All National Parks
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Half the World's Mountain Gorillas
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda's most celebrated wildlife destination and one of the most biodiverse forests in Africa — a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting approximately 459 mountain gorillas, representing roughly half the world's total population. Trekking through the ancient rainforest to spend a permitted hour with a habituated gorilla family is universally rated among the most profound wildlife encounters on earth.
Size
321 km²
Est.
1991
Peak Season
Jun – Aug & Dec – Feb (dry seasons)
From
$350–$1,200/day
Why Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?
Gorilla trekking permit ($800) grants one hour face-to-face with a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat
Over 400 bird species including 23 Albertine Rift endemics — one of Africa's top birding destinations
Gorilla Habituation Experience ($1,500) allows 4 hours with a gorilla family currently being habituated
Wildlife
Mountain GorillaChimpanzeeForest ElephantBlack-and-White ColobusL'Hoest's MonkeyGiant Forest Hog
Activities
Gorilla TrekkingGorilla Habituation ExperienceChimpanzee TrackingBirdingVillage WalkBatwa Cultural Experience
Best Time to Visit & Costs
Peak Season
Jun – Aug & Dec – Feb (dry seasons)
Best Months
June, July, August
Daily Cost (all-in)
$350–$1,200
Park Entrance Fee
$800/person gorilla permit
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Browse all safari tours →Frequently Asked Questions
How much does gorilla trekking in Bwindi cost?
The Uganda gorilla trekking permit costs $800 per person, paid to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This grants a 1-hour visit with a habituated gorilla family. Total trip costs including accommodation, transfers, and guides typically run $1,500–$3,500 per person for a 3–4 day Bwindi safari.
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?
Bwindi is a rainforest with steep, muddy terrain — treks range from 2 to 8 hours depending on gorilla location. Fitness level: moderate to strenuous. Guides allocate gorilla groups based on visitors' fitness levels. Walking sticks are provided. Anyone in reasonable health can participate. Minimum age is 15 years.
Bwindi vs Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) for gorilla trekking?
Both offer exceptional encounters. Bwindi advantages: lower permit cost ($800 vs $1,500), more gorilla families (12+ habituated groups), more remote and adventurous experience. Volcanoes advantages: easier logistics from Kigali, shorter treks on average, newer and more luxury lodges, and the scenery of the Virunga Volcanoes backdrop.
When is the best time to trek gorillas in Bwindi?
The best times are the dry seasons: June–August and December–February. Trails are less muddy and gorilla tracking is easier. However, gorilla trekking is offered year-round — even during the wet season (March–May and September–November) permits sell out. Book gorilla permits 3–6 months in advance for peak season.
How do I get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?
Most visitors fly into Entebbe International Airport (Kampala). From Kampala, you can: take a chartered flight to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips (1 hour), or drive 8–10 hours via Fort Portal or Kabale. The standard Bwindi safari combines Bwindi with Queen Elizabeth National Park (for tree-climbing lions and hippos) in a 4–5 day circuit.
Combine with Nearby Parks
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