Double gorilla trekking safari in Uganda. A double gorilla trekking safari in Uganda offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the majestic mountain gorillas more than once during your safari. This adventure is perfect for travelers who wish to have more time observing different gorilla families, seeing diverse forest environments, and deepening their connection with these endangered primates. Uganda, with its two prime gorilla habitats – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – is one of the best places in the world to enjoy double trekking.

What is Double Gorilla Trekking?

Double gorilla trekking simply means tracking gorillas twice on two different days during your safari. Instead of just one trek, you go for two separate treks, either on consecutive days or with a rest day in between. Each trek requires its own separate gorilla permit, meaning you must purchase two permits in advance.

This experience allows you to visit different gorilla families and explore varied terrains within Uganda’s lush forests. It also increases your chances of witnessing different behaviors and interactions among gorilla groups, making it a richer and more rewarding wildlife experience.

Why Choose a Double Gorilla Trekking Safari?

• More Time with Gorillas: A standard gorilla trek allows one magical hour with a habituated gorilla group. Many visitors feel that this time passes too quickly. Double trekking gives you an extra hour, letting you absorb the moment fully.

• See Different Gorilla Families: Each gorilla family has unique characteristics, social dynamics, and personalities. Double trekking lets you visit two different groups and notice these differences.

• Different Forest Experiences: Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga’s bamboo zones offers varied hiking experiences, scenery, and wildlife encounters.

• Better Photography Opportunities: Photographers often prefer two treks to increase their chances of capturing stunning images under different lighting and settings.

• Flexibility: In case one trek is affected by bad weather or the gorillas are in a tricky location, your second trek can still deliver a rewarding encounter.

Where to Go for Double Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is Uganda’s most famous gorilla trekking destination, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. It is divided into four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector has several habituated gorilla families.

For double trekking, you can:

• Trek in different sectors (e.g., first trek in Buhoma and second trek in Rushaga).

• Visit different families within the same sector.

Bwindi’s terrain is dense and hilly, offering a real jungle trekking adventure.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga, part of the larger Virunga Massif, is smaller but equally fascinating. It is home to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, known for its playful and easily accessible members. Trekking here offers a different landscape dominated by bamboo forests and volcanic backdrops.

Some travelers prefer to trek once in Bwindi and once in Mgahinga to experience both ecosystems.

How Much Does Double Gorilla Trekking Cost?

As of 2024:

• A single gorilla trekking permit costs:

  • $800 for Foreign Non-Residents (FNR)

  • $700 for Foreign Residents (FR)

  • UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

For double trekking, you will need two permits, meaning:

• $1,600 for FNRs

• $1,400 for FRs

• UGX 600,000 for East Africans

Other costs to consider include accommodation, transportation, meals, and park entry fees if applicable.

Many tour operators offer special double trekking packages that include permits, transport, and lodging, making it easier and sometimes cheaper than booking everything separately.

Tips for Planning a Double Gorilla Trekking Safari

• Book Early: Gorilla permits are limited and sell out fast, especially in the high season (June to September, December to February). Book at least 6 months in advance.

• Physical Preparation: Trekking can be challenging, involving steep climbs and dense forests. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

• Consider Rest Days: Some travelers schedule a rest day between treks to recover, relax, and explore nearby areas.

• Choose Your Trekking Sectors Wisely: If you want different environments and experiences, trek in two different sectors or combine Bwindi and Mgahinga.

• Carry Proper Gear: Good hiking boots, rain jacket, gloves, a hat, long-sleeved shirts, insect repellent, and a camera are essential.

• Hire a Porter: Porters can carry your backpack and assist you on difficult terrain. Hiring a porter also supports local communities.

Best Time for Double Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best times to go for double gorilla trekking are during the dry seasons:

• June to September

• December to February

During these months, trails are less muddy and the weather is generally favorable. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round, and rainy seasons offer lush, beautiful forests with fewer tourists.

Is Double Trekking Worth It?

Absolutely! If you are passionate about wildlife, nature, photography, or simply want to maximize your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounter, double trekking is worth every penny. It allows you to absorb the magic of being close to these gentle giants twice, deepening your appreciation and creating unforgettable memories.

Many travelers who have double trekked say the second experience often feels even more special because they are less nervous and better prepared to soak in every detail.

A double gorilla trekking safari in Uganda is the ultimate adventure for those who wish to spend more time with mountain gorillas, see different families, and explore the beauty of Uganda’s rainforests. With proper planning and preparation, your double trekking experience will surely be one of the most memorable journeys of your life.

Whether you choose to trek twice in Bwindi, once in Bwindi and once in Mgahinga, or in different sectors of Bwindi, Uganda promises a breathtaking, humbling, and transformative gorilla experience.