Gorilla Tours

If you are going gorilla trekking in Uganda, then you are bound southwest to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 1994. It is home to half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Bwindi (meaning impenetrable) is named so for good reason. It covers about 327 sq Kilometres of forested hills, steep ridges overlooking breath-taking landscapes, and deep valleys overgrown with vegetation. The terrain and altitude create a humid environment that often receives hours of steady drizzling rain. The nights are cold and so are the mornings but they more than make up for it with majestic views of mist blanketing the hills in the rising sun.

Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC share the Virunga mountain ranges that were long inhabited by the Nyakagezi family of mountain gorillas, migrating back and forth between borders in search of food. Over time the Nyakagezi gorilla family took up a permanent home in Uganda, inhabiting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

To meet this special family you will trek through the forest with experienced guides into one of five viewing sectors: Rushaga, Gahinga, Nkuringo, Buhoma (the oldest sector), and Ruhija. Only 8 people are permitted in a day for a trek. Trekking requires patience. It may take hours to encounter a family of gorillas or just minutes into the trail. Be prepared for the physical challenge.

The most important things to take into consideration when planning your trek are low and peak travel seasons as well as the dry and rainy seasons. March, April, May, and October are considered low seasons. December, January, February and June are considered high seasons. Peak travel seasons are in July and August. Travelling in high or peak seasons requires you to plan months in advance.

The rainy season affects the terrain, making the trek through Bwindi more challenging. There are two rainy seasons in Uganda: March to May and September to November. The dry seasons run from December to February and June through August.

If you decide to travel during the peak months of July and August or in the high season, you need to book your permit about 5 months in advance. In low seasons, you can book just a month ahead of time, but it’s always best to plan in advance to ensure you can visit at the time that’s right for you.

A. Permit Price

Uganda Wildlife Authority set a fixed fee of USD 800 per person for a gorilla permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.

B. Cancellation and Refund

Once paid, the fee for the permit is non-refundable according to the policy by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

C. Rescheduling a Trek

In case you need to reschedule, Bushman Safaris Uganda will help you adjust the dates for your itinerary but you will be required to pay an additional fee by the Uganda Wildlife Authority for rescheduling.

To ensure you have the best experience on your tailored gorilla trek, here are some tips on what to bring and some safety rules for the preservation of their home and your safety.

A. Must-haves for a gorilla trek

1. Are you ready to hike? Make sure to wear comfortable, waterproof hiking boots or shoes that can handle steep and muddy terrain.
2. Be prepared for the changing weather. Carry sunscreen lotion, a hat, and rain gear (ponchos and rain jackets are more practical than umbrellas). Always carry insect repellent.
3. If you’re planning to capture your amazing trip, carry a camera with a great lens (we recommend 400-800ASA films). Flash photography is NOT permitted.

B. Rules and safety tips

1. For purposes of sustainability, only 8 people a day are permitted on a gorilla trek.
2. Always listen to and follow the instructions of the experienced guide leading your trek.
3. At all times, you should stand 7 feet away from gorilla families to prevent any chance of transmitting human diseases.
4. To preserve the environment, do NOT litter.
5. Keep your voices low to avoid alarming wildlife.
6. Remember, flash photography is NOT permitted around the gorilla families.