Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla Trekking: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most profound and exhilarating wildlife experiences in the world — and a highlight of any trip to East Africa. This adventure allows you to come face-to-face with the magnificent Mountain Gorillas, a critically endangered species and one of our closest living relatives, sharing over 98% of our DNA.

Where the Journey Begins

Your trek takes place in the dense tropical forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or the world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, both located in South-Western Uganda. These parks form part of the greater Virunga conservation area and are home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population.

Mgahinga is known for its scenic volcanic backdrop and is home to the famed Nyakagezi Gorilla Group — from which we proudly derive our company name. Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a magical and misty forest experience, with over a dozen habituated gorilla families accessible to trekkers.

What to Expect on the Trek

Your day begins with a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers at the park headquarters. You will be assigned a gorilla family group and guided by expert trackers deep into the forest. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ movements — traversing rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and occasional steep slopes.

Once your group locates the gorillas, you are allowed one awe-inspiring hour in their presence. Watch them feed, play, groom, and rest, just a few meters away — a moment that leaves many visitors speechless and emotionally moved.

Photography & Guidelines

You’ll have the opportunity to take photos (without flash), but many visitors also choose to put down their cameras and simply absorb the moment. To ensure safety for both humans and gorillas, you’ll be required to:

Wear a mask (to protect gorillas from human diseases)
Keep a 7-meter distance
Avoid sudden movements or noise
Follow all ranger instructions closely

Conservation Impact

Your trek does more than offer a breathtaking adventure — it contributes directly to conservation. A portion of every permit fee supports:

Gorilla protection and monitoring
Local community development
Ranger salaries and anti-poaching efforts

By choosing to trek with Nyakagezi Tours & Travel, you also support responsible tourism that empowers communities and preserves wildlife habitats for generations to come.

Essential Trek Info

Permit Required: Yes (we handle booking for you)
Minimum Age: 15 years
Fitness Level: Moderate to high
Group Size: Max 8 people per gorilla group per day
Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February (dry seasons)

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or a first-time traveler seeking something extraordinary, gorilla trekking in Uganda is more than a safari — it’s a spiritual encounter with nature in its rawest form.

Ready to Begin Your Adventure?

Whether you’re dreaming of trekking through misty jungles to meet Mountain Gorillas, hiking volcanic peaks, exploring rich cultural trails, or simply relaxing by Lake Mutanda — Nyakagezi Tours & Travel is here to make it happen.

🎒 Let us help you create a safari that matches your interests, budget, and travel style.