Chances of Seeing Mountain Gorillas in Uganda
Seeing mountain gorillas in the wild is one of the most moving and unforgettable wildlife experiences in the world. Many travelers wonder, “What are the chances of actually seeing gorillas in Uganda?”
The answer is very encouraging your chances are almost 100% when you book your trek with a trusted tour operator like Binary Safaris Adventures. Uganda’s gorilla trekking is well organized, carefully managed, and designed to ensure every visitor gets to see these gentle giants in their natural home.
Where to See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda
Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, found in two main national parks:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which is the most famous and popular gorilla trekking destination in Uganda.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a smaller park located in the Virunga Mountains, home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family.
Both parks are located in southwestern Uganda, and each offers a unique gorilla trekking experience surrounded by lush forests and misty hills.
Why the Chances of Seeing the Gorillas Are So High
Uganda’s wildlife authorities and conservationists have done an excellent job in habituating gorilla families. This means the gorillas are familiar with humans and feel safe around them.
Here’s why your chance of seeing them is almost guaranteed:
- Daily monitoring: Each gorilla family is tracked every day by park rangers who know exactly where they are.
- Guided tracking: Trekkers are guided by experienced trackers who follow fresh signs like footprints, dung, and broken branches to locate the gorillas.
- Limited groups: Only 8 visitors per gorilla family per day are allowed, ensuring calm, safe, and successful encounters.
- Conservation efforts: Uganda’s gorilla population is healthy and growing, increasing the chances of sightings each year.
Because of this strong conservation system, the success rate of finding gorillas in Uganda is between 95% and 100%.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most popular destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda, and it has over 20 habituated gorilla families spread across four main sectors:
- Buhoma (North)
- Ruhija (East)
- Rushaga (South)
- Nkuringo (Southwest)
Every day, groups of visitors trek into the thick forest, guided by skilled rangers. The trek can last from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. But at the end of the journey, you are almost guaranteed to come face to face with a silverback and his family a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
If you prefer a quieter experience, Mgahinga National Park is another excellent choice. Its home to the Nyakagezi family, known for its playful members and scenic mountain backdrop.
The trekking experience here also offers an almost 100% chance of sighting gorillas, and the park’s smaller size makes the trek shorter and easier.
Mgahinga is also perfect for combining gorilla trekking with other activities like golden monkey tracking and volcano hiking.
Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda
Every visitor needs a gorilla trekking permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
- Permit cost: USD 800 per person per trek (for foreign non-residents).
- Availability: Limited to 8 trekkers per family per day.
- Booking: Always book in advance through a trusted operator like Bwindi Trails Expeditions to secure your spot.
The permit includes your park entry, ranger guides, and one full hour with the gorillas once you find them.
What Happens During a Gorilla Trek?
Your day begins early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. Rangers explain the rules, assign groups, and share information about the gorilla families you will visit.
Then, you start your trek into the dense rainforest. The air is cool, birds sing overhead, and the forest floor smells fresh. As you move deeper, your guide follows signs left by the gorillas until you finally find them — feeding, grooming, or playing among the trees.
Once you find the gorillas, you’re allowed one magical hour with them. You can take photos, watch the babies play, and observe the silverback’s strength and calmness. It’s emotional, humbling, and unforgettable.
When Is the Best Time to See Gorillas in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking is possible all year round, but the best times are during the dry seasons:
- June to September
- December to February
During these months, forest paths are less slippery, and hiking is easier. However, the rainy months (March–May and October–November) also have their charm — fewer tourists, greener scenery, and great photography conditions.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Trek
- Always book your gorilla permit early.
- Follow ranger instructions at all times.
- Keep a safe distance (7 meters) from the gorillas.
- Stay quiet and move slowly, it helps the gorillas stay calm.
- Respect nature and never leave trash behind.
Pro Tip: Hiring a local porter helps support the community and makes your trek easier. They can carry your bag and offer a helping hand on steep trails.