1. Arriving on the Wrong Day

One of the biggest mistakes visitors make when planning their gorilla trekking adventure is arriving on the wrong date. Gorilla trekking permits are issued for specific days and are non-transferable, meaning you cannot change your date once it’s booked. Since trek groups fill up well in advance, missing your scheduled trek means losing your spot, as well as your money—no refunds are given for late arrivals or scheduling errors. This can be a devastating mistake, especially after investing in flights, accommodation, and other travel arrangements.

To avoid this, double-check your permit date and plan your itinerary accordingly. Arriving in the region at least a day before your scheduled trek is a good idea to account for any unforeseen delays.

2. Not Booking Permits in Advance

Gorilla trekking permits are highly sought after because each gorilla group can only be visited by a maximum of eight people per day. Uganda has several habituated gorilla groups, but the demand for permits is still extremely high due to the unique and limited nature of this experience.

If you assume you can simply arrive and purchase a permit on the day of your trek, you will likely be disappointed. Many travelers book their permits months in advance, especially during the peak seasons of June to September and December to February.

To ensure you secure your spot, book your gorilla trekking permit as early as possible—ideally several months before your planned trip. If you’re traveling with a tour operator, they can handle the permit booking for you, ensuring everything is well-organized and scheduled properly.

Planning ahead not only guarantees your trek but also helps you secure better accommodation near your designated trekking sector, making your experience much smoother and stress-free.

3. Forgetting Your Passport on the Trek

One of the most crucial items to bring on your gorilla trekking adventure is your passport. Park officials will check your passport against your gorilla trekking permit to verify your identity. If you forget your passport, you may be denied entry into the park, meaning you miss out on this incredible experience.

In some cases, you might be allowed to rush back to your accommodation to retrieve it, but this can be stressful and time-consuming. Depending on how far away your lodge is, you may not make it back in time before the trek begins. Since gorilla trekking permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, forgetting your passport could be a costly mistake.

To avoid this, double-check your packing the night before and keep your passport in a secure and easily accessible place. If you’re traveling with a tour operator, they will likely remind you, but it’s always best to be responsible for it yourself.

4. Wearing the Wrong Footwear

Many visitors underestimate how physically demanding gorilla trekking can be. The journey takes you through dense rainforests, steep hills, and muddy terrain, making it essential to wear proper hiking gear. A common mistake is attempting to trek in regular sneakers or unworn hiking boots, which can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even slips or falls.

To ensure a comfortable and safe trek, wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots that provide good ankle support and traction. It’s also important to break in your boots before the trek to avoid discomfort or blisters on the day.

Good hiking boots will help you stay sure-footed on wet, uneven jungle trails, ensuring a smoother experience. For more details, check out our Ultimate Guide on What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking to make sure you’re fully prepared for the adventure!

5. Packing Wrong Clothing

Proper clothing is essential for a comfortable and safe gorilla trekking experience. The trek takes you through dense forests, muddy trails, and varying weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is crucial to avoid getting cold, wet, scratched, bitten by insects, or sunburnt.

Some key clothing items include a long–sleeved top to protect against scratches and insect bites, a warm jacket for cooler temperatures, and long pants to shield your legs from vegetation. A waterproof jacket is also essential, as rain showers can occur unexpectedly. Sturdy hiking gloves help protect your hands while grabbing onto branches, and a sunhat paired with sunscreen will protect you from sunburn.

Additionally, it’s important to carry a backpack with enough water and snacks to keep your energy up during the hike. If you prefer, you can hire a porter to carry your backpack for you, making the trek easier and allowing you to fully enjoy the experience.

6. Going to the Wrong Location

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when visiting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is arriving at the wrong sector of the park. Bwindi covers 331 km² (128 mi²) and is divided into four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Your gorilla trekking permit is issued for a specific sector, and showing up at the wrong entrance can result in missing your trek.

Due to the park’s size and rough terrain, it’s impossible to quickly drive from one entrance to another. If you arrive at the incorrect location, you may have to forfeit your trek entirely.

To avoid this, double-check your permit details and ensure your accommodation is near the correct park sector. Booking with a reputable tour operator like Kenlink Tours also helps, as they handle logistics, ensuring you reach the right starting point on time. Planning properly can save you from disappointment and ensure a seamless trekking experience.