Uganda Safaris & Gorilla Trekking Guide – Explore Uganda’s Best Wildlife Adventures

A typical Uganda safari ushers you into the country’s pristine national parks, reserves and other magical tourist destinations.

Uganda is remarkably a unique and one most adorable destination not fully explored by many. It is gifted with beauty, amazing scenery, distinct vegetation and fauna.

On Uganda safaris, holidaymakers are presented with plenty of mesmerizing experiences ranging from the big game safaris, mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, birding and mountaineering to cultural encounters.

Top Uganda Safari Activities – Things to do in Uganda

There are diverse activities to do while on Uganda safaris. They include among others game viewing, mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga (gorilla permits in Uganda can be booked $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 foreign residents and shs. 300,000 for holidaymakers within East Africa Community).

Other activities include bird watching, golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, chimpanzee tracking, white water rafting, mountaineering, boat cruise, cultural safaris, hot air balloon tours, gorilla habituation experience.

Top Uganda Safari Destinations & Attractions – Things to see in Uganda

Uganda has 10 national parks where most wildlife safaris are conducted and many other national reserves. They include;

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the most visited parks in Uganda and it is suitably found in the extreme Southwestern part of the country.

This is largely a tropical rain-forest park set on the Albertine Rift Valley, established in 1991 to inhabit a section of mountain gorillas. It is a small protected area, occupying only 331sq.kms comprising largely of montane and lowland forest.

Bwindi became a UNESCO site in 1994 and holidaymakers on Uganda safaris have plenty of things to enjoy. Most travelers come to trek to see mountain gorillas but there is also possibility to do bird watching, gorilla habituation experience, nature walks, Batwa cultural encounter, cycling.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is second after Bwindi where mountain gorillas in Uganda are found. This park is in Kisoro, Southwestern Uganda and its formation was primarily to host a section of 1063 mountain gorillas. Compared to the rest of Uganda safari parks, Mgahinga is the smallest, spanning in an area of 33.7sq.kms.

Mgahinga also adjoins the Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo forming the extensive Virunga Conservation Area (VCA).

It derives its name from Gahinga Volcano, one of the 8 spectacular volcanoes that make up the Virunga Massifs.

Some of the interesting things to expect to do on Mgahinga gorilla safari include mountain gorilla trekking, birding, golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, Batwa encounter, cave exploration and others.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is one of the Uganda’s oldest protected areas and it is found in Northwestern part of the country. It became a national park in 1952 and extends to cover 3840sq.kms of land area forming part of the vast Murchison Falls Conservation Area.

It takes its name from Murchison Falls, one of the world’s powerful waterfalls making it one of the park’s iconic attractions. It can be witnessed as it forces itself through a narrow gorge of 8m creating what is described as Devils Cauldron and a permanent rainbow.

Murchison Falls National Park hosts 4 of the big five game, varied antelope families, over 451 bird species, the Rothschild giraffes, warthogs, chimpanzees and many primate species in Budongo Forest.

While on Murchison Falls NP safari, the amazing activities for you to engage include hot air balloon experiences, game drives, bird watching, nature walks, chimpanzee tracking, chimpanzee habituation experience, hike to the top of the falls, boat cruise to the bottom of the falls.

Murchison Falls National Park Uganda’s biggest park and it is reachable within 4-5 hours’ drive. En-route to this magical conservation area, travelers can also make a stop visit at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking or while on return to Kampala/Entebbe.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Named after the Queen Elizabeth II, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s second biggest park set in Western Uganda.

This is a vast savanna protected area sprawling in an area of 1978sq.kms and features magical crater lakes.

It is known for its huge profusion of wildlife including the rare tree climbing lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, antelopes, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, baboons, hippos, crocodiles, over 620 bird species.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo is undoubtedly an outstanding protected area with breathtaking landscape, characterized by rugged mountains and flat valleys. It is remotely set in the extreme Northeastern side in Karamoja Province.

The park hosts 4 of the big 5 game, over 475 bird species with variety of activities for you to participate including game drives, birding, climbing Mount Morungole, cultural tour in Karamoja and IK communities, nature walks.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale National Park is one Uganda’s pristine primate destinations, attracting holidaymakers with interest to track chimpanzees. This park lies in Western Uganda, featuring largely a rain-forest, some portion of savanna grassland and entirely covers 795sq.kms of land area.

Kibale is remarkably a primate capital of East Africa, hosting 13 species of primates that include estimated population of about 1500 chimpanzees. The others include L’Hoest monkeys, baboons, red colobus monkeys, mangabeys, red tailed monkeys, bush babies, pottos plus forest elephants, buffaloes.

Lake Mburo National Park

Located in Western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is another magical savanna park in the pearl of Africa.

It is the smallest of available savanna wilderness areas in Uganda occupying 260sq.kms of land area lying at elevation range of 1220 to 1828m.

Unlike other parks, reaching Lake Mburo takes travelers only 3-4 hours to drive from Kampala capital. It is a unique protected area, boasting of its huge concentration of impalas.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a spectacular park worthy visiting if you are enthusiastic mountain climber/hiker. It is a home to Rwenzori Mountain range that comes with highest peak ‘Margherita’ on Mt Stanley.

This rises up to 5109m and climbing up to this peak requires you to be physically fit. Rwenzori Mountains National Park has existed as a UNESCO site since 1994 and it occupies about 1000sq.kms.

Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park shelters a portion of Congo’s vast Ituri Forest. It is set in Western Uganda, protecting the only East Africa’s tract of true low land tropical forest.

It is a compact protected area sprawling in an area of 220sq.kms and lying at elevation range of 670 to 760m. Semuliki is a spectacular park worthy exploring if you are interested in chimpanzee tracking, nature walk, exploring the Sempaya hot springs, birding.

Mount Elgon National Park

Mount. Elgon National Park is set in Eastern Uganda and a home to an extinct volcano-Mount Elgon. This park is remarkably one best place to take part in volcano climbing while on Uganda safaris.

Mt. Elgon rises up to 4321m which makes it the 4^th highest mountain in East Africa and has a base of 3840sq.kms. Mt. Elgon National Park is an expansive park spanning in an area of 1145sq.kms.

The Source of R. Nile, Jinja

While on safari holiday, the only source of the River Nile is found in Uganda and this makes it an exceptional destination.

The River Nile is the longest river on planet earth extending up to Mediterranean Sea Sudan and Egypt.

There are several adrenaline adventures to keep you throughout the day including among others white water rafting, kayaking, jet boating, bungee jumping.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Lying suitably in Nakasongola district, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is one splendid tourist site of its own.

It is a magical spot to make a stop visit while en-route to Murchison Falls for a holiday. This sanctuary protects rhinos yet to be re-introduced to the parks.

Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is a spectacular natural feature and remarkably Africa’s second deepest lake.

It is found within Kigezi region, Southwestern Uganda a region most famous as the Switzerland.

Lake Bunyonyi consists of 29 dotted islands and visitors can engage in birding, swimming, canoe riding & community walk.

Other tourist attractions in Uganda include historical sites, waterfalls like Aruu Falls, Sipi Falls, Ssezibwa, Murchison Falls; hot springs & mountains.

About Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

Gorillas are a unique species of primates, with thick bodies covered with hair, and amazing eyes, yet sharing over 95% human-like DNA, thus man’s closest relatives.

The notable species in the world are the western gorillas, Eastern low land gorillas at Kahuzi-Biega National Park and the rare mountain gorillas; these can only be found in the continent of Africa.

Mountain gorillas live in the tropical forest of the Virunga chain of Mountains, sprawling through three East and central African countries namely; Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.

Gorillas live in groups called troop or family, led by a dominant silverback. The Adult male has a silver lining on the back, whereas the young male, has black backs.

Unless others, females dominant a Gorilla family, and have great influence in its affairs.

The family leader is a respected silverback, whose role is to protect the entire troop, settle a conflict, defend the family against the other members, and take care of the infants in case their mother disappears or dies.

The females mentor the young ones, reproduce, and help in erecting the day’s nests for sleeping. The black backs give support to the silverback and spend the day playing and feeding as the infants.

Research reveals that Gorillas communicate using over 27 sounds, depending on what they are reacting to.

They reside in mainly hilly places with in the cool tropical forests, with each night spent in different territories across the park.

They are mainly vegetarians, feeding on bamboo shoots, leaves, stems, and fruits, but at times insects to boost their immune system.

Gorillas are generally shy, though the infants on some occasions tend to be curious and draw closer to humans.

The forest is theirs, and they spend the day moving, feeding and resting. Capturing the pose of the silverback on-site and on camera is fascinating and unforgettable.

Describing the Uganda Gorilla Trekking Experience

This is an act of searching for the Gorillas wherever they are in the forest on foot, through the guidance of an expert Guide.

It doesn’t exempt the disabled, because there is a special package for them; that leads to the same experience and fun.

In both the Parks; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla national park, Gorilla trekking starts very in the morning, with a pre-trekking briefing that always commences at 8:00 am local time, and the park or sector headquarters, for about 30 minutes.

The park rangers take the briefing opportunity to register and verify the visitor’s documents, as well as explain the rules and regulations governing the Jungle.

Thereafter, they allocate members to the Gorilla family of their choices, before accompanying for the search.

The tracking exercise starts from where the creatures were last seen the previous day, to where they are suspected to be feeding.

Depending on your tracking speed, the direction, and distance the apes have taken, locating these entertaining creatures may last for about 1-8 hours, plus an extra hour of watching the mothers breastfeeding their infants, the adolescents’ play, and the captivating size and appearance of the gentle silverback.

You are free to take photos but not while holding the gorillas, ask the rangers questions regarding the Gorilla life in the Jungle, and refreshing within the additional one hour.

Thereafter, all trackers return to the lodge to receive their gorilla trekking certificates, before exiting the park for Lunch, followed by either another exciting activity or a drive to the lodge for refreshment, followed by dinner and overnight.

Top Places to See Gorillas in Uganda

The only places to see gorillas in Uganda include:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, Bwindi impenetrable national park, is one of the most secure and exciting destinations to visit for a gorilla trekking experience.

The park is located in the isolated regions of southwestern part of Uganda, at the edge of the Rift Valley, at the foothills of the vast Virunga chain of mountains; which sprawls through three countries; Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Bwindi is composed of a thick tropical forest, which was regarded impenetrable because of the concentration of giant trees, in the 321sqkm land.

The ancient park occupants and dependents were displaced, leading to the conservation and declaration of it as a national park in 1991, and a UNESCO natural world heritage site four years later; 1994 to protect the rare mountain gorilla species, birds, other primates, forest mammals, and the unique plant species; others over 1000 years old. It is at an altitude of 1,160m-2,607m above sea level, evergreen, with over five rivers.

Recorded in the park are over 400 mountain gorillas, divided into different gorilla families in the park, about 120 mammals, over 400 plant species, over 350 rare bird species, and several primate species, such as baboons, monkeys, and baboons among others.

Reports suggest that the mountain gorilla species at this park are slightly different from their counterparts in other packs, though the fact is yet to be established after thorough research.

Bwindi National Park has four sectors from which gorilla trekking is done;

Buhoma sector

Located in the northern sector of Bwindi, the Buhoma sector is what everyone talks of.  It is the most visited of the entire sector, easy to track from, and with the first gorilla family to be tracked in the entire park.

There are 5 Gorilla groups open for tracking in this sector, thus meaning 40 Gorilla permits available each day. These Gorilla families are; Mubare Group; the very first to be tracked, Katwe gorilla group, Habinyanja gorilla family, and Rushegura group.

The sector is also accessible either from the Rwanda side of the Queen Elizabeth national park through the Ishasha sector; home to the rare tree-climbing lions.

Ruhija sector

Ruhija sector is located in the eastern part of the park, with three gorilla families, residing in the quietest regions of the park, that a track to it offers a variety of eye-catching scenery, rolling hills, and cool climate. Trekking in this sector is strenuous and requires physical fitness and mental stability.

Most visitors prefer it for research, because of the quiet environment, and the unique forest cover, accessible from the Buhoma sector and Kabale side.

The families in this sector are; Kyaguriro family, Bitukura family, Mukiza group and Oruzogo family, with the fewest individual gorillas and only 32 permits available per day per person.

Nkuringo sector

Nkuringo sector is often recommended for young people and those physically fit, because of its steepness. It is located in located south of the park, with two families, though one is the most tracked and known.

The Nkuringo family, from which the sector got its name is regarded as one of the most exciting and peaceful Gorilla families in the park.

It was unfortunate that in June 2020, the sector lost a dominant silverback; Rafiki, which led the Nkuringo family was mercilessly killed by a poacher who was fortunately arrested and sentenced.

The first tracking exercise in the Nkuringo sector happened in April 2004, with lots of love, and fun.

Rushaga sector

Rushaga sector is the only sector in the park offering both gorilla trekking and habituation experience. It is found in the southern part, with green vegetation, undulating Hills, and a variety of plant species.

Trekking in this region is not very tiresome because the landscape of a bit flat, with very cool weather.

There are 5 Gorilla families open for tracking in this sector, namely; Nshongi, Busingye, Bweza, Kahungye family, and Mishaya family. This means each day, there are 40 Gorilla permits available for persons aged 15 years and above.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the foothills of the vast Virunga chain of mountains in the western part of Uganda, neighboring the Democratic Republic of Congo.

It is one of the smallest national parks in the country, established in 1991 to protect the rare mountain gorillas, the golden monkeys, unique plants, and several other endangered species.

In it there is one very special gorilla family; which in the past used to go to the neighboring Congo, but now settled in the park. It is so funny, yet very united, and interesting to encounter.

Tracking in this park is a bit strenuous, but worth the effort, time, and money. Just eight people are allowed to track the Nyakagezi gorilla group; after the briefing session.

The fact that up to 8 Gorilla trekking permits are available at Mgahinga Gorilla national park means there are less congestion and more fun during and after the adventure.

As you do the tracking at Mgahinga national park, there are chances that you will not only up with the memories of the Gorillas, but also great sight and sound of several primates, birds, plants, and primates such as monkeys.

Uganda Gorilla trekking Rules

To ensure that the ecosystem, hikers, and gorillas are safe, rules have been set in the park and must be followed by everyone before, during, and after the tracking exercise.

What is expected of you:

• Wash your hands before meeting the apes.
• A trekking permit is a must.
• Do not make noise once in the jungle.
• Dispose of waste properly; no littering in the park.
• Stand 7 to 8 meters away from the gorillas.
• Do not use flashlights while taking photos.
• Follow orders from the park ranger.
• Manage your time well while in the jungle.
• Do not create new paths.
• Do not imitate the creatures.
• Do not look deep into the eyes of the gorillas, especially the gentle silverbacks.

Failure to follow the rules may lead to fines or expulsion from the park.

Cost of Uganda Gorilla Permits

Once you pick Uganda as your gorilla trekking destination, the cost of the trekking permits is charged depending on your nationality, per person aged 15 years plus per day.

Foreign non-residents pay 800 USD, foreign residents 700 USD, and East African citizens are charged 300,000, payable directly at the UWA headquarters in Kampala Uganda, or through your tour operator handling the trip. This is following the Uganda wildlife Authority June 2020-June 2022 Tariffs.

The money collected helps in boosting the conservation efforts, supporting the local communities who at one point were displaced from the forest which was everything to them, and payment of the park rangers that take you through the jungle.

Depending on the time of your vacation, we advise you to purchase your Gorilla permit at least three to six months in advance because they are few yet in high demand, the first come first serve basis counts here.

Note that once a Permit is bought, and all the terms agreed upon, there is no postponement of the tracking date, or refund of the money if you fail to turn up for the exercise, keep time or lose your tracking permit.

Uganda Gorilla trekking Packing List

Knowing that you are going for a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, we do not advise over-packing. Instead, carry only the essential items we suggest to avoid extra charges and unnecessary inconveniences.

Documents to Carry:

• Passport
• Gorilla trekking permit
• Visa
• Yellow fever vaccine certificate (if required for your country)

Essential Items:

• Good hiking boots to help tackle the terrain
• Hand gloves to protect your hands
• Sleeping bag (if camping)
• Hat to protect your head
• Jacket or raincoat in case of rain
• Insect repellent
• Long-sleeved shirts to protect your arms
• Trousers to protect your legs
• Pair of stockings
• Bottle of water to quench your thirst
• Trekking stick (can be found in the park)
• Good camera for photography
• Binoculars to watch distant creatures
• Book with names of birds or plants (optional)

Some items can be bought in Uganda to avoid extra baggage charges on the flight.

Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

In the parks, the gates open at 7:00 AM for visitors, marking the start of the gorilla trekking process.

Regarding the best months for gorilla trekking, June to October and December are the most ideal, although the activity is available all year.

These months have less rain, making trekking easier and more enjoyable.

Weather Patterns in Uganda

• June to October: Relatively dry, with slight rains.
• December to early March: Mostly dry, with occasional slight rains.
• Late March to May and November: Usually a dry season, unless otherwise.

If you are traveling on a budget or prefer fewer crowds, we recommend visiting in March to May or November when accommodations and other services offer discounts.

Top Uganda Safari Lodges – Where to Stay in Uganda Safari Parks

Holidaymakers on safari in Uganda can choose to spend a night in budget, mid-range or luxury accommodation. These are available depending on the destination.

Some of the famous hotels, lodges in Uganda include Serena Hotel Kampala, Sheraton Hotel Kampala, Pearl of Africa Hotel, Protea Hotel Kampala/Entebbe in Kampala/Entebbe; Mweya Safari Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park; Paraa Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park, Primate Lodge, Ndali Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge in Kibale Forest, Mihingo Lodge in Lake Mburo and others.

Top Gorilla Safari Lodges – Where to Stay in Gorilla Trekking Parks

On arrival, you may land and spend the first night around the fascinating Kampala city, thereafter, proceed to either Mgahinga national park or Bwindi impenetrable national park where the Gorilla trekking exercise is done.

In and around the parks, there are accommodation facilities, offering some of the finest services, lovely beddings, and tasty cuisines. These range from budget, Midrange to luxury lodges, homesteads, camps, and hotels around the park.

Top Uganda Safari & Gorilla Trekking Questions & Answers

Below are some of the most popular Uganda safari & gorilla trekking questions & answers

• What is a Uganda safari? A Uganda safari is a trip to explore the country’s wildlife, national parks, and natural attractions.
• What makes Uganda a unique safari destination? Uganda has beautiful landscapes, rare wildlife like gorillas, and many national parks.
• What activities can I do on a Uganda safari? You can go on game drives, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, bird watching, boat cruises, and more.
• Where can I see mountain gorillas in Uganda? You can see them in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
• How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda? $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East Africans.
• What is the best time for a Uganda safari? The dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are the best for safaris.
• Which is the biggest national park in Uganda? Murchison Falls National Park is the largest, covering 3,840 sq. km.
• What wildlife can I see in Murchison Falls National Park? Lions, elephants, giraffes, chimpanzees, hippos, and many birds.
• What is special about Queen Elizabeth National Park? It has tree-climbing lions, crater lakes, and over 600 bird species.
• Where can I see tree-climbing lions? In the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Is Kidepo Valley National Park worth visiting? Yes, it has breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife like cheetahs and ostriches.
• Where can I see chimpanzees in Uganda? Kibale Forest National Park, Budongo Forest, and Kyambura Gorge.
• What is the best place for bird watching in Uganda? Bwindi, Mabamba Swamp, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls are top spots.
• What is special about Lake Mburo National Park? It is home to zebras, impalas, and offers boat cruises and horseback safaris.
• Can I go mountain climbing in Uganda? Yes, you can hike the Rwenzori Mountains and Mount Elgon.
• Where can I do white-water rafting in Uganda? In Jinja, at the Source of the Nile.
• What is the Source of the Nile? It is the starting point of the world’s longest river, located in Jinja, Uganda.
• What is unique about Mgahinga Gorilla National Park? It is home to gorillas and golden monkeys and is part of the Virunga Mountains.
• What are the Big Five animals in Uganda? Lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos.
• Where can I see rhinos in Uganda? At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
• What are the main cultural experiences in Uganda? The Batwa experience, Karamojong cultural visits, and Kampala city tours.
• How difficult is gorilla trekking? It can be challenging but rewarding, taking 1-8 hours of hiking.
• What are the rules for gorilla trekking? Keep a 7-meter distance, don’t use flash photography, and don’t touch the gorillas.
• How long can I stay with the gorillas? You can spend 1 hour with them after finding them.
• Are Uganda safaris safe? Yes, they are safe with guides and rangers ensuring security.
• Can I do a hot air balloon safari in Uganda? Yes, at Murchison Falls National Park.
• Where can I go for a boat cruise in Uganda? The Nile in Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Bunyonyi.
• Why is Lake Bunyonyi famous? It is Africa’s second-deepest lake with 29 beautiful islands.
• What food can I expect on a Uganda safari? Local dishes like matoke, posho, and grilled meats, along with international foods.
• Do I need a visa to visit Uganda? Yes, most travelers need a visa, which can be obtained online.

Uganda offers one of the best Gorilla trekking experiences in the world across all the trekking destinations; Bwindi and Mgahinga, with classic secure territories and a cool climate.

Everyone across the world is free to track these relatives in their natural habitat, take photos and write about them. Book for your Uganda safari today and make your dream come true.