Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Imagined trekking through mist-covered mountains to meet endangered mountain gorillas? This Ugandan adventure brings Bwindi's impenetrable ancient forests, Queen Elizabeth Park's rare tree-climbing lions, and Lake Bunyonyi's peaceful island-dotted waters. You'll track chimpanzees in Kibale's dense canopy, cruise the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel spotting hippos, meet Batwa forest keepers, search for rare prehistoric shoebills, and watch gorilla families tenderly groom each other in the wild.
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I posted my reviews on Google and trip advisor. But in short, it was amazing we enjoyed every moment of our trip. Truly the safari of a lifetime. Recommended by all means! Thanks again to all of you Richard! Martin and Andreea
8 Days Primates, Wildlife and Water Rafting Uganda Safari (Private tour)Our safari(s) in Uganda were executed without any issues. Our gorilla and chimpanzee treks were amazing. The choice of selected lodges based on the price points that were agreed were wonderful, and the food was superb. Frankly, 5 stars isn’t a high enough rating. Our driver and guide, Jasper, if available for your trip, is absolutely a must. His knowledge, driving skills, and personality are a 10 out of 10 and we are well traveled. Jasper was always concerned with our well being and kept a very aggressive game drive schedule on time. (We did see the African Big 5) though the walk amongst a tower, (that’s the correct term of a herd), of giraffes was as memorable as being ten feet from a silver back gorilla. Communications with Devine was prompt and am very happy with their design of this bespoke trip. Highly recommend…and endeavor to go with Jasper….even if it means changing your schedule.
Discover Uganda Gorillas, Chimps + Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)We had an excellent experience in Uganda with Devine African Safaris. Ibra was an outstanding guide and driver—knowledgeable, friendly, and incredibly helpful. He handled any issues quickly and efficiently and shared extensive insight into Uganda’s history, culture, wildlife, and daily life, which made the trip even more meaningful. The accommodations were great, with welcoming hosts who went above and beyond to make us feel at home. The food was fantastic, with plenty of variety throughout the trip. The wildlife experiences were unforgettable—seeing gorillas and chimpanzees up close was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Combined with the warmth of the Ugandan people, this made for an incredible and highly recommended trip.
Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
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NadineUganda travel expert at TourRadar
- Best of Uganda – Exclusive
- Gorillas of Uganda Overland Safari & Participation Camping
- 8 Days Primates, Wildlife and Water Rafting Uganda Safari (Private tour)
- Discover Uganda Gorillas, Chimps + Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
- Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
- Experience Uganda Gorilla Trekking, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
- Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big Cats & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
- Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps + Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
- Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
- 7-Day Wildlife Adventure Safari in Uganda
Skilled rangers guide you through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to spend one hour with gentle giant gorillas. Kibale Forest adds chimp tracking among 5,000 wild inhabitants. Luxury awaits at Bwindi Safari Lodge overlooking misty forest canopy.
Duration 10 days Destinations Entebbe, Fort Portal, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Kampala Age Range Ages 15+ Operated in English, German, French, Spanish Operator Ovacado Adventures From
- US$4,550
Four distinct areas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija - offer unique mountain gorilla encounters. Small groups follow expert guides through volcano forests, ensuring intimate wildlife moments while adhering to strict conservation protocols.
Duration 9 days Destinations Kampala, Lake Bunyonyi, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest, Lake Mburo National Park, Jinja Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $3,399
25% Off- US$2,549
8 Days Primates, Wildlife and Water Rafting Uganda Safari (Private tour)
“The safari lodges were stunning, and we decided to book with Mukisa because of their excellent reviews.”
Katie, traveled in October
Rangers guide visitors through Bwindi's misty forests to observe mountain gorillas for a full hour. Gorilla Valley Lodge provides comfortable accommodation, while Queen Elizabeth National Park offers thrilling game drives.
Duration 8 days Destinations Entebbe, Jinja, Kampala, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Mburo National Park Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Mukisa Safaris Uganda From
25% Off- US$4,520
Discover Uganda Gorillas, Chimps + Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
“The choice of selected lodges based on the price points that were agreed were wonderful, and the food was superb.”
Eric, traveled in July
Mountain gorilla families welcome visitors in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Morning briefings prepare trekkers for misty mountain trails leading to these magnificent creatures. The $600 permit includes stays at comfortable Bakiga Lodge, with time for relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort.
Duration 10 days Destinations Entebbe, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, Lake Mburo National Park Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Devine African Safaris Ltd From
25% Off- US$4,449
Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
“Tracking Gorillas with Herbert and the forest rangers is a one of kind experience and definitely the highlight of our trip.”
Benjamin, traveled in February
Mountain gorillas roam freely in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where dedicated permits guarantee access. Groups of 8 observe these primates for one hour, followed by transfer to Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort. Small group sizes ensure intimate wildlife encounters.
Duration 6 days Destinations Entebbe, Mbarara, Kabale, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, Fort Portal, Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Central Forest Reserve Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Devine African Safaris Ltd From
25% Off- US$3,279
Experience Uganda Gorilla Trekking, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
“We agreed to the 4 days safari and gorillas tracking in Uganda where permits and lodging costs were substantially lower.”
Gundolf, traveled in February
Intimate gorilla encounters await in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with skilled tracking guides. The challenging terrain leads to guaranteed hour-long observations of gorilla families. Park headquarters provides pre-trek briefing, with restful stays at Bakiga Lodge.
Duration 4 days Destinations Entebbe, Mbarara, Kabale, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Ishasha, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest, Kampala Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Devine African Safaris Ltd From
25% Off- US$2,639
Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big Cats & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
“The beauty of Uganda, not only gorgeous but the people, the activities that were included far exceeded my expectations.”
Karen, traveled in July
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to 400 mountain gorillas, beckons wildlife enthusiasts. Professional guides navigate dense rainforest paths for an hour with these gentle giants. The adventure continues with chimp tracking in Kibale Forest, where 5,000 chimpanzees reside.
Duration 8 days Destinations Entebbe, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Masindi, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Devine African Safaris Ltd From
25% Off- US$3,929
What our customers ask about Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
How far in advance should I book a Uganda gorilla trekking tour?
Booking a Uganda gorilla trekking tour requires careful planning 6-12 months before your intended travel dates. Data shows most travelers book their trips 319 days ahead particularly for peak seasons from June to August and December to February. Popular accommodations near the trekking sites such as Rushaga Gorilla Lodge and Mahogany Springs tend to fill up quickly. A TourRadar traveler notes: "Book early to secure your preferred dates and accommodation as the best options fill up fast."
What gorilla families will I see during trekking in Uganda?
In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park visitors spend time with one gorilla family group that typically has 8-20 members. Each group includes a mix of silverbacks females and young gorillas. The Rushaga and Buhoma sectors feature different habituated families each offering unique encounters. One TourRadar traveler shared: "We saw 12 gorillas in our group at Bwindi including two playful infants and an impressive silverback - it was magical!"
What's included in a typical Uganda gorilla trekking permit?
Each Uganda gorilla trekking permit costs 700 USD and covers one hour of gorilla observation professional guides park entrance to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and a morning orientation. Groups are limited to 8 people per gorilla family maintaining an intimate experience. Permits can be secured through tour operators or directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority with options available in both the Rushaga and Buhoma sectors.
What are the accommodation options for gorilla trekking tours in Uganda?
The areas surrounding Uganda's gorilla trekking locations offer lodging choices for various budgets. Bwindi provides high-end options like Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge while mid-range travelers often choose Gorilla Valley Lodge. Near Queen Elizabeth National Park The Bush Lodge and Mweya Safari Lodge welcome visitors. As one TourRadar guest reports: "The lodges exceeded our expectations - Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge offered stunning views and excellent service after our trek."
What other wildlife can I see on a Uganda gorilla trekking tour?
Uganda's wildlife extends well beyond its famous gorillas. Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for its tree-climbing lions elephants and hippos along the Kazinga Channel. Kibale Forest draws visitors for its chimpanzee populations while Bwindi Impenetrable National Park houses over 120 mammal species. A TourRadar traveler shares: "We enjoyed different facets of wildlife including chimps in Kibale tree-climbing lions in Ishasha and abundant birdlife throughout."
What's the difference between Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking?
Uganda presents a more economical option with permits at 800 USD versus Rwanda's 1500 USD. The country combines gorilla encounters with additional experiences like chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest and wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park. While both destinations excel in gorilla encounters Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a more demanding yet fulfilling trek. According to a TourRadar traveler: "Uganda gave us the complete package - gorillas chimps and classic safari all in one incredible trip."