A gorilla tracking adventure in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offering an intimate wildlife encounter with endangered mountain gorillas, paired with a cultural immersion in the Batwa community. The journey includes scenic drives through Uganda’s highlands, comfortable lodge stays, and dedicated time to observe gorilla families in their natural habitat.
Depart from Kampala and embark on the scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, passing through rolling hills and rural landscapes. Lunch break in Mbarara at a local restaurant.
Continue your drive towards Bwindi, enjoying the scenic countryside.
Arrive at your lodge. Relax and enjoy dinner. Overnight stay at Broad Bill lodge or Bweza Lodge.
Wake to the sound of forest birds and begin your chimpanzee tracking adventure. Accompanied by expert guides, trek through tangled jungle paths to witness chimpanzees in their natural element—feeding, grooming, and swinging overhead. In the afternoon, visit a nearby village to gain insight into daily life, customs, and stories of the local community.
Travel through Queen Elizabeth National Park—keep an eye out for elephants, buffalo, and tree-climbing lions along the way. Stop for lunch in Kabale before continuing to the misty highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Arrive at your lodge on the forest’s edge, ready for tomorrow’s unforgettable trek.
Today’s trek leads deep into the forest where a family of mountain gorillas awaits. Standing face-to-face with one of these gentle giants is an experience that leaves a lasting mark. After the trek, visit the Batwa people—a forest-dwelling community whose connection to the land runs deep. Learn their stories, music, and crafts before returning to your lodge.
After breakfast, begin the return journey through Uganda’s western heartlands. Stop for lunch in Mbarara, where the scenery shifts from highland forest to open savannah. Arrive in Kampala by evening—tired, inspired, and forever changed by the forests and faces of Uganda.
Price Includes
- Accommodation
- Gorilla Permit
- Chimp Permit
- Meals wherever mentioned
- Private transportation in an air-conditioned van
- English-speaking tour/guide-driver
- All park entrance fees
Price Excludes
- Airfare to and from Uganda
- Visa fees
- Travel Insurance*
- Incidental hotel charges
- Tips
Permits must be secured! At least 6 months before you plan to go. We are closing bookings on Jan 1,2025 to allow us time to secure your permits. Your deposit of $800 is to secure your permit and is therefore non refundable should you choose to cancel your trip.
Just a heads up – you need to be 15 or older for this incredible experience. It’s worth the wait!
Before you set off, remember to wash your hands, keep your voice low, and please don’t leave any trash behind. We want to keep the park pristine!
Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Keep at least 21 feet from our gorilla friends, stick close to your group, and use your ‘inside voice’. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises – we don’t want to startle our hosts. Avoid staring directly into their eyes, and keep food and drinks away. If a big silverback approaches, stay calm and crouch down – a sign of respect. You can take photos, but remember, we only get about an hour with these amazing creatures. Let’s keep their home clean – no littering, spitting, or snacking in their territory.
Dress for adventure! Bring clothes that’ll protect you from thorns and nettles. The trails can be slippery, so good shoes are a must. I’d suggest hiking boots, a rain jacket (just in case), garden gloves, long-sleeved shirts, a comfy backpack, plenty of water, and some energy-boosting snacks.
Every trek is unique! It could take anywhere from 30 minutes to most of your day, and it’s moderately challenging. Be ready for changing weather and listen to your guides – they’re the experts. Don’t worry about carrying everything yourself; friendly porters are usually around to lend a hand with your gear.
