Overview
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most extraordinary
wildlife experiences on Earth. With just over 1,000 mountain
gorillas remaining in the wild, spending an hour with these gentle
giants in their natural habitat is truly life-changing.
This multi-day adventure takes you from Victoria Haven to Bwindi
Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where
you'll trek through dense jungle with expert guides to find a
habituated gorilla family. Once located, you'll spend a magical
hour observing their behaviour - watching infants play,
silverbacks assert their authority, and mothers care for their
young.
🦍 The Ultimate Wildlife Encounter
"There are no words to describe the feeling when you first lock
eyes with a mountain gorilla in the wild. It's humbling,
emotional, and utterly unforgettable."
— Sarah, The Haven guest
⚠️
Important: Permits Required
Gorilla trekking permits are limited (only 8 per group per day)
and must be booked well in advance - often 3-6 months for peak
seasons. We handle all permit arrangements for you.
Current permit cost:
$700 USD (approximately £550) - included in our package price.
Your Gorilla Trekking Experience
Day 1: Entebbe to Bwindi
- Early morning pick-up from ThebHaven
- Scenic drive through Uganda's countryside (or optional flight
to Kihihi/Kisoro)
- Arrive at your lodge on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Afternoon briefing by park rangers about trekking expectations
- Overnight at comfortable eco-lodge
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Day
- Early breakfast, packed lunch prepared
- Transfer to park headquarters for briefing and group
allocation (08:00)
- Enter the forest with your guide, trackers, and armed ranger
- Trek duration varies - from 1 to 6 hours depending on gorilla
location
- Once gorillas located - one magical hour with the family
- Return trek to park entrance
- Certificate presentation at park headquarters
- Evening celebration at your lodge
Day 3: Return to Entebbe
- Breakfast at lodge
- Scenic drive back to Entebbe (or flight)
- Afternoon arrival at Victoria Haven
- Evening to relax and relive your incredible experience
What to Expect
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous -
you'll be hiking at altitude (2,000-2,500m) on steep, muddy
terrain
- Fitness Level: Reasonable fitness required.
Porters available to carry your bag (recommended)
- Gorilla Habituation: You'll be with fully
habituated families accustomed to human presence
- Group Size: Maximum 8 trekkers per gorilla
family
- The Hour: Strictly limited to 60 minutes once
gorillas are found - it goes by fast!
Packing Essentials
- Sturdy hiking boots - waterproof, well
broken-in
- Gaiters - highly recommended for mud and ants
- Long trousers and long sleeves - for
protection from stinging nettles
- Waterproof jacket - rainforest is
unpredictable
- Gardening gloves - to protect hands when
grabbing vegetation
- Daypack - with water, snacks, camera
- Camera with extra batteries - cold reduces
battery life
- Walking stick - can be hired locally
Important Information
- Age Restriction: Minimum age 15 years for
gorilla trekking
- Health: Yellow fever vaccination required for
Uganda
- Permits: Non-refundable and non-transferable
- must be booked in advance
- Best Time: June-August and December-February
(dry seasons)
- What's Included: All transport,
accommodation, meals, permits, guide services