Gorilla trekking in Uganda, What you should know

Gorillas are found in two locations in Uganda, that is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is located in southwestern Uganda and is home to more than half of the world's remaining population of mountain gorillas. The park covers an area of 331 square kilometers and is comprised of dense rainforest, steep hills, and narrow valleys.

Bwindi is home to several habituated gorilla families, which can be visited by tourists with a permit and a guided trek.

There are four main trailheads for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and these are:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda on the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park covers an area of 33.7 square kilometers and is part of the Virunga Mountains range. Mgahinga is home to one habituated gorilla family, which can be visited by tourists with a permit and a guided trek.

There are several trekking points in Mgahinga National Park, including;

"Please note that the availability of gorilla groups for trekking may vary depending on their location and movements. It is recommended to check with a reputable tour operator for the latest information and to book your gorilla trekking permit in advance."

Both parks offer visitors the opportunity to observe these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitat. However, due to the limited number of gorilla permits available each day, it's important to book in advance to ensure that you can secure a permit for your desired date and park.

The best time to trek gorillas in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are from June to August and from December to February. During these months, the trails in the national parks are drier and easier to navigate, and the gorillas tend to move closer to the lower slopes of the mountains in search of food.

Additionally, the dry seasons offer clearer skies and better visibility, making it easier to spot the gorillas and enjoy the surrounding scenery. However, it's important to note that these months are also peak tourist season, so you'll need to book your permits and accommodations well in advance.

If you're looking for a more affordable and less crowded time to trek gorillas, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, which are from March to May and from September to November. Although these months are considered the rainy season, they still offer good trekking conditions, and you may be able to secure discounted permits and lodging.

Ultimately, the best time to trek gorillas in Uganda depends on your preferences and travel schedule. No matter when you visit, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience encountering these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.