These are the questions we’re asked most often about gorilla trekking, with short, straight answers. For more detail, follow the links to our longer guides.
Permits and prices
How much is a gorilla permit?
In Uganda, US$800 per person for foreign non-residents, or US$600
in April, May and November. In Rwanda, it’s US$1,500. The full breakdown, including DR Congo and 2027 changes,
is in our gorilla permit prices guide.
What does the permit include?
In Uganda, the permit covers your ranger guide, park entry for
the day and a community contribution. It doesn’t include porters, transport or accommodation.
How far ahead should I book?
For June to September and December to February, three to six
months ahead. Since March 2026, Uganda’s booking system only confirms permits once they’re paid in
full, so we secure yours as soon as your deposit is in.
Can I get a refund or change the date?
Permits are non-refundable once bought, and the
discounted April, May and November permits can’t be moved to another date. Good travel insurance is
essential.
What is gorilla habituation?
Up to four hours with a family that’s still getting used
to people, in a group of four, in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector. It’s US$1,500 in 2026 and US$1,800 from
January 2027. See our habituation guide.
Rules and the encounter
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, 15, in every country. Rangers check passports.
How many people are in a group?
No more than eight visitors per gorilla family per day.
How long do I spend with the gorillas?
One hour, once the group reaches the family.
How close will I be?
Your ranger keeps the group at a safe distance and positions you for
the best view. Gorillas sometimes move closer on their own; if so, stay calm and follow the ranger’s lead.
Can I take photos?
Yes, but no flash. A camera that works well in low light is ideal.
What if I have a cold?
Rangers can turn away anyone who looks unwell, because gorillas catch
human illnesses. Please be honest; it protects them.
The trek itself
How long is the trek?
Anything from under an hour to most of the day. It depends on where the
family nested the night before. The day starts with a briefing at the sector headquarters around 7:30am; see
what happens on the day.
How fit do I need to be?
Reasonably fit. Trails are steep, muddy and often at altitude. If you
can walk for several hours on hills, you’ll manage; rangers go at the group’s pace. Tell us about any
mobility concerns so we can request a suitable family.
Should I hire a porter?
We strongly recommend it. Porters carry your bag, help you on steep and
slippery sections, and the fee supports families living next to the park. We’ll confirm the current rate.
What should I wear?
Waterproof hiking boots, long trousers, long sleeves, a rain jacket and
garden gloves for gripping vegetation. Tuck trousers into socks against ants. Bring two litres of water, a packed
lunch and your passport. Our packing list
covers the rest.
Where and when
Which sector should I choose?
Bwindi has four: Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the east, and
Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south. Mgahinga offers a smaller number of permits on the Virunga volcanoes. Each permit
is tied to a sector, so we match your lodge to it. Rushaga and Nkuringo are handy if you fly into Kigali.
When is the best time to go?
The drier months, roughly December to February and June to
September, usually give firmer trails. The wetter months are quieter and cheaper. See
the best time for gorilla trekking.
Does the trek go ahead in the rain?
Yes. These are rainforests and treks run in all weather.
Rain often comes in short bursts, and gorillas are found fresh each morning whatever the season.
Uganda or Rwanda?
Uganda is better value and easier to combine with chimps and savanna
safaris; Rwanda is quicker to reach from the airport. Read our
honest comparison.
Is a sighting guaranteed?
Never, because these are wild animals, but trackers locate the
families every morning, so sightings on habituated families are very likely.
Practical tips
- Stay near your sector the night before to avoid an early, long drive.
- Break in your boots before you travel.
- Bring a small waterproof bag for your camera and phone.
- Keep a little cash for porters and souvenirs from local community groups.
Still have a question?
Ask us anything. We’ll check permit availability for your dates, recommend the right sector and lodge, and handle the booking from start to finish.
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