Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Safe? – Your Complete Safety Guide by Tubale Safaris Ltd

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a dream for many nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. However, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “Is gorilla trekking in Uganda safe?” The answer is a reassuring yes—but with essential details every traveler should know. At Tubale Safaris Ltd, a registered and trusted Uganda tour operator, we prioritize your safety while offering you a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. In this easy-to-understand guide, we break down the safety aspects of gorilla trekking, what precautions are in place, and how you can travel securely from your state to Uganda to enjoy this unforgettable adventure.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages and Tours

• 3 Days Gorilla Habituation Safari
• 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Tour
• 3 Days Uganda Fly to Bwindi
• 5 Days Wildlife & Gorilla Safari
• 7 Days Uganda Gorilla Safari
• 8-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Tour
• 9 Days Best of Uganda Safari
• 5 Days Gorilla & Rafting Safari Uganda
• 6 Days Primates Safari Tour
• 10 Days Birding Tour Uganda
• 10 Days Uganda Wildlife Tour
• 12 Days Uganda Wildlife Tour
• 13 Days Pearl of Africa Tour
• 15 Days Uganda Safari
• 18 Days Uganda Safari
• 21 Days Birding Uganda Safari
• 24 Days Best of Uganda Tour

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Safety in Uganda’s Gorilla Parks: Highly Protected Areas

Strict Security Measures Are in Place

If you are wondering, “Is gorilla trekking in Uganda safe?” you’ll be happy to know that Uganda’s gorilla trekking regions, particularly Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, are some of the most secure wildlife conservation areas in East Africa. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) works closely with the army and tourism police to ensure that all park boundaries are well-patrolled, and ranger presence is strong. Tourists are always accompanied by armed, trained guides during the trek, which gives visitors extra peace of mind as they explore the dense forest.

All visitors must attend a mandatory pre-trekking briefing, which outlines safety rules, what to expect on the trek, and how to behave around gorillas. These sessions are handled by experienced rangers who know the terrain and gorilla behavior inside out. At Tubale Safaris Ltd, we only operate in safe zones and maintain contact with local authorities to stay informed about conditions. So yes, the trekking experience is safe, both in terms of wildlife and overall security.

Trekking with Trained Experts: Safety in the Wild

Guides and Rangers Are Your Safety Net

The Uganda gorilla trekking experience is led by expert guides and rangers who have undergone rigorous training in wildlife behavior, emergency response, and guest care. Each trekking group consists of a small number of tourists (usually no more than 8 people), and you are always accompanied by armed rangers from start to finish. These rangers carry out daily monitoring of the gorilla families and know exactly where to find them and how to keep you safe during your encounter.

When you ask, “Is gorilla trekking in Uganda safe?” it’s important to note that gorillas are generally gentle and peaceful creatures, especially the habituated groups visited by tourists. They are accustomed to human presence and rarely show aggression. The key is to follow your guide’s instructions—keep a safe 7-meter distance, speak in a low voice, and avoid sudden movements. Guides will instruct you on what to do in case a gorilla approaches or shows signs of discomfort, but such situations are rare and usually managed without incident.

Tubale Safaris Ltd takes additional steps to brief all our clients before the trek, and we only work with registered rangers and experienced trackers to ensure top-tier safety standards throughout your safari.

Health and Hygiene Measures: Protecting You and the Gorillas

Preventing Disease Transmission

Since gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, health precautions are strictly enforced during trekking. Tourists showing signs of illness such as flu, fever, or cough may not be allowed to trek—this is to protect the gorillas, which are highly vulnerable to human diseases. So when asking, “Is gorilla trekking in Uganda safe?” it’s not just about physical safety but also health safety for both visitors and animals.

During the trek, visitors are advised to wear masks, maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas, and use hand sanitizer. Toilets are provided at the starting points, and during the trek, travelers are instructed on how to handle waste responsibly to avoid environmental contamination.

As of 2024, Uganda issues two types of permits:

• Gorilla Trekking Permit – USD $800: This includes one hour of interaction with a habituated gorilla family.
• Gorilla Habituation Permit – USD $1,500: This includes up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group.

At Tubale Safaris Ltd, we help secure your permits early and ensure that all health guidelines are met before your trek. We also assist with getting travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, so you are fully prepared for a safe and stress-free adventure.

Traveling to Uganda: Safe Routes and Flight Options

How to Reach Uganda Safely from Your State

Traveling from your state to Uganda for a gorilla trekking safari is easier than you might think. Most international travelers fly into Entebbe International Airport (EBB)—the main gateway to Uganda. Depending on your location, here are some reliable airline options:

• New York (JFK): Emirates (via Dubai), KLM (via Amsterdam), Qatar Airways (via Doha)
• Washington D.C. (IAD): Brussels Airlines (via Brussels), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa)
• Chicago (ORD): Lufthansa (via Frankfurt), Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways
• Los Angeles (LAX): Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Turkish Airlines via connecting hubs
• Atlanta (ATL): Delta in codeshare with KLM or Air France, connecting via Amsterdam or Paris

Once in Uganda, you can either drive (8–10 hours) or take a domestic flight to Kisoro or Kihihi airstrips near Bwindi or Mgahinga. Tubale Safaris Ltd will arrange your airport pick-up, accommodation, and transfers to ensure a smooth and safe journey from your arrival to your trekking base.

Our vehicles are regularly serviced, and our drivers are experienced in navigating Uganda’s terrain. From your first step in Uganda to your final goodbye, your safety and comfort are our top priorities.

Final Verdict: Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Safe?

Absolutely—With the Right Tour Operator

So, is gorilla trekking in Uganda safe? Yes, it is—when you trek with a reputable tour operator like Tubale Safaris Ltd. With the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s strong conservation policies, well-trained guides, secure trekking routes, and responsible tourism practices, visitors can confidently enjoy their time in the forest without fear. From physical safety to health precautions and secure travel logistics, everything is planned with care.

At Tubale Safaris Ltd, we offer fully guided gorilla safari packages, including permits, accommodation, domestic flights or transfers, and on-the-ground support from start to finish. We keep you informed, prepared, and protected—so you can focus on enjoying the unforgettable beauty of Uganda’s mountain gorillas.

Contact us today to start planning your safe, ethical, and breathtaking gorilla trekking safari in Uganda!