Where to See Gorillas in Uganda

Where to See Gorillas in Uganda : If you’re looking for the best places to see gorillas in Uganda, you have come to the right place. Uganda is home to majestic mountain gorillas, a major attraction for tourists from around the world. These magnificent creatures, which share 98% of their DNA with humans, can be found in two primary destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both parks offer remarkable opportunities to observe gorillas in their natural habitat, set against the stunning backdrop of the lush Ugandan landscapes.

Top Gorilla Destinations in Uganda

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

2. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is the most popular destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda, known for its dense and almost impenetrable vegetation that provides a perfect home for mountain gorillas. The park is home to over half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas, making it one of the top places to visit for an unforgettable experience.

1. 1. Bwindi is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo, each offering unique trekking experiences and several habituated gorilla families to visit. There are about 20 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, and the park offers approximately 160 gorilla trekking permits each day.

3. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

1. 1. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, is the other destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda. The park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which extends into Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mgahinga is home to one habituated gorilla family, known as the Nyakagezi Group, which travelers can track in the park.
   2. The park offers a scenic backdrop of the Virunga volcanoes, with Mt. Gahinga, Mt. Muhabura, and Mt. Sabinyo creating an impressive landscape that adds to the trekking experience.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

How Long Does a Gorilla Trek Last? The duration of a gorilla trek in Uganda can vary greatly. It may take anywhere from 40 minutes to 6 hours to locate a gorilla family. The exact time depends on several factors, including the gorilla group’s location on the day of your trek, the terrain, and the overall pace of the group. It’s important to note that gorillas move freely throughout the forest, so their location is unpredictable.

Before embarking on the trek, visitors receive a briefing at the park headquarters and are then accompanied by a guide throughout the hike. Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed one hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants before returning to the starting point.

What to Pack for Your Gorilla Safari

To make the most of your gorilla safari, you’ll need to be well-prepared with the right gear. Here’s a list of essentials to pack:

• Clothing: Wear comfortable, long-sleeved shirts, t-shirts, blouses, and long pants to protect your skin from scratches and insect bites.
• Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for navigating the steep and sometimes muddy trails.
• Rain Jacket: The forests are rainforests, meaning rain can be expected at any time. A lightweight rain jacket will protect you from the elements.
• Backpack: A small backpack is useful for carrying your personal items, water, and snacks.
• Gardening Gloves: Protect your hands from thorny bushes and rough branches during the trek.
• Energy-Giving Snacks and Water: Keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the trek.
• Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will provide shade and protection from the sun.
• Camera and Binoculars: Capture your experiences and view the amazing birdlife and other wildlife in the forest.

Where to Stay for Your Gorilla Safari

Your choice of accommodation for a gorilla safari will depend on the sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park that you choose for trekking. Each sector offers a range of accommodation options, from budget lodges to luxury lodges.

Accommodation in Bwindi Forest National Park Sectors:

Buhoma Sector

• • Luxury: Silverback Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
  • Mid-Range: Buhoma Lodge, Enganzi Lodge
  • Budget: Bwindi View Bandas

Rushaga Sector

Luxury: Chameleon Hill Lodge

• • Mid-Range: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Gorilla Safari Lodge

Nkuringo Sector

• • Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge
  • Budget: Nkuringo Gorilla Camp, Nshongi Camp

Ruhija Sector

• • Luxury: Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • Mid-Range: Gift of Nature Lodge, Trekkers Tavern Cottages
  • Budget: Ruhija Gorilla Mist Camp, Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort and Campsite

Accommodation in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

• Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Mid-Range: Kisoro Tourist Hotel, Traveler’s Rest Hotel
• Budget: Amabeere Ibwacu Community Camp

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is possible year-round, but the best time to go is during the dry seasons. These occur from June to August and December to February, when the forest trails are less muddy and easier to navigate. During these months, the chances of rain are lower, making the trekking experience more comfortable.

However, the wet seasons, from March to May and September to November, also have their advantages. The forests are lush and green, and there are often fewer tourists, which means a more exclusive experience. Additionally, permits are more readily available during the wet season, and some lodges may offer discounts.

Book Your Gorilla Safari Today

A gorilla safari in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers an incredible opportunity to observe one of our closest relatives in the wild. From the dense and mysterious forests of Bwindi to the scenic slopes of the Virunga Mountains in Mgahinga, gorilla trekking in Uganda promises a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience.

If you’re interested in booking a gorilla tour, feel free to reach out to us via email at info@ugandasafaribookings.com. Our travel experts will be more than happy to help you plan the perfect adventure, ensuring you have a comfortable stay, a memorable trek, and an experience that will stay with you forever.