Gorilla Trekking Information

Gorillas Requires a permit to trek in the Jungles for an upclose encounter. It is recommended to purchase the Gorilla permit least 3-4 Months in advance so as to be certain of availability. Last minute Gorilla Bookings stand less chances for a Gorilla permit in most cases.

The Gorilla permit Cost includes: Gorilla permit, Park entrance fees, Government taxes, Ground transport, Full-time English speaking Ranger guide & Escorts. The Gorilla permit Excludes: Porters if any, Emergency stretcher, Alcoholic drinks, Ranger Guides tips, Flight Fares, Other personal expenses

Gorilla Trekking age Limit is 15 years for both Uganda and Rwanda. However if a child is approaching 15 years and surely wants to trek Mountain Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda, A parent writes a consent letter to Uganda Wildlife Authority in approval to take responsibility for anything that happens to the child while on Gorilla trekking.

Nice Gripped Walking/hiking shoes Warm Clothing for the Bwindi sector Insect repellants for bugs Sun Screen Sun glasses and hat to protect from direct sun Rain Jacket and/or ponchos in cases of Rain Long sleeved shirts, blouses to protect from thorny bushes Long pants, Socks or gaiters (protection from Safari Ants) Binoculars if you like Backpack for carrying small luggage Gloves if you want( But Not necessary) 

Each Gorilla family of mountain Gorillas is trekked/visited by a maximum of 8 persons. There will be an addition of 3 persons that include a Ranger guide and two escort Guides.

Gorilla Trekking is allowed 1 hour when you finally find them while Gorilla Habituation allows 4 hours with the Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National park. The hike to find the Gorillas can last 30mins to several hours depending on the gorilla family movements.

Disable your camera Flash Do not throw rubbish in the park Maintaining the required 7 meters distance from mountain gorillas Staying within a group Speaking at a low tone or keeping silent Avoiding direct eye contact with the Mountain gorillas. Keeping calm when a mountain gorilla charges Do not feed gorillas Do not touch gorillas 

Disable your camera Flash Do not throw rubbish in the park Maintaining the required 7 meters distance from mountain gorillas Staying within a group Speaking at a low tone or keeping silent Avoiding direct eye contact with the Mountain gorillas. Keeping calm when a mountain gorilla charges Do not feed gorillas Do not touch gorillas 

Contrary to common belief, gorilla trekking in Uganda is typically safe. The gorillas encountered during treks are accustomed or habituated to human interaction, and armed park rangers accompany visitors for added security. Uganda has implemented measures to enhance the safety of tourists exploring its national parks, including those designated for gorilla trekking. Notably, no security incidents have been reported over a decade.

Absolutely! Imagine standing face to face with a 400-pound silverback gorilla in its natural habitat. Gorilla trekking is unquestionably worth the investment, providing not only a unique experience but also contributing significantly to the protection of these endangered creatures and their environment. A substantial portion of the fees from gorilla permits goes directly towards conservation initiatives.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda and Congo is 15 years. This restriction is in place due to several important factors.

Children may find it challenging to remain calm if a gorilla mock charges during a trekking expedition. While wild mountain gorillas rarely charge, it can happen if they perceive anyone in the trekking group as a threat. However, an experienced and calm tracker can often deter a charging gorilla. Unfortunately, a child may become terrified, scream, or be inclined to run when faced with the intimidating bark of a 180-kilogram (397-pound) silverback. In such situations, a charging gorilla will typically give chase to a running tourist.

Children also pose health risks during gorilla trekking, as their developing immune systems make them more susceptible to contagious diseases like flu. Since these diseases can be transmitted to gorillas, the consequences can be severe and potentially fatal.