Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris
Tailor-made, mid-range to luxury gorilla trekking tours you can customize with experts.
Uganda is the top choice for gorilla adventures
If watching mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is on your bucket list, there’s no better place than Uganda. As the sanctuary for over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Uganda offers an unmatched opportunity to embark on unforgettable gorilla trekking tours through the mystical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
What sets Uganda apart is not just its dense gorilla population but the variety of trekking options suited to different levels of adventure and affordability. Here, you’ll not only experience the awe of standing just meters away from a silverback but also immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and landscapes teeming with life. Choosing Uganda means choosing authenticity, connection, and a conservation-driven adventure that leaves you forever transformed.
- More affordable permits: Experience the thrill of gorilla trekking at a lower cost compared to Rwanda.
- Diverse wildlife encounters: Combine your gorilla safari with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest or exhilarating game drives and boat safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks.
- Breathtaking scenery: Immerse yourself in Uganda's stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests and volcanic mountains to sprawling savannahs.
Why trek with Nkuringo Safaris?
Planning the perfect wildlife adventure can feel overwhelming—balancing your interests, budget, and timeframe while ensuring an authentic and meaningful experience. At Nkuringo Safaris, we go beyond creating seamless journeys; we connect you deeply with Uganda’s breathtaking wildlife, vibrant cultures, and welcoming communities. Our customizable gorilla trekking and wildlife safari packages are thoughtfully designed to suit your unique preferences, ensuring you not only witness nature’s wonders but also contribute to their preservation. With a focus on conservation and sustainability, every trip supports local communities and protects Uganda’s pristine beauty for generations to come. Let Nkuringo Safaris turn your dream adventure into an unforgettable journey of connection and purpose.
- Award-winning Gorila Lidge: We operate a world-class multi-award-winning gorilla lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, 10 minutes from the trekking center.
- Expert local guides: Our experienced guides provide in-depth knowledge, ensuring your safety and maximizing your wildlife encounters.
- Commitment to conservation: We prioritize sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities and protect gorilla habitats.
- Personalized service: We tailor each tour to your preferences, creating a truly bespoke experience.
Tailor-made Uganda Gorilla Safaris
These mid-range to luxury gorilla trekking safari packages include permits, comfortable accommodation, transportation, and delicious meals, allowing you to focus on the meaningful experience with Africa's wild gorillas.
5-Day Gorilla Trekking Adventure (Fly-in).
US $3,733 per person
- Quick getaway to Bwindi with 1 gorilla trekking experience.
- Stay in a luxury forest lodge.
- Perfect for time-sensitive travelers.
8-Day Classic Primates & Wildlife Safari.
US $5,660 per person
- Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking
- Game drive & boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Stay in mid-range luxury lodges.
12-Day Explore The Best of Uganda Safari.
USD $8,252 per person
- Primates - gorillas & chimp treks.
- Game drives and boat safaris in Queen and Murchison Falls.
- Both rainforest & savannah adventures.
5-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Bwindi (by Road).
US $3,992 per person
- Road trip across Uganda, 1 gorilla trekking experience.
- Stay in a deluxe forest lodge.
- Perfect for time-sensitive travelers.
6-Day Gorilla Trekking & Nature Walking Adventure.
US $5,261 per person
- Fly between Entebbe and Bwindi - Stay in two luxury lodges in Bwindi.
- 1 gorilla trekking experience.
- Walk across the ancient Bwindi forest.
7-Day Gorillas and Golden Monkey Trekking.
From US $6,015 per person
- Trek in Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga
- Fly between Entebbe and Kisoro to save on travel time.
- Perfect for primate enthusiasts.
8-Day Nature Hiking & Gorilla Trekking Safari in Bwindi.
From US 6,200 pp
- Fly to and Bwindi to save travel time.
- Stay in a deluxe forest lodge.
- Trek mountain gorillas and hike in Bwindi.
- Stay in two luxury lodges in Nkuringo (south) and Buhoma (north).
9-Day Gorillas in Bwindi & Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth.
From US $,$$$
- Trek gorillas in Bwindi, take a boat safari and game drives in Queen Elizabeth.
- staying in deluxe forest cottages
- Hike across Bwindi from Nkuringo to Buhoma with local guides.
10-Day Honeymoon Safari with Gorillas and The Nile.
From US $7,200 per person
- Explore the Nile, Safari in Queen, trek chimpanzees in Kibale and gorillas.
- Stay is top-rated luxury lodges
- All inclusive package recommended for all couples
10-Day Serengeti Big Five & Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
From US $8,900
- Explore Tanzania's Serengeti great wildlife and encounter gorillas in Uganda.
- Domestic flights & permits included.
- Stay in well selected luxury lodges.
10-Day Masai Mara Wildlife and Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
From US $7,630
- Encounter gorillas in Uganda and explore Mara's epic wildlife and big five.
- Domestic flights & permits included.
- Stay in well selected luxury lodges.
16-Day The Best of Uganda Safari Plus Gorilla Trekking
From US $14,800
- Visit Uganda's so much-talked-about national parks, especially primate parks.
- Domestic flights & permits included.
- Stay in a good selection of luxury lodges.
Uganda Gorilla Safari Costs
Gorilla Permit:
The most significant cost associated with gorilla trekking in Uganda is the gorilla permit. As of July 2024, a permit costs $800 USD per person. This makes Uganda gorilla safaris a more budget-friendly option compared to Rwanda, where permits are $1,500 USD.
Additional Expenses:
In addition to the permit, you'll need to budget for accommodation, meals, and transportation. These costs can vary depending on your preferences:
- Road Transfers: Hiring a safari jeep with fuel and driver can cost around $250-$350 per day, while domestic flights to nearby airstrips can be about $550 round trip.
- Budget Lodges: Prices range from $200 to $300 per night.
- Mid-Range Lodges: Typically cost between $300 and $500 per night.
- Luxury Lodges: These can start from around $500 and go up significantly depending on amenities and location.
Important Notes:
- Prices are subject to change.
- These are averages, and actual costs may vary.
- Contact Nkuringo Safaris for the most up-to-date pricing.
- Read more about gorilla trekking costs in Uganda and Rwanda.
Tips for Reducing Costs:
- Travel during the rainy season (March-May and November-December).
- Consider staying in lower-priced rooms with standard amenities.
- Book a scheduled gorilla trip or small-group safari with shared transport and lodging.
- Pack your own snacks, especially energy snacks eaten between meals.
Best Time For The Gorilla Trip
While gorilla tours in Uganda are available year-round, the dry seasons offer the best primate trekking conditions and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
Peak Seasons (Dry Seasons):
- June - September: Experience pleasant weather, clear skies, and easier trekking trails during these months. Wildlife viewing is also excellent as animals congregate around water sources.
- December - February: Enjoy another dry season with comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. This is a popular time for gorilla trekking safaris, so book your tour well in advance.
Off-Peak Season (Wet Season):
- March-May & October - November: While these months experience more rainfall, the lush landscapes are stunning, and gorilla trekking is still possible. Take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds during the off-peak season.
Read the month-by-month guide on when to your gorilla trip.
No matter when you choose to embark on your Uganda gorilla adventure, our expert guides and personalized itineraries will ensure an unforgettable experience. Check them out!
Map to Bwindi & Mgahinga
How to Reach The Gorilla Destinations in Uganda.
We organize tours to see gorillas in Uganda through two international airports: Entebbe International Airport, Uganda's sole international airport, located 500 km away, and Kigali International Airport, which is 175 km away and necessitates border crossing.
By Road:
- Entebbe to Bwindi/Mgahinga: Gorilla trekking adventures in Uganda typically begin in Entebbe, where you can opt to spend a night before setting off on a scenic country road trip.
- Via Kisoro/Kabale: This route takes you through picturesque, mountainous landscapes, covering approximately 550 km (342 miles) with a 9-10 hour drive to reach any of the four gorilla trekking sectors.
- Lake Mburo Stopover: Break up your journey with a night at Lake Mburo National Park (3-4 hours from Entebbe), where you can enjoy a safari game drive and boat safari trips. The following morning, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (5-6 hours) after an early morning game drive.
- Road Conditions: Rest assured that 80% of the journey is on well-maintained paved roads, with the final stretch (approximately 2 hours) on a dirt road.
- Kigali to Bwindi/Mgahinga: For a shorter and smoother road journey, consider flying into Kigali, Rwanda. From there, it's a scenic 3-4 hour drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga, with a straightforward border crossing. Your driver will assist with the $50 visa process, ensuring a seamless transition for your African gorilla tour.
By Air:
- Domestic Flights: Two airstrips, Kisoro Airport (south) and Kihihi Airport (north), are conveniently located 1.5-2 hours from the park entrances, offering a convenient option for your Uganda gorilla tour. Scheduled and chartered flights from Entebbe take approximately one hour.
- Regional Connections: Entebbe International Airport offers connections to other exciting destinations in East Africa, making it easy to combine your gorilla safari with other adventures.
Seamless Transfers: Your chosen lodge can arrange comfortable transfers from the airport or your arrival point directly to your accommodation, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your gorilla trekking experience in Uganda.
Visa Requirements: Obtaining a visa for your Uganda gorilla tour is simple and straightforward. Apply online beforehand for a hassle-free process and ensure a smooth arrival. The cost is $50 for a single-entry tourist visa. Get an East African Visa ($100) for smooth border crossing between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. Remember to carry your Yellow Fever vaccination card and a valid passport, as these are essential requirements for entry into Uganda.
Our Top Accommodations Picks for Your Uganda Gorilla Tour
For a truly immersive forest experience, we recommend staying at least 3 nights in any of these properties. We have carefully selected these gorilla safari lodges based on their amenities, proximity to trekking centers, and dedication to conservation and community sustainability.
Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge
This luxurious retreat is nestled in Nkuringo/Rushaga sectors, offering stunning views, prime gorilla trekking access, and cozy fireplaces in each cottage.
From $300 pp (sharing, full board).
Gorilla Forest Camp
Immerse yourself in the Buhoma sector's lush rainforest at this luxury safari camp, boasting spacious canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms and private decks overlooking the forest.
From $315 pp (sharing, full board).
Mahogany Springs Lodge
Buhoma's premier luxury lodge, renowned for its spacious suites with private verandas, exquisite spa, and a restaurant serving delectable African-inspired cuisine.
From $300 pp.
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Experience the epitome of luxury at this high-end lodge in Nkuringo sector, featuring private stone cottages with panoramic views, a cozy library, and a fire pit for evening gatherings.
From $490 pp.
Buhoma Lodge
Discover the charm of Buhoma sector at this comfortable mid-range lodge, offering a range of accommodations, including family cottages, and a vibrant bar with a pool table.
From $380 pp.
Bwindi Lodge:
Nestled amidst Bwindi's lush greenery, these luxury bandas offer a tranquil escape, featuring private terraces with stunning forest views and an on-site massage service.
From $480 pp.
If you are looking for pure high-end luxury, read our blog: The Top Luxury Lodges for The Gorilla Experience in Uganda & Rwanda
Uganda Gorilla Safari Reviews: Real Experiences, Real Emotions
"Knowledgeable and Dependable" - Karen, USA ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nkuringo Safaris exceeded our expectations in Rwanda and Uganda. Our guide, Patrick, was a gem – punctual, knowledgeable, and always ready to share a laugh. We loved the boat tour in Queen Elizabeth National Park, witnessing elephants and rhinos up close. The gorilla and chimpanzee trekking tours were truly unforgettable!
"The BEST Experience Ever!" - Ashley Anderson, AU ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nkuringo Safaris took care of every detail, making our Uganda gorilla tour seamless and enjoyable. From the personalized walking sticks to the friendly staff, every moment felt special. Seeing the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat was an absolute dream come true.
"Extremely Professional, Knowledgeable, and Great Value" - Rui Arco, PT ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We've traveled with Nkuringo Safaris before, and their expertise and attention to detail are unparalleled. Our trip to Rwanda and DRC was exceptional, thanks to our knowledgeable guides, Julius and Martin. The accommodation choices were perfect, and the food was delicious. Highly recommended!
"Incredible Experience Thanks to Nkuringo Safaris!" - Laura, GB ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Our trip to Uganda in December 2022 was beyond amazing. Nkuringo Safaris tailored our itinerary to perfection, ensuring a balance of adventure and relaxation. Our guide, Jack, was exceptional, sharing his knowledge of the diverse wildlife and going above and beyond to make our experience unforgettable.
Ready to discover the magic of Uganda for yourself?
You could get lost in reading more inspiring reviews or jumpstart the explorer's instincts in you and start planning your gorilla adventure!