Gorilla trekking is an activity where tourists walk through the forest in search of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This experience allows you to observe these impressive animals in their environment, making it one of the most exclusive and exciting activities for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
During the trek, you will be accompanied by expert guides who will help you find the gorilla group and ensure your safety. Gorillas are calm and curious animals, but it is important to follow the guidelines to avoid any aggressive behavior and protect their well-being.
Some suggestions include:
- Maintain a minimum distance of 5 meters from the gorillas at all times.
- Do not make loud noises or sudden movements.
- If you are sick or have cold symptoms, you will not be allowed to participate in the trekking, as human diseases can affect gorillas. Gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, so they could easily contract diseases from people.
- Wearing a mask is mandatory.
- It is prohibited to feed or touch the gorillas.
Where To Go Gorilla Trekking
There are three places in the world where gorilla trekking is possible: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, Bwindi is the most popular choice due to its accessibility, lower cost than Rwanda, and greater safety compared to Congo.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the Southwest of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Within the park, there are four main sectors, and each offers a unique experience for visitors.
Before your permit is processed, you must decide which of the four sectors you want to trek in. This will determine the details of your permit and the location of your accommodation.
Below is a summary of the main trekking sectors within Bwindi:
Ruhija (Eastern Park)
- Over eight gorilla families, quiet and less crowded.
- Other activities: Cycling, birding, cultural encounters, nature walks.
- Suitable for: Private experience seekers, visitors to Lake Bunyonyi.
Buhoma (Northern Park)
- Over eight gorilla families, easiest treks, accessible for older travelers.
- Other activities: Bird watching, community visits, waterfall trail.
- Suitable for: Older travelers, easy access from Kampala, Kabale, Ishasha.
Rushaga (Southern Park)
- Best for habituation experiences, highest number of gorilla families.
- Other activities: Boat cruises at Lake Mutanda, bird watching, cultural experiences.
- Suitable for: Visitors from Kigali, habituation enthusiasts.
Nkuringo (Southern Park)
- Three gorilla families, hardest treks but best views, high altitude.
- Other activities: Nature walks, bird watching, cultural visits.
- Suitable for: Scenic views and challenging treks.
Gorilla Permits
To go gorilla trekking in Uganda, it is mandatory to obtain a trekking permit. These permits are limited and must be acquired in advance, as only a restricted number are issued daily to ensure the gorillas’ conservation and avoid overcrowding on the trails. It is recommended to book your permit at least 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak season.
The permit is valid only for the registered trekking day and exclusive to its assigned region. If your permit is for the Rushaga area, you can only trek in that area. The permit allows you to spend one hour with the gorilla family once you find them and includes the services of trained guides who will accompany you on the search for the gorillas.
There are two main ways to obtain a gorilla trekking permit: by booking a tour or processing it independently.
1) Book a Tour
Although it is the most expensive option, booking a tour is the most comfortable and practical way to do gorilla trekking, as these packages include permit processing, accommodation, guide, and transportation accompanying you throughout the experience.
2) Independently
Although doing it independently requires more planning time, you will save money. You can either process the permits directly through Uganda Wildlife Authority, which can be a bit tricky and bureaucratic, or process the permit through an agency and organize the rest, such as accommodation and transportation, on your own.
If you decide to do it independently, most car rental companies, such as Alpha Rental Cars (WhatsApp +256 701 436348 email: [email protected]), will process the permits at no additional cost if you rent the car with them. This is convenient since you’ll need a vehicle to travel from your accommodation to the park entrance, and sometimes transportation is required within the park itself.
Gorilla Permit Costs
- Uganda: 800 USD per person
- Rwanda: 1500 USD per person
- Democratic Republic of Congo: 400 USD per person
Packing List for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking can be a physically demanding activity, as it takes place in mountainous terrain and often in wet and slippery conditions. The trek can last between 2 and 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla group and the terrain conditions.
For this reason, it is essential to be well-prepared for the activity. In case you need assistance, you can hire a porter who can carry your backpack and belongings for a cost of 20 USD. Suggested items to pack with you:
- Facemask – mandatory
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Rain Jacket, in case it rains
- Zipbag/plastic bag for your valuables in case it rains
- Water Bottle
- Warm sweater – temperatures get low at night
- Cash for souvenirs and tips for the trekking people and hotel
- Long trousers and long socks to tuck them in to avoid insects crawling up
- Waterproof/tough hiking shoes
- Walking sticks will be available to borrow at the trekking points
- Insect repellent and long-sleeved shirts/t-shirts
- Energy snacks for the hikes, e.g., sugar bars
- Waterproof backpack
- A camera or a charged phone
Where To Stay To Go Gorilla Trekking
Accommodation will depend on where you decide to trek, meaning the area where your permit is registered to see the gorillas. For example, if your permit is for the Rushaga area, you should look for accommodation in Rushaga. Ideally, you should arrive at your accommodation a day before the trekking to rest and be fresh for the hike. Although most people continue their journey to the next destination after the gorilla trekking, some prefer to stay an extra night to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Accommodations near the park are more expensive due to limited availability. Many hotels offer full—or half-board options because no restaurants are nearby.
I recommend including at least breakfast and dinner in your reservation. Since there aren’t many alternatives nearby, you will likely eat at your hotel. Hotels offer a lunch box service for you to take with you on the day of the trekking.
Buhoma (Northern Park)
Rushaga (Southern Park)
Ruhija (Eastern Park)
Nkuringo (Southern Park)
What To Eat In Uganda
Uganda offers a variety of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage. One must-try is Matoke, a dish made from green bananas cooked with onions and spices. It is often served with meat or beans.
Posho, a staple made from maize flour, is commonly paired with stews or vegetables. For street food enthusiasts, the Rolex is a must-try. It is a chapati rolled with scrambled eggs and vegetables, typically enjoyed at breakfast.
Uganda’s tropical climate supports a wide variety of fresh fruits, making fruit juices incredibly refreshing and often made right in front of you.
How To Get To Uganda
Uganda, a very popular tourist destination on the continent, is well-connected and offers easy access through several main entry points. These options include:
- Entebbe International Airport is the country’s main gateway, located just an hour from Kampala. Ethiopian Airlines, Egypt Air, KLM, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, and Emirates operate most flights between Entebbe and Europe and the Middle East.
- From Rwanda, the Gatuna border crossing directly connects Kigali with Kisoro in Uganda, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Other crossings, such as Kagitumba and Kyanuka, are also available.
- From Kenya, you can take direct flights from Nairobi to Entebbe or opt for overland transport via buses or private vehicles. The most common border crossings are Suam, Malaba, and Busia.
- From Tanzania, the main border crossing with Uganda is Mutukula.
Uganda Entry Requirements
Uganda allows most nationalities to obtain a visa on arrival. However, for greater convenience, it is recommended that you apply for it online in advance through Uganda eVisa. The single-entry visa costs $50 and is valid for 90 days.
If you plan to visit other countries in the region, you can opt for the East Africa Visa, which allows you to travel to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya with a single visa. This visa costs $100 and is valid for 90 days with multiple entries.
When applying for the East Africa Visa, request it through the government of your first country of entry. For example, if you begin your trip in Rwanda, you must apply for an East Africa Visa through the Rwandan government. You must process your first destination with the Ugandan government if your first destination is Uganda. Similarly, if Kenya is your first country of entry, you must apply through the Kenyan government.
It is important to note that a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory to enter Uganda, and you must present the international vaccination certificate. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel to be officially valid. Additionally, you must have a passport with a minimum validity of six months and a return ticket to enter the country.
Getting Online In Uganda
The fastest, though more expensive, way to get immediate internet access in Uganda is by downloading apps that provide an eSIM, such as Airalo – Referral Code ALESSI0688.
Prepaid local SIM cards are more affordable and usually offer better connectivity in remote areas. You can purchase them at airport kiosks of Uganda’s main mobile providers: MTN, Airtel, and Africell. Airtel is one of the best options, especially if you’re visiting remote locations like Bwindi and Mburo, where it offers better coverage than other providers.
Safety and Security In Uganda
Uganda is a stable and safe destination compared to its neighboring countries, particularly in tourist areas where security measures are consistently in place. However, as with any location, it’s important to stay vigilant and take care of your belongings, especially bags and wallets.
Additional precautions are advised in busier areas like Kampala. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables out of sight, and dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees to avoid unnecessary attention.
Book accommodation in safe areas with good reviews and security measures, such as safe boxes, is also recommended. In crowded places like the Nakasero Market in Kampala, it’s better to go accompanied. Crowds can sometimes lead to uncomfortable situations, such as people persistently trying to talk to you or get your attention.
What To Wear In Uganda
When dressing, it is important to consider cultural norms in your choice of attire. In tourist areas like national parks, you can wear lighter clothing, such as shorts or tank tops, without issues.
However, when traveling through cities like Kampala or rural areas with a significant Muslim population, it is recommended to wear clothing that covers at least your knees and shoulders. This will help you blend in better with the local culture, show respect for local customs, and help you feel more comfortable.
In general, it is recommended to wear comfortable and suitable clothing for walking, especially if you plan to go hiking or explore natural areas like the national parks. Uganda has a warm, tropical climate, so choosing lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors is ideal to minimize heat.
Additionally, wearing closed, sturdy shoes is important, as many tourist activities, such as safaris or gorilla treks, involve traversing uneven terrain, often wet or slippery.
Given that Uganda has a rainy season, it is recommended to include waterproof clothing, such as a raincoat or a light jacket, to protect yourself in case of rainfall. It is also helpful to bring a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun during the day and sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.
If you plan to visit mountainous areas or higher-altitude regions, such as Bwindi, it is important to pack warmer clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
Do not forget to bring mosquito repellent. Uganda is a malaria-endemic area, so taking preventive measures such as using insect repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets is essential.
Best Time To Go To Uganda
Uganda is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round, but the dry season is the best time to make the most of outdoor activities.
This period, which runs from December to February and from June to September, offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making activities like safaris and gorilla trekking easier. Additionally, the roads are in better condition, and the vegetation is less dense, improving visibility and access.
In contrast, the rainy season, which runs from March to May, can make travel more difficult due to muddier or slipperier roads and terrain. However, this period is ideal for those who prefer to avoid crowds, as there are fewer tourists, and prices are usually lower due to the off-season. In mountainous areas or higher-altitude regions like Bwindi, temperatures can drop significantly, particularly at night.
When To Go Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking can be done year-round, but it is recommended during the dry season, which is from December to February and from June to September. The weather is warmer during these months, and the trails are more accessible due to the lower rainfall. However, rain is always possible.
How To Move Around Uganda
In cities like Entebbe or Kampala, getting around is relatively easy thanks to public transportation options, taxis, or apps like Uber. Uber is undoubtedly the most convenient and safest option, even when arriving at the airport.
However, when venturing outside these cities to explore the country, you’ll find various ways to get around, each with its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and budget:
Independent Travel
The first option for traveling around Uganda is to go independently, which is the most economical choice but requires more planning. Renting a car is undoubtedly the best option for exploring Uganda on your own.
While public transportation connects the main cities, this method is often much slower due to the lack of fixed schedules, road conditions, and waiting times. Additionally, once you arrive in the main cities, you will need to figure out how to get to your accommodation or tourist sites, which are often not well-connected.
If you choose to travel by public transport, it’s important to allow enough time, as the travel delays can cost you valuable hours that could be spent exploring and enjoying the tourist attractions.
Renting a car in Uganda offers multiple advantages, such as the flexibility to explore at your own pace, access to remote destinations not well connected by public transport, and time savings by avoiding waiting and delays.
It also provides comfort by traveling in a private setting and allows you to customize your itinerary based on your interests. The roads between Uganda’s main cities are generally in good condition, but as you venture into more remote areas, the roads become more rural and challenging, especially during the rainy season.
Therefore, it’s essential to be prepared for long distances and difficult terrain and adjust to driving on the left side of the road if you’re not used to it.
I rented a car through Alpha Rental Cars (WhatsApp +256 701 436348) email: [email protected]) an option I recommend, as they offer the possibility of crossing the vehicle into other countries like Rwanda.
My experience with them was very positive. A great benefit is that if you rent a vehicle from this company, they assist you in processing the permits for gorilla tracking in Uganda at no additional cost, which makes trip planning much easier. Other car rental options in the country include Road Trip Africa.
Although the distances on the map may seem short, road conditions and other logistical factors can make travel times longer than expected. Therefore, planning your visits and departures with enough time to avoid setbacks and make the most of your experience in Uganda is essential.
Book A Tour
Booking a group or private tour is the most comfortable and expensive option. By contracting a group or private tour, you ensure that you will be picked up and taken directly to the points of interest, with a guide providing valuable information about the places you visit.
This option is ideal if you prefer to avoid the logistics of transportation and want a fully organized experience without worrying about traffic, price negotiations, or practical details. While it is more costly, it can be the best choice for those looking for a more comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Currency in Uganda
Uganda’s official currency is the Ugandan shilling (UGX), which currently has a value of approximately 1 USD = 3,700 UGX. As a popular tourist destination, the US dollar and the euro are widely accepted, with the US dollar being preferred. Ensure the bills are new and in good condition, as some places may not accept old or damaged banknotes.
In cities like Kampala and Entebbe, you’ll find ATMs or currency exchange offices in most tourist and commercial areas. Although most restaurants and hotels accept card payments, carrying some cash for tips, shopping at smaller businesses, or emergencies is always a good idea.
Bring enough cash for your trip, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas where access to ATMs or currency exchange offices may be limited.
Gorilla Trekking Uganda Guide Wrap Up
I hope you’ve found my guide to gorilla trekking in Uganda helpful. Uganda is a magical destination steeped in wildlife and culture that is worth adding to your bucket list.
If you have questions about visiting Uganda, please comment below or message me directly on Instagram @alessia.ramponi.
You can also check out all our other Africa guides for more travel inspiration!
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Uganda! If you have questions about Uganda or tips to share with our readers please leave these in the comments below.
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