Mountain Gorilla Trekking
The ultimate wildlife encounter. Come face-to-face with the endangered mountain gorillas in their ancient, misty rainforest habitat.
A Deeply Moving Encounter
There are fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas left on Earth, and Uganda is home to more than half of them.
Gorilla trekking is widely considered one of the most profound natural history experiences in the world. After conquering the icy peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains, descending into the dense, emerald-green jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers the perfect climax to your Ugandan expedition.
Led by expert Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers and trackers, you will navigate through thick, untamed rainforest until you find a habituated gorilla family. Sitting just meters away from a massive silverback and watching infants play in the canopy is an indescribable privilege.
The Trekking Day
07:30 AM – The Briefing
After an early breakfast, you gather at the park headquarters. UWA rangers provide a comprehensive safety briefing, explaining gorilla etiquette and dividing visitors into groups of 8 to assign specific gorilla families based on fitness levels.
08:30 AM – The Tracking Begins
The hike can take anywhere from 1 to 5 hours depending on where your assigned family is located. You will trek through dense undergrowth, steep ridges, and muddy ravines. Trackers go ahead of the group to locate the gorillas’ fresh tracks and nests.
The Golden Hour
Once found, you leave your bags behind and approach quietly. You are allowed exactly one strictly timed hour to observe, photograph, and sit with the gorillas as they feed, groom, and rest. No flash photography is permitted.
Need to Know Before You Go
UWA Permits
Gorilla permits are highly regulated by the government to protect the animals. They cost $800 USD (subject to change) and frequently sell out months in advance. 6Summits handles the procurement of your permits as part of your safari add-on package.
Health Restrictions
Gorillas share 98% of human DNA and are highly susceptible to human respiratory diseases. If you have a cold, flu, or Covid-19 symptoms, you will not be allowed to trek. You must maintain a strict 7-meter (21-foot) distance from the gorillas at all times.
Specific Packing List
The “Impenetrable” forest lives up to its name. You must pack:
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- Thick gardening gloves (for grabbing stinging nettles)
- Gaiters and long trousers tucked into socks (to prevent fire ants)
- A lightweight rain shell
Add Gorilla Trekking to Your Climb
Permits are strictly limited per day. Secure your dates early.