Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi: What It Really Takes

Spending an hour with a family of mountain gorillas is one of the most moving experiences in travel. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in southwestern Uganda is home to roughly half the world's remaining mountain gorillas, and trekking here is both challenging and unforgettable.

Permits are expensive and limited. As of 2026, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs around 800 US dollars per person, and only eight visitors are allowed per gorilla family per day. Book at least three to six months in advance, especially for the high season from June to September and December to February.

Fitness helps, but the trek is not a marathon. You may walk anywhere from thirty minutes to six hours through steep, muddy jungle, sometimes off-trail. Porters are available at the trailhead for a small fee and are strongly recommended: they carry your bag, help you over difficult sections, and free you to focus on the gorillas.

What to wear matters. Long trousers, gaiters or thick socks, waterproof hiking boots with good grip, long sleeves, and gloves to grab vegetation. The forest is called impenetrable for a reason: stinging nettles, thorns, and biting ants are part of the deal. Bring rain gear even in the dry season.

When you find the gorillas, you will leave your bag with the porters and approach with your guide. Keep a respectful distance, speak softly, and never point or use flash photography. If a young gorilla approaches you, crouch down and let the guide manage the situation.

Combine Bwindi with Queen Elizabeth National Park for savannah game drives and boat cruises, or head to Lake Bunyonyi for a few days of rest. The drive from Entebbe is long but scenic; domestic flights to Kisoro or Kihihi save time if your budget allows.