Encounter silverback gorillas on a gorilla trek in Bwindi (© Wild Frontiers).
Hike through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest between lodges (©Wild Frontiers).
Anthea’s experiences of a gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Guided by expert local guides, we set off past the villages and neat rows of coffee, maize and potatoes – and crossing into the undisturbed forest of Uganda’s Bwindi National Park, we started to climb. Hacking through the dense vegetation, the guides made a fresh path for us to follow. The anticipation grew as we pressed on climbing steadily higher and stopping every now and then for a break and a swift glug from our water bottles. An hour passed and still no let up.
Then it happened – around a corner slipping and sliding – there amongst the leaves and branches, a majestic silverback! Hearts thumping, we froze. In that moment, time seemed to stand still. Looking into those eyes you feel an inexplicable connection. As we watched, we found ourselves amongst more of his gorilla family. From playful adolescents swinging down the branches to adults rustling amongst the branches, tearing fistfuls of leaves as they moved. The intimacy of observing them in their natural habitat was both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Once sighted, you are only able to be with the gorilla family for an hour, and we were motioned in due course to turn back down the slope by our guides before we regrouped, scarcely able to believe what we had just seen.
My gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi left an indelible impact. It reinforced the importance of responsible travel and conservation efforts. These endangered creatures deserve our utmost respect and protection and witnessing them first-hand solidified my commitment to preserving the ever- diminishing natural world.
If you seek an adventure that transcends the ordinary, this is a must. Witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is a privilege like no other, and it will undoubtedly leave you with cherished memories, and your participation will also ensure its preservation for generations to come.
Talk to Anthea about planning your own gorilla trekking safari
Buhoma Lodge has an irresistibly cozy, charming, and intimate feel, with its treehouse-style cottages perched above the forest.
Walk along the well worn forest track through the lush, ancient forest toward your next lodge.
Playful, intelligent, and utterly captivating, watching chimpanzees in their natural habitat was deeply humbling.
Around a corner slipping and sliding, we found a majestic silverback amongst the leaves and branches.
"Witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is a privilege like no other"
Buhoma Lodge – the perfect base for a gorilla safari in Bwindi
Whilst gorilla trekking I stayed in Buhoma Lodge in the northern sector of Bwindi, the perfect base. Buhoma has an irresistibly cozy, charming, and intimate feel, with its treehouse-style cottages perched above the forest, offering captivating views as the morning mist rises over the trees. Its location is ideal, being one of only two lodges in the park and just a short walk from one of the gorilla trekking starting points. The thoughtful touches, like the complimentary massage after my trek, genuinely set it apart.
How to include Uganda gorilla trekking in a wider safari journey
Start at Wildwaters Lodge, Blue Nile
A journey through Uganda can begin in unforgettable style at Wildwaters Lodge, perched dramatically on its own island in the middle of the Nile. Enveloped by the raw power of nature—the river surges and roars all around, great torrents of white water crashing and thundering past the beautiful thatched villas. It felt as though I was suspended between worlds: the comfort of refined luxury and the untamed force of Africa’s longest river. Sitting on my private deck, I watched the sun dip low as mist rose from the rapids, the sound of the cascading water both exhilarating and strangely soothing. At night, the river became a constant companion, its restless energy echoing through the darkness as I drifted into sleep.
Include chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest
From Wildwaters Lodge we travelled onwards to Ndali Lodge, a place as charmingly eccentric as it is breathtaking. Set high on the rim of an ancient volcanic crater lake, the lodge offered sweeping views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the patchwork landscapes below. The atmosphere here was warm, intimate, and delightfully unpolished, full of character and stories. It was the perfect base for my trek into Kibale Forest, to track chimpanzees.
Moving quietly beneath the dense canopy, guided by the distant calls echoing through the trees, I felt a growing sense of anticipation. Then suddenly, there they were—playful, intelligent, and utterly captivating. Watching them interact in their natural habitat was deeply humbling, a rare and intimate glimpse into a world so close to our own.
Enjoy gentle hiking in Bwindi between lodges
After the unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, walk along the well worn forest track through the lush, ancient forest toward Clouds Gorilla Lodge meeting cheerful Ugandans carrying their produce to market a mere two hours walk away. Arriving at the lodge felt like reaching a sanctuary above the clouds. As evening fell, I curled up beside a crackling fire, its gentle hiss and soft spitting embers creating a rhythm that lulled me to sleep.
Wildwaters is situated on a private island amongst the rapids of the Nile.
Ndali lodge sits on the rim of an ancient volcanic crater lake with views to the Rwenzori Mountains in the distance.
Frequently Asked Questions about gorilla trekking in Uganda
Where to see gorillas in Africa?
Mountain gorillas can be seen on the slopes of the Virunga volcanic mountains which straddle Uganda (Mgahinga National Park), Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) and the DRC (Virunga National Park). They can also be seen in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. We recommend Bwindi in Uganda and Volcanoes NP in Rwanda as the premier mountain gorilla trekking destinations due to their accessibility, high concentration of habituated gorilla families, and excellent accommodation options. However Mgahinga can be an excellent option if you are planning to combine Rwanda and Uganda. It also has good lodge options and Batwa interaction experiences.
Western lowland gorillas can be trekked in the Republic of Congo (we recommend Odzala-Kokoua National Park), Gabon (Loango National Park), and the Central African Republic.
Should you hire a porter for your gorilla trek?
Yes, it is advisable to take a porter on your gorilla trek. Not only are you helping the local community with employment, but they are indispensable on the slippery slopes, guiding and assisting on the more tricky parts.
Is gorilla trekking safe?
Yes, gorilla trekking is generally safe. There are inherent risks with any wildlife tracking activity of course, but mountain gorilla trekking is highly managed and you go in small groups with expert trackers and guides who know the region and the gorilla families extremely well. Porters are very helpful in steeper sections of the trekking and lessen your burden by carrying your camera equipment. You are given detailed instructions on how to keep safe by complying with viewing rules during the encounter and your guide is there to give you ongoing advice and keep you safe.
What is the cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda?
In 2026, gorilla trekking permits cost $800 USD per person. We recommend taking two treks ideally, to fully absorb and appreciate the experience. In addition you should consider the cost for porters, accommodation and tipping. There are a limited number of permits available per day as each habituated family only has 8 visitors per day, so gorilla trekking safaris are best planned well in advance.
What to wear when mountain gorilla trekking?
Appropriate clothing and footwear is crucial for gorilla trekking. We recommend a lightweight back/day pack to carry your water canteen, waterproof hiking boots with good grip and ankle support, leather or heavy canvas (gardening style) gloves to protect your hands when clambering up densely vegetated slopes, waterproof rain pants / overalls or a poncho with hood, and a face mask to wear in the presence of the gorillas.
When is the best time for a gorilla safari in Uganda?
It is possible to go gorilla trekking any time of the year, however consideration should be given to the amount of rainfall during different seasons. Being a rainforest ecosystem, there is always the chance of rain, however during the long rains of March-May and short rains in November the climbs can become more challenging if paths get muddy. The ‘dry season’ of June to September is peak time with December to February also offering ideal conditions.
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