Gorilla trekking safari is an uncommon and well-known activity that attracts people to Uganda. It entails walking through the tropical rainforest in search of habituated mountain gorillas and spending one hour with them in their natural surroundings. Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place at the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both of which are located in the south-western area.
Gorilla trekking is an extraordinary activity that should not be missed during your safari in Uganda, and there are a number of factors that you should consider when planning a gorilla trekking safari, including the cost of a gorilla trekking permit, how to purchase the gorilla trekking permit, where to stay, and how to get there.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Uganda is home to around 22 habituated gorilla families, which are available for trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda takes between 2 and 7 hours, depending on where they are located, because they prefer to wander from one location to another in quest of food.
During the trek, you will be able to see other primates and bird species, and once the mountain gorillas are located, you will be allowed to spend one hour with them in their natural habitat, where you will be able to learn more about their habits, behaviors, and lifestyle, as well as watch them feed, breastfeed, play, groom young ones, take photos, and record the incredible moments to show people back home.
Price of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda 2024
In 2024, gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park will cost 800 USD per person for foreign non-residents, 700 USD per person for international residents, and 300,000 UGX per person for East African nationals.
How do I book gorilla trekking permits in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda may be purchased through All In Africa Safaris, where you will provide us with the day, month, year, and gorilla destination you desire to visit. After contacting us, we will verify permit availability with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and if permits are available on your desired dates, you will be required to submit a deposit. Once payment is received, we will be able to acquire the permits on your behalf and give you a scanned copy of the receipt as proof.
Gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, on the other hand, should be reserved 3 to 6 months in advance of the trekking date since they are competitive and tend to sell out rapidly, particularly during peak season.
Best time to go on a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can be done all year round, but the best time is during the dry season in the months of June, July, August, September, December, January, and February because during this time there is less or little rainfall in the parks, so access roads and gorilla trekking trails will be dry and passable, making trekking easy compared to the rainy season when the trails are muddy and slippery.
What should I bring for gorilla trekking in Uganda in 2024?
When planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, you should pack or carry the following items: a long-sleeved shirt and trousers, insect repellent, hiking shoes, garden gloves, camera, extra batteries, waterproof rain jacket/poncho, warm sweater, energy snacks; drinking water, a pair of binoculars, face masks, a hat, and sunglasses, a walking stick, and a backpack, among others.
