Uganda:

In Uganda, gorilla trekking is conducted in two national parks, primarily within the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which has several sectors, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Buhoma Sector:

Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushegura, Muyambi, Katwe

Ruhija Sector:

Bitukura, Oruzogo, Mukiza, Kyaguriro (primarily a research family)

Rushaga Sector:

Nshongi, Mishaya, Bweza, Kahungye, Busingye, Kutu, Mucunguzi, Rwigi

Nkuringo Sector:

Nkuringo, Bushaho, Christmas, Posho

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Nyakagezi Family: The only habituated group in this park. They have historically been known to migrate across the borders to Rwanda and Congo, but have recently become more settled in Uganda.

Rwanda:

In Rwanda, all trekking takes place in the Volcanoes National Park, which is part of the larger Virunga Mountain range.

Volcanoes National Park: Susa (Susa A), Karisimbi (Susa B), Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Umubano

Agashya (formerly Group 13), Kwitonda, Hirwa, Bwenge, Ugenda, Igisha, Titus (historically significant, monitored by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund)

Congo:

In Congo, gorilla trekking is offered in both Virunga National Park (for mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (for Eastern lowland gorillas).

Virunga National Park (Mountain gorillas):

Rugendo, Humba, Mapuwa, Lulengo, Kabirizi, Munyaga, Bageni, Nyakamwe, Wilungula, Baraka

Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Eastern lowland gorillas):

Chimanuka, Mpungwe, Bonobo, Mugaruka

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Uganda gorilla permit costs (2024–2026)

Uganda’s prices were updated in July 2024 and are in effect until June 2026.

Standard permit (one hour with gorillas)

Foreign Non-Residents: $800 USD.

Foreign Residents: $700 USD.

Citizens of Other African Countries: $500 USD.

East African Community Citizens: UGX 300,000.

Habituation permit (four hours with gorillas)

Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 USD.

Foreign Residents: $1,000 USD.

Citizens of Other African Countries: $1,000 USD.

East African Community Citizens: UGX 750,000.

Where to trek: Gorilla trekking in Uganda is conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Rwanda gorilla permit costs (2024–2026)

Rwanda’s permit prices are structured as a premium experience.

Standard permit (one hour with gorillas)

Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 USD.

Foreign Residents: $500 USD.

Citizens of Other African Countries: $500 USD.

Rwandan and East African Community Citizens: $200 USD.

Discounted permits: A 30% discount ($1,050) is available for non-African residents during the low season (November to May), provided they also visit other national parks in Rwanda for a minimum number of nights.

Where to trek: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda occurs in Volcanoes National Park.

How to purchase a gorilla permit

Book early: Permits are limited and should be booked well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Book through Simba Gorilla Frontiers: A reliable local tour operator is the easiest and safest way to book your permit, as they have an established process with the relevant wildlife authorities.

Directly: You can also purchase permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or the Rwanda Development Board, though this can be more challenging for independent travelers.

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Dry Season (June to September and December to February)

Pros:

Optimal weather: Clear skies, less rainfall, and more comfortable temperatures make for easier trekking and better visibility for photography.

Prime wildlife viewing: Animals are easier to spot as they congregate around water sources.

Cons:

Peak tourist season: This is the most popular time to visit, so you’ll need to book accommodations and gorilla permits far in advance.

Rainy Season (March to May and September to November)

Pros:

Fewer tourists: This is the low season, so you may find lower prices and a less crowded experience.

Lush landscapes: The scenery is more vibrant and lusher, which can be great for photography.

Cons:

Challenging conditions: Trails can be muddy and more difficult, especially in Uganda’s steeper forests.

More rainfall: Expect more frequent, sometimes heavy, rain showers.

Tips for planning your trip

Consider the “shoulder” seasons: The months just before or after the rainy season (like November or March) can offer a good balance of fewer crowds, lower prices, and manageable weather.

Pack for both conditions: Since rain is possible even in the dry season, always pack waterproof gear.

Book in advance: Regardless of the season, it’s wise to book permits and lodges well ahead of time, especially if traveling around December/January or during the peak dry season months.

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Gorilla trekking in Uganda is generally considered safe for tourists, as long as you follow park regulations and travel with reputable operators. The activity is heavily regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and armed rangers accompany all treks to ensure security and enforce park rules.

However, travelers should be aware of several security and health concerns in the country and take appropriate precautions. Most notably, several governments, including Australia and the US, currently advise exercising a high degree of caution when traveling to Uganda due to the threat of terrorism, crime, and civil unrest, particularly near border areas and in major cities.

Gorilla trekking safety measures

Your safety during gorilla trekking is the highest priority for the UWA and tour operators.

Habituated gorilla families: The gorilla groups visited by tourists are habituated, meaning they are accustomed to human presence and are not aggressive unless provoked.

Park rangers: Treks are led by highly trained guides and accompanied by armed rangers who monitor the area for poachers or other wildlife, ensuring the group’s safety.

Strict trekking rules: All visitors receive a briefing on the mandatory rules to follow during the trek, such as maintaining a minimum distance of 7 meters from the gorillas and avoiding flash photography.

Limited visitor numbers: Only a small number of visitors are permitted per gorilla family each day to minimize stress on the animals and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Country-wide security concerns

While gorilla trekking areas are highly secured, other parts of Uganda have security risks that travelers should be aware of.

Terrorism: There is a general threat of terrorism across Uganda, with attacks having occurred in the past in major cities like Kampala and some national parks. Avoid large public gatherings, monitor local media, and be aware of your surroundings.

Border instability: Avoid travel within 50 km of the borders with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to armed bandits and rebel groups. Gorilla trekking tours should not cross into the DRC.

Petty and violent crime: Crime, including armed robbery and muggings, can occur in larger cities like Kampala and Jinja, as well as on roads. Take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not displaying signs of wealth.

Political unrest: Political protests and demonstrations can turn violent, especially leading up to the general elections scheduled for early 2026. Travelers are advised to avoid these events.

Health precautions

Before traveling, consult a travel doctor to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medications.

Vaccinations: A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Uganda. Other recommended vaccines include hepatitis A, typhoid, and polio.

Malaria: The risk of malaria is present throughout Uganda. Travelers should take antimalarial medication and protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Infectious diseases: Take precautions against waterborne and foodborne illnesses like cholera and typhoid by drinking only boiled or bottled water.

Travel insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation, as medical facilities are limited outside of Kampala.

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