– A guide to the best places to visit

Discover the Soul-Stirring Magic of Gorilla Trekking with Uganda Horizon Safaris

If there’s one experience that defines the spirit of travel in Uganda, it is the chance to stand face-to-face with a mountain gorilla in its natural rainforest habitat. Trekking through misty jungles, guided by expert trackers and surrounded by ancient trees, is more than an adventure — it’s a journey into one of the last truly wild places on Earth. And nowhere offers this more intimately or more responsibly than Uganda.

At Uganda Horizon Safaris, we specialize in creating life-changing gorilla trekking experiences that blend conservation, culture, and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or dreaming of your first African adventure, this guide explains exactly where to see mountain gorillas in Uganda, what to expect, and how to make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Why Uganda Is the Best Place to See Mountain Gorillas

Uganda is home to over 50% of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, protected in two spectacular national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both parks are located in the lush, mountainous southwest of the country and offer high success rates, smaller group sizes, and ethical, conservation-based tourism.

Unlike Rwanda or the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda offers more affordable trekking permits without compromising the experience — making it a top destination for travelers seeking authenticity, wildlife, and adventure on a deeper level.

The Best Places to See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

📍 Home to over 20 gorilla families across four trekking sectors

Bwindi is the crown jewel of Uganda’s wildlife conservation efforts. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its ancient rainforest, biodiversity, and habituated gorilla families, each with its own territory and personality.

Trekking Sectors:

• Buhoma – The oldest and most popular region, known for luxury lodges and scenic hikes.

• Rushaga – Offers the most gorilla groups and also hosts gorilla habituation experiences (spend up to 4 hours with a semi-habituated group).

• Nkuringo – Ideal for photographers and seasoned hikers. Remote, scenic, and peaceful.

• Ruhija – A quieter region popular with birdwatchers and conservationists.

🟡 Optional Activities:

• Community walks and Batwa cultural encounters

• Birdwatching tours and waterfall hikes

• Canoe excursions on nearby Lake Mutanda

• Visit to local tea plantations and Bwindi hospital project

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

📍 The smallest park in Uganda—but big on experience

Nestled in the Virunga Volcano range, Mgahinga is where “gold meets silver”—you can see both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in one day. Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for its mobility across borders and the strong bond between its silverbacks.

Because there’s only one gorilla group here, permits are limited and demand is high — but the trek is less crowded, beautifully scenic, and culturally rich with nearby Batwa forest trails.

🟡 Optional Activities:

• Golden monkey tracking

• Volcano hikes (e.g. Mount Gahinga or Sabinyo)

• Batwa cultural trail

• Birdwatching and nature walks

What to Expect During a Gorilla Trek

Gorilla trekking requires a moderate level of fitness as you’ll be hiking through thick jungle, steep hills, and sometimes muddy terrain. Treks can last from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on where the gorilla families are that day.

You’ll be led by expert guides and rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority who are not only passionate about conservation but also trained in gorilla behavior and guest safety. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend a magical 1 hour quietly observing them — watching them feed, play, groom, and interact just a few meters away.

Permits & Planning Your Trip

• Gorilla trekking permit (standard): $800 per person (subject to seasonal changes)

• Gorilla habituation permit: $1,500 per person (spend 4 hours with a wild group)

• Permits must be booked in advance, especially in peak months (June–September & December–February)

At Uganda Horizon Safaris, we handle all your permit arrangements, transportation, accommodations, and community engagements so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

While gorilla trekking is possible all year round, the dry seasons (June–August and December–February) offer the best trail conditions and clearest forest views. However, visiting in the wet season offers fewer crowds, lush vegetation, and excellent photography conditions.

Travel with Uganda Horizon Safaris

With us, you’re not just visiting gorillas — you’re supporting local communities, conservation efforts, and sustainable tourism in one of Africa’s most special corners. Our knowledgeable guides, handpicked lodges, and customizable itineraries ensure your gorilla trek is safe, unforgettable, and deeply meaningful.

Whether you want to combine gorilla trekking with wildlife safaris, cultural tours, or hiking adventures, Uganda Horizon Safaris is your trusted partner for authentic, expertly guided experiences in Uganda.

📍 Let us take you into the forest. Let the gorillas change your life.
👉 Book your gorilla trek with Uganda Horizon Safaris today.