Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Physically demanding and potentially life-changing, gorilla trekking is the star experience at Orugano Lodge. Only eight visitors are allowed to view each gorilla family per day, and it is an extraordinary privilege to be one of the select few. Trekking begins early at 7.30am, as the mist clears and the forest awakens.
Knowledgeable local ranger guides lead the way deep into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and explain the complicated etiquette involved in meeting a giant silverback. The gorillas you encounter belong to one of the 25 “habituated” family groups in Bwindi – and many of our guides have been involved in the habituation process themselves. Once you have located the gorillas, you can spend a maximum of one hour in their company. Note that trekking through dense, steep forest is demanding and requires a fairly high degree of physical fitness. However, Orugano Bwindi Lodge also has specially customized sedan chairs (at additional cost), allowing less able guests to join gorilla treks.
Gorilla Trekking Tour Prices
Starts from $1987 per person for an unforgettable experience.
Gorilla Trekking Permit Price
Costs $800 per person, required for the trek.
Best Trekking Season
Ideal months are June to August and December to February.
Gorilla Trekking Details
Gorilla Trek Permits
Booking a gorilla permit is mandatory for all trekkers.
Processing & Booking
- Each permit costs $800 per person.
- We charge a service fee of $30.
- Permits sell fast, book early.
When to go
Best Trekking Time
High in the mountains of Uganda, Bwindi has a wet, tropical climate, with temperatures averaging 24–25°C year-round, and cool at night. This part of Uganda has two rainy seasons, from April to May and September to November. The two “dry” seasons (this is a rainforest), from December to February and June to August, are generally considered the best time to visit, though the rainy months bring their own rewards.
Tips
Important Consideration
Follow these key rules for a safe and ethical trek.
- Eight visitors trek a gorilla family per day per one-hour trek.
- Trekking allowed for visitors of 15 and above
- Keep distance of 21 feet (7 meters) from gorillas
- Don’t trek if you have cough or flu
- Follow ranger instructions at all time
Getting There
How To Get To Nkuringo Sector?
Reaching Orugano Bwindi Lodge is easy with multiple travel options. Whether you fly or drive, the journey takes you through Uganda’s beautiful scenery.
Flights & Road Transfers
Your gorilla trekking safari starts in Entebbe. You can fly from Entebbe to Kisoro in just one hour and 30 minutes, making the journey quick and smooth. From Kisoro, our Orugano Bwindi Lodge transfer will take you on a 1.5-hour scenic drive through rolling hills and local villages, bringing you straight to the comfort of Orugano Lodge. If you prefer a road trip, driving from Entebbe to Nkuringo takes about 10 hours, offering stunning views along the way.
Safari Extensions
After your gorilla trekking adventure, you can explore more of Uganda’s famous parks. Lake Mburo National Park is 4-5 hours away, perfect for walking safaris and spotting zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and leopards. Queen Elizabeth National Park is 5-6 hours away, home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, and boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel. For chimpanzee tracking, head to Kibale Forest National Park, a 9–10-hour journey, where you willencounter playful chimps in the wild.
Recommended Stay Duration
To fully enjoy your gorilla experience, staying at least two nights at Orugano Bwindi Lodge is ideal. One full day is dedicated to gorilla trekking, and an extra night allows for more relaxation, nature walks, or connecting to another safari destination. If you have time, consider spending a few extra nights to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Nkuringo Uganda.
More Ways to Let Bwindi Surprise You
Here, the forest doesn’t follow routines—and neither do you. One morning might lead you across a quiet lake in a dugout canoe; the next, you’re dancing with Batwa Pygmies. From unplanned wildlife encounters to golden-hour cocktails, our lodge experiences unfold as naturally as the views.
