Imagine yourself in a rare moment, crouched on the forest floor, respectfully avoiding eye contact while observing some of the last remaining mountain gorillas up close. This is the heart of gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, two of the world’s best destinations for a true wilderness encounter.

These majestic creatures are found only in three countries Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and survive in just four national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Virunga National Park. Our gorilla trekking tours offer an exclusive privilege to witness endangered gorillas in their natural habitat within lush tropical and subtropical forests.

Gorillas live in close-knit family groups led by a dominant silverback male. Highly intelligent, social, and known for strong family bonds, they communicate using more than 25 distinct sounds. Mountain gorillas also construct ground and tree nests daily using leaves and branches a fascinating behavior to observe during a gorilla trekking safari. Sadly, they remain critically endangered according to the IUCN Red List.

A gorilla family divides its day between resting, feeding, and traveling across a relatively small home range, making mountain gorilla trekking reasonably manageable for visitors. Join us on a life-changing gorilla trekking adventure an experience that leaves a deep mark on your heart and inspires renewed commitment to conservation.

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Where to Go Gorilla Trekking

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Uganda is widely regarded as the best destination for gorilla trekking, home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Bwindi gorilla trekking offers access to 18 habituated gorilla families across its dense hills and valleys. Visitors trek in small groups of up to eight people and spend one magical hour with these gentle giants a true bucket-list experience and a highlight of any Uganda gorilla tour.

2. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

A leading destination for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park hosts several habituated families accessible through guided treks. With a maximum of eight people per group, visitors spend one unforgettable hour observing gorillas as they feed, play, interact, or rest. Rwanda gorilla tours are known for being well-organized, scenic, and incredibly rewarding.

3. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Though Uganda’s smallest park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers an exceptional trekking experience. Home to one habituated gorilla group whose territory overlaps with Rwanda, Mgahinga has become a strong alternative for Uganda gorilla trekking. The group has remained within Uganda for the last three years, making trekking here increasingly popular.

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When to Go Gorilla Trekking

The optimal time for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons:
July–October and December–February.
Trails are less muddy, vegetation is thinner, and gorillas stay in lower, more accessible areas perfect for searching and photography.

Wet seasons (March–May and October–November) offer lush landscapes, lower prices, and fewer travelers, though treks can be more challenging. Regardless of season, gorilla trekking remains possible and deeply rewarding.

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Good to Know: Fitness, Etiquette & Safety

Gorilla trekking safaris are physically demanding and can last between one and eight hours. Trails are often steep, muddy, and surrounded by thick vegetation at high altitudes. Begin training months before your trip: practice hiking, carry a backpack, and wear the boots you plan to trek in.

During encounters, follow these crucial guidelines:

• Keep a minimum 7-meter distance from gorillas

• Do not touch or feed them

• Avoid flash photography

• Speak softly and avoid sudden movements

• Do not trek if you have a cold or infection (gorillas are susceptible to human disease)

These rules protect both you and the endangered mountain gorillas.

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What to Expect on a Gorilla Trekking Tour

Your day begins with an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters. Here, rangers brief you on the gorilla family you’ll visit and proper trekking etiquette. Your trek may begin by road or on foot, passing through bamboo forests, dense jungle, stinging nettle zones, and steep muddy slopes.

Once your group locates the gorillas, you have one powerful hour to observe the family. You may find sub-adults playing, mothers resting with infants, or the family traveling through the forest. Each encounter is unique and unforgettable.

After your hour is complete, you’ll trek back to the starting point and return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and a celebratory dinner recalling the extraordinary gorilla trekking experience.