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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Rieke • traveled in March, 2025
Thank you soooooo much <3333 Twairu was an amazing tour guide. Trekking with the mountain gorillas was truely a once in a lifetime experience. So majestic. I really can recommend Tourilla Tours. Thanks again!
Friends of the Silverback - N
Nathan • traveled in January, 2026
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) - K
Karen • traveled in August
Unbelievable, I was looking for adventure & Emma, my outstanding guide, did not disappoint. From the moment I was greeted at the plane (yes, wonderful touch, especially being a single woman traveling on her own) any anxiety quickly vanished. The travel host then took me through customs and we went through to arrivals where I was introduced to Emma. I have to admit, I was blown away by the beauty of Uganda, not only gorgeous but the people, the activities that were included far exceeded my expectations. What I enjoyed, actually loved, about Uganda was the 8 days of seeing not only animals, but other things this country has to offer. Emma was there every step of the way from showing me Murchison Falls to waiting at the top of the mountain when I came over the top and he was cheering me on to make it. Highly recommend Devine African Safaris for the bookings, the accommodations, and especially my guide, Emma, who without him, allowing me to be DJ in the car and he would sing along with me & we would laugh - I just know - it all came together as a Fantastic trip of a lifetime. Karen O'Connor KLSafaris
Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big Cats & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
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- Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big Cats & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
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- Experience Uganda Gorilla Trekking, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
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- 7-Day Wildlife Adventure Safari in Uganda
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 $3,499
15% Off- US$2,974You save $525
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
15% Off- US$4,550
Mountain gorillas await in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offering an hour of magnificent encounters. Kibale Forest presents chimpanzee tracking among 13 primate species. Broadbill Forest Camp serves as base while witnessing tree-climbing lions in nearby Ishasha sector.
Duration 11 days Destinations Entebbe, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Mburo National Park Age Range Ages 15+ Operated in English, German, Portuguese, French, Spanish Operator Ovacado Adventures From
15% Off- US$3,870
Friends of the Silverback
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The entire trip was meticulously planned, and the tour guides were experts in their industry.”
Billie, traveled in March
Rangers lead the way through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest's ancient trails to find endangered mountain gorillas. Wild chimpanzees swing through Kyambura Gorge's lush canopy. Cloud's Mountain Gorilla Lodge provides luxury accommodation while meeting local Batwa communities.
Duration 5 days Destinations Entebbe, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura Gorge, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Tourilla Tours From
15% Off- US$4,005
Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Each lodge I stayed at was clean with delicious food and friendly staff. Many of them had amazing views.”
Matthew, traveled in July
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
15% Off- US$3,059
Experience Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big Cats & Big Cats (Exclusively Private)
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Gorillas permits were also cheaper in Uganda. We did a mix of water on Kazinga channel, chimps in Kibale and gorillas in Bwindi which was absolutely incredible.”
Ingrid, traveled in February
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
15% Off- US$3,679
Explore Uganda Gorillas, Lake Bunyonyi + Tree-Climbing Lions (Exclusively Private)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“This trip was a perfect blend of adventure and comfort, and I can't recommend it enough.”
Monika, traveled in September
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest houses 300 mountain gorillas, accessible through professional guided treks across mountain terrain. Comfortable stays at Bakiga Lodge complement the unforgettable encounters, complete with permits and picnic lunch.
Duration 6 days Destinations Entebbe, Mbarara, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kabale, Lake Bunyonyi, Kampala Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Devine African Safaris Ltd From
15% Off- US$2,729
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."