Incredible journey of gorilla tourism and how it can turn your dream of gorilla tracking into a life-changing reality

The Origins of Gorilla Tourism

Gorilla tourism in Uganda began in 1991, when Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was officially gazetted as a national park under the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The first gorilla family to be habituated for tourism was the Mubare group, led by the famously gentle silverback Ruhondeza. This marked the beginning of a conservation-driven tourism model that would evolve into one of the most impactful wildlife experiences on Earth.

By 1993, gorilla trekking was officially open to tourists. https://ugandawildlife.orgOver the years, more families were habituated—Habinyanja, Nkuringo, Rushegura, and others—making Uganda a premier destination for gorilla tracking.

Bwindi now hosts 25 habituated gorilla families, with 9 open for tourism and 1 reserved for research, making it a global hotspot for sustainable gorilla trekking. Mubare’s story isn’t just about conservation—it’s about resilience, adaptation, and the deepening bond between humans and these majestic creatures.

Would you like help planning a trek or learning about other gorilla families in Bwindi?

To plan a visit to see the Mubare gorilla group in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, you will want to start by securing a gorilla trekking permit and choosing a reputable tour operator. Since Mubare is one of the most sought-after groups due to its historical significance and proximity to Buhoma headquarters, permits can sell out quickly so booking several months in advance is highly recommended.

The Path to Your Gorilla Tracking Dream

 Why Book with Wildlife Explorers Africa(U)?

With Deep Local Roots-Company experts hails from the tri-border region of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC, giving him unmatched insight into the cultural and ecological richness of the area.

Their motivation isn’t profit-driven—it’s about uplifting frontline communities and promoting sustainable tourism.

We are Gorilla Trekking Experts

Wildlife Explorers Africa(u) specializes in treks to Mubare and other gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and across the border in Rwanda and DRC. These treks are not just wildlife encounters—they’re immersive journeys into the heart of conservation.

Securing Gorilla permits with Wildlife Explorers Africa(U) touches on the livelihood of frontline community. A portion of the gorilla permit fees goes directly to the Ugandan government, which then allocates 20% to local communities.

This funding supports common good projects like schools, clinics, and clean water initiatives in the Bwindi-Mgahinga conservation area.

We promote Win-Win Approach for Conservation to Implement Responsible travel.

Booking with Wildlife Explorers Africa(U) ensures your money stays in the region, empowering native guides, supporting homestays, and preserving local tradition.

When you choose a safari with Wildlife Explorers Africa(U), you’re not just ticking off a bucket-list experience—you’re:

• Supporting grassroots conservation
• Encouraging cultural preservation
• Helping build resilient communities around protected areas

Gorilla Trekking Permits Guidance!

Why Gorilla Permits Are Limited?

Only 8 permits per gorilla family per day are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This limit is based on the carrying capacity of each gorilla group to minimize stress and avoid disrupting their natural behavior.

Visitors are allowed only one hour with the gorillas to reduce the risk of disease transmission and behavioural changes.

Advance booking is very essential-Dry season permits sell out 12–18 months in advance. Price (2024–2026): USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents (set by Uganda Wildlife Authority).

We value Conservation first.

Mountain gorillas are listed as endangered, and their survival depends on careful, science-backed tourism:

• Controlled access helps protect their fragile ecosystem.
• Revenue from permits funds anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community development.
• Local communities benefit directly—20% of permit fees go to support schools, clinics, and infrastructure near Bwindi and Mgahinga and done the same across borders.

You want to Encounter like never before book early?

Gorilla trekking is on high demand, especially during peak seasons (June–August, December–January).

Permits are non-transferable and date-specific, so securing one early ensures your spot and allows time to plan transport, lodging, and gear

Booking through a local operator like Wildlife Explorers Africa(U) not only simplifies logistics but also ensures your money supports native guides and conservation efforts.

The Minimum age for Travelers who wants to encounter the great Apes must be 15 years or older to trek.

Our safari planners handle permit reservations directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and secure the best sector for your trek—so you don’t have to worry about missing out.

Why Sector Selection Matters?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four trekking sectors, Buhoma (northern side), Ruhija (eastern side), Rushaga and Nkuringo (southern side)

Each sector hosts different habituated gorilla families, and the terrain, accessibility, and accommodation options vary widely. Choosing the right sector can mean:

• A shorter hike if you’re not up for steep climbs
• Better lodging proximity
• A chance to visit specific gorilla groups like Mubare or Nkuringo

Your safari planners working directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) means:

• No stress over navigating the permit system
• Guaranteed access to the best available sector based on your travel dates and preferences
• Early reservations, which are crucial since only 8 permits per gorilla group per day are issued2

The conservation and Conveniences– booking through Wildlife Explorers Africa(U) you are assured of value for your money, you are supporting community-based tourism, contributing to gorilla conservation and also getting a tailored experience that matches your fitness level, travel style, and dream gorilla encounter.