Where Can I Go Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda? – A Complete Guide by Tubale Safaris Ltd

If you’ve ever wondered, “Where can I go gorilla trekking safari in Uganda?”, the answer lies in the lush, mountainous rainforests of southwestern Uganda. This region is home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas, making Uganda one of the few places on Earth where you can encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Organized by Tubale Safaris Ltd, a registered and reputable Uganda tour operator, gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda offer a life-changing experience. Unlike a typical wildlife safari, gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forest trails, guided by expert trackers who help you locate a family of gorillas. Once found, visitors are allowed to spend one awe-inspiring hour observing them as they play, rest, eat, and interact. With only about 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild, Uganda plays a vital role in conservation efforts, and every trek contributes to their protection. As of 2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit is US$800, while a gorilla habituation experience, which allows four hours with the gorillas, costs US$1,500. Tubale Safaris Ltd ensures that your entire journey—from flights and permits to accommodation and guides—is expertly arranged for a seamless experience. Let’s explore the top destinations for gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Top Gorilla Trekking Locations in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The most popular answer to “Where can I go gorilla trekking safari in Uganda?” is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to over 20 habituated gorilla families. The park is divided into four trekking sectors—Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo—each offering a unique trekking experience. Buhoma is the oldest and most developed sector, known for its scenic lodges and cultural walks. Ruhija offers moderate terrain and a peaceful atmosphere, while Rushaga and Nkuringo are preferred for their steeper hikes and access to the gorilla habituation experience. Bwindi’s thick rainforest is rich in biodiversity, hosting over 350 bird species, 120 mammal species, and a wide variety of flora. Treks in Bwindi can last between 2 to 8 hours depending on the location of the gorilla group. Tubale Safaris Ltd customizes itineraries based on your preferences and fitness level, ensuring a memorable and rewarding trek.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

For travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another excellent answer to the question, “Where can I go gorilla trekking safari in Uganda?” This smaller park borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area. Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, which is known for being relatively easy to track due to its preference for low-altitude forest areas. What sets Mgahinga apart is its stunning scenery, dominated by the volcanic peaks of Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura. It’s also the only place in Uganda where visitors can combine gorilla trekking with golden monkey tracking, another primate adventure worth experiencing. Though it hosts fewer gorillas than Bwindi, Mgahinga provides a quieter, more intimate trekking experience. Tubale Safaris Ltd recommends Mgahinga for travelers who enjoy a tranquil environment and are interested in exploring multiple primate species in a single visit.

How to Get to Uganda for Gorilla Trekking Safari

Flying from the United States to Uganda

When asking “Where can I go gorilla trekking safari in Uganda?”, you should also consider how to reach these incredible locations. International travelers fly into Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Uganda’s main airport located near the capital city, Kampala. From there, Tubale Safaris Ltd arranges either a domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips near Bwindi and Mgahinga, or a scenic road transfer to your lodge. For travelers from the United States, several flight options are available:

• New York (JFK): Airlines like Qatar Airways, Brussels Airlines, KLM, and Emirates offer one-stop flights to Entebbe with layovers in Doha, Brussels, Amsterdam, or Dubai.
• Washington, D.C. (IAD): Fly via Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, or Brussels Airlines with stopovers in Addis Ababa, Istanbul, or Brussels.
• Atlanta (ATL) and Los Angeles (LAX): Two-stop flights with major airlines such as Delta, Emirates, Qatar, or United connect via Europe or the Middle East to Entebbe.

After arriving in Uganda, Tubale Safaris Ltd provides all transfers and logistics, ensuring that you travel comfortably to the gorilla trekking regions. We also assist with gorilla permit bookings, visa guidance, and health requirements such as yellow fever vaccination and recommended travel insurance.

Why Choose Tubale Safaris Ltd for Your Gorilla Safari in Uganda?

Your Trusted Tour Operator for Gorilla Trekking

Tubale Safaris Ltd is a licensed, reputable Uganda-based tour operator with extensive experience in organizing gorilla trekking safaris. When you book your trip with us, you’re not just booking a tour—you’re signing up for a personalized, expertly guided journey. Our team works closely with you to choose the right trekking sector, secure your gorilla permits, and match you with accommodations that suit your budget and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury lodges with breathtaking forest views or comfortable mid-range eco-lodges, Tubale Safaris ensures you get the best value for your money.

Supporting Conservation and Local Communities

Choosing Tubale Safaris Ltd also means you are contributing to conservation efforts and community development. A portion of every gorilla permit supports the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s conservation programs, while a share goes to nearby communities to fund schools, health centers, and sustainable tourism initiatives. We also partner with local guides and community-run lodges to ensure that your tourism dollars benefit the people and wildlife of Uganda. Tubale Safaris Ltd believes in responsible tourism—protecting what makes Uganda special while offering travelers a meaningful connection with nature.

Conclusion – Where Can I Go Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda?

To wrap it up, the best answers to “Where can I go gorilla trekking safari in Uganda?” are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both parks offer unique, life-changing experiences where you can come face-to-face with the majestic mountain gorillas. Whether you choose Bwindi’s misty hills or Mgahinga’s volcanic slopes, Tubale Safaris Ltd will make sure every part of your journey is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. With permits priced at US$800 for trekking and US$1,500 for the gorilla habituation experience (as of 2024), now is the perfect time to start planning your adventure.

Contact Tubale Safaris Ltd today to book your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and take the first step toward an extraordinary encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species.