Where can I see gorillas in Uganda? Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best destinations in the world for gorilla trekking. If you’re dreaming of coming face to face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat, Uganda offers two extraordinary national parks where this once-in-a-lifetime experience is possible: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: The Prime Gorilla Trekking Destination

Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most famous and most visited place for gorilla trekking. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to around 460 mountain gorillas, nearly half of the world’s total population.

Gorilla Families in Bwindi

Bwindi is unique in that it hosts more than 20 habituated gorilla families available for trekking. These families are distributed across four main sectors:

• Buhoma (the oldest and most accessible sector)

• Rushaga (with the highest number of gorilla groups)

• Nkuringo (a challenging but scenic trek)

• Ruhija (less crowded and good for bird lovers)

Each trekking experience offers something different, whether it’s terrain, difficulty level, or scenic beauty. The forest is thick and lush, and trekkers often find themselves hiking through vines, bamboo thickets, and steep hillsides. The effort is rewarded with an awe-inspiring hour in the presence of the gorillas.

Accessibility

Bwindi can be accessed via road from Kampala or Entebbe (about 8-10 hours’ drive) or by domestic flights from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrips, followed by a short drive to your chosen trekking sector.

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Uganda’s Hidden Gem

Though less visited than Bwindi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers an equally thrilling and intimate gorilla trekking experience. Located in the far southwest of Uganda, Mgahinga is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that extends into Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

One Gorilla Family, One Incredible Experience

Mgahinga is home to one habituated gorilla family known as the Nyakagezi Group, which consists of several silverbacks, females, and juveniles. This family is known for being playful and often stays within the park boundaries, making sightings quite reliable in recent years.

While Mgahinga only has one trekking group per day, the exclusivity adds a special charm. You’re likely to have a more personal and less crowded experience here compared to the more popular sectors of Bwindi.

Spectacular Scenery

Mgahinga is part of the Virunga Mountain Range and offers breathtaking scenery with its three cone-shaped volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. Besides gorilla trekking, the park also offers golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, and cultural encounters with the indigenous Batwa people. See our Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari

Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda

To see gorillas in Uganda, you must purchase a gorilla trekking permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). As of 2025, the permit costs:

• $800 for foreign non-residents

• $700 for foreign residents

• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Each permit allows you to spend one hour with a gorilla family, guided by experienced rangers and trackers. It’s advised to book your permit months in advance, especially during the dry seasons (June–September and December–February), as slots fill up quickly.

What to Expect During the Trek

Gorilla trekking in both Bwindi and Mgahinga involves hiking through dense forests, sometimes for 2–6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located that day. The trek requires a moderate level of fitness, as the trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery.

Once you find the gorilla group, you’ll be allowed one magical hour to observe their behavior, take photos (without flash), and simply enjoy being in their presence. It’s a moment that most travelers describe as life-changing.

Booking Uganda Gorilla Safari

Booking a gorilla safari in Uganda is a seamless and rewarding experience with Kenlink Tours, your trusted local tour operator. We specialize in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, tailored to your schedule and interests. Our packages include permits, transportation, accommodation, and expert guides to ensure a smooth and memorable journey. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, we handle all logistics professionally. Book with Kenlink Tours today and get ready to meet the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Your adventure starts here!