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Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you deep into the ancient rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, among other gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda—where mist hangs in the trees, birdsong fills the air, and every step brings you closer to a moment that will stay with you forever.

Guided by expert local trackers who know these forest trails like home, you’ll trek through thick rainforest terrain in search of one of the world’s most endangered—and awe-inspiring—creatures. Uganda is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the most rewarding and responsible destinations in Africa for encountering this rare wildlife on a gorilla trekking safari.

For those looking to extend the experience, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park also offers exceptional gorilla trekking tours in a dramatic volcanic setting, with shorter hikes and well-established trails.

Wherever you choose to go, gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda are more than an adventure—it’s a humbling, emotional connection with nature, and a powerful reminder of what it means to protect something.

Our Top Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda

Wildlife Safaris in Uganda
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The 3 day Gorilla trekking safari

Uganda Gorilla Safari Nature, Safari and Culture From $1100 Pricing per person Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 3-day gorilla trekking adventure
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6-Days in The Wild

Queen Elizabeth Park, Bwindi Nature, Safari and Culture From $2270 Per Person 6 Days in the Wild: Mburo, Bwindi and

Top Gorilla Trekking Destinations in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda

Overview

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda’s flagship gorilla trekking destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, the park offers unmatched opportunities for close-up encounters with these critically endangered primates. The misty, ancient rainforest is also rich in biodiversity, featuring over 120 mammal species and more than 350 bird species, making it a haven for both primate lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Location

Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi is divided into four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. It’s accessible by road (8–10 hours from Kampala or Entebbe) or by domestic flights to Kihihi or Kisoro.

Activities

The main activity is gorilla trekking, with over 20 habituated families available for visits. Visitors can also participate in the Gorilla Habituation Experience, spending up to four hours observing gorillas in the presence of researchers. Other activities include birdwatching, forest hikes, and community walks.

Best Time to Visit

June to September and December to February are the best months for trekking, as the trails are drier and visibility is improved. However, gorilla trekking is available year-round.

Cultural Value

The park borders communities of the Batwa and Bakiga people. Visitors can engage in cultural encounters, traditional performances, and guided forest walks that showcase indigenous knowledge and forest survival skills.

Step into the heart of the rainforest and experience one of Africa’s most powerful wildlife encounters. Our handpicked gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda take you deep into the misty rainforests where endangered mountain gorillas live.

With expert local guides, thoughtful itineraries, and a deep respect for conservation, we ensure your journey is not only safe and seamless—but truly unforgettable. Whether you trek through Uganda’s dense Bwindi forest or Rwanda’s volcanic slopes, each experience is personal, humbling, and full of meaning.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla Trekking Destination in Uganda

Overview

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park may be smaller in size, but it offers a deeply personal and scenic gorilla trekking experience. Nestled within the Virunga Mountains, the park is part of a larger transboundary ecosystem shared with Rwanda and the DRC. It is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for its mobility and the presence of multiple silverbacks, making for fascinating behavioral observations.

Location

Located in the far southwestern corner of Uganda in Kisoro District, Mgahinga is about 10 hours by road from Kampala or a short domestic flight to Kisoro.

Activities

The star activity is gorilla trekking, usually centered around the Nyakagezi family. In addition, visitors can enjoy golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking (Mount Gahinga, Sabinyo, and Muhavura), and Batwa cultural experiences in the adjacent Garama Cave and forest trails.

Best Time to Visit

Similar to Bwindi, the best months for gorilla trekking are June to September and December to February, although visits are possible throughout the year.

Cultural Value

The park has deep cultural ties to the Batwa, the indigenous inhabitants of the forest. Through immersive experiences, visitors can learn about the hunter-gatherer lifestyle, spiritual traditions, and the historical relationship between the gorillas and the forest.

Rushaga Sector (Bwindi South)

Gorilla Trekking tour in Uganda

Overview

Although part of Bwindi, the Rushaga Sector has carved a distinct identity due to its high number of habituated gorilla families and the availability of the Gorilla Habituation Experience, located near Lake Mutanda and the town of Kisoro. Rushaga combines biodiversity, cultural depth, and convenience, making it a growing favorite among adventurous travelers.

Location

Rushaga is situated in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is easily accessible from Kisoro town, with nearby access to Rwanda’s Cyanika border post for those combining treks in both countries.

Activities

Rushaga offers some of the most reliable gorilla trekking due to the large number of families. The Gorilla Habituation Experience, exclusive to this sector, enables visitors to join researchers and spend extended time with gorillas in their natural habitat. Cultural tours, birdwatching, and canoeing on nearby Lake Mutanda round out the adventure.

Best Time to Visit

June through September and December through February are the ideal months. Being less crowded than the Buhoma sector, Rushaga also sees good visitation during shoulder seasons.

Cultural Value

Local communities offer authentic village visits, traditional dance, and storytelling. Guests can also support local craft initiatives, women’s groups, and conservation programs rooted in gorilla protection.

Gorilla Trekking Safari FAQs

Looking for the best gorilla trekking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda? Uganda and Rwanda both offer unforgettable treks with habituated mountain gorilla families. Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks provide immersive, multi-hour treks through ancient rainforests, while Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers a shorter, scenic trek in a volcanic setting. With Olive Safari Uganda, you’ll enjoy expert planning, personal touches, and guides who make every moment feel meaningful. We help you choose the best park, lodge, and route—tailored to your interests, pace, and budget.

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Director/Sales & Marketing: Tusiime Cheryl Myra

Cheryl, the eldest daughter of Olive, has embraced the responsibility of carrying forward her mother’s legacy with resilience and determination. After losing her father at the age of six, she was raised by her mother, Olive, with the support of Christer. Olive’s passing in 2017, when Cheryl was just 19, became a defining moment in her journey.

Having been involved in the foundations of Sunset Hotel Entebbe and Olive Safari Uganda from a young age, Cheryl stepped up to manage the businesses alongside Christer. Under his mentorship, she navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship and discovered her passion for tourism.

With a Master’s degree in Business Administration and hands-on leadership, Cheryl has been instrumental in maintaining loyal clientele at Sunset Hotel Entebbe, adapting it to post-COVID standards, and expanding Olive Safari Uganda. As a certified tour guide for Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar, she remains committed to upholding her mother’s vision of exceptional service and unforgettable travel experiences.

Founder & CEO: Christer Torstensson

Christer, a Swedish education consultant with over 40 years of experience guiding travelers across Africa, co-founded Olive Safari Uganda with a deep passion for the continent’s wonders. His extensive journeying, particularly through Zimbabwe, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya, enriched his understanding of Africa’s landscapes and cultures. As a consultant, he also contributed to education and development, notably establishing an automotive school in Zimbabwe. His work with the Global Journey program brought him to Uganda, where he collaborated with municipalities and fell in love with the country’s heritage.

During this time, he met Olive, whose exceptional leadership and organizational skills later turned their professional relationship into a personal one. Their shared vision led to the creation of Olive Safari Uganda in the early 2000s, followed later by Sunset Hotel Entebbe. While Christer split his time in Sweden managing the Global Journey program, Olive oversaw daily operations. Today, Olive Safari Uganda embodies Christer’s seasoned expertise as a guide and strategic insight, paired with Olive’s dedication, delivering outstanding safaris that showcase Uganda’s beauty and beyond.

Founder & CEO: Ayebale Olive

Ayebale Olive, co-founder of Olive Safari Uganda, brought over 20 years of community service experience into the world of tourism. As secretary to Entebbe’s Mayor, she honed her skills in program management and international partnerships, playing a key role in the Global Journey program that linked Uganda and Sweden.

It was through this program that she met Christer—three years after the passing of her first husband, while raising three children. United by a shared passion for travel and discovery, they founded Olive Safari Uganda in the early 2000s. Their commitment to exceptional service quickly set the company apart.

As demand grew, they expanded their vision by establishing Sunset Hotel Entebbe, creating a welcoming space for travelers exploring Uganda. Olive’s legacy lives on, shaping the company’s dedication to authentic and unforgettable safari experiences