Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in south-western Uganda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places on Earth to see wild mountain gorillas. The dense, misty forest is home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, along with forest elephants, many primates and hundreds of bird species.
How gorilla trekking in Bwindi works
- Permits: a permit is required for every trekker and numbers are limited, so book well ahead.
- Trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo each have habituated gorilla families, with different terrain and lodge options.
- The trek: from about an hour to several hours on steep, muddy forest trails, with trackers leading the way and porters available.
- Time with the gorillas: a regulated hour in the company of a family, keeping a safe distance.
- Age and fitness: a reasonable level of fitness is needed, and there is a minimum age for trekkers.
Best time to visit Bwindi
June to September and December to February are generally drier, which makes trails easier. The forest is green and lush all year, and the rainy months bring muddier paths.
Uganda or Rwanda?
Both countries offer unforgettable gorilla encounters. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is closer to a major airport and suits shorter trips, while Bwindi is larger and wilder. Many travellers add either one to a Kenya safari.
Tell us your dates and budget and we will design a Uganda gorilla trekking itinerary, on its own or combined with the Masai Mara.