Young Mountain Gorilla in Uganda

Are there gorillas in Uganda? Everything you need to know before you go

May 30, 2025

Explore the incredible experience of gorilla trekking in Uganda. Learn about the best spots, what to expect, and why Uganda is a top destination for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike

Woman sitting on step

by  Emma Marais

 

17 min read

If you’re wondering “Are there gorillas in Uganda?” — the answer is yes. And not just a handful. 

Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the only places on Earth where you can see them in the wild. These rare primates roam the misty highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, deep in the country’s southwest. 

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an experience you’ll never forget — but there’s more to it than lacing up your boots and heading into the jungle. Here’s what you need to know. 

Yes, Uganda has gorillas — and they’re kind of a big deal 

Uganda isn’t just a place to see gorillas. It’s the place. It’s one of only three countries on the planet where mountain gorillas still live in the wild, alongside Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. But here’s the kicker: Uganda has the largest population. 

There are around 1,063 mountain gorillas left in the wild, and more than 400 live in Uganda. They are an endangered species, the World Wildlife Fund stating that since their discovery, they have “endured years of war, hunting and disease—threats so severe that it was once thought the species might be extinct by the end of the twentieth century.” 

And no — you won’t find these gorillas in zoos. Mountain gorillas can’t survive in captivity. If you want to see them, you have to go to them. That’s what makes Uganda gorilla tours such a bucket-list adventure. 

Uganda mountain gorillas: Forest dwellers with serious presence 

These aren’t just any gorillas. They’re mountain gorillas, a subspecies of eastern gorilla that lives at high altitudes — usually between 2,200 and 4,300 meters above sea level. 

They’re perfectly adapted to this cold, misty environment: thick fur, plant-based diets, and a tightly bonded family structure run by dominant silverbacks. Despite their size (males can weigh over 400 pounds), they’re gentle and calm. 

Gorilla families are social and surprisingly relatable. You might spot toddlers tumbling through the undergrowth, mothers nursing their babies, or silverbacks perched silently like forest kings. 

They’re also vegetarian. Their diet includes wild celery, roots, fruit, and bamboo shoots — not humans. As long as you respect their space (and keep your granola bar in your pocket), they’ll usually act like you’re not even there. 

Here are some more wildly entertaining Gorilla facts that will blow your mind.  

Where are gorillas found in Uganda? 

Gorillas in Uganda live in two protected forests tucked into the southwestern corner of the country near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These parks are the heart of Uganda wildlife safaris, especially for travellers chasing close encounters with gorillas. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park 

Yes, it’s really called “Impenetrable,” and it earns the name. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a thick tangle of ancient rainforest — a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with mist, moss-draped trees, waterfalls, and steep ridges. It covers over 320 square kilometers and shelters about 459 mountain gorillas, most of which are habituated to human presence through years of conservation work. 

This is the most famous destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda, with more than 20 habituated families spread across four trekking sectors. 

Bwindi is also one of the most biologically diverse places in Africa. You’ll find 350+ bird species, 200 butterfly species, and over 120 other mammals sharing the forest with the gorillas. 

But the real draw? Standing a few meters from a wild gorilla and meeting its eyes. That single moment justifies the hike, the permit, and the early morning wake-up. 

Mountain Gorilla with a baby gorilla in Uganda

Importance of Bwindi for gorilla conservation 

Bwindi isn’t just a place to see gorillas — it’s central to their survival. 

In the 1980s, Uganda mountain gorillas were on the brink of extinction. Decades of poaching and habitat loss had decimated their numbers. But through long-term efforts — from community-led tourism to strict anti-poaching laws — Uganda flipped the script. 

Bwindi is now a conservation success story. Tourism here directly funds protection, research, and education. Visitors don’t just observe gorillas — they help save them. 

Locals play a huge role too. Many of today’s trackers and guides were once hunters. Now, they’re the guardians of the very animals they once pursued. 

(Does Gorilla trekking help conservation work? Read more here.)  

Best spots within Bwindi for gorilla trekking 

Bwindi is divided into four sectors, each offering a unique trekking experience. Your trekking permit determines where you’ll go — so it’s smart to plan accommodation around your assigned sector. 

  • Buhoma (North): The original entry point and home to the park’s first habituated gorilla families. Accessible and great for first-time trekkers. 
  • Ruhija (East): A birdwatcher’s paradise with panoramic forest views and steep trails. 
  • Rushaga (South): Has the highest number of habituated families — ideal if you want the best chance at a permit. 
  • Nkuringo (Southwest): Remote and rugged with some of the steepest hikes. Rewarding for the fit and adventurous. 

Each sector gives you access to different mountain gorillas Uganda is known for — but no matter where you go, the encounter is unforgettable. 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park  

Let’s talk about Mgahinga Gorilla National Park — Uganda’s smallest national park by size, but a total giant when it comes to scenery and bragging rights. 

Set high on the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes, Mgahinga sits at the tri-border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Uganda’s slice of this volcanic range is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family — a tight-knit group known for being playful, curious, and relatively easy to track compared to some of their cousins in Bwindi. 

While there’s only one habituated gorilla family here, gorilla trekking in Mgahinga has its own unique charm: fewer crowds, open terrain, and jaw-dropping views of ancient volcanoes. 

Oh — and golden monkeys. Mgahinga is the only place in Uganda where you can see these rare, energetic primates swinging through bamboo forests. They’re smaller than gorillas but just as fun to photograph — if you can keep up with them. 

Adventurous? You’re in the right place. Beyond gorilla treks, you can hike a volcano (yes, really), walk ancient Batwa tribal trails, or explore the surreal, mist-filled bamboo zones that make this park feel like another planet. 

Comparing Bwindi and Mgahinga  

Still deciding where to trek? Here’s how Bwindi Impenetrable National Park stacks up against Mgahinga. 

Feature 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park 

Gorilla groups 

20+ habituated families 

1 habituated family (Nyakagezi) 

Trekking terrain 

Dense rainforest, steep ridges 

Open volcanic slopes, bamboo forest 

Wildlife 

Monkeys, birds, forest elephants 

Golden monkeys, buffalo, rare birds 

Best for 

Trekking variety and biodiversity 

Solitude, scenery, golden monkeys 

If you're looking for mountain gorillas Uganda is most famous for, both parks deliver — just in different ways. Bwindi offers more trekking options and higher gorilla numbers, while Mgahinga offers serenity, scenery, and a very special encounter with fewer tourists around. 

Can’t decide? Good news — you don’t have to. Many travellers build both parks into their Uganda gorilla tours and get the best of both worlds. 

Gorilla trekking in Uganda: What to expect

Gorilla trekking isn’t your average nature walk. It’s muddy, rugged, and unlike anything else on Earth. 

When you start your trek — whether in Bwindi or Mgahinga — you're not just hiking. You’re tracking wild mountain gorillas through thick forest, guided by expert trackers who read the jungle like a map. Every footprint, bent branch, or distant grunt is a clue. Treks can last anywhere from 45 minutes to six hours, depending on where the gorillas are that day. And there are no guarantees — these aren’t zoo animals. They roam. You follow. 

But once you find them? All the slipping, sweating, and hiking fades away. Because suddenly, you’re looking into the eyes of a Uganda mountain gorilla — and it's looking right back. 

How close do you get to gorillas in Uganda?  

Pretty close — closer than you might expect. 

You’ll be standing about 7 meters (23 feet) away, but that’s more of a guideline than a fence. Gorillas don’t always respect human boundaries. They might wander near, sit down beside you, or completely ignore you while munching bamboo. 

You won’t touch them — for their safety and yours — but the encounter is deeply personal. You’ll have precious time with the gorilla family. And you’ll remember every second. 

The time given to spend with them is strictly timed to protect the gorillas from stress and human germs (yes, they can catch our colds). But it’s long enough to feel immersed in their world — and short enough to leave you wanting more. 

How difficult is gorilla trekking in Uganda?  

Is gorilla trekking hard? Let’s not sugarcoat it — it’s a workout. Gorilla trekking in Uganda means uneven trails, high humidity, slippery mud, and altitude. It’s not a walk in the park, but you don’t need to be an ultra-marathoner either. If you’ve got a moderate level of fitness, decent hiking boots, and a little determination, you’ll be just fine. 

A few tips to make it easier: 

  • Hire a porter — they’ll carry your bag and give you a hand (literally) on tricky parts 
  • Use trekking poles — available at most lodges or trailheads 
  • Bring layers — it can go from sunny to chilly and misty in minutes 
  • Start slow — pacing matters more than speed 
  • Don’t forget water and snacks — especially on longer hikes 

Worried about the climb? Tell your guides. They’ll match you with a gorilla group that’s closer to the trailhead if you need a shorter trek. 

Trekking difficulty also varies by sector and park. Bwindi is more rugged and dense; Mgahinga offers clearer trails but with steeper inclines in some spots. Whichever you choose, the reward at the end — a face-to-face moment with a wild gorilla — is worth every step. 

Gorilla permits in Uganda: How to get one (and why they matter) 

Before you can set foot on the trail, you’ll need a permit. Always. No exceptions. 

Why a gorilla permit isn’t just a formality 

Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are required to trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park — the only places in Uganda where you can go gorilla trekking. 

But these permits do more than get you into the forest. They: 

  • Limit the number of daily visitors per gorilla family 
  • Help reduce stress and disease risk for the gorillas 
  • Fund anti-poaching patrols, veterinary work, and ranger training 
  • Support nearby communities that live alongside the parks 

So yes, it's a permit. But it’s also a conservation tool. And part of what makes gorilla trekking in Uganda ethical and sustainable. 

What does a gorilla permit cost? 

Here’s the current pricing for 2025: 

  • $800 for foreign non-residents 
  • $700 for foreign residents 
  • UGX 300,000 for East African citizens 

Your money directly helps protect Uganda’s mountain gorillas, which are still critically endangered, and ensures future travellers can have the same rare experience. 

Here’s some more info on gorilla Trekking trip costs in 2025.  

Mountain Gorilla eating

When’s the best time to see gorillas in Uganda? 

Uganda gorilla tours run all year long. But the conditions on the trail can vary — a lot. 

Dry seasons (the easiest time to trek): 

  • June to September 
  • December to February 

These months see less rainfall, which means drier paths, clearer views, and better trekking conditions overall. This is also when permits book out fastest, so plan ahead. 

Rainy seasons (underrated but beautiful): 

  • March to May 
  • October to November 

These months are wetter and trails can get muddy, but the forest is stunning — thick, green, and full of life. There are usually fewer tourists, and some lodges drop their rates during this time. 

So, when’s the best time to see gorillas in Uganda? The answer is; whenever suits you and your preferences best. Just pack decent boots, a few layers, and a waterproof jacket you trust. Or two. 

Is it safe to see gorillas in Uganda? 

Yes, as long as you follow the rules. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most well-managed wildlife experiences in Africa. You’re always with trained rangers, and the gorillas you’ll visit are habituated — meaning they’re used to seeing humans and don’t view you as a threat. Still, the goal is to leave no trace. So there are a few non-negotiables: 

  • Keep at least 7 meters (23 feet) away from the gorillas 
  • Don’t use flash when taking photos 
  • Don’t touch the gorillas (even if one brushes past you) 
  • Keep your voice low 
  • If you’re sick, don’t go — gorillas can catch human illnesses 

These aren’t just rules. They’re about respect. You’re entering their space — not the other way around. Is gorilla trekking safe? (Quick answer:yes!), if you respect your environment, choose trusted operators and find joy in seeing these marvelous animals.  

The people side of gorilla trekking: Cultural experiences worth having 

There’s more to a gorilla trek than just the jungle. This part of Uganda has a deep cultural history, and spending time with local communities can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. 

The Batwa: Uganda’s first forest people 

Before Bwindi and Mgahinga became national parks, the Batwa people lived there. For generations, they hunted, gathered, and thrived in the forest. Today, many Batwa communities offer tours that include: 

  • Storytelling about their time in the forest 
  • Traditional hunting demonstrations 
  • Music and dance passed down over centuries 

These aren’t staged performances. They’re a powerful way to learn how conservation has changed lives — and how people are adapting and holding onto culture at the same time. 

Nkuringo Cultural Centre: Hands-on learning 

Near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Nkuringo Cultural Centre offers a window into rural Ugandan life. You can: 

  • Try basket weaving with local women 
  • Learn traditional drumming 
  • Join a guided walk through nearby farms and villages 

It's simple, genuine, and surprisingly moving. It also helps support the very communities helping to protect the gorillas. 

Why local tourism matters 

Every time you choose a locally owned lodge, hire a local guide, or buy a handmade souvenir, you’re helping. You’re keeping money in the community. You’re creating jobs and opportunities. And you're making it easier for locals to see the value in protecting their natural heritage. 

Where to stay: Lodges that blend comfort and conservation  

When planning gorilla trekking in Uganda, where you stay isn’t just a matter of comfort — it’s part of the experience. Many lodges near the gorilla parks are more than just places to sleep. They’re woven into the communities, built with sustainability in mind, and often surrounded by thick, misty forest. 

You’ll find options for every budget, from high-end eco-retreats to community-run cabins. Here’s a look at some of the best places to stay near Uganda’s two gorilla trekking hubs: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park  

Bwindi is where most travellers go to see Uganda’s mountain gorillas. It’s home to the largest number of habituated gorilla families and some truly special lodges. 

1. Buhoma Lodge 

  • Steps from the Buhoma trailhead, this intimate lodge offers luxury without losing its wild soul.  
  • Expect forest views, solar power, and thoughtful touches like hot water bottles in your bed at night. Buhoma Lodge is serious about sustainability and local sourcing. 

2. Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp 

  • Hidden deep within the forest, this exclusive camp gives you front-row access to the gorillas — sometimes literally.  
  • It’s not unusual for a gorilla family to wander through. With just eight canvas tents, it’s ideal if you want privacy, comfort, and a close connection to nature. 

3. Buhoma Community Rest Camp 

  • For travelers on a tighter budget, this camp is a solid choice.  
  • Run by the local community, it offers simple but clean rooms, hearty meals, and the chance to directly support local education and conservation efforts. 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park  

Quieter and less visited than Bwindi, Mgahinga is another spot where you can trek to see mountain gorillas in Uganda — especially the Nyakagezi family. It’s also great if you're interested in volcano hikes or cultural experiences with the Batwa people. 

1. Mount Gahinga Lodge 

  • Built and operated by Volcanoes Safaris, this lodge sits in the shadow of the Virunga Volcanoes.  
  • Each banda (cottage) is uniquely decorated with local art. The lodge also funds education and health projects in nearby communities, and guests are encouraged to join guided village visits. 

2. Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge 

  • Perched near the calm waters of Lake Mulehe, this lodge offers stunning sunset views and easy access to both Mgahinga and southern Bwindi. 
  • It’s peaceful, comfortable, and well-suited for those who want a serene base with fewer crowds.   

3. Gorilla Safari Lodge 

  • A relaxed mid-range option with private cottages, friendly staff, and easy logistics.  
  • It’s perfect if you want decent comfort without paying top-tier luxury prices — and they’ll help coordinate your Uganda gorilla tour permits and guides, too. 

Packing like a pro: gear that makes or breaks the trek  

Tracking mountain gorillas in Uganda isn’t a walk in the park — it’s a real jungle hike. Think thick forest, steep hills, and sudden rain. What you pack can seriously affect how much you enjoy it. 

Here’s what you’ll be glad you brought: 

  • Hiking boots you trust – Waterproof, broken-in, and with good grip. You’ll be slipping through mud and climbing over roots. 
  • Long-sleeved tops and pants – For protection, not warmth. Nettles and thorny plants are everywhere, especially in places like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. 
  • A solid rain jacket or poncho – The weather flips fast, even in the drier seasons (June to September, December to February — a great time to see gorillas in Uganda). 
  • Tough gloves – Gardening gloves work best. You’ll be grabbing vines and bracing on branches as you climb. 
  • A comfy daypack – With a rain cover. Just big enough for water, snacks, camera, and personal items. 
  • Bug spray and sunscreen – Even in the shade, you’re near the equator. Don’t skip this. 
  • A decent camera (no flash) – You’ll be closer than you think, but a zoom lens doesn’t hurt. 
  • Face mask – Required when you’re close to the gorillas. It protects them from human illness, and yes, they’re that vulnerable. 
  • Your meds + a few basics – Bring prescriptions, motion sickness tablets if you’ve got long drives, and a couple of blister plasters. 
  • Reusable water bottle – Hydration matters more than you’d expect, especially at altitude. 

Need the full list? Check out this complete packing guide for trekking with mountain gorillas in Uganda. 

Gorilla trekking in Uganda: Extraordinary, ethical, unforgettable 

Are there gorillas in Uganda? Yes, gorilla trekking in Uganda is physical, raw, and unforgettable. But it’s also delicate — you’re walking into a fragile ecosystem where conservation comes first. Every lodge you stay at, every guide you hire, every plastic bottle you don’t bring — it all adds up. 

Choosing to travel responsibly doesn’t mean giving up comfort. In fact, some of the best Uganda wildlife safaris are built around that balance: exceptional experiences that respect both the forest and the people who call it home. 

If you're ready to explore the forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, consider reading more about Uganda’s diverse wildlife and all you need to know about gorilla trekking tours.  

Take the first step and plan a trekking adventure that supports conservation while giving you a front-row seat to one of the most extraordinary animal encounters on Earth.  

Check out these gorilla trekking tours in Uganda today.