6
How to See Gorillas in Uganda
Seeing mountain gorillas in the wild is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. Uganda is one of only three countries where endangered mountain gorillas live, and it is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population.
The only way to see gorillas in Uganda is by joining a guided gorilla trekking experience in one of the country’s protected national parks. Every trek is led by trained park rangers who guide visitors through the rainforest to locate a habituated gorilla family.
If you’re planning a gorilla safari, this guide explains everything you need to know.
Where Can You See Gorillas in Uganda?
6
Uganda has two national parks where mountain gorillas can be visited.
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi is Uganda’s premier gorilla trekking destination and is home to dozens of habituated gorilla families.
The park has four trekking sectors:
- Buhoma
- Ruhija
- Rushaga
- Nkuringo
Each sector offers unique trekking experiences and a variety of accommodation options.
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga offers a quieter gorilla trekking experience and is also known for golden monkey trekking and volcanic scenery.
Step 1: Book a Gorilla Permit
A gorilla trekking permit is mandatory for every visitor.
The permit allows you to:
- Enter the national park
- Join a guided trek
- Spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family
- Support gorilla conservation and local communities
Permits are limited each day, so booking several months in advance—especially during the peak seasons—is highly recommended.
Step 2: Choose Your Safari Package
Most travelers choose one of these popular itineraries:
- 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari
- 4-Day Gorilla and Lake Bunyonyi Safari
- 5-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
- 7-Day Gorilla, Chimpanzee, Rhinos and Shoebill Safari
- 10-Day Uganda Wildlife and Gorilla Safari
Longer safaris often combine gorilla trekking with wildlife viewing and cultural experiences.
Step 3: Travel to the Gorilla Park
Most gorilla safaris begin in Entebbe or Kampala.
You can reach Bwindi or Mgahinga by:
- Road transfer in a 4×4 safari vehicle (approximately 8–10 hours, depending on the sector)
- Domestic flight to nearby airstrips followed by a short road transfer
Many travelers enjoy the scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside, passing tea plantations, rolling hills, and local communities.
Step 4: Attend the Ranger Briefing
On trekking day, visitors arrive at the park headquarters early in the morning.
Park rangers will explain:
- Gorilla trekking rules
- Safety guidelines
- Trekking expectations
- Gorilla behavior
- Group assignments
Each trekking group is accompanied by experienced guides and trackers.
Step 5: Trek Through the Rainforest
6
The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on where the gorilla family is located.
During the hike, you may also encounter:
- Colorful birds
- Monkeys
- Forest butterflies
- Beautiful tropical vegetation
Once the gorillas are found, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing them from a safe distance.
What Will You See?
Mountain gorilla families often include:
- A dominant silverback
- Adult females
- Playful juveniles
- Curious infants
Watching gorillas feed, groom, play, and interact naturally is an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to See Gorillas in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is available all year.
Dry Seasons (Most Popular)
- June to September
- December to February
These months generally offer:
- Easier hiking
- Better trail conditions
- Excellent photography opportunities
Rainy Seasons
- March to May
- October to November
The forests are lush and green, and there are usually fewer visitors.
What to Pack
Bring:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Long trousers
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Rain jacket
- Garden gloves
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Camera (flash photography is not allowed)
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
Can You Combine Gorilla Trekking with Other Safaris?
Absolutely! Many travelers combine gorilla trekking with visits to:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and the Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Kibale National Park for chimpanzee tracking
- Murchison Falls National Park for wildlife safaris and the Nile River
- Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation after trekking
This creates a well-rounded Uganda safari featuring primates, wildlife, and beautiful scenery.
Why Choose Openbill Safaris Uganda?
Openbill Safaris Uganda specializes in customized gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris throughout Uganda and East Africa.
Our services include:
- Gorilla permit booking assistance
- Customized safari itineraries
- Professional English-speaking safari guides
- Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles
- Budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation options
- Airport transfers and domestic flight arrangements
Through the Openvision Foundation Uganda, every safari supports conservation efforts and local community development.
Book Your Uganda Gorilla Safari
Seeing mountain gorillas in Uganda is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in the world. Whether you choose a short 3-day trek or a longer safari combining gorillas, chimpanzees, and wildlife, Uganda offers unforgettable adventures for every type of traveler.
Openbill Safaris Uganda can help you plan a personalized gorilla trekking safari that matches your schedule, interests, and budget.
Contact Us
📧 Email: openbillsafarisuganda@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +256 745843863
