There are fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas left on earth. Almost all of them live in the Virunga Massif — a chain of volcanoes straddling Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC — and in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Seeing them in the wild is one of the most quietly overwhelming things a person can do.
But it takes planning. This guide covers everything you need to know before you book your permit.
Where to Go: Bwindi vs. Mgahinga
Uganda has two gorilla trekking destinations. Bwindi Impenetrable Forestis the main event — it holds about half the world's mountain gorilla population across four sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga). Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is smaller, hosts a single habituated family, and sits on the Ugandan side of the Virungas.
For most visitors, Bwindi is the right answer. More permit availability, more gorilla families to visit, and more accommodation options at every price point.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — UNESCO World Heritage SiteGetting Your Permit
Each gorilla family is visited by a maximum of eight people per day. That strict cap is what keeps the gorillas healthy — and what makes permits both precious and expensive.
- Uganda permit cost: USD $800 per person (as of 2026)
- Booking: Through Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or a licensed operator like us
- How far in advance: 3–6 months for peak season (June–September, December–January); shoulder seasons have more flexibility
Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Don't wait until you have your flights confirmed — book the permit first, then build your trip around it.
What the Trek Is Actually Like
Treks start at 7:30 AM with a briefing at the park gate. From there, rangers and a tracker lead your group into the forest. The trek itself can be anywhere from 30 minutes to 8 hours depending on where the gorillas have moved overnight.
The terrain is real jungle — steep, muddy, and dense. Altitude in Bwindi ranges from 1,160 to 2,607 metres. Most people are fine, but it's not a gentle stroll.
How to Prepare Physically
- Walk uphill regularly in the 4–6 weeks before your trip
- If you're not a regular hiker, consider hiring a porter — they carry your bag, help you up steep sections, and the fees go directly into the local community
- Altitude acclimatisation matters: spend a night or two in a mid-altitude area before trekking
What to Wear and Bring
- Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers (protects against nettles and insects)
- Waterproof hiking boots — non-negotiable
- Garden gloves (the stinging nettles are genuine)
- Rain jacket
- 2 litres of water minimum
- Camera without flash — flash is not permitted near gorillas
- A small snack
The One-Hour Rule
Once rangers locate the family, you get exactly one hour with the gorillas. No more. This is strictly enforced to protect their health and minimise stress. In that hour, you must stay at least 7 metres away (though the gorillas frequently ignore this boundary — if a silverback walks toward you, you stand still and look away).
Most people say the hour passes in about five minutes. And then they spend the rest of the trip thinking about it.
Health Requirements
If you are sick — cold, flu, stomach bug — you will be asked not to trek that day. Gorillas are highly susceptible to human respiratory illnesses. This is taken seriously. Your permit may be deferred if you inform UWA in advance; it will not be refunded.
Masks are worn within 10 metres of gorillas as a precaution. Your guides will have them for you.
Is It Worth the Cost?
That USD $800 goes directly to UWA and funds anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care for the gorillas, and community projects around the park. The gorilla population has been growing steadily since conservation efforts began — a rare piece of good news in African wildlife.
Every person we have ever taken gorilla trekking has said the same thing afterward: it was worth every dollar.