Bwindi national park is a renowned national park located in southwestern Uganda, widely known for its exceptional bio diversity and is classified as a UNESCO world heritage site. The Park covers an area of about 31 square kilometers and is situated within the Albertine rift valley.

One of the main highlights of Bwindi is its population of endangered mountain gorillas, which makes it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiast and nature lovers. The park is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it an important conservation area for these incredible creatures.

It also boasts a rich variety of other wildlife like primate species of chimps, black and white colobus monkeys and olive baboons. Additionally, the park is teeming with diverse bird species making it a paradise for bird watchers.

In addition to gorilla trekking, Bwindi offers other activities like guided nature walks, bird watching and cultural encounters with the local Batwa community. Exploring the park’s magnificent landscapes, encountering remarkable wildlife and learning about the local culture make Bwindi national park a truly unique and captivating destination.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an unforgettable wildlife experience that involves hiking into dense forests of Bwindi impenetrable national park or Mgahinga national park to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The trek starts with a briefing by park experienced guides to prepare visitors for the strenuous activity ahead, including rules and regulations for gorilla trekking. A qualified guide accompanies visitors on foot through the rugged terrain to locate gorillas.

The trek through the forest can take anywhere from 2 to several hours depending on the location and movement of the gorilla families. Once a gorilla family is located, visitors spend an hour in their presence, observing and taking snaps from a safe distance.

This activity provides a blend of adventure, excitement and conservation education. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of being so close to these magnificent creatures while learning about their behaviors, habits, conservation efforts and challenges they face in the world.

How to book gorilla permits?

To book for a gorilla permit, you need to follow the following steps,

• Identify the tour operator you would like to work with by doing preliminary research and reading reviews from other tourists.
• Contact the tour operators to inform them about your interests in trekking gorillas and let them know about your picked dates.
• Tour operators will check availability of gorilla permits in the preferred park on the dates you plan of travel. If permits are available. They will reserve them for you.
• You will then be required to provide your personal details, including your full names, passport number and nationality. These details are needed to process the official permits.
• Payment for the gorilla trekking permit usually goes through the Uganda wildlife authority and can be made directly or through your tour operator.
• Upon confirmation of payment, your travel agency will secure your gorilla permit and you with receive an email with confirmation from UWA.

Rules and regulations of gorilla trekking.

• Do not take pictures with flash light on
• Do not chew in the presence of gorillas
• Do not eat or drink in the presence of gorillas
• Do not try to feed gorillas
• Always maintain a distance of 8 meters away from gorillas
• Do not litter the environment of gorillas
• Do not ease yourself near the gorilla premises.
• Do not cough or sneeze in the presence of gorillas
• Persons above the 15 years are allowed to trek gorillas
• Do not try to touch gorillas.
• Do not make noise while trekking
• Do not smoke in the presence of gorillas.
• Only eight visitors are allowed to trek a certain gorilla family per day
• You are required to follow rules and guidelines given by guides and stay in your group.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking.

• Long sleeved shirts and trousers
• Insect repellent
• Packed food and drinking water
• Hiking boots
• Hiking stick
• Hat and sun screen
• Waterproof back pack
• Water proof jacket
• Gorilla permits and other documents
• Exchanged money for tips

Cost of Gorilla Permit

USD 700 for nonresidents per person

USD 600 for residents per person

UGX250, 000 for East African citizens per person.