Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

7-Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda Tour & Safaris

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Come face to face with one of the world's last remaining mountain gorilla families in an unforgettable, intimate wilderness encounter.

Kibale Rainforest Chimpanzees

Track wild chimpanzee troops through Africa's primate capital alongside expert indigenous guides and trackers.

Queen Elizabeth Safaris & Water Cruise

Search for tree-climbing lions across open savannah plains and drift alongside hippos along the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel.

Plan Your Safari
Investment From €1,850 EUR pp Base rate: $2,110 USD pp
Reviews Rated on TripAdvisor
Accommodation Eco-Camps & Luxury Lodges
Uganda Gorilla Safari

7-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Itinerary

Day 01
Transfer & Highlands

Entebbe to Kibale Forest
Scenic drive through Uganda tea country

Upon arrival, join your private guide for a scenic drive toward the ancient Kibale Forest. Traverse Uganda’s verdant tea country and rolling hills, arriving at your retreat by late afternoon.

Selected Accommodations

Luxury
Chimpundu Lodge
Chimpundu Lodge Exterior
Chimpundu Lodge Interior
Mid-range
Kibale Forest Camp
Kibale Forest Camp Tent
Kibale Forest Camp Interior
Day 02
Primate Encounters

Chimpanzee Trekking & Queen Elizabeth
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest

Join expert rangers for your chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale. Spend an hour observing these charismatic primates before descending toward the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth Park.

Selected Accommodations

Luxury
Mweya Safari Lodge
Mweya Safari Lodge Pool View
Mweya Safari Lodge Suite
Mid-range
Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge Exterior
Bush Lodge Room
Day 03
Savannah & Waterways

Morning Game Drive & Boat Safari
Boat safari on Kazinga Channel

A dawn game drive on the Kasenyi plains searching for lions and elephants, followed by an afternoon cruise on the Kazinga Channel witnessing hippos and rich birdlife.

Selected Accommodations

Luxury
Mweya Safari Lodge
Mweya Safari Lodge Landscape
Mweya Safari Lodge Lounge
Mid-range
Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge Tents
Bush Lodge Deck
Day 04
The Great Rift

Transfer to Bwindi Forest
Tree climbing lions in Ishasha

Depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Route via the Ishasha sector—famous for tree-climbing lions—as you transition from open savanna to ancient mountain rainforest.

Selected Accommodations

Luxury
Gorilla Leisure Lodge
Gorilla Leisure Lodge Exterior
Gorilla Leisure Lodge Balcony
Mid-range
Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Rushaga Gorilla Camp View
Rushaga Gorilla Camp Cabin
Day 05
The Main Event

Gorilla Trekking Experience
Mountain Gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

A life-changing hour in the presence of mountain gorillas. After your trek through the mist, relax at your retreat overlooking the breathtaking Bwindi Highlands or transfer to the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi.

Selected Accommodations

Luxury
Arcadia Lodge Kabale
Arcadia Lodge View
Arcadia Lodge Fireside
Mid-range
Bunyonyi Eco Resort
Bunyonyi Eco Resort Islands
Bunyonyi Eco Resort Cottage
Day 06
Savanna Walking

Mburo Walking Safari
Walking safari in Lake Mburo

Journey to Lake Mburo National Park. Enjoy a guided walking safari with an armed ranger, offering a rare opportunity to encounter zebras, giraffes, and other wildlife on foot in a tranquil savanna setting.

Selected Accommodations

Luxury
Mihingo Lodge
Mihingo Lodge Rock Pool
Mihingo Lodge Luxury Tent
Mid-range
Arcadia Lodge Mburo
Arcadia Lodge Mburo View
Arcadia Lodge Mburo Room
Day 07
Final Farewell

Equator & Departure
Uganda Equator Line Monument

Enjoy a final morning activity before departing for Entebbe. Stop at the Equator for lunch, souvenir shopping, and a memorable photo before your evening flight.

View Available Departure Dates
The Investment

Uganda Gorilla Tour Pricing & Inclusions

Mandatory

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost: €700 / $800 USD per person

Total expedition cost ranges from €1,850 to €2,605+ per person (based on 4 travelers sharing), including the gorilla permit. Official USD base rates: $2,110 to $2,975+ USD pp.

Essential

Value Comfort

€1,850 pp
Base rate: $2,110 USD pp

Simple, characterful forest camps and budget-friendly lodges that focus on what truly matters: warm local hospitality, authentic charm, and smart value. Properties offer a functional, cozy base close to the wild.

Request Value Itinerary →
Most Popular
Eco & Rustic Haven

Mid-Range

€2,050 pp
Base rate: $2,340 USD pp

Handpicked eco-lodges and rustic havens seamlessly integrated into the wilderness. The ideal sweet spot offering private amenities, stunning views, and atmospheric evening campfires without the luxury price tag.

Request Mid-Range Itinerary →
Signature Luxury

Luxury Haven

€2,605 pp
Base rate: $2,975 USD pp

Beautifully designed wilderness sanctuaries offering attentive, personalized service, private panoramic views, and refined comfort deep within the forest canopy.

Request Luxury Itinerary →

What's Included

  • Private 4×4 custom land cruiser with professional driver-guide
  • AMREF Flying Doctors emergency medical evacuation cover
  • All national park entry permits and conservation fees
  • Ranger fees and guided wilderness activities
  • One chimpanzee tracking permit in Kibale Forest
  • One gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • Complimentary bottled drinking water during transfer days
  • Full board meal plan (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation matched to your chosen comfort level
  • Private airport transfers (Entebbe Arrival & Departure)

What's Not Included

  • International long-haul flights
  • Uganda entry visa fees ($50 USD per person)
  • Comprehensive personal travel & medical insurance
  • Optional activities outside specified itinerary
  • Premium alcoholic beverages and spirits
  • Personal lodge laundry services
  • Driver-guide gratuities, tips & personal souvenir shopping

Ready to Begin Planning Your Custom Expedition?

Reserve Your Travel Dates
Seasonal Schedules

Scheduled Tour Dates

Exclusive 2026 summer departures aligned with peak dry-season gorilla permit availability.

Tour Block Travel Dates Status Action
Trip 01 Sept 01 – Sept 07, 2026 Confirmed Book
Trip 02 Sept 10 – Sept 16, 2026 Confirmed Book
Trip 03 Sept 23 – Sept 29, 2026 Confirmed Book
Trip 04 Oct 01 – Oct 07, 2026 Confirmed Book

Need custom dates? Private departures can be accommodated upon request. Inquire for custom schedule →

The Ground Operator Advantage

Meet Your Host

Verified Guest Experiences

Real reviews from our recent safari travelers
★★★★★

“We booked a 5-day tour with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. It was super nice! We were even able to spontaneously extend a day. The accommodations were great and Jon himself as a guide was excellent. We learned so much about wildlife.”

★★★★★

“I contacted Safaris by Jon for a customized Great Migration and gorilla trekking tour. The experience from start to finish was amazing. Jon is very communicative and offers great options. Best 10-day tour through Kenya and Uganda!”

★★★★★

“Riveting safari following Dian Fossey's footsteps. Grateful to have found Safaris by Jon who drove, guided, educated, and enthralled while navigating Murchison Falls, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Lake Victoria.”

TripAdvisor ★★★★★ Google Reviews ★★★★★
More Reviews On TripAdvisor →

100% Guaranteed Gorilla Permits

We directly secure your official UWA permits in advance so your trek date is locked before booking international flights.

Direct Local Ground Operator

Based in Uganda, Jon and our core team own the fleet and lead the tours. No sub-contracting or middleman fees passed to you.

Personally Inspected Lodges

We regularly audit luxury eco-lodges for bed comfort, high culinary standards, and direct proximity to gorilla tracking trailheads.

24/7 Dedicated Concierge

From custom diet arrangements to private domestic air transfers, Jon's personal team is on call every step of your journey.

Licensed by Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) & Uganda Tourism Board
Check Permit Availability & Plan Safari →
Frequently Asked Questions

Gorilla Trekking Safari FAQs

When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?

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.

How difficult is the gorilla trek?

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.

How much does a gorilla safari cost?

Gorilla tours & safaris in Uganda typically range from $1,500 to $5,500+ per person, depending on the level of accommodation, number of days, activities of your interest, and transport options.

The largest cost component is the gorilla permit (currently $800 per person). We tailor each itinerary to match your budget and travel style—from confort, classic to luxury experiences.

When & how should I book the gorilla tour?

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.

What should I pack for the gorilla tour?

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.
What is the minimum age for Gorilla Trekking?

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.

Can this itinerary be customized?

Yes. Every itinerary can be tailored to your interests, travel dates, accommodation preferences, and budget. We can also add extra nights, domestic flights, cultural experiences, or other destinations across Uganda.

Speak With a Safari Expert
Gorilla Trekking Uganda Safaris

Compare Top Gorilla Trekking Packages

5 day Uganda gorilla and chimpanzee primate safari Primate Encounter

5-Day Gorilla & Chimp Trekking Primate Safari

From $2,020 pp

Where to go: Kibale Forest (Chimps) • Queen Elizabeth (boat cruise) • Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Gorillas) • Entebbe

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Day 2: Queen Elizabeth National Park & Boat Safari
  • Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Forest
  • Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Experience
  • Day 5: Drive to Entebbe & Departure

Tour Pricing Per Person

Budget
From $2,020
Eco-Mid
From $2,200
Luxury
From $3,715

What's Included

  • Gorilla & Chimp permits included
  • All National Park entrance fees
  • Expert local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 Land Cruiser transportation
  • All meals & bottled water
  • Safari lodge accommodation
  • Airport transfers (Entebbe)
  • All mentioned boat cruises & activities
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9 day gorilla trekking and chimps wildlife safari Wildlife Adventure

9-Day Gorilla Trekking & Chimps Wildlife Safari

From $2,650 pp

Where to go: Ziwa Rhinos • Murchison Falls • Kibale Forest • Queen Elizabeth • Bwindi Forest • Lake Mburo NP

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
  • Day 2: Game drives & River Nile Cruise
  • Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
  • Day 4: Chimpanzee track & Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Day 5: Morning game drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
  • Day 6: Drive to Bwindi Forest National Park
  • Day 7: Gorilla Trekking & Lake Bunyonyi
  • Day 8: Lake Mburo & Walking Safari
  • Day 9: Equator Crossing & departure

Tour Pricing Per Person

Budget
From $2,650
Eco-Mid
From $3,060
Luxury
From $4,825

What's Included

  • Gorilla & Chimp permits included
  • All National Park entrance fees
  • Expert local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 Land Cruiser transportation
  • All meals & bottled water
  • Safari lodge accommodation
  • Airport transfers (Entebbe)
  • All mentioned game drives
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15 day ultimate Uganda gorilla trekking and wildlife safari Honeymooners' Special

15-Day Ultimate Uganda - Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari

From $5,755 pp

Where to go: Ziwa Rhinos • Murchison Falls • Kibale Forest • Queen Elizabeth • Bwindi • Mt. Gahinga • Lake Bunyonyi • Lake Mburo

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport
  • Day 2: On-Foot Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Sanctuary
  • Day 3: Exploding Falls & Private Nile River Cruise
  • Day 4: Dawn Game Drive & Lodge Relaxation
  • Day 5: Savannah Farewell & Cultural Interlude
  • Day 6: Bigodi Canopy Walk & Treetop Arrival
  • Day 7: Wild Chimpanzee Tracking Expedition
  • Day 8: Great Rift Valley Descent & Evening Drive
  • Day 9: Kasenyi Predator Tracking & Water Safari
  • Day 10: Journey into the Misty Kigezi Highlands
  • Day 11: Mountain Gorilla Trekking Pilgrimage
  • Day 12: Golden Monkey Tracking & Lake Bunyonyi
  • Day 13: Lake Mburo & night game drive
  • Day 14: Walking Safari & Lazy afternoon
  • Day 15: Equator Crossing & Departure Flight

Tour Pricing Per Person

Mid-range
From $5,755
Luxury
From $10,230

What's Included

  • Gorilla, Chimp & Golden Monkey permits
  • Ziwa Rhino tracking & Bigodi walk
  • All National Park fees & activities
  • Expert Local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 Land Cruiser ground transportation
  • Full board meals & luxury accommodation
  • Airport Pick-up & Drop-off
Enquire About This Package

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Uganda Safari Tours

5-Day Rwanda Golden Monkeys, Uganda Gorillas & Chimps Safari Primates Only

5-Day Rwanda (Golden Monkeys), Gorillas & Chimps

From $2,330 pp

Where to go: Kigali (Rwanda) • Volcanoes NP (Golden Monkeys) • Bwindi Forest (Gorillas) • Kibale Forest (Chimps) • Entebbe (Uganda)

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes NP
  • Day 2: Golden Monkey Trek & Transfer to Bwindi
  • Day 3: Gorilla Trek & Transfer toward Queen Elizabeth
  • Day 4: Transfer to Kibale & Chimpanzee Tracking
  • Day 5: Drive to Entebbe & Evening Departure

Tour Pricing Per Person

Eco-Mid
From $2,330
Luxury
From $3,200

What's Included

  • Gorilla, Chimp & Golden Monkey permits
  • All National Park entrance fees
  • Expert local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 Land Cruiser transportation
  • All meals & bottled water
  • Safari lodge accommodation
  • Airport transfers (Entebbe)
  • All mentioned game drives
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7-Day Rwanda Uganda Gorilla, Chimps & Wildlife Safari Primates & Safari

7-Day Rwanda-Uganda Gorilla, Chimps & Wildlife Safari

From $2,765 pp

Where to go: Kigali (Rwanda) • Volcanoes NP (Golden Monkeys) • Bwindi Forest (Gorillas) • Queen Elizabeth • Kibale Forest • Entebbe

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes NP
  • Day 2: Golden Monkey Trek & Transfer to Bwindi
  • Day 3: Gorilla Trekking & Lake Bunyonyi Kabale
  • Day 4: To Queen Elizabeth & game drive
  • Day 5: Game drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
  • Day 6: To Kibale Forest & Chimpanzee Tracking
  • Day 7: Depart Kibale for Entebbe & departure

Tour Pricing Per Person

Eco-Mid
From $2,765
Luxury
From $4,160

What's Included

  • Gorilla & Chimp permits
  • All National Park entrance fees
  • Expert local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 Land Cruiser transportation
  • All meals & bottled water
  • Safari lodge accommodation
  • Airport transfers (Entebbe)
  • All mentioned game drives
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8-Day Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari Rwanda-Uganda Gorillas & Wildlife

8-Day Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari Rwanda-Uganda

From $2,950 pp

Where to go: Kigali (Rwanda) • Volcanoes NP • Bwindi Forest • Queen Elizabeth • Kibale Forest • Lake Mburo • Entebbe

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes NP
  • Day 2: Golden Monkey Trek & Transfer to Bwindi
  • Day 3: Gorilla Trekking & Lake Bunyonyi Kabale
  • Day 4: Queen Elizabeth & afternoon game drive
  • Day 5: Game drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
  • Day 6: To Kibale Forest & Chimpanzee Tracking
  • Day 7: Lake Mburo & afternoon walking safari
  • Day 8: Depart Lake Mburo for Entebbe & departure

Tour Pricing Per Person

Eco-Mid
From $2,950
Luxury
From $4,580

What's Included

  • Gorilla & chimp permits per person
  • All National Park Fares & Fees
  • All activities mentioned above
  • Expert Local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 Land Cruiser transportation
  • All meals & accommodation
  • Airport Pick-up & Drop-off
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Kenya Safari & Gorilla Trekking Uganda

Kenya Uganda Big Five, Chimps, Golden monkeys & Gorilla Safari Migration & Primates

12-Day Masai Mara, Chimps, Golden Monkeys & Gorillas

From $10,480 pp

Where to go: Masai Mara NP (great migration & big 5 safaris) • Kibale Forest (chimps) • Kazinga Channel (boat safari) • Bwindi Forest (gorillas) • Mt. Mgahinga NP (golden monkeys)

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Fly to Masai Mara & Afternoon game drive
  • Day 2: Full-Day Mara Exploration
  • Day 3: Balloon Safari & Culture
  • Day 4: Flight from Maasai Mara to Entebbe-Uganda
  • Day 5: Fly to Kibale Forest
  • Day 6: Kibale - Chimpanzee Tracking
  • Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP
  • Day 8: Game drive & Kazinga channel boat safari
  • Day 9: Journey to Bwindi Forest
  • Day 10: Gorilla Trekking Experience
  • Day 11: Golden Monkey Tracking Experience
  • Day 12: Farewell East Africa

Tour Pricing Per Person

Luxury
From $10,480

What's Included

  • All domestic flights
  • Gorilla, chimp & golden monkey permits per person
  • Medical Evacuation Insurance
  • All National Park Fares & Fees
  • All activities mentioned above
  • Expert Local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 ground transportation
  • All meals & accommodation
  • Airport Pick-up & Drop-off
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Kenya Safari, Uganda Chimps & Gorilla Tour Big Cats & Primates

9-Day Kenya Safari, Uganda Chimps & Gorilla Tour

From $10,705 pp

Where to go: Masai Mara NP (great migration & big 5 safaris) • Kibale Forest (chimps) • Bwindi Forest (gorillas)

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Fly to Masai Mara & Afternoon game drive
  • Day 2: Full-Day Mara Exploration
  • Day 3: Balloon Safari & Culture
  • Day 4: Flight from Maasai Mara to Entebbe-Uganda
  • Day 5: Fly to Kibale Forest
  • Day 6: Kibale - Chimpanzee Tracking
  • Day 7: Journey to Bwindi Forest
  • Day 8: Gorilla Trekking Experience
  • Day 9: Farewell East Africa

Tour Pricing Per Person

Luxury
From $10,705

What's Included

  • All domestic flights
  • Gorilla & chimp permits per person
  • Medical Evacuation Insurance
  • All National Park Fares & Fees
  • All activities mentioned above
  • Expert Local Driver-Guide
  • 4x4 ground transportation
  • All meals & accommodation
  • Airport Pick-up & Drop-off
Enquire About This Package
8-Day Fly-in Kenya Masai Mara Big 5 safari and Uganda gorilla trekking luxury package Big 5 & Gorillas

8-Day Fly-In Masai Mara Big 5 & Uganda Gorilla Luxury Safari

From $10,730 pp

Where to go: Masai Mara NP (great migration & big 5 safaris) • Bwindi Forest (gorillas)

Daily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Fly from Nairobi to Masai Mara & Game Drive
  • Day 2: Full-Day Masai Mara Big 5 Game Drive
  • Day 3: Hot Air Balloon Safari & Maasai Village Visit
  • Day 4: Flight from Masai Mara to Entebbe, Uganda
  • Day 5: Bush Flight from Entebbe to Bwindi Forest
  • Day 6: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Gorilla Trek 1
  • Day 7: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Gorilla Trek 2
  • Day 8: Fly back to Entebbe & Onward International Flight

Tour Pricing Per Person

Luxury
From $10,730

What's Included

  • All Internal & Cross-Border Domestic Flights
  • AMREF Emergency Evacuation Insurance
  • 2 Mountain Gorilla Permits Per Person
  • Masai Mara Park Concession Fees
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari Experience
  • Luxury Tented Safari Camps
  • All Gourmet Meals & Selected Drinks
  • Private 4x4 Game Drives
Enquire About This Package
Tailor-Made Excellence

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