How Do I Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda? 

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences you can have. The chance to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, planning and booking your gorilla trek requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the trip goes smoothly. Uganda, home to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, provides a truly immersive trekking experience. In this detailed guide by Wild Village Safaris, we will walk you through the steps involved in booking your gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, from acquiring permits to preparing for your trek.

Step 1: Choose the Right Gorilla Trekking Destination in Uganda

Uganda is home to two prime locations for gorilla trekking: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both offer spectacular trekking opportunities, but the choice between the two parks can impact your overall experience, so it’s essential to understand the differences before booking your trek.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi is the most popular destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and dramatic landscapes. The park is divided into four main trekking sectors: Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. Each sector offers unique trekking routes, with varying levels of difficulty and accessibility.

• Buhoma: This is the most accessible sector, making it popular for first-time trekkers. It has well-established trails and a variety of accommodation options.
• Rushaga: Known for its diverse gorilla families, this sector also offers easier treks and great scenery.
• Nkuringo: This sector presents a more physically challenging experience due to its steep terrain. It’s perfect for those seeking a more intense trek.
• Ruhija: A quieter sector, ideal for those looking for a more remote and peaceful experience.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga, located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, is smaller and more remote compared to Bwindi. It is home to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Group and offers a more exclusive and intimate trekking experience. With fewer permits issued each day, Mgahinga provides a sense of serenity and less crowded conditions. This park is also located near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a less trafficked experience.

Step 2: Secure Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

A key step in booking your gorilla trekking experience in Uganda is securing your gorilla trekking permit. The permit is required for each person wishing to trek, and it provides access to the park, along with a guided experience.

Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permit

As of 2025, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 USD per person. This fee covers your park entry, the services of a trained ranger guide, and other administrative costs. While this fee is relatively lower than in some neighboring countries like Rwanda, it’s still important to consider the overall budget for your trip.

How to Book Your Permit

There are several ways to book your gorilla trekking permit:

• Directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA): The UWA manages the distribution of trekking permits. You can book directly via their official website, though it’s advisable to do so well in advance as permits can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Through a Trusted Tour Operator: Many travelers choose to book their permits through reputable tour operators like Wild Village Safaris. This option is often more convenient, as the tour operator will handle the permit booking on your behalf. They will also help organize other aspects of your trip, including accommodation and transportation.
• Via Travel Agents: Some travel agencies offer gorilla trekking packages that include permit bookings along with accommodation, transportation, and guided services. Working with a travel agent can simplify the process, especially for those who prefer a fully-managed experience.

Step 3: Choose Your Trekking Date and Sector

Once you’ve secured your permit, the next step is to choose the date and sector for your trek. The Uganda Wildlife Authority offers permits for specific dates, so it’s essential to plan ahead.

Choosing Your Trekking Date

Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but there are optimal times to visit Uganda for the best experience. The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are generally considered the best times for trekking, as the weather is more favorable for hiking, and the trails are less muddy.

However, the dry seasons are also peak tourist times, so it’s crucial to book your permit early if you plan to trek during these months. During the rainy season, trekking can still be done, but the conditions might be more challenging, with muddy trails and occasional rainfall.

Selecting Your Trekking Sector

When choosing your sector, consider the difficulty of the trek and your preferences. Each sector in Bwindi offers different types of experiences, from relatively easy treks in Buhoma to more challenging ones in Nkuringo. Mgahinga, being a smaller park, offers a quieter and more exclusive experience, with fewer tourists and a chance to see the Nyakagezi family.

Step 4: Arrange Accommodation and Transportation

Once you have your permit and trekking dates in place, it’s time to arrange your accommodation and transportation.

Accommodation Options

Uganda offers a range of accommodation options near the trekking parks, from budget lodges to luxury resorts. The accommodation prices vary based on your preference and proximity to the park. You can expect to pay around:

• Budget accommodations: $50–$150 per night for basic lodges and guesthouses.
• Mid-range accommodations: $150–$300 per night for more comfortable lodges with good amenities.
• Luxury accommodations: $300–$800 per night for high-end lodges offering exceptional services and stunning views.

It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, as lodges near the parks tend to fill up quickly. Many tour operators, like Wild Village Safaris, can help you find the right accommodation based on your budget and preferences.

Transportation to the Park

Getting to Bwindi or Mgahinga usually requires a flight to Uganda’s capital, Kampala or Entebbe, followed by a long drive or domestic flight to the park.

• By Road: Road travel from Kampala to Bwindi or Mgahinga takes about 8–10 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. If you’re traveling by road, consider hiring a private vehicle, which can be arranged through your tour operator.
• By Air: For quicker travel, you can opt for a domestic flight from Entebbe to Kisoro or Kihihi airports, which are closer to the parks. Domestic flights are offered by several local carriers and take about 1–1.5 hours.

Tour operators often provide transportation as part of their packages, making it easier for you to get to the parks.

Step 5: Prepare for Your Gorilla Trek

As your trekking date approaches, it’s time to prepare for the adventure. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth and successful trek:

What to Pack

• Sturdy hiking boots: Essential for navigating the muddy and often slippery terrain.
• Rain gear: A waterproof jacket or poncho, as rain showers are common.
• Long sleeves and pants: To protect against the thorny underbrush and insects.
• Camera: For capturing the unforgettable moments with the gorillas (ensure you follow the park’s guidelines on photography).
• Water and snacks: The trek can be physically demanding, so staying hydrated and having some snacks is important.

Physical Fitness

While the trek is not overly strenuous, the terrain can be challenging, especially in Bwindi. It’s a good idea to prepare by doing some light hiking in the months leading up to your trip, ensuring you’re physically ready for the trek.

Step 6: Embark on Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

On the day of your trek, you’ll meet your guide and group at the park headquarters for a briefing on safety rules and park guidelines. Afterward, you’ll set off into the forest to track the gorillas. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla group you’re tracking.

Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have a magical hour to observe them in their natural habitat. It’s a rare and awe-inspiring experience that will stay with you forever.

Conclusion

Booking gorilla trekking in Uganda requires thoughtful planning, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and rewarding process. By selecting the right destination, securing your permit, arranging transportation, and preparing for the trek, you’ll set yourself up for an unforgettable adventure. With the help of a trusted tour operator like Wild Village Safaris, you can ensure that every aspect of your trip is taken care of, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: experiencing the incredible gorillas of Uganda.