Mountain gorillas are one of Uganda’s most iconic and sought-after wildlife experiences. These majestic primates are not only the largest of the great apes but also one of the closest living relatives to humans, sharing over 97% of our DNA. Their human-like behavior, family bonds, and emotional expressions make seeing them in the wild a deeply moving and unforgettable adventure.
Uganda is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it the best destination for gorilla trekking in Africa. These gorillas live in two protected areas: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both located in the southwestern region of the country.
In this guide, we take you through everything you need to know about mountain gorillas in Uganda—where to see them, how many remain, what it costs to trek them, and how to prepare for your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Mountain Gorilla Population in Uganda – How Many Are There?
The population of mountain gorillas has been a conservation success story. As of the 2018 gorilla census, the global number of mountain gorillas surpassed 1,000 individuals. This marked a major milestone and led to the mountain gorilla being reclassified from “Critically Endangered” to “Endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Uganda is home to approximately 500 mountain gorillas, with the majority—around 420 individuals—living in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The rest are found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that stretches across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the gorilla numbers in Mgahinga are not fixed, as the gorillas frequently roam across borders.
While exact figures fluctuate due to births, migrations, and other natural factors, Uganda maintains one of the most stable and protected gorilla populations in the world.
Best Places to See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda
Uganda offers two national parks where tourists can encounter mountain gorillas:
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi is the premier gorilla trekking destination in Uganda. The park hosts the largest number of habituated gorilla families and provides the highest chance of a successful sighting.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is conducted in four main sectors:
- Buhoma
- Ruhija
- Rushaga
- Nkuringo
Each sector has a number of habituated gorilla families and offers a range of accommodation options, from budget lodges to luxurious safari retreats. Visitors can choose their trekking sector based on permit availability and proximity to their lodge.
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Although smaller and less visited than Bwindi, Mgahinga offers a unique and peaceful trekking experience. It is home to one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, which has been known to cross into Rwanda and Congo but has remained in Uganda in recent years.
Mgahinga is ideal for travelers who want to combine gorilla trekking with other adventures like golden monkey tracking, hiking the Virunga Volcanoes, or learning about the Batwa indigenous people.
Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in Africa—but it requires planning, permits, and physical preparation. Here's how to do it right:
1. Gorilla Permits and Costs
To trek gorillas in Uganda, you must first purchase a gorilla trekking permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). As of 2025, the prices are as follows:
- $800 per person for foreign non-residents
- $700 for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African citizens
These permits are in high demand and should be booked several months in advance, especially during the peak seasons of June–September and December–February.
2. How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Safari
The easiest way to plan a gorilla trek is to work with a licensed Uganda-based tour operator. These companies handle all the logistics, including:
- Gorilla permit reservations
- Accommodation bookings
- Ground transportation
- Park entry fees
- Optional activities like community visits or second treks
Choose tour companies that specialize in gorilla safaris—they have experience, know the terrain well, and will make sure you’re placed in the right trekking sector close to your lodge.
3. What to Expect on the Trek
Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding activity. You may hike for 1 to 6 hours through dense forests, steep hills, and sometimes muddy trails before locating your assigned gorilla family. Once found, you are allowed one hour to observe them from a safe distance of 7 meters.
During this time, you can watch them feed, groom, play, and care for their young. Photography is allowed, but no flash.
4. What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
Essential items for your trek include:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Garden gloves for grabbing branches
- Insect repellent
- A small backpack with snacks and water
- Camera with no flash
- A walking stick (often provided at the park)
Gorilla Trekking Costs – Budget vs Luxury Travel
Gorilla trekking is a premium experience, and the costs reflect its exclusivity. On average:
- Budget gorilla safaris (group tours or shared transport) start from $1,200 per person including permits, transport, and accommodation.
- Mid-range packages range from $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the itinerary and lodge.
- Luxury gorilla safaris can go above $3,000, offering fly-in options, private guides, and upscale lodges with stunning forest views.
Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a luxury experience, Uganda offers options for every type of traveler.
Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda stands out as a gorilla trekking destination for several reasons:
- Highest gorilla population: More than any other country.
- Affordable permits: Compared to Rwanda’s $1,500 permit, Uganda’s are significantly cheaper.
- Diverse trekking experiences: Bwindi’s four trekking sectors provide variety and flexibility.
- Scenic landscapes: The trek itself is through beautiful rainforest terrain with birds, butterflies, and other primates.
- Rich cultural interactions: Engage with local communities like the Batwa, adding depth to your journey.
Many travelers choose to fly into Kigali, Rwanda, and drive to Bwindi to shorten travel time. Others fly directly into Entebbe and enjoy more of Uganda’s attractions along the way, such as Lake Bunyonyi, Queen Elizabeth National Park, or Kibale Forest.
Seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is more than just a wildlife encounter—it’s an emotional, life-changing experience. Uganda offers the best opportunity to witness these great apes up close, thanks to its stable population, reliable trekking infrastructure, and dedicated conservation efforts.
By booking your trek with a trusted Ugandan tour operator, you not only increase your chances of an unforgettable trip but also contribute directly to the protection of gorillas and the development of local communities.