Uganda has the largest mountain gorilla population, with around 500 gorillas living in two (02) national parks; Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or Bwindi Forest National Park both located in the southernmost corner of Uganda bordering with Rwanda and DR. Congo. Best place to see gorillas in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is known to support about half of the worlds mountain gorilla population. Treks to find the mountain gorillas in the Impenetrable Bwindi Forest takes place at four (04) distinct location often referred to as sectors or regions; Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo gorilla trekking regions.
If you, for instance, choose to go gorilla trekking in Buhoma region sometimes referred to as the Northern Bwindi Sector, there is up to three (03) Habituated gorilla families that can be tracked in the Buhoma region; Mubare, Habinyanja and Rushegura gorilla groups. Buhoma is a popular place for visitors seeking for a good range of accommodation options to choose from. Tracking in Buhoma is generally easier than in Rushaga or Nkuringo. Buhoma is also a good base for travellers intending to indulge in community-based tourism like taking on the Batwa-pygmies cultural tour.
Ruhija region has four (04) habituated mountain gorilla families; Oruzogo, Bitukura, Kyaguliro, and Mukiza gorilla groups. There are fewer lodging options in Ruhija sector with most of the available ones being basic budget and midrange lodges. For the traveller looking to stay at a luxury property, you have to factor in the early morning drive from Buhoma Region.
Rushaga region has five (05) habituated mountain gorilla families; Nshongi, Kahungje, Mishaya, Busingye and Bweza family group. At Rushaga, you can opt to enjoy a More exclusive gorilla trekking experience where you get to spend 04 hours with a group of gorilla still undergoing habituation. (see: Gorilla Habituation in Rushaga)
Nkuringo region has three (03) habituated mountain Gorilla families; Bushaho, Nkuringo, and Christmas gorilla group. Trekking in this region can be challenging due to the steep terrain, however, this region is fast emerging as the favourite choice for visitors flying in through Kigali to trek gorillas in Uganda. Nkuringo region also boasts of a varied range of great-Value luxury safari lodges to stay at our favourite being the Ugandan owned Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to more than 80 mountain gorillas but has just one (01) habituated gorilla group called Nyakagezi – a family of 10 members. Because of the presence of only one gorilla family means one can enjoy exclusive trekking in Mgahinga. This park is also the home of the Golden monkeys – only found here and are a perfect add-on to your gorilla Safari. There is only one place that we like to stay at which is the luxury Mount Gahinga Lodge. However, for travellers on a budget, there are quite a few recommendations in & around Kisoro Town a 1-hour drive away. Best place to see gorillas in Uganda
When is the best time to see gorillas in Uganda?
If you plan to travel during the peak season months of June – August and December to February, we recommend booking your gorilla safari at least six (06) months in advance or even a year in advance. The earlier you book the more varied choices you will enjoy on accommodation and which region to go gorilla trekking. We discourage the last-minute booking syndrome – many think it saves you money, but I tell you what it might save you cash but ruin the entire holiday experience.
If I miss the Peak Season, what should I expect going in the Low Season? The low season months of March, April, May & November are characterised by heavy downpours that make trekking up the hills of the impenetrable forest a lot more challenging especially beginners and or the unfit traveller.
On the positive end of things, permits are a little easier to obtain during the low season, plus you get to enjoy crowd-free (fewer tourists) during your gorilla trekking on your trail, and for photographers, this is the best time to venture into the lush greenery and take amazing gorilla photos.
What is the price of Gorilla Permits in Uganda?
A gorilla permit in Uganda costs US$700 per person to trek and spend 01-hour viewing, photographing, or Filming (non-commercial filming) the Gorillas in either Bwindi or Mgahinga. Best place to see gorillas in Uganda
The availability of permits is limited by the number of habituated gorilla families. Uganda has 20 habituated mountain Gorilla families available for trekking and only a maximum of eight visitors are allowed to visit a group. Uganda now has 160 permits available per day. However, it’s important to remember that Rwanda ( Uganda’s neighbour) did double the price of gorilla permits from US$750 to US$1,500 per person meaning that a lot more travellers are going to Uganda which makes the permits very competitive to reserve.
Related: Gorilla Permits in Uganda
What to Pack for my Gorilla safari to Uganda
- Hiking Boots. Buy boots that go above your ankles – they protect you from strains.
- Garden Gloves. These protect your hands – they are important.
- Rain Jacket. Doesn’t matter if you are trekking in the dry or wet season.
- Long-Sleeved Shirt or Blouse. The sleeves protect your arms.
- Energy Giving snacks. You might use some extra sugars during your trek.
- Cameras and extra batteries. Unless you don’t care to keep the memories.
- Hat or bandana. This covers your head and stops bugs from falling Into your hair.
- Pair of Binoculars. You might hear a sound of a bird a high up in the canopy – these come in handy.
For more information, consider reading our blog: The Practical Packing list for Gorilla Trekking
