7-day Gorilla Trekking & Chimps Uganda Safari

Uganda is a year-round destination, but the Dry Seasons (June to August and December to February) are the most popular. During these months, the forest trails are drier and less slippery, making the hike easier.

However, the "Wet Seasons" (March to May and October to November) offer lush, emerald-green photography opportunities, lower lodge rates, and the gorillas often stay at lower altitudes to feed on fresh bamboo shoots, which can actually result in shorter treks.

The trek is a moderate-to-high physical challenge. You will be hiking at altitudes between 1,100m and 2,500m (3,600ft – 8,200ft) through thick undergrowth and steep ridges. Some days the gorillas are found in 45 minutes; other days it takes 6 hours.

The Good News: We hire local porters to carry your gear and provide a steady hand on the slopes. As long as you can walk for a few hours with breaks, you can complete this trek.

You should book at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel the peak months of July, August, or December. Permits are limited to just 8 people per gorilla family per day and sell out quickly.

To book, simply send us an enquiry; we handle the entire permit acquisition process with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and secure your spot immediately upon deposit. You can either share your preferred travel dates or choose the dates in the quick form above on departure dates based on guaranteed permit availability.

Think "protection" over "fashion." Essential items include:

• Hiking Boots: With good ankle support and grip.
• Long Trousers & Long-Sleeved Shirt: To protect against stinging nettles and ants.
• Garden Gloves: Very helpful for gripping vines or branches for balance.
• Light Rain Jacket: It can rain at any time in the rainforest.
• Poles: Usually provided by the lodge or park, but great to have.

The official minimum age is 15 years old. This is strictly enforced to protect the gorillas from childhood diseases and to ensure participants can handle the physical nature of the trek. Note: If your child is 14 but turning 15 shortly after the trek, exceptions can sometimes be made with prior approval from UWA—ask us for details.

Absolutely. Many of our clients pair the trek with Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale, Tree-Climbing Lion Safaris in Queen Elizabeth Park, or a relaxing Canoe Trek on Lake Bunyonyi.

Within the Bwindi area itself, you can also add a Batwa Cultural Experience to learn about the indigenous hunter-gatherer "forest people" who lived alongside the gorillas for centuries.