that can be trekked on Uganda gorilla safari.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is a unique and immersive wildlife experience that allows you to indulge deep into the impenetrable jungles of Uganda to search for mountain gorillas, navigating challenging terrains and thick forest cover. Mountain gorillas are an endangered species, and their population has been declining for decades due to several factors such as; to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. However, conservation efforts across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have made significant strides in protecting these incredible creatures, and in recent years, the gorilla population has seen an increase in all the three countries where they reside. As of today, Uganda is hosts over 550 mountain gorillas, with the majority residing in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – allowing for Uganda Gorilla Trekking safaris/ Gorilla Trekking Tours in Uganda. These parks, designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are sanctuaries for these majestic animals and have become focal points for ecotourism and conservation.

Where to go gorilla trekking in Uganda? – Gorilla trekking locations in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the southwestern part of Uganda, in Kanungu District The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the country’s most ecologically significant and biodiverse protected areas, popular for its mountain gorilla trekking safari. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, important for its incredible diversity including; 27 frog species, over 350 bird species, 31o butterfly species, over 1,000 tree species and most importantly over half of the remaining mountain gorilla population (550 gorillas). Bwindi is the primary destination for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda.

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to 20 habituated mountain gorilla families, the highest per a single gorilla park. Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi is an immersive experience that takes you deep into the impenetrable jungles of Bwindi Forest to search for the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The park is made up of four sectors that inhabit various habituate mountain gorilla families;

Buhoma: This sector is located in the northern part of the park. Buhoma is the most popular sector for gorilla trekking and home to several habituated gorilla families.
Ruhija: The Ruhija Sector is situated in the eastern section, known for its birdwatching opportunities, and gorilla trekking experiences.
Rushaga: To the south is the Rushaga sector, home to multiple gorilla families, making it an increasingly popular destination for trekkers.
Nkuringo: Positioned in the southwestern corner, Nkuringo is known for its steep terrain and offers an exhilarating trekking experience.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Uganda, near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another gorilla trekking destination in Uganda. Although less popular on most travelers’ bucket lists when traveling to Uganda for a gorilla trekking holiday safari/ Gorilla Trekking Tour – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park guarantees an excellent gorilla trekking experience.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to one large habituated mountain gorilla family known as ‘‘the Nyakagezi Group.’’ Trekking the Nyakagezi gorilla family in in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park guarantees excellent gorilla adventures.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda – What happened during gorilla trekking in Uganda

The mountain gorilla trekking experience starts long before you spot your first gorilla. The experience starts with an early morning briefing by park rangers and officials, who provide essential information about the gorillas, trekking rules, and safety guidelines. Although the gorilla families that you will be trekking are habituated, its is still important to keep in mind that they are wild animals, and respecting their space and well-being is crucial for both their protection and your safety during gorilla trekking in Uganda. You’ll then be divided into small groups of about 8 individuals and allocated a gorilla family and ranger guide.

Once the briefing is complete, you’ll follow the lead of your ranger guide into the forest to search for the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park. The trek can be challenging and involves navigating rugged terrain, thick vegetation cover, steep slopes, and muddy paths, but the reward at the end is worth the effort. The gorilla trek can last anywhere between 1 hour to 5 hours depending on the location of your gorilla family. The experienced and armed Rangers, with experience and knowledge of the gorillas’ movements, will guide you during the trek and an encounter with the gorilla family.

As you approach the gorillas, the excitement builds. The rangers will signal that you are close, and soon, you may catch a glimpse of the massive creatures foraging for food or lounging in the forest. This is when the magic happens! You’ll spend about an hour observing the gorillas as they feed, groom their little ones, and play – all under the watchful silverback. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and film these primates in their natural habitat. The time spent with the gorillas is the highlight of the gorilla trek and offers the rare and intimate encounter with these incredible animals – one of Africa’s most transformative experience. After your time elapses, you’ll start the trek back to the starting point where you’ll receive a certificate of participation and later proceed with your next adventure in Uganda.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda’s tropical climate means it is possible to trek for gorillas year-round, however, some month of the year are offer more ideal condition for gorilla trekking than the others. The dry seasons in Uganda between June to September and December to February are considered the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda. During these months, the trails are more accessible, and the weather is more favorable for trekking. However, this period of the year is also the peak season, meaning permits can be in high demand. We recommend booking your gorilla permit well in advance if you are planning to go for a gorilla trekking tour during this time.