Gorilla trekking in Uganda

The main destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southwestern part of the country. The park  characterized by dense forests, steep terrain, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Gorilla trekking experience

To go gorilla trekking in Uganda, you’ll need to obtain a permit. Which allows you to track a specific gorilla family for a limited time. Permits issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and booked well in advance. As they are limited in number and in high demand.

On the day of the trek, you’ll set out with experienced guides and trackers who will lead you through the forest in search of the gorillas. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty depending on the location of the gorilla family you’re tracking. But it’s an unforgettable experience filled with anticipation and excitement.

Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have the opportunity to spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. Witnessing their behavior and interactions up close. It’s a truly magical experience to see these gentle giants in the wild and to witness the strong bonds within their family groups.

In addition to gorilla trekking, Uganda offers a range of other wildlife experiences. Including chimpanzee trekking, birdwatching, and safari tours in various national parks and reserves. It’s a destination rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. Making it a must-visit for any nature lover or adventure enthusiast.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is home to several habituated gorilla families. Each with its own unique dynamics and history.

Here are some of the gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Mubare Group:

The first gorilla group to be habituated for tourism in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Named after the Mubare hills in the park. The group has gone through various changes and splits over the years, but it remains one of the popular groups for tracking.

Habinyanja Group:

Habinyanja is one of the habituated gorilla families in Bwindi. Known for its playful juveniles and strong leadership under dominant silverback. Tracking this group offers visitors a chance to witness the intricate social dynamics among gorillas.

Rushegura Group:

Rushegura another habituated gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Known for its calm demeanor and often consists of multiple silverbacks, which can lead to interesting interactions during tracking.

Nkuringo Group:

This group named after the Nkuringo hills in the park. Known for its large silverback and stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Tracking Nkuringo group offers a challenging trek but also a rewarding experience.

Bitukura Group:

Bitukura is a relatively large gorilla family with several silverbacks and juveniles. Known for its peaceful interactions and relatively easy tracking conditions.

Oruzogo Group:

Oruzogo is a habituated gorilla family that offers a unique tracking experience. It’s known for its playful juveniles and active interactions, making it a favorite among visitors.

These are just a few of the gorilla families that inhabit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Each group offers a unique experience for visitors, and tracking them provides valuable insights into the behavior and social structure of these incredible animals.