Here is Where You Can See Gorillas in Uganda in 2025 and 2026

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Where to see gorillas in Uganda begins with the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Where to see gorillas in Uganda reaches its pinnacle in this UNESCO World Heritage site, home to approximately 459 mountain gorillas living in 20 habituated families. Where to see gorillas in Uganda becomes a transformative experience as you trek through one of Africa's oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests.

Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated in southwestern Uganda, spanning 321 square kilometers across a series of steep ridges and valleys. The Park is divided into four distinct sectors: Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the east, Rushaga in the south, and Nkuringo in the southwest, each offering unique gorilla trekking experiences.

Best Time to Visit: The optimal periods for gorilla trekking in Bwindi are during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February. These months offer more comfortable hiking conditions with less rainfall and firmer trails. However, permits are often booked months in advance during these peak seasons.

How to Get There: Travelers can reach Bwindi via road from Kampala (approximately 8-10 hours) or fly to nearby airstrips like Kihihi or Kisoro using domestic carriers such as Aerolink. Many tour operators provide comprehensive transportation packages from Entebbe International Airport directly to accommodation near the park.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost: As of 2025, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 350,000 for East African Citizens. This fee contributes directly to conservation efforts and community development programs around the park. Permits are limited and should be secured well in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or authorized tour operators.

What to Wear: Proper attire for gorilla trekking includes waterproof hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts in neutral colors, gardening gloves, gaiters, and rain jackets. The forest environment is humid and often muddy, making waterproof gear essential for comfort during the trek.

Accommodation Options: Bwindi offers accommodation options spanning all budgets. Luxury travelers can enjoy properties like Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge. Mid-range options include Engagi Lodge and Silverback Lodge, while budget travelers can stay at Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Bwindi Backpackers Lodge.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Where to see gorillas in Uganda extends to the smaller but equally magnificent Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Where to see gorillas in Uganda takes on another dimension in this park that forms part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area. Where to see gorillas in Uganda offers a unique experience in this park where gorillas share the forest with golden monkeys and a rich diversity of bird species.

Location: Situated in the extreme southwest corner of Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park covers the Ugandan portion of the Virunga volcanoes. The Park encompasses 33.7 square kilometers and includes three of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga range: Mt. Muhabura, Mt. Gahinga, and Mt. Sabyinyo.

Best Time to Visit: Similar to Bwindi, the dry seasons from June to August and December to February provide optimal trekking conditions. The volcanic terrain can be particularly challenging during rainy seasons, making these drier months preferable for most visitors seeking comfortable hiking experiences.

How to Get There: Mgahinga is accessible by road from Kampala (approximately 8-9 hours) or via flights to Kisoro airstrip. The Park is about 15 kilometers from Kisoro town, with the final stretch traversing scenic mountainous terrain with views of the volcanoes and terraced hillsides.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost: Gorilla trekking permits for Mgahinga are priced at $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 350,000 for East African Citizens in 2025, identical to Bwindi's pricing. The Park features one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, known for occasionally crossing borders into neighboring Rwanda and DRC.

What to Wear: Warm, layered clothing is particularly important in Mgahinga due to its higher elevation and cooler temperatures. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, waterproof jackets, and gloves are essential. Walking sticks are provided by park authorities to assist with the steep volcanic terrain.

Accommodation Options: While accommodation options are fewer than at Bwindi, visitors can stay at properties like Mount Gahinga Lodge for luxury experiences or Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp for budget options. Many visitors also choose to stay in nearby Kisoro town, which offers additional accommodation choices at various price points.

Uganda's Unique Gorilla Trekking Experience

Where to see gorillas in Uganda offers distinct advantages over other destinations. Where to see gorillas in Uganda provides better value with lower permit costs compared to neighboring Rwanda. Where to see gorillas in Uganda also offers more habituated gorilla families spread across different sectors, giving visitors more options for their trekking experience.

Bwindi's four sectors each offer unique gorilla trekking experiences with varying difficulty levels. Buhoma sector is ideal for first-time visitors with gentler slopes, while Nkuringo and Rushaga offer more challenging terrain for adventure seekers. Each sector has different gorilla families with their personalities and dynamics, creating truly personalized wildlife encounters.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority has developed exceptional community involvement programs where residents benefit directly from gorilla tourism. Many former poachers now work as porters, guides, or in tourism-related businesses, creating a sustainable conservation model that benefits both wildlife and communities.

Booking a Gorilla Trekking Safari with Gorilla Pathfinders

Gorilla Pathfinders specializes in crafting unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences throughout Uganda. Our expert guides ensure safe, responsible, and immersive gorilla encounters that support local conservation efforts. We handle all logistics, from permit acquisition to transportation and accommodation, allowing you to focus on the incredible wildlife experience.

When you book with Gorilla Pathfinders, you're not just planning a vacation – you're contributing to critical conservation efforts. Our community-focused approach ensures your tourism dollars benefit local communities directly, creating a sustainable future for both people and gorillas. Contact us today to plan your 2025 Uganda gorilla trekking adventure and become part of one of Africa's greatest conservation success stories!