Best Gorilla Trekking Tips from a Local Uganda Guide

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on earth, a chance to meet the gentle mountain gorillas in their misty jungle homes. For many travelers, it’s a dream come true. But to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, it helps to prepare with insight from someone who knows the trails, the terrain, and the gorillas themselves.

In this guide, Hillary, a passionate Ugandan local guide and wildlife photographer, shares his firsthand gorilla trekking tips from years of guiding travelers through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. His advice will help you plan, pack, and enjoy your trek safely while connecting deeply with Uganda’s people and nature.

Understanding Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, found only in the dense forests of Bwindi and Mgahinga. Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the forest with experienced rangers and trackers to locate one of the habituated gorilla families. Each visitor receives a one-hour encounter, a truly emotional and humbling experience.

As Hillary explains, every trek is unique: “Some gorilla families live close to the trailhead, while others move deep into the forest. The hike can be short or long, but every step is worth it when you finally see them their eyes, their behaviour, their calm presence in the wild.”

The main sectors of Bwindi; Rushaga, Nkuringo, Buhoma, and Ruhija, all offer distinct experiences, but Rushaga is particularly known for its beautiful scenery and variety of gorilla groups.

When Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking?

Uganda’s gorilla trekking can be done all year, but the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are ideal. Trails are drier, and visibility is better for photography. However, Hillary often tells his guests that even the rainy season has its magic, the forest is lush, and crowds are fewer.

If you’re visiting during the wetter months, pack appropriately and trust your guide to make the experience comfortable. “Rain or shine, the gorillas don’t mind,” Hillary says with a smile. “They’re home in the forest every day.”

Getting Your Gorilla Permit

Each gorilla permit in Uganda costs $800 (as of 2025) and is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). It’s essential to book early since permits are limited to protect the gorillas.

When booking through Hillary Uganda Trips, Hillary personally handles your permit arrangements and ensures you’re matched with a gorilla family suited to your physical ability and interests. He also provides pre-trek briefings, so you know exactly what to expect.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Packing correctly makes your trek more comfortable and enjoyable. Hillary recommends bringing:

Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
A lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Long-sleeved shirts and pants (to protect from thorns and insects)
Gardening gloves for grabbing branches or vines
A waterproof backpack for your camera and water bottle

As a wildlife photographer, Hillary also suggests a zoom lens (70-200mm) and extra batteries. Flash photography is not allowed, so learning to use natural light is key. He often helps guests capture the perfect shot without disturbing the gorillas.

During the Trek: Tips from a Local Expert

Hillary’s years of guiding have taught him that patience and respect are the secrets to a great gorilla trekking experience.

“Move slowly, listen to your ranger, and stay quiet,” he says. “The gorillas are peaceful if you respect their space.” You should keep a distance of about 10 meters, though gorillas sometimes approach out of curiosity. Never touch them, their health depends on minimizing human contact.

He also advises trekkers to bring enough drinking water, snacks, and a walking stick (often provided at the starting point). Porters are available to carry your bag for a small fee, a great way to support local community members who live near the park.

Choosing Where to Stay

Your accommodation plays a big role in the comfort of your experience. Near the Rushaga sector, Hillary often recommends Bweza Gorilla Lodge, known for its warm hospitality, scenic views, and close access to gorilla starting points.

After your trek, many travelers love to unwind at Lake Bunyonyi, where BirdNest Resort offers stunning lake views, excellent food, and serene surroundings. Hillary frequently guides guests there for boat rides, community walks, and canoe birding, giving a balanced blend of wildlife and local life.

Combining Gorilla Trekking with Community Experiences

One of the most rewarding parts of gorilla trekking in Uganda is meeting the local communities that live near the forests. With Hillary as your guide, you can visit the Batwa people, the forest’s original inhabitants and learn about their culture, songs, and traditional survival skills.

“Many travelers tell me that visiting the Batwa gives deeper meaning to their gorilla trek,” Hillary explains. “You understand the human story behind the conservation efforts.”

You can also join local women’s craft groups, village walks, or cooking experiences to get a taste of authentic Ugandan hospitality. These cultural exchanges make your safari both educational and impactful.

Photography Tips from Hillary

As a professional wildlife photographer, Hillary shares practical tips to help you take memorable photos:

Avoid flash – use natural light to capture authentic moods.
Focus on gorilla eyes – they tell the emotion of the moment.
Keep your camera ready – gorillas move quickly.
Respect the rules – never push too close for a shot.

He often captures candid portraits of gorillas interacting or grooming, showcasing their complex family bonds. “Photography is about emotion,” Hillary says. “If your picture shows the gorilla’s soul, you’ve succeeded.”

Safety and Etiquette During Gorilla Trekking

Safety is always a top priority. All treks are led by UWA rangers who monitor the gorillas daily. Before entering the forest, visitors attend a briefing on trekking etiquette and conservation.

Hillary ensures his guests follow these guidelines strictly, maintaining both safety and respect for wildlife. “We are guests in their home,” he reminds travelers. “The forest belongs to them, so we just visit for a short time.”

Extend Your Adventure Beyond the Gorillas

After your trek, Uganda offers countless adventures: exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park for lions and hippos, visiting Lake Bunyonyi for scenic tranquility, or hiking the Virunga Volcanoes in Mgahinga.

Hillary often tailors safaris that mix wildlife encounters with local culture, photography opportunities, and conservation learning. Each trip becomes a story, a connection between people, wildlife, and landscapes.

Plan Your Gorilla Trek with Hillary Uganda Trips

Booking your safari with Hillary Uganda Trips means you’ll travel with a passionate local guide who knows every path, village, and viewpoint. Hillary personally leads your journey, sharing expert knowledge, cultural insights, and photography guidance every step of the way.

Whether it’s tracking gorillas in Bwindi, visiting the Batwa community, or gliding across Lake Bunyonyi’s serene waters, every experience is authentic, meaningful, and handled with care.