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12-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour

Experience the ultimate Ugandan adventure: 12 days of unparalleled wildlife encounters. Starting from $10,320 per person

An Exclusive Journey Through Uganda’s Pristine Wilderness

The Ubuntu Travel Difference

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Personalized Itineraries
Attention to detail from start to finish

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Conservation Promise
Travel with a purpose

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Experts in Africa
Our team of travel experts know Africa

Itinerary Highlights

  • Marvel at the world’s most powerful waterfall on the historic Nile.
  • Search for the shoebill on morning excursion across Lake Victoria
  • Chimpanzee trekking in the primate capital – Kibale National Park
  • Game drives and river cruises in the Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Search for the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha concession
  • Gorilla Trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

What’s Included

  • 1 gorilla trekking permit (valued at $800 per person)
  • All tours and activities as specified by the itinerary
  • All ground transfers with private driver & guide
  • All luxury accommodations (fully inclusive )
  • Experienced trackers and guides while primate trekking
  • Full support from the Ubuntu Travel team, during and after your trip

What will you experience on this Uganda Safari?

Entebbe

Entebbe

Entebbe is more than just a convenient arrival and departure point—it's a tranquil lakeside town rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. Located along the shores of Lake Victoria, it offers a peaceful introduction to Uganda’s landscapes. A highlight for nature enthusiasts is the early morning shoebill stork excursion to Mabamba Swamp, a renowned birding hotspot with over 260 recorded bird species. Glide through narrow papyrus channels by traditional canoe in search of the rare and prehistoric-looking shoebill, alongside malachite kingfishers, African jacanas, and papyrus gonoleks.

Other top experiences include a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, sunset cruises on Lake Victoria, and the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Whether you're a birder, a photographer, or simply seeking a soft landing into Uganda, Entebbe sets the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park

​Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest protected area, offers a captivating blend of diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. A highlight is the boat safari along the Nile River, leading to the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls, where the river thunders through an eight-meter-wide gorge before plunging into the chasm below.

Along the journey, visitors can observe pods of hippos, herds of elephants quenching their thirst, and sunbathing Nile crocodiles. The park is also a sanctuary for the endangered Rothschild's giraffe, with a significant population contributing to the conservation of this rare subspecies.

For an eco-conscious stay, Nile Safari Lodge provides luxurious accommodations that harmonize with the surrounding environment, ensuring a sustainable and immersive safari experience.

Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park

Embarking on a chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale National Park provides an unparalleled opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. The park's dense tropical forests echo with the rhythmic drumming of dominant males and the expressive calls of the troop, offering a raw and unforgettable primate encounter.

With over 1,500 chimpanzees residing within its boundaries, Kibale stands as Uganda's premier chimpanzee trekking destination, boasting a rich history spanning over three decades. Beyond primates, the park is home to more than 375 bird species and an extraordinary diversity of butterflies, making it a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and naturalists.

This immersive experience not only thrills, but directly supports vital conservation efforts to protect Uganda’s rainforest biodiversity.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most iconic savannah reserve and home to the country’s widest variety of wildlife. Spanning over 760 square miles, this diverse landscape of open plains, wetlands, crater lakes, and forested gorges supports nearly 100 mammal species and over 600 bird species.

A standout experience is the morning Kazinga Channel boat cruise, where you’ll glide past super pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and herds of elephants drinking from the banks. In the Ishasha sector, keep your eyes on the treetops - this is one of the few places in Africa where you might spot a pride of lions resting in fig trees. And for those eager to continue their primate adventures, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge offers another unforgettable moment in Uganda’s wild heart.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Gorilla Trekking

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Gorilla Trekking

Embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is nothing short of transformative. Our team has tracked mountain gorillas across Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC, and we can say with confidence—no two experiences are ever the same. But there’s something about Bwindi—trekking through its mist-covered forest and locking eyes with a silverback—that resonates deeply. It’s humbling to stand just meters from a gorilla family, observing their behavior in complete stillness, surrounded by ancient jungle.

Home to an estimated 459 mountain gorillas, Bwindi protects nearly half of the world’s remaining population of this critically endangered species. Over 20 habituated families are spread across distinct sectors of the park, offering varied trekking experiences. With more than 30 years of gorilla trekking history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is Uganda’s crown jewel for primate encounters.

Our Favorite Itinerary Highlights

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Gorilla Trekking

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Luxury Lodges & Personalised Service

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Shoebill Excursion

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Chimpanzee Trekking

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Murchison Falls National Park

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Tree-Climbing Lions at Ishasha

Plan Your Safari in Uganda

Reach out and let’s start talking. We’ll listen and begin to tailor an experiential, private, luxury vacation based on exactly how you want to experience Africa. From adventure to relaxation — and everything in between — let us handle every detail of your unforgettable Uganda Safari.

Luxury Lodges on this Uganda Safari

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When is the Best Time to go Gorilla Trekking?

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons, when trails are drier. But this is also the peak season, so permits and accommodation needs to be booked well in advance. 

Peak Seasons (Best Conditions)

June to September – The longest dry season, offering excellent trekking conditions with minimal rain.

December to February – Another dry season, ideal for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, with good visibility.

Low Seasons (More Availability & Fewer Crowds)

March to May (Long Rainy Season) – Heavier rains make trekking more challenging, but fewer tourists mean more permit availability.

October to November (Short Rainy Season) – Rain is less intense, and gorillas are still easily tracked, making perfect for those wanting a quieter experience.

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 FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda 

Why should I go gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking offers one of Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters, allowing you to observe critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This experience is unique to the wild, as these gorillas cannot survive in captivity.

Where are the best places to see mountain gorillas in Africa?

The best places to see mountain gorillas in Africa are found in the dense rainforests of Central and East Africa, specifically in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Each destination offers unique trekking experiences, stunning landscapes, and varying levels of accessibility.​

Ubuntu Travel’s selected luxury gorilla trekking destinations:
  • Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
  • Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda 
  • Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?

Gorilla trekking permits are essential for those wishing to experience the profound encounter of observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. The cost of these permits varies by country and residency status:​​

Rwanda:
  • Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 USD per person for a one-hour encounter.
Uganda:
  • Foreign Non-Residents: $800 USD per person for a one-hour encounter.

These permits provide access to Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.

How close can I get to the gorillas during the trek?

Visitors are typically allowed within a few meters of the gorillas, but maintaining a respectful distance is crucial to minimize stress and disease transmission to these endangered animals.

That said, gorilla trekking is about observation, not proximity. Given the nature of the experience, you may find yourself closer than expected as the gorillas move naturally through their habitat. During your one-hour encounter, always follow your expert guide’s instructions, remain vigilant, and respect ethical wildlife viewing practices to ensure a responsible and unforgettable experience.

Are there any age restrictions for gorilla trekking?

Yes, the minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old. This regulation is enforced to ensure the safety of both trekkers and gorillas, as younger children may struggle with the physical demands or react unpredictably in close wildlife encounters. If you’re traveling with younger adventurers, we can recommend alternative activities like cultural experiences or nature walks to create a memorable journey for the whole family.

Please note: This is a strict policy set by both governments, and we do not have any control or flexibility over it.

What other wildlife experiences can I combine with gorilla trekking?

Your safari, your way! At Ubuntu Travel, we design tailor-made safari experiences, allowing you to combine gorilla trekking with Africa’s most iconic wildlife adventures—within the logistical constraints of flights and transfers, of course.

For inspiration, here are some incredible experiences to add to your gorilla trekking safari:

1. Golden Monkey Trekking

Encounter endangered golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park or Mgahinga National Park – a fascinating primate experience.

2. Chimpanzee Tracking

Venture into lush forests to observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat, a thrilling addition to any safari.

3. Classic African Safari

Go on Big Five game drives in Akagera National Park, or extend your journey to Serengeti or Masai Mara for the ultimate safari experience.

4. Luxurious Indian Ocean island escape

Pairing Rwanda’s gorilla trekking with a luxurious Indian Ocean island escape creates the ultimate safari and beach adventure itinerary.

How does gorilla trekking contribute to conservation efforts?

Gorilla trekking has played a vital role in the remarkable recovery of mountain gorilla populations over recent decades. In the early 1980s, their numbers had dropped to just 254 individuals, primarily due to poaching, habitat destruction, and civil unrest. Today, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the population has rebounded to over 1,000 individuals, a true success story in wildlife protection.

A Conservation Success Story

This positive trend is the result of collaborative efforts between conservation organizations, local communities, and sustainable tourism initiatives. For over six decades, the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) has been at the forefront of mountain gorilla conservation, leading initiatives such as:

• Anti-poaching patrols that protect gorilla families from illegal hunting.
• Community engagement programs that provide alternative livelihoods and education.
• Habitat expansion projects that ensure gorillas have enough space to thrive.

Ubuntu Travel’s Commitment to Gorilla Conservation

Ubuntu Travel is proud to support these conservation efforts. Our partnership with AWF includes backing the Volcanoes National Park Expansion Project, an initiative aimed at:

• Increasing protected gorilla habitats for long-term conservation.
• Reducing human-wildlife conflict by expanding forested areas.
• Supporting biodiversity conservation for a thriving ecosystem.

Ethical Lodge Partnerships That Prioritize Conservation

At Ubuntu Travel, we believe that where you stay matters. We work exclusively with luxury lodges and safari camps that are committed to ethical conservation practices and sustainable community development.

Our handpicked lodge partners in Rwanda and Uganda prioritize:

• Habitat restoration and reforestation projects to support gorilla conservation.
• Low-impact, eco-friendly operations that minimize environmental footprints.
• Community empowerment initiatives, ensuring that local people benefit from conservation success.
• Ethical wildlife tourism policies, ensuring no interference with natural behaviors and ecosystems.

By staying at these lodges, you directly support sustainable tourism, ensuring that both wildlife conservation and local communities thrive.

How Your Gorilla Trekking Safari Makes a Difference

1. Direct Funding for Gorilla Conservation

Every gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda ($1,500 per person) and Uganda ($800 per person) directly contributes to wildlife conservation and habitat protection.

A portion of these fees funds:
• Anti-poaching patrols to prevent illegal hunting.
• Scientific research to study and protect gorilla populations.
• Habitat restoration projects in Volcanoes and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks.

Ubuntu Travel proudly supports these efforts to ensure the long-term survival of mountain gorillas.

2. Protecting and Expanding Gorilla Habitats

Habitat destruction and human-wildlife conflict remains one of the greatest threats to gorillas. Thanks to intensive conservation programs, protected areas are expanding, allowing gorillas to thrive.

• Volcanoes National Park Expansion Project – Ubuntu Travel actively supports this initiative, securing more forested land for gorillas while benefiting local communities.
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda – Similar efforts help reduce deforestation and increase protected land for gorillas and other wildlife.

3. Supporting Local Communities & Sustainable Tourism

Gorilla trekking benefits local communities as well as wildlife. Approximately 10% of permit fees go directly to local villages, funding:

• Schools & education programs
• Healthcare & infrastructure projects
• Job creation in eco-tourism, including rangers, guides, and lodge staff

Ubuntu Travel partners  support community-driven tourism initiatives, ensuring that local people see direct benefits from conservation efforts.

4. Anti-Poaching & Gorilla Protection Programs

Wildlife tourism plays a critical role in protecting gorillas by funding:

• 24/7 ranger monitoring to safeguard gorilla families.
• Anti-poaching patrols that prevent illegal activities like snaring.
• Conservation education programs for local communities.

With the support of responsible travelers like you, mountain gorilla numbers are steadily increasing, proving that conservation-focused tourism works.

Travel With Purpose: Gorilla Trekking That Gives Back

By choosing Ubuntu Travel for your gorilla trekking safari, you are directly supporting:
• Mountain gorilla conservation in Rwanda and Uganda.
• Local communities through sustainable tourism.
• The long-term protection of Africa’s great apes.

Your journey is more than just a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience—it’s an opportunity to make a real impact.