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

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. 

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. 

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.  

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. 

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. 

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.)  

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. 

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

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. 

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

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 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. 

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. 

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: 

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. 

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

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: 

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. 

Here’s the current pricing for 2025: 

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.  

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

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. 

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. 

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: 

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.  

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. 

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: 

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. 

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

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

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. 

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 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 

2. Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp 

3. Buhoma Community Rest Camp 

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 

2. Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge 

3. Gorilla Safari Lodge 

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: 

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

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.