Planning a Gorilla Trek in Bwindi from Mbarara

Western Uganda's protected areas range from dense tropical rainforest to open savanna, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the standout among them, one of the last strongholds of the mountain gorilla, home to roughly half the world's remaining population.

A trek into Bwindi means an early start, a briefing at one of the park's trailheads, and a hike of anywhere from one to several hours through dense forest to reach a habituated gorilla family, followed by a strictly timed hour in their company. It's physically demanding. The terrain is steep and often muddy, but nothing about it requires special fitness beyond a reasonable level of stamina.

Bwindi sits further from Mbarara than Lake Mburo, so treks are usually planned as an overnight trip rather than a day visit. Using Mbarara as a staging point the night before and after a trek, rather than the closer but more basic lodges right at the park boundary, buys you a proper night's sleep and a hot breakfast before the early start.

Permits are limited and should be booked well in advance. Speak to reception and we can point you toward planning one around your stay.